Planning a fun day or evening in Puerto Vallarta? If you’re craving a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and lively entertainment, the Pirate Ship Tour might just be the experience you’re after. This trip promises a mix of relaxing beach time, water activities, and an entertaining show—all aboard a ship that feels like it’s straight out of a pirate story.
What we really like about this tour are its flexibility and the variety of activities. Whether you choose the daytime trip or the evening cruise, you’re in for a lively time with good food, drinks, and a bit of adventure. But like any experience, it’s not perfect for everyone—you’ll want to consider whether the group size, timing, and focus on entertainment match your vibe. This tour is best suited for travelers wanting a fun, all-inclusive outing that combines a little history, a lot of scenery, and some good old-fashioned fun.
A possible snag? If you’re expecting a highly private or relaxed environment, the lively nature of the show and group activities might feel a bit crowded or commercial. Still, if you’re looking to have a memorable, energetic day or night, this cruise checks many boxes. Overall, it’s a great pick for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere, delicious food, and engaging water activities with a splash of pirate flair.
Key Points

- Flexible options: Choose between a daytime or nighttime cruise, catering to different moods and preferences.
- All-inclusive meals and drinks: Enjoy breakfast or lunch, plus soft drinks and entertainment.
- Activities for everyone: Kayaking, banana boat rides, snorkeling, plus a treasure hunt for kids.
- Beautiful scenery: Cross the bay, visit Majahuitas Beach, and enjoy stunning views of Puerto Vallarta.
- Family-friendly aspects: The treasure hunt and water activities make it engaging for kids.
- Value for price: At $220 per person, you get around 5 hours of entertainment, food, drinks, and activities.
An In-Depth Look at the Pirate Ship Tour

If you’re heading to Puerto Vallarta and want a lively experience that combines water fun with entertainment, this tour could be just what you need. It’s priced at $220 per person—not cheap, but considering the inclusive meals, drinks, and activities, many find it fair for a half-day adventure. Most travelers book this experience about 24 days in advance, which indicates it’s quite popular.
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The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect
The Day Tour
The daytime trip starts at the meeting point, Pirates of the Bay Boutiques MARINAH. After boarding the pirate ship, you’ll set off across the bay. The highlight here is the visit to Majahuitas Beach, a truly stunning stretch of sand that feels peaceful despite the crowds at other popular beaches. It’s perfect for unwinding, sunbathing, or trying out the water activities.
Water activities are a big part of the day. You’ll get to hop on a banana boat, which is a blast if you enjoy a bit of adrenaline. Kayaking is also included, allowing you to paddle at your own pace while taking in the scenery. For those who love snorkeling, the clear waters provide a good opportunity for underwater exploration. And for the kids—or the young at heart—there’s a pirate-style treasure hunt that adds a playful touch.
Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed the water activities and the relaxed environment. One reviewer noted, “We enjoyed the adrenaline rush of the banana boat and exploring the surroundings in kayaks,” emphasizing the fun and scenic aspect of the trip.
The Night Tour
The evening cruise offers a completely different vibe—beautiful sunset views and a lively show. As the sun sets, the ship turns into a floating stage with a pirate show that includes music, performances, and fireworks. This part of the tour is especially popular for couples or groups looking for a memorable night out.
You’ll enjoy delicious food and drinks served during the show, turning the cruise into a floating dinner theater. One traveler shared, “The show, music, and food were amazing. I had so much fun,” which highlights the memorable entertainment aspect.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour is quite comprehensive. Included are soft drinks, kayak and banana boat rides, snorkeling gear, breakfast or lunch, a pirate show, and fireworks. It’s worth noting that port taxes of $30 MXN are not included, and tips are optional.
The meals are described as “under the sea” style, which likely means a casual, fun presentation—great for those wanting a relaxed, no-fuss meal with good flavor. Reviewers mention the food is quite good, and the entertainment keeps the energy up throughout.
What isn’t included are things like extra souvenirs or personal expenses, but overall, the package feels quite complete.
The Group Size and Atmosphere
With a maximum of 50 travelers, the tour maintains a lively but manageable group size. Some reviewers mention that it feels a bit crowded at times, especially during the show, but most find the energy enjoyable and engaging.
The Pros and Cons
Pros:
– Beautiful scenery and the chance to see Puerto Vallarta from the water
– Fun water activities suitable for different ages
– Delicious meals and drinks included, with good variety
– Interactive pirate show and fireworks add a festive touch
– Good for families and groups who like lively outings
Cons:
– The group size can make it feel crowded, especially during the show
– If you’re expecting a more relaxed or private experience, this might not be ideal
– The cost might seem steep if you’re on a tight budget, but the value is there if you enjoy the inclusions
Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a high-energy, all-in-one experience that combines water fun with entertainment. It’s great for families with older children, groups of friends, or couples looking for a lively night out. If you enjoy interactive shows, good food, and scenic views, you’ll probably get a lot of enjoyment here.
However, if you prefer a quiet day at the beach or are on a tight budget, this might not be your ideal choice. Keep in mind that the five-hour duration is quite substantial, so be prepared for a full day of activity.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Considering the included meals, water activities, entertainment, and beautiful scenery, the Pirate Ship Tour in Puerto Vallarta offers a lively and memorable outing. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances fun, relaxation, and entertainment—something you’ll likely talk about long after the cruise ends.
The tour’s value shines when you’re looking for a lively, all-inclusive outing that’s suitable for groups and families, especially if you enjoy a bit of pirate-themed fun and scenic water views. The mixed reviews highlight that most travelers enjoy their time, especially the food, show, and fireworks.
Just keep in mind the crowd and cost if you’re seeking a quieter or more private experience. Overall, it’s a solid choice for those wanting to add a splash of adventure to their Puerto Vallarta trip.
Pirate Ship Tour by day or night! Meals and Drinks included!
“What an amazing experience. The show, the music, and the food were amazing. I had so much fun. Definitely would go again.”
FAQ: All Your Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially since there’s a treasure hunt and water activities. The lively show and group setting can be fun for kids, though younger children should be supervised during water activities.
What is the meeting point?
You’ll meet at Pirates of the Bay Boutiques MARINAH in the Marina area, close to public transportation.
How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately five hours, including transportation, activities, and meals.
Are drinks included?
Yes, soft drinks are included. Alcoholic drinks are not mentioned, so likely not part of the package.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear if you plan to swim or kayak, and perhaps a towel. The tour provides snorkeling gear and water sports equipment.
Is the experience crowded?
With a maximum of 50 travelers, it can feel lively and bustling, especially during the show and fireworks.
What does the meal include?
The description mentions breakfast and lunch under the sea, which suggests casual, tasty fare suited for a beach or boat setting.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’re offered a different date or full refund.
Is this tour worth the price?
Most travelers say yes, especially considering the water activities, entertainment, and meals included. It provides a full, engaging experience that’s likely to be memorable.
If you’re looking for an energetic, fun-filled way to see Puerto Vallarta from the water, this pirate-themed cruise offers a lively, enjoyable adventure. Just be ready for a vibrant atmosphere, tasty food, and plenty of water-based fun.
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