Puerto Escondido: Boat Tour to see Dolphins and Marine Life

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water surrounded by playful dolphins, curious turtles, and maybe even humpback whales, this boat tour from Puerto Escondido might be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions from travelers give us a pretty good idea of what to expect. This small-group adventure combines wildlife spotting, snorkeling, and relaxing vibes, making it appealing for those who want more than just the usual beach day.

What really draws us in about this tour is the chance to swim with dolphins and turtles—a truly magical experience—and the flexibility it offers, like playing your own music and bringing drinks on board. However, it’s worth noting that the ride can be a bit bumpy depending on sea conditions, and seasickness might be a concern for some. This tour seems best suited for those who love marine animals, enjoy boat trips, and are comfortable with some water activity.

If you’re after a fun, laid-back day with plenty of wildlife sightings and snorkeling opportunities, this trip hits a lot of the right notes. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or a small family, the friendly guides and personalized experience make it a compelling choice. Now, let’s unpack what makes this tour stand out and whether it’s the right fit for your Puerto Escondido adventure.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Spot dolphins, turtles, whales (seasonal), manta rays, and flying fish in their natural environment.
• Snorkeling: Enter the reef to see colorful fish and corals, with equipment provided.
• Flexible Experience: Play your own music via Bluetooth, sip drinks from the cooler, and relax on the boat beds.
• Expert Guides: Bilingual guides in Spanish and English work hard to find marine animals and educate passengers.
• Duration & Group: Usually 2.5 to 3 hours, with small or private groups for a more intimate experience.
• Seasonal Highlights: Winter (November to March) offers whale sightings, adding extra wow factor.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Point & Booking

This tour kicks off at Puerto Angelito Beach, a lively spot perfect for meeting your guide, Mike, or the crew on the boat named ‘Fanny.’ Booking is straightforward, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Plus, the pay-later option gives you flexibility if your plans are still uncertain. The tour generally runs in the morning or in the afternoon, giving you options depending on your schedule and the weather conditions.

The Boat & Group Size

The boats are described as new and comfortable, with beds for lounging and a cooler for drinks. The experience is designed to be intimate—small groups or private bookings—so you’re not crammed with dozens of strangers. This setup means better chances of catching wildlife, as the guides can focus on a smaller area and tailor the trip when possible.

The Itinerary & Highlights

The main aim is dolphin spotting, and from the reviews, it’s clear the guides are pretty talented at this. Expect to sail out into the ocean, scanning the waters for various types of dolphins—like Pinto, White Belly, or Whitenose—as well as other marine life such as sea turtles, flying fish, manta rays, and even whales during the winter months.

The usual flow involves a mix of sailing and wildlife watching, with stops for snorkeling. You’ll get snorkel masks and equipment, so you can hop in and swim around the reef, observing colorful fish and corals. Some reviews mention the opportunity to swim alongside dolphins and even turtles, which is a standout part of the experience. One traveler recalled swimming with a turtle after the boat ride, highlighting how close these encounters can be.

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Wildlife & Marine Life

This tour really shines in its ability to bring you close to marine animals. Several reviews mention seeing hundreds of dolphins swimming around the boat, often jumping and playing—creating a scene straight out of a movie. The guides work hard to find the best spots, and reviews consistently praise their knowledge and dedication.

Turtles are also a common sight, with some travelers swimming directly with them. One reviewer pointed out that they even saw sharks underneath the boat, which adds a little thrill to the trip. During the winter season, the chance to spot Humpback Whales elevates the experience significantly, turning it into a true marine adventure.

The Snorkeling & Water Activities

The snorkeling component is highly valued. You’ll enter the water with provided masks and fins, swimming near turtles and dolphins, and listening to them communicate underwater. Several reviews mention the opportunity to swim with dolphins—some even say they were the only boat allowed to do so—highlighting the exclusivity of the experience.

A common theme among reviewers is the opportunity to capture photos and videos of their encounters, which they cherish long after the trip. The water can be a bit rough at times, so if you’re prone to seasickness or have back problems, it’s worth considering. The boat does have life jackets and safety precautions, which adds peace of mind.

Relaxation & Personal Touches

What sets this tour apart is the ability to relax and make it your own. You can connect your Bluetooth speaker and play your favorite music, adding a personal soundtrack to your adventure. Many reviews highlight how they enjoyed sipping drinks from the cooler, lounging on the beds, and just soaking in the scenery.

The guides are bilingual, often going out of their way to educate and entertain, making the trip feel friendly and personalized. The crew’s attentiveness and the small group size create a more intimate atmosphere, allowing for better wildlife sightings and chances to ask questions.

The Duration & Value

The tour generally lasts between 2.5 and 3 hours, which is a good chunk of time to enjoy the water without feeling overly exhausted. For the price—around $44 per person—this experience offers solid value, considering the number of animals you can see and swim with. Many reviews agree that it’s worth every penny, especially given the variety of wildlife and the quality of the guides.

Practical Considerations

A few things to keep in mind: the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or food, so plan accordingly. Bring water, snacks, or drinks if you like, and wear appropriate gear—like sunscreen and a hat. The tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems or prone to seasickness, given the ocean conditions, which can sometimes be a bit choppy.

The tour is not suitable for pets, large luggage, baby strollers, bikes, or explosive substances—standard safety protocols. Also, if the sea is rough or dolphins swim too quickly, it might be difficult to get in the water with them, so patience is key.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour in Puerto Escondido offers an exciting way to connect with marine life in a relaxed setting. The chance to see dolphins, swim with turtles, and possibly spot whales makes it a memorable outing for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The guides’ dedication and bilingual communication make it accessible and informative, while the small group size ensures a more personalized experience.

For travelers who value wildlife encounters, snorkeling, and a laid-back vibe, this tour delivers. It’s especially appealing if you’re visiting during whale season or want a mix of sightseeing and water fun all in one go. The costs are reasonable, and the reviews consistently praise the value and friendliness of the crew.

If you’re comfortable on boats and eager to get close to the ocean’s most playful creatures, this trip is a fantastic choice. Just remember to prepare for some waves and bring your camera and water. It’s a great way to make your Puerto Escondido trip truly special.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour might be suitable for older children who are comfortable on boats and in the water. However, it’s best suited for those who can handle some seasickness and are physically able to swim in open water.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling masks and fins are provided as part of the tour. Just bring your enthusiasm and maybe some underwater camera gear if you want photos.

Can I play my own music during the trip?
Yes, the boat has a Bluetooth stereo so you can connect your device and enjoy your favorite tunes while sailing.

How long is the tour?
Most trips last between 2.5 and 3 hours, making it a perfect morning or afternoon activity.

What marine animals are typically seen?
Dolphins (several species), turtles, whales (from November to March), manta rays, flying fish, and sometimes sharks.

Is there a chance to see whales?
Yes, during the winter months (November to March), whale watching is included and can be quite spectacular.

Are drinks and food provided?
No, you should bring your own drinks and snacks, which can be stored in the cooler on the boat.

What should I wear?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and swimwear. Light layers or a jacket might be helpful if it’s breezy.

Is there a pickup service?
The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan to meet at Puerto Angelito Beach.

What if the dolphins are swimming too fast?
In that case, it might be tough to get in the water with them, but watching their antics from the boat is still a treat. Patience and timing are key.

This boat tour offers a genuine peek into the vibrant marine life surrounding Puerto Escondido. It’s a trip that promises fun, education, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. Whether you’re an avid snorkeler or just want to see dolphins leap out of the water, this is an experience worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: