Puerto Vallarta: Gay Luxury Sunset Cruise with open bar

If you’re exploring Puerto Vallarta and looking for an evening that combines stunning scenery, good company, and a touch of luxury, the Gay Sunset Cruise offered by Vallarta Yacht Rentals could be just the ticket. This experience is marketed specifically as Puerto Vallarta’s only LGBT+ themed sunset cruise, and from what travelers report, it’s a pretty solid choice for those wanting to enjoy some chill vibes on the water.

Two things that really stand out about this cruise are the beautiful views of the Bay of Banderas and the luxury feel of the yacht. The open bar with handcrafted cocktails and fresh appetizers mean you’re not just sightseeing—you’re also indulging. Plus, being hosted on a gay-owned and operated yacht gives it a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere that makes everyone feel comfortable and part of a community.

One potential snag to keep in mind is that this tour is limited to around 15 guests, which keeps things intimate but might not be ideal if you’re looking for a larger party scene. Also, since the experience depends on weather conditions, there’s a small chance of cancellation or rescheduling if the seas aren’t cooperating.

This cruise is well-suited for travelers who want a relaxing, upscale evening out—whether you’re a member of the LGBT+ community or simply looking to enjoy a special sunset. It’s a lovely way to see Puerto Vallarta from the water, with the added bonus of a friendly, inclusive environment.

Key Points

• Beautiful Bay Views: Expect iconic Puerto Vallarta sights like Los Arcos, Los Muertos Beach, and the Malecon.
• Luxury Experience: The yacht, Escándalo, is a 48-foot motor boat that offers cushioned seating options, including lounges and tables.
• Inclusive Atmosphere: As the only LGBT+ themed sunset cruise in Puerto Vallarta, it creates a welcoming vibe for all guests.
• All-Inclusive: Enjoy a premium open bar with handcrafted cocktails and fresh appetizers, designed to elevate the evening.
• Short but Sweet: The cruise lasts about 3 hours, making it a perfect short escape without feeling rushed.
• Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 15 travelers, expect a more personal, intimate experience.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

The adventure begins at Marina Vallarta, where you’ll hop aboard the Escándalo, a beautiful 48-foot yacht operated by a gay-owned company. The crew kicks things off with a welcome toast—setting a friendly, celebratory tone. From there, the boat departs to explore the Bay of Banderas, a spot renowned for its natural beauty and vibrant scenery.

The itinerary is flexible depending on weather and sea conditions, but generally, you’ll get sweeping views of Los Arcos Nature Reserve, Vallarta’s iconic Malecon, and other landmarks like Señora de Guadalupe Church. The boat’s vantage points include the bow with chaise lounges, the fly-bridge with panoramic 360-degree views, and a covered cockpit with tables—so you can choose your favorite spot to relax and take in the scenery.

The highlight for many is the chance to enjoy handcrafted cocktails from the open bar, along with fresh hors d’oeuvres that add a culinary touch to the trip. The music plays softly, creating a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for mingling or simply soaking in the sunset.

What We Love About the Cruise

We really appreciate the quality of the views—the Bay of Banderas is stunning at sunset, with colors that shift from gold to pink. The luxury yacht makes the whole experience feel exclusive without being overly formal. And the welcoming atmosphere—fostered by the LGBT+ ownership and the friendly crew—keeps everyone relaxed and ready to enjoy.

What Could Be Better

A consideration to keep in mind is the weather-dependent nature of the trip. If the seas are rough or the skies are cloudy, the experience might be less spectacular or could get canceled altogether. Also, since the group is limited to 15, it’s not a large-scale party, which might disappoint those seeking a bigger party vibe.

The Itinerary in Detail

Boarding at Marina Vallarta

The process is straightforward—just meet at Dock H Slip 2, where the boat is docked. Once onboard, you’ll be greeted with a toast, which instantly sets a friendly tone. The crew is praised for their attentiveness, making sure everyone feels comfortable right from the start.

Exploring the Bay of Banderas

As the boat departs, you’ll begin to see some of Puerto Vallarta’s most famous sights. Depending on conditions, your captain might bring you close to Los Arcos Nature Reserve, a favorite for photos and just a stunning sight in itself. Expect to cruise along the coastline, passing by Los Muertos Beach & Pier, and getting views of Señora de Guadalupe Church—a symbol of the city.

Many reviews highlight how lovely it is to see the city from the water, especially at sunset. One reviewer mentioned this was the “highlight of our vacation,” emphasizing how special the views and the ambiance made the evening.

The Lounge Areas and Atmosphere

The boat has various seating options to suit your mood—lounging on the bow, catching the breeze on the fly-bridge, or sitting under cover. The music is generally chill, with a playlist curated to match the relaxed, sophisticated vibe.

Food and Drink

The open bar is a real highlight. You’ll find a selection of well-crafted cocktails and alcoholic beverages that keep the mood lively but relaxed. The fresh appetizers add a nice touch—nothing heavy, just enough to nibble while enjoying the scenery.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $139.99 per person, this cruise offers a good balance of value and quality. You’re paying for a short, relaxing trip, premium drinks, fresh snacks, and a unique atmosphere. Reviews consistently praise the good value for money, especially considering the intimate group size and personalized service. It’s not a budget outing, but for an evening of luxury and exclusivity with a welcoming LGBT+ environment, it’s a solid choice.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal if you’re looking for a peaceful, upscale experience that offers beautiful scenery and a friendly environment. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers wanting to meet like-minded people in a relaxed setting. While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, it’s suitable for most travelers comfortable on boats and who appreciate a quiet, social vibe.

If you’re seeking a lively party or large group atmosphere, this might not be the best fit. But if a laid-back, scenic sunset with good drinks and a welcoming crowd sounds appealing, then this cruise hits the mark.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
This tour is geared toward adults, with an emphasis on a relaxed, social environment. It’s not specifically designed for children, and the focus is more on an adult-friendly atmosphere.

How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, which is just enough time to enjoy the views, drinks, and conversation without it feeling too long.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the yacht, all fees and taxes, an open bar with alcoholic beverages, fresh appetizers, WiFi onboard, and access to restroom facilities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. If canceled closer to the date, the full amount isn’t refunded.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there WiFi onboard?
Yes, the yacht provides WiFi, which can be handy for sharing photos or checking in with friends.

How many people typically join this cruise?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, fostering an intimate and personalized experience.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at Dock H Slip 2, Marina Vallarta, just a short walk from public transportation options.

Final Thoughts

For anyone wanting a romantic sunset, a social evening, or simply a luxurious cruise experience in Puerto Vallarta, this LGBT+ themed sunset cruise offers a memorable way to see the bay. The combination of stunning views, good drinks, and an inclusive atmosphere makes it appealing across a broad spectrum of travelers.

While it isn’t the cheapest activity, the quality of the experience, the personal touch of the small group, and the gorgeous scenery make it a worthwhile splurge. If you value elegance with a touch of community spirit, this cruise might be just what your Puerto Vallarta trip needs.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to unwind at sunset, this cruise offers a peaceful, beautiful backdrop for a relaxed evening. Just keep an eye on the weather to ensure smooth sailing, and you’re in for a memorable ride.

Enjoy your trip, and I hope this helps you decide whether this sunset cruise is the right fit for your Puerto Vallarta adventure!