Puerto Vallarta Pirate Premium Sailing Cruise

If you’re planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta and looking for a lively, family-friendly excursion, the Puerto Vallarta Pirate Premium Sailing Cruise might catch your eye. This tour promises a day filled with pirate-themed fun, scenic sailing, and water activities—ideal if you want to combine entertainment with the natural beauty of Banderas Bay.

We’ve looked into what travelers really think, and what makes this experience stand out are its stunning bay views and delicious onboard lunch. Plus, the fact that it’s suitable for families and offers a variety of activities keeps it appealing. However, it’s worth noting that the tour can be quite long, and if you’re not a fan of wavy waters, the sea conditions might be something to consider.

This excursion seems best suited for families, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a relaxed yet engaging day on the water. If you’re after a more quiet, low-key experience, this might not be your ideal choice. But if you’re in the mood for some pirate-themed adventure with plenty of entertainment, read on—we’ll walk you through what to expect.

Key Points

• Family-friendly, with plenty of kid-oriented activities and entertainment.
• Includes a scenic sail through Banderas Bay with immersive pirate shows.
• A visit to the remote Majahuitas Beach for snorkeling, kayaking, and beach fun.
• A well-reviewed onboard lunch and open bar make the experience feel value-packed.
• The tour lasts around 6 hours, so it’s a full-day commitment.
• Guaranteed on-time return thanks to Viator’s worry-free policy.

Setting Sail in Puerto Vallarta: What’s Included?

The Puerto Vallarta Pirate Premium Sailing Cruise is a longer, immersive experience that offers a lot for its $240 price tag. It’s organized by Gray Line Puerto Vallarta and typically booked about two months in advance, so planning ahead is key if you want to secure a spot.

From the moment you step onto the replica of Columbus’s Santa Maria, you’re transported into a lively pirate adventure. The ship itself is a striking vessel, weighing around 700 tons, with three tall wooden masts and triangular sails that evoke a true feeling of old-world sailing. This isn’t just a boat ride; it’s a themed experience designed to entertain from start to finish.

The Itinerary: Breaking Down the Day

Stop 1: Marigalante – The Pirate Ship

The tour starts at the Terminal Maritima in Puerto Vallarta at 9:00 am. You’ll board the Marigalante, a detailed replica of Columbus’s Santa Maria, which immediately sets a fun, adventurous tone. The crew is decked out in pirate costumes, engaging guests with interactive games and shows that keep everyone entertained. The ship’s impressive wooden construction and historic look add a sense of authenticity that kids and adults alike seem to enjoy.

The sailing through Banderas Bay offers incredible views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains, making it a scenic ride. Multiple reviews mention the crew’s helpfulness and the quality of entertainment—one reviewer even called the show “amazing” with the crew being “really helpful.”

Stop 2: Majahuitas Beach – An Exclusive Paradise

After about three hours on the water, you’ll arrive at Majahuitas Beach, a secluded haven accessible only by boat. Located roughly 29 km from Puerto Vallarta, this untouched stretch of sand is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy nature.

At Majahuitas, you’ll find plenty of options: snorkeling with provided equipment, kayaking, beach volleyball, or simply relaxing on the pristine sands. Travelers have highlighted the beauty of this beach and the chance to see local flora and fauna on a walk along the shoreline. One review mentions the beach being ideal for a family day, especially for kids aged 8 and above.

Return Journey: Pirate Fun Continues

On the return trip, the crew keeps the energy up with more pirate antics, games, and a lively show. Lunch is served onboard—reviewers rave about the quality of the food, describing it as “excellent.” From what we gather, the onboard open bar adds to the relaxed, festive vibe.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The themed pirate experience is what sets this cruise apart. Kids love the interactive shows, and adults appreciate the humor and effort put into the pirate persona. The scenic sailing through Banderas Bay offers views that are hard to beat, especially with the coastline and mountains as your backdrop.

And if you’re a foodie, the included lunch and open bar are big pluses. Several reviews mention the quality of the food, with some calling it “first quality,” which is somewhat rare on day tours like this.

The tour’s guaranteed on-time return policy adds peace of mind, especially for cruise passengers who need to make sure they get back to port on time. The fact that it’s covered by Viator’s worry-free policy means you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—good to keep in mind if your plans are uncertain.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is most suited for families with children, given its interactive and lively nature. Many reviews point out how much kids enjoyed it, with one noting their grandson loved it at age 6. The activities—kayaking, snorkeling, beach games—are kid-friendly, and the pirate show is humorous enough for teens and adults to enjoy too.

It’s also a great choice for groups of friends or couples looking for a relaxed but engaging day on the water. If you’re after a quiet, romantic escape, this might feel a bit too busy and lively. But if fun, sunshine, and a bit of theatrical pirate magic sound appealing, this tour hits the mark.

The Value of the Experience

For $240 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package: boat ride, entertainment, a beach visit, lunch, and drinks. Several travelers mention the quality of the food and the crew’s attentiveness, which adds to the overall value. While it is a long day, the variety of activities and scenic stops make it feel like a worthwhile investment for a full-day adventure.

Comparing the price with similar excursions, it’s clear that the inclusion of snorkeling gear, kayaking, and a well-organized show elevates this above more basic boat trips. The reviews’ consistent praise about the crew and entertainment reinforce that this experience is about more than just sailing—it’s about creating memorable moments.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying

• Book at least 63 days in advance if possible, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
• Arrive early at the marina (around 8:15 am) to avoid delays during check-in.
• Bring sunscreen and waterproof gear—the day can be sunny, and the boat does get wavy at times.
• Prepare kids for a busy day with plenty of water, snacks, and a hat.
• Make sure to understand that the tour lasts around 6 hours, so plan accordingly.
• If you’re not comfortable with sea waves or motion sickness, consider this before booking.
• Don’t forget your camera—views of Banderas Bay are gorgeous, and the pirate show might produce some fun photo moments.

The Sum Up

All things considered, the Puerto Vallarta Pirate Premium Sailing Cruise offers a lively, engaging way to experience Banderas Bay. It’s especially well-suited for families, groups of friends, and anyone who appreciates a mix of scenic sailing, interactive entertainment, and beach relaxation. The combination of a detailed pirate theme, scenic views, and quality amenities like lunch and drinks makes it a good value for a full-day adventure.

While it’s a lively experience that might not suit those seeking peace and quiet, it’s a fantastic way to make the most of your time in Puerto Vallarta if you enjoy a day of fun on the water with a bit of theatrical flair.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention how much kids, especially those over 8, love the pirate show, games, and beach activities. It’s designed to be family-friendly, but younger children should be comfortable with the activity level.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the pirate cruise, the show, games and contests, snorkeling equipment, lunch, and an open bar. It’s a full package that aims to keep everyone entertained.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, with about 3 hours sailing and 3 hours at Majahuitas Beach.

Do I need to bring anything?
Sunscreen, waterproof gear, hats, and sunglasses are recommended. You might also want to bring a towel and waterproof camera.

Is there a guarantee I’ll get back on time?
Yes, the tour is covered by Viator’s worry-free policy, guaranteeing on-time return to your cruise or port.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for solo travelers or couples?
Absolutely. The lively atmosphere and entertainment make it fun for everyone, not just families.

If you’re seeking a day full of sea, sun, and pirate-themed entertainment, this cruise looks like a solid option. Just be prepared for a full day and lively atmosphere, and you’re in for a memorable trip in Puerto Vallarta.