Puerto Vallarta: Private Sunset Cruise Aboard Luxury Yacht

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed evening on the water with incredible views of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline, this private sunset cruise aboard a luxury yacht might just be what you’re after. We’ve come across plenty of options for sunset sailing, but what stands out about this experience is the attention to detail and personalized touch that makes it feel special. From the reviews, it’s clear that many travelers leave truly satisfied—highlighting the stunning scenery, attentive crew, and excellent food as some of the biggest wins.

What we love about this cruise is the chance to sail past Los Arcos Nature Preserve with its vibrant birdlife, and the inclusion of an open bar with snacks that keeps the mood lively without breaking the bank. On the flip side, just keep in mind that this is a three-hour tour, so if you’re after a longer or more adventurous day at sea, you might want to look elsewhere. Still, if your goal is to enjoy a relaxed, scenic evening with a touch of luxury, this tour could be perfect. It’s especially well-suited for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a memorable, picture-perfect sunset without the hassle of DIY planning.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience: Snacks, drinks, and even champagne are part of the package, making it a worry-free outing.
• Intimate setting: The private yacht caters only to your group, creating a personalized vibe.
• Unbeatable views: Sail past Los Arcos, spot dolphins and whales, and enjoy city lights from the water.
• Great for photography: The scenery and wildlife offer ample photo opportunities.
• Easy booking and flexible cancellation: Book 27 days in advance, with a full refund if canceled 24 hours ahead.
• Comfort and convenience: Restroom on board, air conditioning, WiFi, and a knowledgeable skipper ensure a smooth cruise.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The cruise kicks off at Mástil 13 in Marina Vallarta, where you’ll hop aboard a well-maintaken, immaculate yacht. From there, the journey begins with a roughly 1.5-hour sail toward the famous Los Arcos Nature Preserve. Here’s where the scenery really shines. These striking rock formations are surrounded by lush birdlife, and the boat provides plenty of chances for stunning photos. Travelers have shared how awe-inspiring the sunset view can be, with one reviewer describing the moment as “magical.” We love that this stop isn’t just a quick photo op but a genuine experience of nature’s beauty.

During this part of the cruise, you might also catch glimpses of dolphins or even humpback whales, depending on the season. One guest mentioned seeing whales and their calves, which highlights how wildlife sightings can be a bonus, not guaranteed but often possible. The crew is noted for their attentiveness—so don’t hesitate to ask questions or request specific drinks or snacks.

As the boat heads back up the coast of Vallarta, you’ll get to enjoy the dazzling city lights from the water, a perspective that’s both romantic and unique. The entire return journey lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax, sip cocktails, and soak in the sunset glow. Some reviews mention how the crew even worked around weather issues, showing their dedication to providing a positive experience no matter the conditions.

What’s Included & Why It Matters

You’re getting quite a bit for your money with this tour. The open bar offers water, sodas, juices, cocktails, and champagne—so whether you’re a champagne lover or prefer a refreshing soda, you’re covered. The snacks are thoughtfully curated, including charcuterie boards, chips, dips, and local nibblies, making it easy to nibble while enjoying the views. Having these included means less fuss and more focus on the moment, which many reviewers appreciated.

The yacht features a restroom, which is a big plus for comfort, especially on a 3-hour cruise. Plus, WiFi on board might come in handy if you want to share photos instantly or just stay connected. Because it’s a private voyage, only your group participates, adding a layer of intimacy and flexibility—perfect for celebrating special occasions or just having a peaceful evening with friends.

The Experience: What Travel Lovers Are Saying

Multiple reviews speak highly of the crew’s professionalism and friendliness. One guest praised the “attentive” service despite some less-than-ideal weather, emphasizing that good company and effort from the crew can truly elevate the experience. Another noted how the yacht was “immaculate,” which, for a luxury experience, really matters.

The highlight for many is the stunning sunset views and wildlife encounters. One reviewer mentioned, “Moments after booking, the captain reached out to confirm preferences,” which shows how personalized the service can be. Several reviews also highlight the delicious food and drinks, noting that the hors doeuvres and cocktails exceeded expectations.

It’s worth mentioning that this tour is flexible enough to accommodate last-minute changes, like one guest who had to reschedule due to illness but was impressed by how the owner helped move their cruise. This adds peace of mind if you’re concerned about weather or unforeseen circumstances.

The Price and Its Value

At $756.11 per person, this is certainly a premium experience. But what do you get for that? The private yacht, expertly crewed, with an open bar, snacks, and prime sunset views, makes it a pretty compelling package. Compared to larger group tours or day trips with less personalized service, this feels like a worthwhile splurge—especially if celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a luxurious, quiet evening on the water.

Considering that most bookings are made about a month in advance, it’s clear this is a popular choice. Its exclusivity and high rating—23 reviews all giving a full five stars—speak to consistent quality and customer satisfaction.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for couples seeking a romantic sunset, small groups celebrating a special occasion, or travelers who want to enjoy the scenery in comfort and style. It’s not a loud party boat, so if you’re looking for wild nightlife or a large group bash, you might want to look elsewhere. Also, as children must be at least 4 years old, families with very young children should consider whether the trip’s length and environment suit their needs.

It’s perfect if you value personalized service, wildlife sightings, and sunset vistas—and if you’re willing to splurge a bit for a memorable experience. Because of its private setting, it’s great for creating an intimate moment or celebrating something special with friends or loved ones.

FAQs

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, children as young as 4 are welcome, making it a good choice for families wanting a peaceful, scenic outing.

How long does the cruise last?
Approximately 3 hours—about 1.5 hours heading to Los Arcos and 1.5 hours returning along the coast of Vallarta.

What is included in the price?
Snacks like charcuterie, chips, and dips, along with an open bar featuring water, sodas, juices, cocktails, and champagne. The yacht also has a restroom and WiFi.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
Many guests have spotted dolphins and humpback whales, especially during certain seasons. Whale sightings are a common highlight.

Where do I meet for the tour?
At Mástil 13 in Marina Vallarta—it’s near public transportation and easy to find.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed yet luxurious way to enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty, this private sunset cruise checks many boxes. The combination of scenic wildlife viewing, stunning sunsets, and excellent service makes it a top-tier experience. The included drinks and snacks keep everyone comfortable and happy, while the private setting ensures your group can enjoy the moment without crowds.

It’s especially well-suited for celebrating special occasions or simply treating yourself to a memorable evening. Just be prepared for the premium cost, and remember that booking in advance is smart—this tour is clearly a favorite among travelers who want quality and intimacy over a crowded, rushed experience.

For those who love a good sunset, wildlife, and a touch of luxury in Puerto Vallarta, this cruise might turn out to be one of your most cherished memories.