Whale Watching The Best Of Puerto Vallarta

Whale Watching The Best Of Puerto Vallarta: A Detailed Review

When you think of Puerto Vallarta, lush beaches, lively streets, and delicious food probably come to mind. But if you’re visiting during whale season, there’s one experience you shouldn’t miss: whale watching in Banderas Bay. For $99 per person, you’ll spend around 3.5 hours on a boat, searching for the majestic humpback whales that visit these warm waters for just a few months each year. Led by knowledgeable guides and accompanied by complimentary snacks, soft drinks, and beer, this tour offers a rare chance to witness some of nature’s most impressive marine mammals in their natural habitat.

What we love about this tour is how intimate and personal the experience feels, especially with small groups capped at 15 travelers. Plus, the inclusion of snacks and drinks means you can relax and enjoy the ride without worrying about finding food or beverages on your own. However, it’s worth mentioning that transportation to the meeting point and port tax are not included, so plan ahead. Overall, if you’re a nature lover or just want a memorable day on the water, this tour is perfect—especially if it’s your first time seeing whales in action.

One possible drawback? Since the tour is in high demand, you’ll want to book well in advance, ideally about 26 days before your trip. This ensures you get a spot during the limited whale season, which lasts roughly four months. If you’re traveling with family or friends and enjoy a small-group vibe, this tour suits you best. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate authentic marine encounters over large, crowded excursions.

Key Points

• Seasonal Experience: Best during whale migration months, with a limited window to see humpbacks.
• Inclusive Snacks & Drinks: Soft drinks, beer, and snacks are included, making the boat ride more enjoyable.
• Small Group Size: Up to 15 travelers, providing a more personal and engaging experience.
• Weather-Dependent: Weather can influence the sailing, and the boat sail is subject to conditions.
• High Demand: Book early to secure your spot during peak whale season.
• Authentic Encounters: You’re likely to see breaching whales, pods, and other marine life close up.

An In-Depth Look at the Whale Watching Tour

Starting Out: Meeting at Opequimar Centro Marino

Your adventure begins at the Opequimar Centro Marino, located conveniently in Marina Vallarta. This spot is central, making it easy for most travelers to reach, whether you’re staying nearby or coming from other parts of town. The meeting point is a straightforward start, and since your ticket is mobile, it’s simple to show your reservation right from your device. Keep in mind that port tax (MX$35) and a whale conservation fee (MX$85) are additional costs not included in the main price, so budget for these beforehand.

The Boat and the Crew: Friendly, Knowledgeable Guides

The tour uses a sailboat (weather permitting), which tends to make for a more relaxed and open experience compared to larger vessels. The crew, as recent reviews highlight, is very knowledgeable about local marine life. They’re eager to share insights and answer questions, which enhances the overall experience. One guest shared, “The crew was amazing and very knowledgeable,” emphasizing how important the staff’s attitude and expertise are in making this trip memorable.

Whale Watching: The Main Event

Once on the water, the main goal is to spot humpback whales. These gentle giants arrive in Banderas Bay from December to April to mate and nurture their calves. The narrow window makes timing crucial. During the trip, you can expect to see pods of whales, some breaching (leaping out of the water), which is truly a sight to behold. As one reviewer put it, “so many pods of whales, breaching and entertaining us for hours,” demonstrating how captivating whale behavior can be.

The guides are generally attentive to spotting and pointing out whales, and many guests mention how up close and personal they felt with the animals thanks to the small group size. If you’re lucky, you might witness a breach or see a mother and calf swimming together—experiences that are hard to forget.

Snacks, Drinks, and the Atmosphere

The tour’s inclusion of snacks, soft drinks, and beer offers a great way to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Guests have noted the delicious food and drinks, which add to the laid-back vibe of the day. Since the boat is small, you’re not packed in like sardines, allowing for better viewing angles and a more intimate experience.

Weather and Sailing Conditions

As with any outdoor activity, weather plays a vital role. The boat sail is weather permitting, so if winds or storms roll in, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled. The tour provider states that if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. It’s essential to keep an eye on the forecast and be flexible if possible.

End of the Tour: Returning to Marina Vallarta

After approximately three and a half hours on the water, the tour concludes back at the starting point. Many guests express how stunning the views of Banderas Bay are from the water—an added bonus to the whale sightings.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

The price of $99 includes a well-organized experience with snacks, drinks, and expert guides, making it a good value considering the rarity and beauty of whale sightings. The small group size ensures more personal interactions and better chances to see wildlife closely. The limited season makes it a special, time-sensitive activity, so booking ahead is critical.

However, keep in mind that transportation to the meeting point is not included, and that the tour is highly popular, so securing your spot early is wise. It’s less suitable for very young children or babies, as the boat ride might be too bumpy or long for them.

Who Should Do This Tour?

If you’re a nature enthusiast eager to observe whales in their natural environment, this tour offers an authentic and personal experience. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or small groups who value small-group intimacy and are prepared for a weather-dependent adventure. Those with a keen interest in marine life will especially enjoy the guides’ insights and the chance to witness breaching whales and playful pods.

The Sum Up

This whale watching tour in Puerto Vallarta is a fantastic way to connect with nature and witness one of the ocean’s most awe-inspiring spectacles. The combination of small group intimacy, knowledgeable guides, and inclusive snacks and drinks creates a relaxed and engaging experience. It’s a prime activity for anyone visiting during whale season who wants more than just a boat ride — they want a memorable encounter with these gentle giants.

While the need to book early and the weather dependency are considerations, the overall value and authenticity make this tour stand out. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife watcher or a first-time visitor, the chance to see whales breach and play in Banderas Bay is a highlight that won’t disappoint.

FAQ

How far in advance should I book this tour?
It’s recommended to book at least 26 days ahead, especially during peak whale season, to secure your spot due to high demand.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers approximately 3.5 hours on the water, snacks, water, soft drinks, beer, and national drinks. The sailboat ride is weather-dependent.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, you’ll need to pay a port tax (MX$35) and a whale conservation fee (MX$85) per person, which are paid on-site.

Is this tour suitable for children?
This activity is generally not recommended for babies, as the boat ride might be too long or rough for very young children.

What if the weather isn’t good?
If weather conditions prevent sailing, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled. You will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How many people are on each tour?
The tour caps at 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and better wildlife viewing opportunities.

What kind of boat is used?
A sailboat, weather permitting, which provides an open, relaxed environment for whale viewing.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and possibly a light jacket, especially if the weather turns breezy. Don’t forget your camera for those fantastic whale moments!

In sum, this whale watching tour offers a unique, personal, and genuinely memorable way to experience Puerto Vallarta’s marine wildlife. It’s an excellent choice for nature lovers, small groups, and anyone eager to see whales breaching and playing right in front of them. Book early, prepare for a fun day on the water, and get ready to witness some of the ocean’s most graceful creatures in action.