Whale Watching Guaranteed Experience in Puerto Vallarta

If you’re looking for a unique marine adventure in Puerto Vallarta, this whale watching tour offers a front-row seat to see humpback whales in their natural surroundings. For just $89 per person, you’ll spend around 3 hours on a high-speed boat, with the added reassurance of a sighting guarantee. The tour departs from the marina, taking you across Banderas Bay in search of these magnificent creatures, especially during the peak whale season from December through March.

What we love most about this experience is how comfortable and fast the boats are, allowing you to cover more water in less time, and the knowledgeable guides who explain the whales’ behaviors and their incredible journeys. Plus, the guarantee of sightings means you’re more likely to go home with memorable photos or stories — an important plus given how unpredictable wildlife can be.

One possible consideration is that the tour duration is relatively short—around three hours—which is perfect for a quick trip but might leave avid whale watchers wishing for a longer encounter. Also, please note that pregnant women and people with mobility issues are not recommended to participate, so check this before booking.

This tour suits travelers who love marine wildlife, enjoy speedy boat rides, and value guides who are trained and licensed by the Mexican government. If you’re eager for a fun, no-fuss way to see whales in Banderas Bay, this is an excellent choice.

Key Points

• Wildlife in its natural environment: Observe humpback whales during their seasonal migration.
• Comfortable speedboats: Large, smooth-gliding boats reach speeds up to 40 mph, ensuring quick, exhilarating rides.
• Sightings guaranteed: With a legally sanctioned tour, your chances of seeing whales are high — if not, you’ll get another chance.
• Expert guides: Guides are trained and licensed, providing insightful commentary on whale behavior and marine life.
• Inclusive amenities: The tour includes transportation, safety equipment, a box lunch, and soft drinks, making it a well-rounded experience.
• Limited mobility options: Not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An in-depth look at this whale watching tour

Starting points and transportation

Unlike many tours that pick you up from a hotel, this tour begins at a designated marina dock, either at Los Veranos Canopy Tour or Otro location. This means you’ll want to factor in how you’ll get there, but once aboard, the experience begins with a brief safety briefing and a quick ride on a speedboat that whisks you across Banderas Bay in about 30 minutes.

The boats used are described as “large high-speed boats,” built for comfort and speed, capable of gliding on the water at speeds of up to 40 mph. This is particularly appealing if you dislike long, bumpy rides. The swift pace also means you spend more time actually searching for whales rather than just cruising around.

The itinerary and what to expect

The tour consists of a 2-part speedboat ride—30 minutes out to the bay, then a 3-hour whale watching segment, followed by another 30-minute ride back. During the main activity, your guide will lead you to prime whale sighting spots, sharing insights about humpback whales’ behaviors, such as breaching and tail slapping.

The highlight of the tour is the chance to see whales breaching high out of the water — a sight that’s both impressive and a bit humbling. One review mentions how “whales are aplenty, jumping or breaching out of the water high in the air all day long.” You might find yourself just watching in awe as these giant mammals perform their acrobatic displays.

Wildlife and marine life

The guides are trained to explain the whales’ multi-mile journey to Banderas Bay, making the experience educational as well as thrilling. Besides whales, the tour sometimes offers dolphin watching, which adds another layer of excitement. Seeing dolphins surf alongside the boat is a common and delightful bonus.

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The guarantee and guides’ expertise

This tour is legally sanctioned by the Mexican government, meaning all guides and captains are licensed and trained. This provides peace of mind when it comes to safety and professionalism.

One reviewer, Sandra from Mexico, shared, “Phenomenal, we saw quite a few whales and the guide was very knowledgeable about whales and took us to see killer whales.” That highlights how informed guides can enhance your experience, making you feel more connected to the marine environment.

What to bring and considerations

Pack comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are recommended since you’ll be exposed to the sun on deck. Drones are not allowed, so plan for that.

Since pregnant women and those with mobility issues are advised not to participate, this tour is best suited for active travelers in good health who want a short, action-packed wildlife viewing adventure.

Overall value and pricing

At $89, this tour offers good value given the inclusion of transportation, guides, safety equipment, and a meal. The sighting guarantee is a significant bonus, especially during the busy whale season, as it reduces anxiety about whether you’ll see the whales.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This experience is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager for a quick, exciting marine adventure. It’s perfect if you want to combine the thrill of a speedboat ride with the chance to see majestic whales in the wild. The tour’s educational element and guarantee of sightings make it suitable for those curious about marine life, as well as travelers who appreciate professional, licensed guides.

However, if you or your travel companions have mobility challenges or are pregnant, you’ll want to consider other tours. Likewise, if you’re hoping for a longer, more relaxed whale watching experience, this 3-hour tour might feel a bit brisk.

A detailed look at what makes this tour stand out

Speed and comfort in a small package

The large high-speed boats are designed to glide smoothly, which means you can enjoy the ride without feeling every ripple. Reaching up to 40 mph, these boats allow you to cover more water quickly, increasing your chances of finding whales. This setup is ideal for travelers who prefer adventure with comfort.

Focused on natural behavior and education

The guides are trained and licensed by the government, offering insightful commentary on whale behaviors, migrations, and ecology. Knowing that guides are knowledgeable adds a layer of trust and enriches the experience.

Guarantee that matters

The sighting guarantee is a major selling point. Wildlife can be unpredictable, but the tour operators’ confidence means they will rebook or extend your trip if you don’t see whales initially. This reassurance makes the investment more worthwhile.

Authenticity and legal safety

Since the tour is legally sanctioned, you can rest assured that safety standards and environmental regulations are followed. This is especially important when dealing with wildlife and marine environments.

The vibe and atmosphere

Expect a family-friendly, lively atmosphere with people eager to share the thrill of whale sightings. The small group size (implied by the nature of the tour) keeps the experience intimate and engaging, allowing for personalized tips from guides.

Final thoughts on the experience

This whale watching tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, education, and comfort. It’s a great introduction for those new to whale watching or for anyone wanting a short but memorable encounter with Banderas Bay’s marine giants. The speedy boats make the trip lively and fun, while the knowledgeable guides help you understand the significance of what you’re seeing.

The price point is reasonable, especially considering the inclusion of transportation, safety gear, meals, and the sighting guarantee. You’ll come away with striking photos and stories of whales breaching high above the water — memories that will stick with you long after your trip.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who seek a quick, exciting cruise with the chance to witness spectacular marine life. If you’re after a relaxed, long-duration watch, you might want to explore other options. But for those wanting value, authenticity, and a splash of adventure, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, including transportation to and from the bay.

What is included in the price?
Transportation, expert guides, safety equipment, and a seasonal fruit, soft drink, and sandwich are included.

How do I pay the port fee?
A $2 USD port fee is required for departures from Marina, payable in cash or by card at the office.

Where do I meet the tour?
Meeting points vary based on your booking, but it’s usually at Los Veranos Canopy Tour or Otro dock.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour suits active travelers. Check with the operator if traveling with young children or those with mobility issues.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides are available in both English and Spanish.

Will I see whales every trip?
While sightings are highly likely due to the guarantee, wildlife can be unpredictable, but guides will do their best to ensure a successful encounter.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended. No drones allowed.

Is the tour season-specific?
Yes, the best whale viewing is during December through March when humpbacks migrate to Banderas Bay.

In summary, this Whale Watching Guaranteed Experience in Puerto Vallarta offers a thrilling, educational, and comfortable way to see whales in their natural habitat. With a sighting guarantee, professional guides, and quick-moving boats, it’s an adventure that suits active, curious travelers eager for a memorable marine encounter. Whether you’re new to whale watching or a seasoned enthusiast, this tour delivers a value-packed experience in one of Mexico’s most beautiful coastal settings.

You can check availability for your dates here: