Pirate Ship by Day

Pirate Ship by Day in Puerto Vallarta: A Swashbuckling Adventure for Families and Water Enthusiasts

Anyone visiting Puerto Vallarta with a taste for adventure and a smile on their face might find the Pirate Ship by Day tour just the ticket. For about $280 per person, you get roughly six hours of fun aboard a 700-ton Galleon, exploring Majahuitas Beach and Ecological Reserve, and enjoying a mix of water activities, lively entertainment, and delicious food. The experience is designed with families and groups in mind, offering a lively, family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of entertainment and options for all ages.

What we love about this tour is the combination of scenic sailing and active beach fun—you’ll be snorkeling, kayaking, or playing beach volleyball, all while soaking in the beautiful Pacific views. The pirate show also adds a playful, theatrical element that many find surprisingly engaging. Plus, food and drinks are included, giving you a chance to relax without constantly reaching for your wallet.

A potential consideration is that the initial check-in process can be a bit slow, with reports of long wait times for boarding. This might test your patience if you’re eager to start exploring. Also, this tour tends to cater to travelers who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere—so if you’re looking for a peaceful, contemplative day by the sea, this might not be the best fit.

This experience is ideal for families with children, groups of friends, or anyone looking for a fun, activity-packed day on the water. If you appreciate lively entertainment, good food, and water sports, you’ll likely find this tour to be a memorable part of your Puerto Vallarta trip.

Key Points

• Active Water Fun: Snorkeling, kayaking, banana rides, and beach volleyball keep everyone engaged.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The pirate-themed entertainment, including the pirate Pepe, appeals to kids and adults alike.
• All-Inclusive Food & Drink: Nine food options plus an open bar make for a relaxed day without extra costs.
• Unique Scenery: Ecological reserves and semi-private island visits offer a special, crowd-avoiding experience.
• Longer Check-In: Be prepared for possible lines and arrive early to avoid delays.
• Highly Rated Staff: Attentive crew, especially the pirate Pepe, often gets praise for their friendliness.

An In-Depth Look at the Pirate Ship by Day Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the Puerto Vallarta port, specifically at the A.P.I. Puerto Vallarta S.A. de C.V. administration area. The meeting time is at 9:30 am, and transportation isn’t included, so most travelers will need to arrange their own way to the port. The location is accessible by public transport, which is a plus for travelers without private vehicles.

Once aboard, you’ll be greeted by a welcome pirate—a friendly, theatrical character who sets the tone for the day. The boarding process, according to reviews, can involve waiting in line for up to 1.5 hours, so arriving early or being prepared for some patience is wise.

The Vessel and Atmosphere

The 700-ton Galleon is a sight in itself—an impressive floating replica that immediately sparks the imagination. The ship is spacious enough to accommodate up to 250 travelers, meaning you’ll likely be part of a lively group, but never too crowded to enjoy the water activities or find a quiet spot.

The onboard environment is festive, with contests, awards, and pintacaritas (face painting) adding a playful touch. The ship’s décor and atmosphere are designed to evoke a pirate adventure, making it especially appealing for families with children or anyone wanting a sense of fun and fantasy.

Scenic Sailing and Majahuitas

After departure, you’ll enjoy scenic views of the coast and ecological reserve. The highlight is reaching Majahuitas Island, a semi-private spot perfect for avoiding crowds. This area is part of the ecological reserve, so you get the benefit of being in a protected environment—that is, no noisy vendors or over-touristed beaches.

From the boat, you’ll get excellent views of the coast, and the clear waters around Majahuitas are perfect for snorkeling and kayaking. The beach activities are plentiful: you can snorkel to see marine life, paddle around in kayaks, or just relax and soak up the sun while playing beach volleyball or engaging in a treasure hunt.

Water Activities and Beach Fun

The tour offers a variety of water activities designed to involve everyone. Snorkeling is popular, with reviews mentioning that the water is clear enough to see marine life, although the quality of equipment isn’t detailed. Kayaking and banana rides add a splash of adventure, while the treasure hunt adds a playful element to explore the island.

Beach volleyball, a favorite among families, keeps guests active and entertained. For those who want a break, there’s plenty of rest and comfort aboard the ship or on the beach, with food and drinks available to keep everyone fueled up for more play.

The Pirate Show and Entertainment

No pirate adventure would be complete without a pirate show—and this experience delivers, with lively music, special effects, and humorous antics, especially from the pirate Pepe. Several reviews highlight how much children and families enjoyed the show, describing it as engaging and well-acted.

The contests, awards, and face painting add further entertainment. Reviewers have described the staff as attentive, with one noting Pepe was “very attentive to my family’s needs,” describing him as “finesse” in his role.

Food, Drinks, and Relaxation

Food is a major part of this tour’s appeal. You’re offered nine different food options, allowing you to pick something that suits your taste, whether you prefer chips, salads, or other local favorites. The all-you-can-drink open bar, featuring both national and international options, helps keep everyone in good spirits.

Many guests have praised the variety and quality of the food, calling it a highlight of the day. One reviewer mentioned the menu was varied enough that you could pay a small extra for more options, which adds a nice touch of flexibility.

Ending the Day and Return

The tour wraps up back at the port around 3 pm. After a fun-filled day, you’ll disembark with plenty of photos, stories, and perhaps a sunburn or two. The overall experience is designed to be lively and active, with a focus on creating joyful memories.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

While most reviews are positive, some travelers noted delays at check-in or the crowds that can form before boarding. One reviewer described a “long wait of 1:30 hours” for check-in, which can be frustrating if you’re eager to start your adventure. It’s worth arriving early and prepared.

Another review, surprisingly critical, called the experience “very bad,” citing a lack of professionalism in handling emergencies. This highlights that, as with any tour, experiences can vary, and it’s essential to approach with reasonable expectations.

On the upside, many reviews mention the delicious food and attentive staff. One happy family said, “Our pirate Pepe was great, very attentive and fun”, emphasizing how the staff’s friendliness makes the day special. Another guest noted that kids loved the pirate act and the overall atmosphere was “100 percent recommended and fun.”

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure suits families with children, who will enjoy the pirate theme, face painting, and active water play. It’s also perfect for groups of friends or couples looking for a lively day on the water with great food, entertainment, and scenic views. If you’re after a relaxed, quiet day at the beach, this tour might be too bustling for your taste.

If you appreciate good value for a full-day experience that combines fun, food, and a bit of adventure, this tour is a solid choice. Also, if you enjoy a theatrical, themed environment that sparks your imagination, you’ll find the pirate ambiance a delightful bonus.

Final Thoughts

The Pirate Ship by Day provides a lively, enjoyable day on the water in Puerto Vallarta, blending scenic sailing, active beach time, and engaging entertainment. The inclusion of great food and an open bar elevates it from a simple boat trip to a full-day experience. It’s especially appealing for families and those wanting a social, energetic atmosphere that keeps everyone busy and smiling.

While the check-in process can be slow and the overall vibe is quite lively, the friendly staff and fun pirate theme make it a day worth considering. It offers a good balance of scenic views, water activities, and entertainment—perfect for travelers seeking a memorable, action-packed excursion.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers breakfast, access to water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, banana rides, and beach volleyball, plus a pirate show, face painting, contests, and an open bar with both national and international drinks.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately six hours, starting at 9:30 am and returning around 3 pm, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the activities and scenery.

Are there any additional costs?
The price includes most activities, but you’ll need to pay a port fee and cover your transportation to the port, as these are not included. The tour also recommends paying for any extra souvenirs or optional upgrades.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. The pirate theme, face painting, and family-friendly activities make it a hit with kids, according to reviews.

What about food options?
You can choose from nine different food options, ensuring variety for different tastes. Many reviews praise the quality and variety of the meals.

How crowded does it get?
The tour can host up to 250 travelers, so expect a lively atmosphere, especially during boarding. Arriving early helps avoid long lines.

Is transportation to the port included?
No, transportation is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point.

Can I book this tour if I have mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but if you have specific mobility restrictions, it’s best to contact the provider directly for detailed assistance.

To sum it up, the Pirate Ship by Day marries fun, scenery, and good food into a lively Puerto Vallarta adventure. Perfect for those who want more than just a boat ride—this is a day filled with entertainment, active water play, and family-friendly charm. If you’re ready for a spirited, memorable outing that combines the sea’s natural beauty with a splash of pirate fantasy, this tour deserves a spot on your Puerto Vallarta itinerary.