Pirates of the Bay - Night Tour

Imagine setting sail on a 700-ton galleon through the shimmering waters of Puerto Vallarta, surrounded by the sounds of lively music, pirates, and dazzling fireworks. For $275 per person, this 5-hour night tour offers a lively mix of entertainment, dining, and spectacular visuals, making it a memorable way to spend an evening in Mexico’s popular coastal city. Hosted by Puerto Vallarta Net, this tour takes you through the Bay of Puerto Vallarta with a combination of fun, food, and flair.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances family-friendly entertainment with a sophisticated ambiance. The dinner options, with seven choices to suit different tastes, show they aim to cater to diverse palates. Plus, the premium open bar provides a relaxed atmosphere for adults to enjoy drinks while gazing at the sunset or fireworks. Also, the interactive pirate show with dancing, games, and colorful characters keeps the energy high and the atmosphere lively.

A potential consideration is that the tour does not include hotel transportation, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer or plan to arrive at the marina in time. This could be a minor inconvenience, especially if you’re staying outside the immediate area. Still, for those who love boats, lively shows, and a festive crowd, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

This experience is best suited for adults and older teenagers looking for an evening of fun, entertainment, and gorgeous views. If you enjoy lively shows, themed evenings, and a chance to relax while exploring Puerto Vallarta by boat, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

Vibrant pirate-themed atmosphere with costumed characters and special effects
Spectacular views of Puerto Vallarta’s bay, especially during fireworks
Diverse dinner menu with seven options catering to different tastes
Includes lively entertainment: pirate show, dancing, games, and contests
Premium open bar offering international and national drinks
No hotel pickup—arrive 30 minutes early at the marina

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Pirates of the Bay Night Tour

Planning evening activities? Here are other after-dark options we've examined in Puerto Vallarta

A Unique Night Adventure on the Water

This tour takes you out on a large, ornate galleon that’s decked out with pirate-themed décor and effects. We loved the way the boat’s size and design created a sense of grandeur—it’s big enough for lively groups but still intimate enough for a personal experience. The crew’s enthusiasm is contagious, and the precise staging of the pirate show keeps everyone entertained.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with a warm pirate welcome, setting the tone for an evening of playful mischief. As the boat departs from the marina, you’ll start to see the iconic Puerto Vallarta skyline fading into the distance, replaced by the open water and the stars. The live music sets a festive mood, and you’ll quickly find yourself clapping along or tapping your feet.

Midway through the voyage, a “Drunken Pirate Show” takes center stage, featuring comedic performances and lively dancing that appeal to a broad audience. The performers don colorful costumes and use clever special effects to evoke the feeling of a real pirate adventure. This segment is often cited as a highlight, with guests finding it hilarious and engaging.

The Dinner Experience

One of the biggest draws is the dinner under the sea, where seven different dishes are available. We appreciated the variety—ranging from local Mexican favorites to international choices—giving everyone a chance to find something they enjoy. The food quality is generally good, and the presentation adds to the fun, pirate-themed atmosphere. Some reviews mention the dishes are “delicious” and “well-prepared,” which speaks to the attention to detail.

More Great Tours Nearby

Entertainment and Activities

After dinner, the pirate show continues with dancing, games, and contests. The lively characters encourage participation, making it more than just a passive viewing experience. The fireworks display is truly spectacular, lighting up the night sky with bursts of color—an unforgettable moment especially for photography lovers.

While you're exploring Puerto Vallarta, here are other experiences we've looked into

The View and Atmosphere

The stunning scenery of Puerto Vallarta’s bay is a constant backdrop throughout the tour. You’ll love the views of the city skyline, the starry sky, and the shimmering water. The special effects during dinner add an extra layer of excitement, mimicking underwater scenes with lighting and projections.

The Open Bar and Final Cheers

The premium open bar is a leisurely way to toast the evening, with a selection of national and international drinks. Guests often comment on the quality of the drinks and the friendly service from the bartenders. As the tour winds down, guests are treated to a fireworks finale, a perfect photo opportunity and a grand way to end the night.

Practical Details

While the experience is immersive and lively, it’s important to note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. Guests need to arrive at the marina about 30 minutes before departure. The tour runs mostly in the evening, and you’ll want to wear comfortable clothes and shoes—maybe even a light jacket if you tend to get cold on boat decks.

The cost of $275 per person might seem steep, but when you factor in the dinner, entertainment, drinks, fireworks, and the boat experience, it offers good value for a special night out. Plus, the flexible cancellation policy allows booking with confidence—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What the Reviews Say

Guests often highlight the stunning views and entertaining pirate show as the main highlights. One reviewer mentioned, “The fireworks and the atmosphere made it special,” while others appreciated the variety of dinner options. Some noted that the crew’s enthusiasm made the experience even more enjoyable, turning an evening cruise into a lively party.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is clearly geared toward adults and older teens who enjoy themed shows, lively atmospheres, and scenic boat rides. It’s ideal for those looking to combine great views with entertainment and a touch of adventure. Not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with back problems, due to boat movement and activity levels.

The Sum Up

The Pirates of the Bay Night Tour offers a fun, lively, and visually stunning way to spend an evening in Puerto Vallarta. With its colorful pirate theme, delicious dinner, spectacular fireworks, and scenic views, it provides a memorable experience that balances entertainment with relaxed elegance. While the absence of hotel pickup could be a minor inconvenience, the overall quality of the show and atmosphere more than makes up for it.

If you’re seeking a night of fun and fantasy on the water—whether celebrating a special occasion, or just wanting an entertaining night out—this tour delivers a lively dose of adventure. It’s perfect for those who love a good story, a hearty meal, and a dramatic fireworks display against the stunning backdrop of Puerto Vallarta’s bay.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You will need to arrive at the marina 30 minutes prior to departure.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, mostly in the evening, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the show and scenery.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, you get a dinner with seven options and a premium open bar with national and international drinks.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is primarily geared towards adults and older teenagers. It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems.

What should I wear?
Casual clothes and comfortable shoes are best. Bring sunscreen if you’ll be outside earlier, and a light jacket for the cooler evening air.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

How scenic is the cruise?
The views of Puerto Vallarta’s bay are stunning, especially during fireworks and at night when the city lights glow.

Do I need to pay any extra fees?
The only additional fee not included is the marina entrance fee of $32 MXN per person.

This lively pirate-themed night cruise offers great value for travelers looking to combine scenic vistas with entertainment and good food. It’s a memorable way to add a splash of adventure to your Puerto Vallarta trip.