Puerto Vallarta Luxury Sailing with Premium Open bar & lunch

For those seeking a relaxing yet indulgent escape, Puerto Vallarta’s luxury sailing tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and scenic beauty. Starting from either Puerto Vallarta or Nuevo Vallarta, this six-hour voyage (roughly) takes you along the curvaceous coastline of Banderas Bay. For just $129 per person, you get to enjoy sailing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and a delicious gourmet lunch paired with an open bar—all on a stylish and well-appointed vessel.

Two standout features truly make this tour enjoyable: the personalized attention from the crew and the chance to see marine mammals such as dolphins, humpback whales (seasonally), manta rays, and sea turtles. We especially appreciate how the route is flexible, based on daily sea conditions, ensuring you get the best views and activities possible.

A potential consideration? The six-hour duration can feel long for some, especially if you’re not a fan of lengthy boat trips or if water activities aren’t your main thing. But overall, this trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate good food, comfort, and the chance to see marine life while enjoying the sea breeze and stunning vistas.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary based on daily weather, ensuring optimal experience and safety.
• All equipment provided for snorkeling and paddleboarding, making it easy for beginners.
• Gourmet lunch and unlimited drinks with a premium open bar enhance the relaxing vibe.
• Likely chances to see dolphins, whales (seasonal), manta rays, and sea turtles.
• The tour is ideal for adventurous, nature-loving adults with at least 10 years old.
• Small group size (up to 30 travelers) means more personalized service and a relaxed atmosphere.

A Well-Balanced Look at the Puerto Vallarta Luxury Sailing Experience

When we consider a day out on the water in a beautiful setting, it’s all about the balance of activities, comfort, and scenery. This tour ticks all those boxes, offering a 6-hour window that feels both relaxed and engaging. It’s not just about sailing; it’s about experiencing the best of Banderas Bay, with multiple opportunities to get active, enjoy good food, and soak up the sun.

Starting Point and Logistics

You can choose to meet at the Marina Vallarta or go directly to the Nuevo Vallarta meeting point, which adds flexibility. Keep in mind, there’s a small port fee (MX$40) to be paid in cash at the marina, which is a minor detail but worth knowing upfront. The tour begins at 9:30 am, giving you a full day of adventure.

While the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, the easy access to the marina makes it straightforward to find transportation, especially if you’re staying nearby. This is a typical setup for water-based excursions, but it’s helpful to plan accordingly.

The Vessel and Crew

The boat itself is described as beautiful, comfortable, and easy to lounge on, which is perfect for relaxing either in the sun or shaded areas. It’s not a party boat but a vessel designed for a more refined experience, blending privacy with sociability.

Throughout the reviews, the crew consistently receives high praise. They are attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable, with mention of Captain Sergio specifically. You’ll find that they’re ready to help with water activities, serve drinks, and offer insights into the marine life you might see.

The Route and Stops

The itinerary is flexible, with the main route along the Bay of Banderas heading south of Puerto Vallarta. The actual stops depend on sea conditions, but common highlights include visits to secluded beaches, snorkeling in protected coves, and the scenic ride to Los Arcos—a popular rock formation and snorkeling spot.

One of the more appreciated aspects, echoed repeatedly in reviews, is the opportunity to see marine mammals, especially during whale season. Guests frequently mention dolphins and whales, along with manta rays and sea turtles, making this tour especially appealing for nature lovers.

Water Activities

All necessary gear for snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is provided, which makes it accessible even if you’ve never tried these before. Several reviews highlight how snorkeling at the secluded coves offers a good chance to see tropical fish and rays. The SUPs are a bonus, adding a fun way to explore the calm waters at your own pace.

Some guests mention that snorkeling visibility can vary, but that’s typical for ocean adventures. The crew is proactive in guiding and assisting, ensuring everyone gets a fair shot at enjoying the water.

Food and Beverage Offerings

One of the biggest highlights is the gourmet lunch and open bar. Expect delicious, freshly prepared dishes, including fruit trays, cheese, crackers, guacamole, and a charcuterie spread. Several reviews mention that the food exceeded expectations, with refined presentation and plentiful servings.

The open bar is described as never-ending, with a range of drinks including mixed cocktails and non-alcoholic options. Guests consistently praise the attentiveness of the crew in keeping drinks flowing, which contributes significantly to the laid-back, celebratory vibe.

Marine Life and Sightings

For many, the thrill comes from seeing dolphins, humpback whales (seasonally), manta rays, and sea turtles. The reviews frequently mention multiple sightings, with some guests describing their awe at being so close to these creatures. Remember, whale sightings are seasonal, mainly in the winter months, but even outside that season, the chance to see dolphins and rays remains high.

Passenger Experience and Group Size

With a maximum of 30 travelers, the tour strikes a good balance—it’s large enough to feel lively but small enough to receive personalized attention. Many reviews emphasize how attentive and friendly the crew is, making the day feel special rather than rushed.

Overall Value and Suitability

At $129, the tour offers a full day of activities, high-quality food, and unlimited drinks. For anyone who enjoys water sports, scenic sailing, and marine wildlife, this package delivers excellent value. It’s well-suited for adults and older teenagers (minimum age 10) who want a mix of relaxation and adventure.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This luxury sailing adventure is perfect for those who want to combine comfort with active pursuits, all set against the stunning backdrop of Banderas Bay. If you’re a fan of beautiful scenery, good food, and spotting marine life, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. The small group environment and attentive crew make it ideal for couples, small groups, or even solo travelers looking to meet like-minded explorers.

While it lasts around six hours, many guests describe it as relaxing and well-paced, with enough variety to keep everyone engaged. The premium open bar and gourmet lunch elevate the experience from a simple boat ride to a true taste of seaside luxury. Just keep in mind that the longer duration might be a consideration for those prone to seasickness or preferring shorter excursions.

All in all, it’s a fantastic way to see Puerto Vallarta’s coast from a comfortable, stylish vessel while enjoying the thrill of marine wildlife, scenic stops, and excellent food. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a memorable day on the water, this tour hits the right notes.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
No, the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to get to the marina or the designated meeting point, which is straightforward given its central location.

What should I bring?
Bring Mexican cash for the small port fee, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a swimsuit if you plan to swim or paddleboard. It’s also wise to bring a towel and a light cover-up for when you’re not in the water.

Are water activities suitable for beginners?
Yes, snorkeling and paddleboarding are included with all equipment provided, and the crew is helpful in guiding those new to water sports.

What is the food like?
Guests consistently praise the delicious, fresh, and beautifully presented lunch and snacks. Expect a combination of fruit, cheese, crackers, guacamole, and a variety of other tasty items.

When is whale season?
Whale sightings are more common during the winter months, but dolphins and rays are often seen year-round.

How many people will be on the boat?
The maximum group size is 30 travelers, promoting a friendly, intimate atmosphere without feeling crowded.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 10 years old, making it a good option for families with older kids or teenagers.

In sum, this Puerto Vallarta luxury sailing tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, marine wildlife, delicious cuisine, and relaxed elegance. It’s a solid pick for travelers seeking a memorable day on the water with plenty of opportunities for fun, relaxation, and discovery.