Puerto Vallarta: Private Yacht Charter with Crew

A Glimpse of the Puerto Vallarta Yacht Experience

Imagine cruising the Bay of Banderas aboard a sleek 48-ft SeaRay yacht, with your own crew taking care of every detail. This private yacht charter costs about $802.52 per person and lasts around 4 to 5 hours, making it ideal for celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a day of high-end relaxation. The experience is cruise ship friendly, which means you’ll have access to spacious decks, air-conditioned interiors, and a fully stocked sound system that sets the mood.

What we love most about this experience are two key details: first, the list of included amenities—snorkeling gear, paddleboards, floating lilypad, bottled water, and WiFi on board—ensures there’s no shortage of fun or comfort. Second, the personalized crew service—attentive, fun, and engaging—makes every moment memorable. The stunning views of Puerto Vallarta’s bay and the delicious onboard food are also big winners.

A possible consideration is the price point, which might seem steep for some travelers; however, the all-inclusive nature and exclusivity of a private yacht often justify the cost, especially when you consider the level of service and amenities.

This tour suits travelers who are celebrating a special event, want to enjoy Puerto Vallarta in style, or are looking for a luxurious, private escape on the water. From romantic couples to small groups of friends, the experience is tailored for those seeking comfort, privacy, and a touch of adventure.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: A sleek yacht with air-conditioned interiors and spacious decks.
• All-Inclusive Amenities: Snorkeling gear, paddleboards, floating lilypad, bottled water, and WiFi.
• Personalized Service: A professional crew dedicated to making your day unforgettable.
• Stunning Views: Explore Puerto Vallarta’s bay and enjoy picturesque scenery.
• Flexible Itinerary: Focused on the Bay of Banderas, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, relaxing, and taking photos.
• Great for Celebrations: Suitable for birthdays, romantic getaways, or special occasions.

Setting Sail in Style: The Details of the Yacht Experience

When we first consider a private yacht charter, many of us think about privacy, luxury, and exclusivity. This Puerto Vallarta trip delivers all that, with the added benefit of being cruise ship friendly, meaning it’s accessible for guests arriving via cruise. The Escándalo Yacht is a 48-ft SeaRay—compact enough for intimacy but spacious enough for comfort.

The cost of about $802.52 per person might seem high at first glance, but for the level of luxury and personalized service, it’s quite reasonable. Think of it as paying for a full day of private, worry-free relaxation, with crew members handling your every whim. This price includes all fees and taxes, plus bottled water and WiFi—small touches that elevate the experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The core of this tour is a 4-hour exploration of the Bay of Banderas. You’ll depart from the Marina Vallarta, specifically from Dock H Slip 2, and spend your time cruising, swimming, and enjoying the scenery. It’s a perfect length for a half-day escape—enough to unwind without feeling rushed.

Stop 1: Bay of Banderas
Here, the focus is on relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta’s famed bay. The captain and crew will take you along the coast, pointing out landmarks and possibly sharing local insights. The bay offers a stunning backdrop for photos—whether you’re lounging on deck or snorkeling in the clear waters.

What’s Included?

The tour provides snorkel gear—a highlight for many guests who love exploring under the waves. Paddleboards and a floating lilypad are also included, so you and your group can frolic on the water at your own pace. Bottled water keeps everyone hydrated, and the onboard restroom and WiFi add convenience.

What’s Not Included?

Tipping the crew is not included, which is customary in such experiences. Most reviewers mention that the crew is attentive and fun, so a tip is a nice way to show appreciation if you’re pleased with the service.

Meeting Point & End of Tour

The yacht departs from the Marina Vallarta and returns to the same spot, making logistics straightforward. Since the tour is private, only your group will be on board, adding to the intimate atmosphere.

Authentic Experiences Shared by Guests

Reviewers consistently praise the crew’s professionalism and friendliness. One described their birthday celebration as “incredible,” with crew members Alex, Manny, Johnny, Paco, and Gina making the day unforgettable. The attention to detail and fun vibe left a lasting impression.

Another noted how the food was top-notch, describing it as “plenty of activities” and “a bar fully stocked”, making the day feel more like a floating luxury resort. Multiple reviews mentioned that the crew went above and beyond, ensuring everyone’s needs were met, which speaks to the high level of service.

One guest pointed out that only four of them were on board, but thanks to the crew of three, they felt like royalty, highlighting the personalized attention that smaller groups can enjoy. Such intimacy makes this trip especially appealing for romantic couples or small groups.

Deep Dive into the Experience

The scenic cruising along Puerto Vallarta’s coastline is likely to be a highlight. You’ll glide past lush hills and vibrant cityscapes, with ample opportunities for photos. The onboard sound system means you can curate your own playlist, turning the yacht into a floating party or a peaceful retreat.

The snorkeling gear allows for underwater exploration, so you might find yourself or your companions marveling at the marine life in the bay’s calmer waters. Paddleboards and the lilypad are perfect for those who want to stay dry but still enjoy the sensation of floating on the water.

The air-conditioned interior is a welcome refuge if the sun gets too intense—perfect for cooling off or enjoying a drink from the optional open bar. Many guests appreciate the WiFi onboard, allowing sharing of photos or even a quick work check if needed.

The Food and Drinks

While food isn’t included, reviews mention delicious, freshly made offerings that are likely to be provided by the crew or available for purchase. The fully stocked bar is a big hit among guests seeking a cocktail or cold drink as they soak up the views.

The Crew and Service

Guests repeatedly praise the crew’s professionalism, friendliness, and engagement. They mention crew members like Alex, Manny, Johnny, Paco, Gina, and owner Philip, emphasizing their attentiveness and willingness to ensure everyone has a memorable time. This kind of personalized service transforms a simple yacht ride into a special occasion.

Flexibility and Customization

Since this is a private experience, you can tailor your day. Whether you want more swimming, relaxing on deck, or taking plenty of photos, the crew can adapt. The 4 to 5-hour duration is flexible enough to include some downtime and exploration without feeling overwhelming.

Who Will Love This Yacht Charter?

If you’re looking for a luxurious, intimate escape in Puerto Vallarta, this trip is ideal. It’s perfect for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or just treating yourself to a memorable day on the water. The high praise from travelers about the crew and the scenery suggests it’s especially suited for those who value personalized service, stunning views, and good amenities.

The experience is also well-suited for groups of friends or small families who want to enjoy the bay in style, with plenty of activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding to keep everyone entertained.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Considering the level of service, comfort, and inclusivity, many travelers find that the price justifies the experience. It offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and luxury that’s hard to match in Puerto Vallarta. If your goal is to enjoy the bay with a small, attentive crew and a boat equipped with everything you need for a great day, this yacht charter ticks all the boxes.

For those wanting a special celebration or a private escape, this experience delivers a significant upgrade from typical boat tours. The reviews show that most guests leave with unforgettable memories and a desire to return.

While it’s not a casual, budget outing, it’s definitely a value-for-money splurge for those craving a high-end adventure on Puerto Vallarta’s waters.

FAQ: Practical Questions Answered

How long is the yacht tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, giving you enough time to relax, swim, and explore without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Dock H Slip 2 in Marina Vallarta, making logistics simple, especially if you’re staying nearby.

What’s included in the price?
All fees and taxes are covered, along with snorkeling gear, paddleboards, a floating lilypad, bottled water, an air-conditioned vehicle, restroom, and WiFi onboard.

Is this experience suitable for cruise passengers?
Yes, the tour is cruise ship friendly, perfect for travelers arriving via cruise who want to enjoy a private yacht experience.

Can I customize the experience?
Since this is a private tour, you can likely tailor your activities—be it more swimming, relaxing, or sightseeing—though specific customization options aren’t detailed.

What should I tip the crew?
While not included, most reviews imply tipping is customary and appreciated for crew members who go above and beyond.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there a group discount?
The experience features group discounts, making it a good choice for larger parties seeking value.

What is the overall value for this experience?
Considering the luxury, amenities, and service, many guests think it’s a worthwhile splurge for a truly memorable day on the water.

In The Sum Up

This private yacht experience in Puerto Vallarta offers a blend of luxury, personalized service, and stunning scenery that appeals to travelers seeking more than just a typical boat ride. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a luxurious day of relaxation, you’ll find this tour delivers a high-end experience with genuine attention to detail.

The all-inclusive amenities, professional crew, and beautiful views make it a standout option. While the price might be higher than some other outings, the quality of service and exclusivity justify the cost—especially when you consider how tailored and memorable the day will be.

If you value comfort, privacy, and authentic service, this yacht trip is well worth considering. It’s best suited for those wanting a luxurious escape that combines adventure, relaxation, and impeccable hospitality in the stunning setting of Puerto Vallarta’s bay.