Whale & Dolphin Watching Cruise in Puerto Vallarta All Inclusive

Whale & Dolphin Watching Cruise in Puerto Vallarta All Inclusive: A Detailed Review

Imagine sailing across Banderas Bay, with the ebb and flow of waves beneath you, eyes glued to the water, hoping to catch a glimpse of a breaching whale or a frolicking dolphin. For about $79 per person, this 4.5-hour all-inclusive tour offers just that—an adventure focused on marine life observation, combined with good food, drinks, and the camaraderie of fellow travelers. Led by knowledgeable bilingual guides, this cruise is a popular choice for visitors looking to connect with nature while enjoying a relaxed, festive atmosphere.

What We Love Most about this experience are the professional guides who seem genuinely passionate about marine life—and their ability to navigate the unpredictable routes of whale sightings, which makes each trip feel unique. The complimentary open bar and delicious included lunch turn what could be a simple boat ride into a true taste of local hospitality.

A possible drawback is that the tour can be crowded—up to 40 travelers—and the size of the boat may lead to some rough rides, especially in choppy waters. It’s not a trip for anyone prone to seasickness or seeking a very intimate experience.

If you’re someone who loves wildlife encounters, enjoys a lively atmosphere, and appreciates good value for money, this cruise could be just your ticket—particularly if you’re visiting Puerto Vallarta between December and March when whale sightings peak.

Key Points

• Flexible Route: The trip is guided by the whales and dolphins, meaning no two outings are exactly alike.
• Inclusive Experience: Food, alcohol, and entertainment are part of the package, making it ideal for those wanting a hassle-free day.
• Family-Friendly but Long: It suits most travelers, though children might find the duration and crowd a bit tiring.
• Authentic Marine Encounters: Expect opportunities to see humpback whales and dolphins in their natural environment, with the added bonus of a hydrophone for hearing their sounds.
• Practical Details: The meeting point is near the cruise port, and the tour requires paying a small dock tax.
• Mixed Reviews on Comfort: Some guests mentioned safety concerns and the large crowd, so packing light and arriving early is advisable.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The tour departs from a designated meeting spot close to Puerto Vallarta’s cruise port—H. Escuela Naval Militar 11—making it accessible for cruise ship passengers and day-trippers alike. The entire adventure lasts about 4 hours and 30 minutes, which includes both the boat ride and the time waiting for whale sightings.

While the trip is designed for around 40 people, reviews indicate that the actual number may sometimes be higher, with up to 125 guests on the boat. This can make the experience lively but also crowded, especially at popular sighting spots. Arriving early helps secure a good seat and ensures smoother boarding, particularly because there’s a Puerto Vallarta MX$32 dock tax payable in cash before departure.

The Vessel and Comfort

The tour is operated on a sizable double-decker boat—the Catalina III—which can hold 150+ guests, according to some reviews. This size allows for plenty of space and viewing areas, but not everyone will have a perfect seat. Some guests noted that the chairs are plastic and not particularly stable—which can be uncomfortable on a rough day.

The boat provides toilets, a hydrophone for listening to whale sounds, and shade on the upper deck, though on a sunny day, the lower deck can become quite warm. Secure seating and safety measures seem to vary, so if you’re concerned about stability or safety, arriving early to get a good spot is recommended.

The Marine Journey: What You’ll See

Once underway, the guides—who are praised for their friendliness and expertise—try to locate whale pods. The main focus is the humpback whales, which migrate to Banderas Bay from December to March. These whales are known for their spectacular breaches and tail slaps, and many reviews mention seeing whales breaching, jumping, and spyhopping.

Dolphins are also part of the show, although some guests, like Heidi, noted they weren’t always present, possibly due to seasonal factors. The guides’ efforts to find whales are often appreciated, with one reviewer noting that the captain didn’t give up until they found whales—even if it extended the trip.

Wildlife Encounters and Audio Experience

A highlight for many is the hydrophone, which allows you to hear the whales sing and communicate. This adds an intimate layer to the experience, especially when you close your eyes and listen to those haunting melodies. Observers have described this as peaceful and moving.

Food and Drinks: All-Inclusive and Tasty?

The continental breakfast includes coffee, fruit, bread, and granola—refreshing and straightforward. The lunch is a croissant or sandwich—adequate for a day at sea. The national open bar is a major selling point, offering rum, tequila, beer, soft drinks, and water—which many guests appreciate for keeping the mood lively.

However, a few reviews mention that the food quality can vary—some found it acceptable, while others found it lacking, especially vegetarians who noted limited options. Snacks such as chips and fruit are available, but if you have specific dietary needs, bringing your own might be wise.

Overall Atmosphere and Group Size

Expect a fun, lively environment, with crew members being friendly and knowledgeable. Many reviews praise the staff’s professionalism and enthusiasm. However, the large group size can mean less intimacy and more noise—something to consider if you prefer quiet, peaceful wildlife viewing.

Pricing and Value

At $79 per person, this tour offers a significant value—covering transport, food, drinks, and wildlife encounters. The all-inclusive aspect means no surprise costs, which is great for budgeting. That said, some travelers felt the experience was somewhat “crowded”, and safety concerns were raised about the rougher rides on choppy days.

For those seeking an authentic, engaging marine experience with a touch of party atmosphere, this cruise hits the mark. For travelers wanting a more intimate or serene encounter, alternative options might be better.

What the Reviews Tell Us

While many guests rave about the professional guides, the whales, and the overall fun, some reviews point out disappointing aspects: delays, overcrowding, safety concerns, and inconsistent food. The longer-than-expected wait times and difficulty in locating whales initially are common points, but most agree that persistent efforts by the crew tend to pay off.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for families, groups of friends, and wildlife enthusiasts who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere and want to see whales in their natural environment without breaking the bank. It’s perfect if you’re okay with some crowds and a longer ride, and you appreciate good food and free-flowing drinks.

Those with sea sickness concerns or seeking a quiet, contemplative experience may want to explore smaller, more intimate tours or focus on land-based whale watching options.

Final Thoughts

This Whale & Dolphin Watching Cruise in Puerto Vallarta offers a fun, value-packed way to experience marine life amid a festive environment. The guides’ enthusiasm and effort to find whales make it worthwhile, while the all-inclusive setup ensures you don’t have to worry about extra costs. The chance to listen to whales through the hydrophone, combined with impressive sightings, makes this an adventure worth considering.

While the crowd and comfort level may not suit everyone, the overall positive reviews and the chance to see majestic humpbacks and playful dolphins make it a solid choice for travelers wanting a combination of wildlife, good food, and fun. Pack your patience, bring some snacks if you’re vegetarian, and get ready for a memorable day at sea.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers say it is, but keep in mind it’s a long ride and can be crowded. Kids who can handle a boat ride of this length and enjoy wildlife will likely have a great time.

Do I need to bring my own food or drinks?
No, the tour provides breakfast, a croissant lunch, and an open bar, but you might want to bring snacks or specific drinks if you have dietary preferences.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for being on a boat—layers are wise in case it gets chilly or sunny. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat.

Is the boat safe?
Most reviews affirm the crew’s professionalism, but some guests mention that seats aren’t the sturdiest. Use caution, especially in rough seas.

Can I see dolphins on this tour?
It’s possible but not guaranteed. Dolphins are seasonal, and some reviewers noted they didn’t see any during their trip.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, as most trips are popular, especially during peak whale season. Arriving early to secure your spot and avoid long lines is advisable.

This Puerto Vallarta whale watching cruise offers a lively, engaging way to connect with nature, enjoy local hospitality, and witness some of the ocean’s most magnificent creatures. Whether you’re a wildlife lover or just looking for a fun day at sea, it provides a worthwhile adventure—just bring your sense of adventure… and your patience.