3 Hours of Whale Watching in Puerto Vallarta

Planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta and eager to see the majestic whales that visit the bay each year? This 3-hour whale watching tour offers travelers a chance to witness these incredible mammals in their natural habitat, with plenty of opportunities for memorable moments. While the tour is generally well-received, there are some details worth considering to make your experience as smooth as possible.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see whales up close in the calm waters of Puerto Vallarta’s bay, the presence of knowledgeable guides who prioritize respectful whale viewing, and the value offered at just $55 per person. Plus, the scenic stops along the way, like visiting Los Arcos and enjoying a brief hike, add extra layers of enjoyment.

A potential drawback is the occasionally confusing directions for meeting points, as noted by some travelers, and the extra port tax of 39 pesos, which might catch some off guard if they’re not prepared. This tour is best suited for families, solo travelers, or couples interested in wildlife and scenic boat rides, looking for a budget-friendly but authentic whale-watching experience.

Good To Know

• Authentic wildlife encounter: You’ll get a chance to see whales, including mothers and calves, in the bay.
• Respectful viewing: The guides emphasize giving whales their space, ensuring a responsible experience.
• Affordable price: At $55, this tour offers good value compared to more expensive options.
• Scenic stops included: Visit Los Arcos and enjoy some light hiking and beach time.
• Limited group size: Max of 18 travelers, making for a more intimate experience.
• Potential logistical hiccups: Directions and port fees require some attention before the trip.

Exploring the Details: What to Expect from This Whale Watching Tour

Start and Meeting Point
The adventure begins at Los Peines, Isla Iguana in Puerto Vallarta. The meeting point is within easy reach via public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers. However, some reviews mention that directions could be clearer, so it’s wise to double-check the location ahead of time. The tour runs approximately 3 hours, a perfect window for those wanting a focused experience without spending an entire day at sea.

Boarding and Equipment
Once you arrive, you’ll board a boat—likely a traditional panga—where your guide will assist with lifevests, which are included in the price. A notable point from reviews is that the boat’s size means space can be limited, so those prone to salt spray or who prefer shade may want to come prepared with extra clothing or sun protection.

Whale Watching in the Bay
After setting out, the crew will head towards Nayarit, actively searching for whales. The guides, who are familiar with the local whale patterns, will do their best to locate these gentle giants. When whales are spotted, the boat will slow down, and viewers can enjoy observing them without disturbing their natural behaviors. Several travelers have highlighted how close whales, including mothers with babies, come to the boat—one even noted a whale coming within ten feet.

Respectful Observation
A key aspect of this tour is the emphasis on giving whales their space, which is crucial for ethical wildlife viewing. The guides are trained to maintain a respectful distance, allowing for natural behaviors to be observed without intrusion.

Additional Stops
Once whale spotting winds down, the boat will visit Los Arcos, a famed natural rock formation and snorkeling spot. While the tour doesn’t specify snorkeling, reviewers have enjoyed the scenery and the chance to hike nearby beaches. One guest mentioned spending time hiking and relaxing after seeing whales, which adds to the tour’s appeal for those who want a mix of wildlife and scenic exploration.

Return and Wrap-Up
After approximately three hours, the boat heads back to the starting point. The overall flow is smooth, with some reviews mentioning slight delays or wandering, but nothing that detracts significantly from the experience.

The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

Highlights from travelers include the chance to see whales up close—many reviews mention seeing mother whales and calves, sometimes within just a few feet of the boat. One reviewer, Sanders D, shared, “A whale came within ten feet of the boat,” underscoring how memorable these encounters can be.

Guides and Service
Many travelers appreciated the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. While the boat crew’s English skills weren’t always perfect, their enthusiasm and expertise in whale behavior helped make the experience worthwhile. One guest noted that the guides were “very nice,” and another highlighted how the crew managed to keep the trip fun and engaging despite minor hiccups.

Value for Money
At $55 per person, this tour offers a decent price point, especially considering the chances of whale sightings and additional scenic stops. Some reviewers, like Andrew K, called it “great value,” while others found the experience to be “worth the money” for the whale encounters.

Potential Drawbacks
A few reviews pointed out logistical issues—for instance, a late check-in or the need to purchase a separate port fee of 39 pesos. One guest expressed disappointment with the boat size, salt spray, and the lack of shade, but these are common concerns with smaller boat tours.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

• Arrive early to navigate the slightly confusing meeting directions smoothly.
• Bring sunscreen and water—some boats have limited shade, and hydration is key.
• Be prepared for salt spray—wear sunglasses and consider a hat or cap.
• Carry pesos for the port tax if you’re not on a cruise ship, as this fee isn’t included.
• Dress comfortably—light layers are best, especially if you’re prone to salt spray or wind.
• Bring a camera or binoculars if you want better chances of capturing whale moments.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to see whales in their natural environment, this tour definitely fits the bill. It’s ideal for travelers who value authentic wildlife encounters over luxury amenities. The focus on respectful whale viewing and the small group size make it suitable for nature lovers and families alike.

However, if you prefer a more luxurious or extensive whale-watching experience, you might want to explore larger or more plush options. Also, those sensitive to salt spray or seeking shade should come prepared with protective gear.

The Sum Up

This 3-hour whale watching tour in Puerto Vallarta offers a genuine chance to see whales in their natural habitat, with the added bonus of scenic stops at Los Arcos and nearby beaches. The knowledgeable guides, the close encounters with whales, and the overall good value make it a solid choice for most travelers interested in marine life.

It’s particularly well-suited for budget-conscious visitors who want an authentic, responsible wildlife experience without the fuss of longer, more expensive excursions. While some logistical details could be clearer, the likelihood of seeing whales and enjoying Puerto Vallarta’s beautiful coastline make this tour a worthwhile consideration.

For those who love nature, wildlife, and scenic boat rides, this experience delivers a memorable glimpse into the bay’s marine residents—just remember to come prepared for a few logistical quirks.

FAQ

Do I need to bring anything specific for the tour?
It’s a good idea to bring sunscreen, water, sunglasses, and some light layers. Also, consider carrying pesos for the port tax if you aren’t on a cruise.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, including time for whale sightings, scenic stops, and the return.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour caps at 18 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight the guides’ familiarity with whale behaviors and their friendly attitude.

Does the tour include snorkeling?
No, the main focus is whale watching, though some stops like Los Arcos are scenic and may involve light hiking or relaxing on the beach.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are permitted, making it family-friendly.

Is there a risk of missing the whales?
Whale sightings depend on seasonal migration and luck, but guides do their best to locate them within the tour window.

In summary, this Puerto Vallarta whale watching tour combines good value, respectful wildlife viewing, and scenic stops, making it a practical choice for travelers eager to connect with nature during their visit.