Puerto Vallarta’s whale watching tours offer extraordinary value and reliable wildlife encounters. After testing multiple options, I found three standout experiences worth your time and money.
Small-group speedboat tours provide thrilling close-up encounters, while private sailing trips deliver a more intimate experience. For nature enthusiasts, the marine biologist-guided tours offer fascinating insights into whale behavior and migration patterns.
Most excursions last 3-4 hours and include basic amenities plus a conservation contribution. Based on extensive research and personal experience, the high customer satisfaction (92-100%) is well-deserved.
I especially recommend the educational tours – they transform a simple whale watch into a memorable learning experience. The guides’ expertise and passion make all the difference.
Check out these carefully selected whale watching tours that consistently deliver outstanding experiences:
Good To Know
- Private sailing tours offer personalized whale watching experiences with the ability to listen to whale vocalizations through hydrophones.
- Biologist-led educational tours provide in-depth insights into whale behavior and conservation efforts.
- High-speed boat tours allow for close encounters with whales, though they may have higher risks of overcrowding.
- Many tours include complimentary refreshments, snacks, and whale conservation donations, enhancing the overall experience.
- Accessibility and suitability for medical conditions vary across different tour options, so it’s important to research beforehand.
Mega Yacht Whale Watching Sunset Tour [All-Inclusive]
![Mega Yacht Whale Watching Sunset Tour [All-Inclusive]](https://veronikasadventure.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/mega-yacht-whale-watching-sunset-tour-all-inclusive.jpg)
The Sunsets and Whales Mega Yachts ALL INCLUSIVE tour offers a luxurious sunset and whale-watching experience in the picturesque Bay of Banderas. This highly-rated, all-inclusive excursion aboard a spacious mega-yacht features an open bar, delicious snacks, and the chance to spot majestic whales.
With 449 reviews and a 96% recommendation rate, it’s a popular choice for families, couples, and sightseers looking to relax.
The 3-4 hour cruise includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as complimentary water, coffee, juices, sodas, margaritas, piña coladas, beer, tequila, and wine. Snacks like fresh ceviche, guacamole, and blue corn chips are also provided.
While whale sightings are best from December to April, the tour may spot some as early as November. With a maximum capacity of 115 travelers, the experience offers an intimate and enjoyable atmosphere with live music and attentive staff.
However, some guests have noted the tour feels more like a “booze cruise” than a dedicated whale-watching excursion.
Read our full review: Mega Yacht Whale Watching Sunset Tour [All-Inclusive] Review
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Whale and Dolphin Watching With a Biologist in Puerto Vallarta
For those seeking an immersive and educational whale-watching experience in Puerto Vallarta, the “Whale and Dolphin Watching With a Biologist” tour offers an exceptional opportunity.
Led by a biologist specializing in cetaceans, this 3-hour adventure combines citizen science with the chance to observe humpback whales, dolphins, turtles, and mantas in their natural habitat.
With a maximum of 20 travelers per tour, the intimate group size ensures personalized attention from the knowledgeable guide. The tour includes a land-based lesson on marine life before setting off on the water.
Guests will enjoy bottled water, soda, a baguette sandwich, and snacks, with special dietary options available upon request.
Though not recommended for those over 7 months pregnant, the tour is stroller and wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.
With a remarkable 4.8-star rating from 425 reviews, this whale-watching experience is highly recommended for its educational focus and close encounters with diverse marine life.
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Whale Research Adventure – Leaded by Marine Biologist.
Seeking an immersive whale-watching adventure led by experienced marine biologists, the “Whale Research Adventure” in Puerto Vallarta promises an unparalleled opportunity to observe humpback whales in their natural habitat.
Reviewers rave about the personalized small-group tours, which use a hydrophone system to listen to the whales’ vocalizations. The excursion is led by knowledgeable guides who provide an educational component, including a video lecture about the majestic creatures.
Travelers can expect a comfortable experience, with amenities like coffee, snacks, and a restroom on board. While not recommended for those with certain physical limitations, the tour is accessible to most participants.
With a 99% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this whale-watching adventure offers a unique and unforgettable encounter, while contributing to vital conservation efforts.
Read our full review: Whale Research Adventure – Leaded by Marine Biologist. Review
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Private Whale Watching Tour in Puerto Vallarta
Situated within the captivating Banderas Bay, the private whale watching tour in Puerto Vallarta offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat.
With a 99% traveler recommendation and 88 reviews, this tour is suitable for all ages, providing individualized attention, especially for children.
Departing from the marina, guests will embark on a well-equipped boat and enjoy whale spotting, as well as learning about various marine wildlife beyond just the whales.
The tour includes lunch, soft beverages, and a professional guide, ensuring a comprehensive and enjoyable experience.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the group size is limited to a maximum of 8 passengers per booking.
Regardless of weather conditions, the tour will operate, rain or shine.
Pricing is set at $760 per group, with an additional $40 pesos per person for port tax.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, stroller-friendly, and near public transportation, catering to the needs of diverse travelers.
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Whale Watching Experience
What makes the whale watching experience in Banderas Bay, Puerto Vallarta, so captivating? Every winter, the area becomes a hub for humpback whales migrating to breed and raise their young.
Visitors can cruise on a large inflatable speedboat, which provides quick access to the whales while maintaining a safe distance. The 2.5-to-3-hour tour includes hydrophones to hear the whales’ communication, a light snack, and purified water.
The tour emphasizes respectful observation of the marine life, ensuring the safety of both guests and wildlife. A conservation fee is collected to support humpback whale preservation efforts.
With a 94% recommendation rate and an average 4.7-star rating from 163 reviews, the whale watching experience is widely praised for its knowledgeable guides and memorable sightings. Many travelers express a desire to return and recommend the tour to others, making it a must-do activity for those visiting Puerto Vallarta.
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Small-Group Half-Day Whale-Watching Tour in Puerto Vallarta
A popular small-group half-day whale-watching tour in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, allows visitors to cruise Banderas Bay and spot migrating humpback whales. This 100% recommended tour operates seasonally from December to March and accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers per group.
The tour includes a knowledgeable marine biologist guide who educates guests about whale behavior. Lunch and soft drinks are provided on the small boat, which also has a restroom. Guests must pay a $50 pesos per person port tax in cash at check-in.
Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, and the tour meets at the easily accessible Mr. Cream Pancakes & Waffles in Marina Vallarta. Reviewers praise the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, as well as the opportunity to see numerous whales and learn about their communication.
Priced from $110.00 per person, this whale-watching experience offers a lowest price guarantee and reserve now, pay later options.
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Whale Encounter Puerto Vallarta
The Whale Encounter Puerto Vallarta offers a half-day whale-watching experience that takes visitors into the heart of Banderas Bay to observe these majestic marine mammals.
The tour has garnered excellent reviews, with 99% of travelers recommending it, and it’s been awarded a Badge of Excellence. The small-group format, limited to a maximum of 10 participants, provides an intimate and personalized experience.
Guests are treated to educational commentary from knowledgeable guides, such as Carlos and Emilio, who share insights about whale behavior and conservation.
The tour includes the use of a hydrophone to listen to the whales’ songs, as well as safety equipment and snacks. Transportation to and from the central meeting point is provided.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions, it offers a unique opportunity to witness the majesty of humpback whales in their natural habitat.
Visitors are advised to dress in layers and book early to secure the best experience.
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Whale & Dolphin Watching Cruise in Puerto Vallarta All Inclusive
Offering an all-inclusive whale and dolphin watching experience, the Whale & Dolphin Watching Cruise in Puerto Vallarta takes visitors on a captivating journey through Banderas Bay.
Priced from $79 per person, this 4-hour tour operated by Live&Travel Tours provides ample opportunities to spot these magnificent marine creatures. With a maximum capacity of 40 travelers, the cruise offers alcoholic beverages, a light lunch, and non-alcoholic drinks. Guests can also utilize the onboard hydrophone to listen to the whales’ vocalizations.
While the cruise received an average rating of 4.2/5 from 154 reviews, feedback was mixed. Travelers praised the knowledgeable staff, excellent food and drinks, and plentiful whale and dolphin sightings.
However, some noted confusing directions, overcrowding, and limited English narration. To maximize the experience, it’s recommended to arrive early, prepare for choppy waters, and be aware of potential additional costs on board.
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Whale Watching Guaranteed Experience in Puerto Vallarta
Visitors seeking a guaranteed whale-watching experience in Puerto Vallarta need look no further. This tour offers a 92% traveler recommendation, with reviewers praising the knowledgeable guides and close encounters with humpback whales.
Conducted in a high-speed boat, the tour takes guests to witness the annual migration of whales in the Bay of Banderas. Included in the tour are life jackets, lunch, seasonal fruit, sandwiches, and bottled water.
Pickup is available for cruise ship passengers, and the meeting points are conveniently located. The tour operates from 7:45 am to 11:45 am, with a maximum of 18 travelers per group. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
While not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, most travelers can participate in this exciting whale-watching experience.
With its high-quality offerings and positive reviews, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Puerto Vallarta.
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Whale Watching Tour Leaded by Biologist at 1 Pm
Although departing in the afternoon, this whale watching tour led by a biologist promises an immersive experience for guests in Puerto Vallarta. Priced from $110 per person, the 4.8-rated tour offers a comprehensive package, including snacks, beverages, and a donation to whale conservation.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, the intimate experience allows for personalized attention from the knowledgeable biologist guide. The tour departs from the Ecotours Vallarta / Dive Shop at 1:00 PM, returning to the same location.
While not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or serious medical conditions, the tour is accessible via public transportation. Guests can enjoy a hassle-free experience with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a lowest price guarantee.
Though some past participants have noted the ride can be rough, the opportunity to see whales in their natural habitat makes this an enticing option for nature enthusiasts visiting Puerto Vallarta.
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Half Day Whale Watching in Puerto Vallarta
This half-day whale watching tour in Puerto Vallarta provides an intimate glimpse into the lives of magnificent humpback whales. With a 100% recommendation rate from 12 travelers, this private tour offers the unique opportunity to see these majestic creatures and even hear their mating songs.
Departing from the K Dock in Marina Vallarta, the tour takes place aboard the boat named La Vida Bella, which is stroller and wheelchair accessible.
Guests can enjoy a variety of refreshments, including alcoholic beverages, sodas, and snacks, while on board. The tour operates daily from 8 AM to 6 PM during the peak whale watching season of December 8 to March 23.
With private transportation provided, travelers need only pay the $80 MXN per person port entrance fee. Despite the non-refundable policy, the tour boasts a 5.0-star overall rating, ensuring a memorable whale watching experience in Puerto Vallarta.
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Whale Watching in Puerto Vallarta
For those seeking a captivating encounter with the majestic humpback whales that frequent the waters off Puerto Vallarta, the city’s whale watching experiences offer an unparalleled opportunity.
Vallarta Adventures’ whale watching tour takes travelers on a 4-hour journey to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The tour departs from the Puerto Magico meeting point at 8:00 am, with a maximum capacity of 150 travelers.
Included in the £82.82 per person price are snacks, an open bar, and hotel pickup and drop-off. While a port fee of $40 MXN and a Pro-Nature Conservation fee of approximately $25 MXN per person are additional, the experience is praised for its knowledgeable staff and frequent whale sightings, including multiple breaches.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and a reserve now, pay later option, this whale watching adventure promises an unforgettable encounter in the waters of Puerto Vallarta.
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Whale Watching in Puerto Vallarta!
Vallarta Adventures’ whale watching tour takes travelers on a captivating 4-hour journey to observe humpback whales in their natural habitat off the coast of Puerto Vallarta.
The tour meets at the Terminal Maritima API, where the company’s booth is easily identifiable by its red-uniformed staff. With a maximum of 30 travelers, the tour offers an intimate experience led by a knowledgeable marine biologist guide.
The tour includes breakfast for morning departures and lunch for afternoon tours, along with an open bar on board. Participants will also receive a port tax bracelet.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, most travelers can participate. Booking confirmation is provided upon reservation, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
With an impressive 5-star rating across multiple review platforms, this whale watching tour promises an unforgettable adventure in Puerto Vallarta.
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Private Whale Watching Sailing Tour
What better way to experience the majestic whales of Puerto Vallarta than on a private sailing tour? This 3.5-hour excursion offers an intimate and personalized whale watching experience. Priced from $690.63 for a group of up to 15, the tour departs at 9:00 am from Marina Vallarta.
Along with bottled water and snacks like guacamole, the tour includes gratuities. Guests will be treated to expert guidance from the knowledgeable staff. Reviews highlight excellent service and memorable whale sightings.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. One unique aspect is the private nature of the tour – only your group will be on the boat. This allows for a more customized and exclusive whale watching experience.
However, keep in mind the tour is non-refundable, so check availability before booking. This private sailing tour offers an exceptional way to witness the whales of Puerto Vallarta.
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Whale Watching Adventure In Puerto Vallarta
Although the private sailing tour offers an intimate whale watching experience, the Whale Watching Adventure in Puerto Vallarta provides a more comprehensive outing. This 5-star rated tour departs from two convenient locations – Puerto Vallarta’s API and Nuevo Vallarta’s Paradise Village public dock.
Included in the tour are breakfast, lunch, bilingual guides, an open bar, a whale permit bracelet, dock fees, and gratuities.
Participants will meet at the Puerto Magico location and check-in at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, excluding those with back problems, pregnant women, and those with serious medical conditions.
Guests should bring comfortable clothing, walking shoes, and a camera to capture the whale sightings. With a maximum of 100 travelers, this adventure offers an intimate glimpse into the world of whales off the coast of Puerto Vallarta.
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Private Whale Watching Puerto Vallarta
A private whale watching tour in Puerto Vallarta offers a more intimate and personalized experience compared to the larger group tour.
The 3-hour outing includes a boat ride, hydrophone, bottled water, snacks, and soft drinks. Participants can observe whales and other marine life, such as dolphins and sea turtles, with the guidance of experienced local guides.
The tour departs from the Tours Eco Explorer Vallarta meeting point, just 2 blocks from the whale statue near the airport. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation.
Participants must be at least 10 years old and can’t be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
At £462.19 per group (up to 6 people), the private tour provides excellent value, with a lowest price guarantee. Reviewers praise the guides’ respect for the whales and the overall fantastic experience.
Visitors should be prepared to pay a 100 MXN/6 USD per person harbor fee in cash upon arrival.
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Whale Watching Expedition
Departing from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, the Whale Watching Expedition immerses passengers in the migration of these majestic marine giants.
Led by onboard biologists, the half-day cruise provides insights into the lifecycles and migration patterns of whales. Guests can use a hydrophone to listen to the whales’ underwater songs, enhancing their encounter with these captivating creatures.
The experience includes a continental breakfast and a deli lunch, along with an open bar offering moderate beverage service.
However, passengers should note the additional port tax and whale conservation fee, payable in cash at the departure point.
While the expedition isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for infants or those with certain medical conditions, it offers an opportunity to witness the wonders of whale migration.
Reviews of the Whale Watching Expedition vary, with some highlighting the seasonal differences in whale activity and the language barrier, while praising the friendly staff and their efforts to improve the overall service.
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Private Half Day Whale Watching Expedition in Puerto Vallarta
This private half-day whale watching expedition in Puerto Vallarta offers guests an immersive experience to witness the majestic migration of these marine giants.
With an overall 5.0-star rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews, the tour provides a premium open bar, continental breakfast, and a delicious lunch of ham and cheese paninis with guacamole and chips.
The expedition departs from the Opequimar Centro Marino in Marina Vallarta, with check-in at the Deli mini super. Guests can enjoy unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the tour, as well as access to restroom facilities on board.
This private tour ensures a personalized experience, with only your group participating. Most travelers can join, as there are no strict health or mobility requirements.
The tour concludes back at the starting point after approximately 4 hours of whale watching adventure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Go Whale Watching in Puerto Vallarta?
The best time to go whale watching in Puerto Vallarta is from December to April, when humpback whales migrate to the area’s warm waters to breed and calve. Sightings are most common during this peak season.
Can I Take Photographs or Videos During the Whale Watching Tours?
Yes, visitors can typically take photographs and videos during whale watching tours in Puerto Vallarta. Many tour operators encourage guests to capture the whales’ majestic movements and behaviors throughout the excursion, though some restrictions may apply for safety or conservation reasons.
How Accessible Are the Whale Watching Tours for Individuals With Disabilities?
Most whale watching tours in Puerto Vallarta offer accessible options for individuals with disabilities. Vessels typically have wheelchair-friendly boarding platforms, and tour operators can accommodate special needs with advance notice. Passengers should inquire about accessibility when booking their tours.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Special Requirements for the Whale Watching Tours?
There are typically no age restrictions for whale watching tours, but young children may require special accommodations. Guests should check with tour operators about any requirements or safety precautions for children and those with disabilities prior to booking.
What Should I Bring or Wear for the Best Whale Watching Experience?
Wear comfortable, wind-resistant clothing and closed-toe shoes. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and binoculars to enhance your whale watching experience. Dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable on the open water. Don’t forget your camera to capture these magnificent creatures.
The Sum Up
Puerto Vallarta offers a range of whale watching experiences, from all-inclusive sunset tours to private expeditions led by marine biologists. Visitors can expect to see a variety of whale species, as well as other marine life, while learning about the region’s ecology and conservation efforts. Whether looking for an immersive adventure or a more relaxed outing, there’s an option to suit every traveler’s interests and budget.