Sunsets and Whales Mega Yachts ALL INCLUSIVE: Puerto Vallarta

If you’re heading to Puerto Vallarta and craving a way to see the bay’s natural beauty while indulging in comfort and good company, a sunset whale-watching cruise on a mega-yacht might just be your perfect evening. This experience—offered by Chica Locca Tours—combines the thrill of spotting majestic humpback whales with the enjoyment of an open bar, tasty snacks, and a scenic sunset. With a perfect rating of 5.0 from nearly 500 reviews, it’s clearly a favorite among travelers.

Our review focuses on what makes this tour stand out—such as the extraordinary marine life sightings and luxurious amenities—and what to watch out for. We’ll explore what you can expect from each part of the three-hour adventure, and how this experience balances value with authentic, memorable moments. Whether you’re a nature lover, a sunset seeker, or just want a relaxing evening on the water, this cruise offers a lot worth considering.

Two things we love about this experience are the consistently plentiful whale sightings—some reviewers mention seeing up to 40 whales!—and the high-quality, all-inclusive service that keeps you well-fed and refreshed throughout. On the flip side, a few guests noted the early start times can lead to waiting around, which might not suit everyone. Still, if you enjoy being on the water, this tour is ideal for those wanting a combination of wildlife viewing, luxury, and lively atmosphere.

This cruise appeals especially to travelers who appreciate comfort, socializing, and scenery in equal parts. Families, couples, and groups of friends will find plenty to love. If you’re looking for a lively yet relaxed evening with guaranteed marine action and great value, this tour could be right up your alley.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Drinks, snacks, and live music make for a lively, hassle-free outing.
• Prime Whale-Watching: Sightings of humpback whales and dolphins are common, with some reviews highlighting up to 40 whales seen.
• Scenic Sunset Views: The cruise offers an unobstructed view of the sunset over Banderas Bay, perfect for photography and relaxing.
• Comfortable, Spacious Boat: The yacht features ample seating, including options for sun or shade, and a clean, well-maintained environment.
• Flexible and Convenient: Pickup is offered, and the tour includes a mobile ticket, making logistics straightforward.
• Value for Money: At $120 per person, many guests feel they receive excellent value considering the marine life, amenities, and experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off with a pass by Bahia de Banderas—a broad stretch of water that’s the second-largest bay in the world. This initial segment is more about setting the scene, with the crew on the lookout for whale activity. The bay is an essential habitat for humpback whales, which come here annually for breeding and birthing. Expect plenty of opportunities for photos as you cruise past scenic shoreline views and secluded coves.

Next, the main event takes place in the Bay of Banderas. This is where you’ll hope to see whales breaching, spy on playful dolphin pods, and enjoy the vast, open waters. Many guests mention the abundance of marine life, with some witnessing over 25 whales in a single trip. The bay’s natural richness makes it a prime spot for whale-watching, especially during the peak season from December to April, though some humpbacks arrive as early as November.

The third segment is where the sunset truly steals the show. As the boat slowly turns towards the horizon, you’ll be served drinks and snacks like ceviche, guacamole, and blue corn chips—delivered right to your seat so you don’t miss a single whale or wave. The open bar features everything from soft drinks and juices to margaritas, beer, and wine, ensuring everyone stays refreshed.

Onboard Comfort and Service

Guests consistently praise the spaciousness and cleanliness of the yacht. With multiple seating choices, you can spread out and soak up the views, whether in the sun or under shade. The crew is frequently described as friendly, attentive, and well-informed, making sure everyone’s needs are met—whether that’s a cold drink, a snack, or just a friendly chat.

One reviewer noted, “the staff was wonderful,” and many appreciated the seamless service. Drinks are plentiful, and snacks like ceviche and guacamole are served continuously, making the cruise feel like a floating party with a view.

Marine Life Sightings: The Highlight

The star of the tour is undoubtedly the whale sightings. Reviewers report seeing up to 40 whales, with some describing spectacular breaching displays, tail slaps, and even the mothers with calves. People also spot dolphins chasing schools of fish and dorados jumping out of the water, adding extra excitement to the trip.

One guest exclaimed, “we saw a ton of marine activity,” highlighting how consistent and plentiful the sightings are. The crew stays alert, communicating with other boats, and actively searches for whales, increasing your chances of seeing these magnificent creatures close up.

Sunset and Atmosphere

As the sun dips below the horizon, the boat’s deck becomes an ideal vantage point for capturing the famous Puerto Vallarta sunsets. The glowing sky, combined with the gentle sway of the yacht, creates a tranquil yet exhilarating atmosphere. Many reviews mention the gorgeous sunset as the perfect finale to the trip, often accompanied by the crew’s music and lively chatter.

Additional Considerations

While most guests find the experience seamless and enjoyable, a few noted that the starting time can be early, sometimes leading to a wait before departure. One reviewer mentioned waiting from 3 pm until 4:30 pm for the rest of the group, which might be a bit frustrating if you’re eager to get underway.

It’s also worth noting that port security at Puerto Mágico can require passing through searches, and everything from electronic cigarettes to liquids must be left behind, so pack accordingly. The tour also recommends bringing a sweater or blanket for cooler evenings after sunset.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $120 per person, this tour provides a full three hours on the water with unlimited drinks, delicious snacks, and remarkable marine life sightings. Many reviews emphasize the quality of the food and drinks, with some calling the selection “great” and the food “excellent.” The inclusive nature means no surprise costs—just show up ready for a fun, relaxing cruise.

Compared to other water-based activities, the combination of wildlife, scenery, and amenities makes this experience a good investment. The lively atmosphere, with live music and social vibe, offers more than just a wildlife tour—it’s an enjoyable evening out.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise suits those who love nature and wildlife, especially whale-watching enthusiasts. It’s also perfect for travelers seeking a luxurious yet casual evening—great for couples, families, or groups wanting a memorable sunset with marine life. If you enjoy good food, drinks, and lively social scenes, you’ll likely find this tour hits the mark.

However, if you prefer quieter, more intimate wildlife excursions or dislike waiting around, it might be worth considering the early start times or looking into private options. But for most, the combination of sightings, scenery, and social atmosphere makes this a top choice.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
You’ll enjoy an open bar offering water, coffee, juices, sodas, margaritas, piña coladas, beer, tequila, and wine. Snacks like ceviche, guacamole, and blue corn chips are also included, served throughout the trip.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, starting with a cruise into Banderas Bay, whale-watching, and culminating in the sunset.

Is there pickup service?
Pickup is offered, and tickets are mobile, making access straightforward. However, it’s important to choose your meeting place before booking.

What is the best time of year?
The official whale-watching season runs from December to April, but some humpbacks arrive as early as November, so the experience can be rich during these months.

Are there any age restrictions?
The minimum drinking age is 18 years. Most travelers of all ages can participate, but it’s particularly popular among adults and families alike.

What should I bring?
A sweater or blanket for cooler evenings is advisable. Also, plan to arrive on time to avoid missing part of the trip, and remember that liquids and electronic cigarettes must be left at port security.

Final Thoughts

This Sunsets and Whales Mega Yachts Tour in Puerto Vallarta offers an exceptional blend of marine wildlife encounters, scenic sunsets, and a lively social atmosphere—all wrapped into a comfortable, all-inclusive package. The consistent praise from travelers about whale sightings, quality service, and good value underscores its appeal. While early starts and waiting times might be minor inconveniences, they’re generally outweighed by the unforgettable marine experiences and stunning visuals.

If you’re seeking a relaxed yet exhilarating way to enjoy Banderas Bay, this tour delivers. It’s especially ideal for those who want to combine wildlife, sunset views, and a festive vibe without sacrificing comfort or quality. For anyone craving a memorable evening where nature and relaxation meet, this experience earns a hearty recommendation.

In summary, this cruise is a great choice for anyone interested in seeing whales in their natural habitat, enjoying a lively onboard atmosphere, and soaking up one of Puerto Vallarta’s most beautiful sunsets. It offers genuine value, memorable sights, and a relaxed vibe that’s hard to beat—making it a highlight for many visitors.