Bertram 38′ Convertible Boat in Puerto & Nuevo Vallarta

Exploring Puerto Vallarta from the Water: A Detailed Look at the Bertram 38′ Convertible Boat Tour

When it comes to experiencing Puerto Vallarta, nothing beats viewing its stunning coastline from the deck of a well-equipped boat. The Bertram 38′ Convertible Boat tour offered by Mike’s Fishing & Tours promises a personalized, flexible adventure on Banderas Bay that combines sightseeing, water sports, and relaxing moments on the water. With a high traveler rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 45 reviews, it’s clear that many find this trip a worthwhile way to spend part of their vacation.

What we particularly like about this tour is its customizable nature—you can tailor a 6-hour trip that suits your interests, whether that’s snorkeling, fishing, or simply soaking in the views. Plus, the inclusion of snacks, fishing gear, and snorkeling equipment adds significant value, especially for families or groups eager to get the most out of their day without extra costs. On the downside, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll want to plan accordingly—most likely arranging your own transport to the departure point.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love water-based adventures combined with scenic sightseeing. Whether you’re a family, a group of friends, or a couple seeking a relaxed day on the water, it offers plenty of options to keep everyone entertained. If your goal is a flexible, private experience with knowledgeable guides and good value, this trip might be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Flexible duration: Ranges from about 4 to 8 hours, making it adaptable to your schedule.
• All-in-one package: Includes snacks, snorkeling gear, and fishing equipment—no hidden costs.
• Authentic coastline views: Offers shoreline sightseeing of Puerto Vallarta and wildlife-rich snorkeling stops.
• Private experience: Only your group will participate, adding a personalized touch.
• Great for water sports: Kayaking, snorkeling, and fishing are all available.
• Highly praised guides: Many reviews mention friendly, knowledgeable staff making the trip extra enjoyable.

Setting the Scene: What to Expect on the Tour

This tour is centered around Banderas Bay’s scenic coastline and vibrant marine life, with a focus on creating a relaxed yet engaging experience. The adventure begins with shoreline sightseeing of Puerto Vallarta, giving you a chance to view the city from the water and appreciate its colorful architecture and bustling harbor. You’ll then head towards a wildlife-filled set of rocks—an area perfect for snorkeling and discovering underwater life.

The boat itself is a sleek, comfortable Bertram 38′ convertible, ideal for a small, private group of up to 8 people. The vessel provides a stable, smooth ride, which makes the experience enjoyable even for those new to boating. The crew is described as fantastic and attentive, ready to assist with equipment and ensure everyone is comfortable.

A typical stop involves snorkeling at the wildlife-rich rocks, where both the underwater scenery and the views above water will delight you. Many reviewers mention the magnificent underwater vistas and the chance to spot local marine creatures. The tour also includes fishing gear—whether you want to try your luck at catching dinner or just enjoy some relaxed casting, this is a great added feature.

Throughout the trip, you’ll enjoy snacks like chopped fruit and bottled water, providing quick refreshment without interrupting the fun. If you’re keen on watersports, kayaking is available—a hit among families and groups, as one reviewer pointed out. The crew’s helpfulness and friendly attitude are often highlighted, making the day feel tailored to your preferences.

Breakdown of the Itinerary

Shoreline sightseeing of Puerto Vallarta is a charming start to the trip, offering perspective on the city’s colorful rooftops and bustling port from the water. It’s a perfect way to get a feel for the area before heading to more natural attractions.

Next, the boat heads toward a set of rocks teeming with wildlife, where snorkeling equipment is provided. Here, you’ll have a chance to see underwater flora and fauna, making it a favorite stop for many. The magnificent views beneath and over the water are often praised, and the calm, shallow waters make snorkeling accessible for all skill levels.

Depending on your interests, you can spend this time fishing, trying to catch local fish, or simply relaxing and soaking in the scenery. Kayaking is another option, available for those who want more active fun while on the water.

The length of the tour is flexible—anywhere from 4 to 8 hours—allowing you to choose a shorter or more comprehensive experience. The private nature of the tour means it’s just your group, which enhances privacy and the ability to customize the experience.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers have consistently praised the knowledgeable guides and excellent value for money. One wrote, “Our captain & crew were fantastic! I highly recommend this day trip—I even designed a 6-hour trip with a stop at Ocean Grill,” highlighting how flexible and accommodating the experience can be.

Another mentioned, “The staff, food, snorkeling, and everything else were superb. We loved every minute.” This indicates that the crew is attentive and strives to make every part of the trip enjoyable.

Families and groups of friends particularly appreciated the kayaking, food service, and entertainment, with one noting, “The pictures service was well worth the money.” This suggests that they not only enjoyed the activities but also appreciated the added extras like photography.

The reviews emphasize the friendly, professional guides who seem to strike the right balance between informative and relaxed, making the experience suitable for a wide range of travelers.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The cost of $800 per group (up to 8 people) might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the inclusion of snacks, snorkeling gear, fishing equipment, and a private boat, it offers good value—especially for families or groups seeking exclusivity.

Since hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, you’ll need to arrange your transportation to the departure point. Most travelers find this straightforward, given the tour operates near popular areas like Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta.

Dress code is beach casual—think light clothes, hats, and sunscreen. If you plan to snorkel or swim, bring your swimsuit; towels are not included, so pack your own if you want to dry off comfortably.

Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult, making this a family-friendly option. The tour operates in good weather conditions; poor weather might lead to cancellations, but you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

The cancellation policy is straightforward—free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance. No refunds are issued if you cancel within 24 hours or miss the trip due to late arrival.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This private boat tour is best suited for groups or families looking for a flexible, personalized day on the water. It’s perfect for those who enjoy snorkeling, fishing, or simply relaxing while taking in scenic views. Travelers seeking a guided experience with friendly staff and good value should find this trip appealing.

If you’re after a more structured or longer cruise with multiple stops or an inclusive meal, you might want to explore other options. But for a customizable, intimate adventure in Banderas Bay, this tour offers a great mix of activities and scenery.

The Sum Up

The Bertram 38′ Convertible Boat tour in Puerto Vallarta offers an excellent way to experience Banderas Bay from a private, comfortable vessel. Its excellent reviews, knowledgeable guides, and inclusive features make it a strong choice for travelers who want a flexible, waterside adventure. Whether snorkeling, fishing, or just cruising with a drink in hand, this trip balances fun and relaxation with authentic, scenic moments.

While it does require you to organize your own transportation to the pier, the overall value and personalized nature of the experience make it worthwhile. It’s a perfect fit for small groups or families eager to make the most of their time on the water with a crew that genuinely cares about your enjoyment.

If you’re after a memorable, customizable day in Banderas Bay that combines natural beauty, water sports, and good company, this private boat trip should be top of your list.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
No, this tour does not include hotel transportation. You’ll need to arrange your own transfer to the departure point.

How many people can fit on the boat?
The boat accommodates up to 8 guests, making it ideal for small groups seeking a private experience.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towels (not provided), sun protection like hats and sunscreen, and any personal items you want for the day.

Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided along with snacks and bottled water.

Can I customize my trip?
Yes, the trip can be tailored to your interests, with options for longer or shorter experiences.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

What activities are available?
You can enjoy snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing and sightseeing from the boat.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled trip. No refunds are issued within 24 hours.

What is the weather policy?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

This private boat trip in Puerto Vallarta offers a relaxed, all-in-one water adventure that’s perfect for those wanting a personalized day on Banderas Bay. Its combination of scenic views, engaging water sports, and attentive guides makes it a worthwhile choice for a memorable experience.