Fishing by private boat

If you’re dreaming of a day out on the water, chasing after that big catch with just your family or friends, a private fishing boat trip in Puerto Vallarta might just be the ticket. While it promises a tailored experience away from the crowds, it’s worth knowing what you’re signing up for—because like any adventure, it’s not perfect for everyone. We’ve looked into this tour, weighing the pros and cons, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your vacation.

What we really like about this experience is the personalized nature of the trip—you’re paying for the entire boat, so it’s all yours. Plus, the crew’s attentive service and the fact that everything is included (snacks, drinks, and fishing gear) make it a hassle-free outing. On the flip side, a few reviewers have pointed out issues like miscommunications and some limitations on amenities, which are worth considering. This tour suits travelers who value privacy, want direct attention from guides, and are ready to enjoy a flexible, customized fishing adventure.

Key Points

• Private group experience means you won’t share the boat with strangers.
• All-inclusive amenities include drinks, snacks, and fishing gear.
• Flexible options for destination, duration, and fishing goals.
• Potential drawbacks include occasional miscommunications and additional costs.
• Suitable for families, friends, or small groups seeking a personalized outing.
• Ideal for those wanting a straightforward, all-in-one fishing trip with minimal fuss.

An Introduction to Puerto Vallarta’s Private Fishing Boat Tour

This private fishing experience offers a straightforward way to enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s abundant marine life without the chaos of crowded boat tours. Instead of sharing space with strangers, you and your group will have a boat exclusively for yourselves, with the crew taking care of everything from navigation to baiting hooks. It’s a rare chance to customize your outing, choosing where to fish, how long to stay, and what types of fish you’re targeting.

One of the main draws of this tour is simplicity. For a flat fee of $1,255 (up to 8 people), you get the entire boat and crew at your disposal. The trip runs about four hours, which is enough time to enjoy a good stretch of fishing without feeling rushed. The crew is bilingual, which helps if language barriers have been a concern on past trips, and they’re prepared to teach beginners or assist seasoned anglers.

However, this tour isn’t without its quirks. Some guests have voiced frustrations over mismatched expectations, like fewer beers on board than advertised, or extra costs like the MX$100 port fee per person. Still, the overall setup offers good value, especially if privacy and personalized service matter most to you.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Your trip starts at Proa, Marina Vallarta, a well-equipped and accessible meeting point. Once aboard, the crew will give you a quick safety briefing and discuss your fishing goals. You’ll then set out to your chosen destination—whether that’s a specific fishing spot or just exploring the local waters.

Fishing Gear and Assistance: The boat is stocked with live bait, hooks, GPS, and Penn International fishing rods. The crew is ready to help with the basics or give pointers if this is your first time fishing. They handle the “dirty work,” like baiting hooks and reeling in the catch, but if you’re eager to get hands-on, you’re welcome to try your luck.

Snacks and Drinks: Included are light snacks and three beers per person, along with bottled water and ice to keep everything chilled. One complaint from a review cited only 2 beers instead of the 3 per person, which might be a minor inconvenience but worth noting. The fridge on board allows you to store any additional food or drinks you bring along.

Snorkeling and Safety: The boat also supplies snorkeling equipment and safety gear, offering the option to switch gears after fishing or to take a quick break to explore underwater sights. Whether you catch fish or not, this adds a fun element to the day.

Timing and Flexibility: The four-hour duration provides a solid chunk of time for fishing, but you’ll want to be prepared for an early start and possibly some variable weather. The experience ends back at the Marina Vallarta meeting point, so no long transfers are required.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:
– Ice and bottled water to stay refreshed.
– Fishing equipment, including live bait, hooks, GPS, and high-quality rods.
– Bilingual captain and crew who prioritize your experience.
– Snorkeling gear and safety equipment.
– Three beers per person, with light snacks.
– Refrigerator to keep your provisions cold.

Not Included:
– The MX$100 port fee per person, payable at the marina.

These inclusions make it a relatively hassle-free outing, especially for those who prefer everything taken care of in advance. Yet, be aware of the extra fee and plan accordingly.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Meet at Proa, Marina Vallarta, a convenient location close to public transportation and well-known among local boat operators. The activity is a private tour, so only your group will be on board, ensuring a more personal, tailored experience. The trip concludes back at the starting point, making logistics straightforward.

Authentic Experiences and Some Caveats

One of the few reviews we found expressed disappointment, citing a disconnect about the number of beers and the extra port fee. The guest noted, “There was a total of 2 beers on board when the booking stated 3 per person (should have been 18).” Such discrepancies highlight the importance of clarifying details beforehand and communicating directly with the provider.

Another review hinted at some issues with customer service, but overall, guests seem satisfied with the core fishing experience. The crew’s bilingual skills and focus on safety are definite pluses.

Understanding the Value

For $1,255, you’re renting a private boat for four hours, which can comfortably accommodate up to 8 people. This breaks down to roughly $157 per person if you’re a full group, and even less if you’re only a few. Considering the inclusions—gear, water, snacks, and drinks—that’s fair value for a private, all-in day on the water. Plus, the personalized attention from the crew means you’re not just another face in a large tour.

If catching fish and enjoying a peaceful, private environment are your priorities, this trip can deliver. Just keep in mind that it’s a more straightforward, no-frills outing — not a luxury yacht experience.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for small groups or families seeking privacy and flexibility. It’s ideal if you enjoy fishing or want a day away from crowded tours, and you appreciate having a crew who will handle most of the work. If you’re a first-timer, the crew’s assistance can be invaluable, but if you’re very particular about amenities or expect a high-end service, you may want to explore other options.

The Sum Up

A private boat fishing trip in Puerto Vallarta offers a practical and enjoyable way to spend part of your vacation on the water. The focus on a personalized experience, combined with the convenience of all-inclusions, makes it a good option for those who want to avoid the crowds and tailor their day. It’s especially suitable for families or small groups who value privacy and direct interaction with the crew.

While some minor issues like miscommunications about amenities have been reported, these don’t detract significantly from the core experience of fishing in a relaxed, private setting. Expect friendly crew members, good gear, and a flexible schedule that lets you focus on what matters most: catching fish and soaking in the beautiful surroundings.

For those seeking a straightforward, cost-effective way to enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s fisheries with a touch of customization, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to clarify all details beforehand, especially about costs and amenities, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable outing.

FAQ

Is this a group tour or private?
This is a private tour, meaning only your family or friends will be on the boat, giving you full control over the experience.

What’s included in the price?
The price includes fishing gear, bait, safety equipment, snacks, bottled water, three beers per person, and snorkeling equipment. You also get a bilingual captain and crew to assist.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, there’s a MX$100 port fee per person, payable at the marina. Also, if you want extra drinks or food, you’ll need to bring or purchase those separately.

Can I customize the fishing destination?
Absolutely. You can choose your destination, the duration, and your fishing objectives, making the trip adaptable to your preferences.

How long does the trip last?
The typical duration is about 4 hours, providing ample time for fishing and some extra activities like snorkeling.

Is there a minimum physical fitness level required?
Yes, travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level to enjoy the activity comfortably.

What if I want to cancel?
This experience is non-refundable and can’t be changed once booked, so be sure of your plans before confirming.

If you’re looking for a private, flexible fishing adventure where you control the pace and destination, this Puerto Vallarta tour offers reasonable value and a chance to enjoy the sea with close friends or family. Just be prepared for some minor quirks, keep expectations clear, and plan ahead about any extra costs.