Puerto Vallarta: Luxury Day Sailing Tour of Bay of Banderas

Imagine a day on the water where comfort, scenic beauty, and good company come together perfectly. That’s what you get with the Puerto Vallarta: Luxury Day Sailing Tour of Bay of Banderas. While we haven’t personally taken this cruise (yet), it’s clear from reviews and descriptions that it offers a refined, laid-back experience with plenty of opportunities to see Puerto Vallarta’s coast in style.

Two things we really like about this tour are the high-quality boats—French-made sailboats and catamarans designed for comfort—and the all-inclusive vibe with delicious food, an open bar, and water activities. The one thing to consider is that it’s not suitable for children under 10 or those with mobility issues, making it a more intimate, adult-oriented experience. Perfect for couples, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a relaxing day at sea with a touch of luxury.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who appreciate comfort, scenic beauty, and good service. If you’re looking for a relaxing escape that combines sailing with a chance to snorkel, paddleboard, and enjoy local cuisine, this might just be your ideal day out.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: French-made sailboats and catamarans designed for relaxation and easy maneuvering.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Gourmet lunch, premium open bar, snorkeling gear, towels, and paddleboards provided.
• Scenic and Secluded Spots: Visit some of Vallarta’s most beautiful and quiet waterfront locations.
• Water Activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and swimming at pristine, less crowded spots.
• Expert Crew: Staffed by knowledgeable guides who are attentive and friendly.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance and reserve without payment upfront.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Setting: A Comfortable Cruise Through Stunning Coastline

From the moment you arrive at the Vallarta Adventures check-in desk, the focus is on a seamless, relaxed experience. The tour lasts about 6 hours, usually starting in the late morning or early afternoon, giving plenty of time to soak up the scenery and enjoy water activities. The boats are modern, French-made, and geared toward offering a luxurious, smooth ride—so no worries about feeling cramped or uncomfortable.

As we read reviews, the consensus is that the vessels give off a high-end, classy atmosphere, yet remain approachable. The crew’s attentiveness enhances the experience, making everyone feel taken care of without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary: Quiet Covess and Scenic Views

The core of this tour is escaping the crowds and exploring Vallarta’s peaceful waters. The route takes you to several of the most scenic waterfront locations, where you can marvel at the coastline’s rugged beauty and crystal-clear waters. While the exact stops aren’t detailed, reviewers highlight visits to notable landmarks like the famous Arches of Puerto Vallarta, and some mention snorkeling spots with murky waters due to recent rains—an honest reflection that nature sometimes plays tricks on water clarity.

The highlight for many is the chance to sail at a leisurely pace, feeling the breeze and watching the coastline drift by. The sails are designed for maximum comfort, so even those who aren’t seasoned sailors can enjoy trying their hand at steering or simply relaxing on deck.

Water Activities: Swim, Snorkel, Paddleboard

A significant part of the appeal is the opportunity to jump into the water—with complimentary snorkeling equipment and paddleboards provided. The reviews consistently praise the quality of this gear, emphasizing how it adds to the fun and relaxation. At some stops, you might find yourself swimming in secluded spots, away from tourist crowds.

Although one reviewer noted murky water due to recent rains, they appreciated the crew’s effort and the overall experience. Snorkeling and paddleboarding are complimentary, allowing everyone to enjoy the ocean at their own pace.

The Food and Drinks: A Delicious, Upscale Touch

Food is often a highlight on sailing tours, and this one is no exception. The lunch served is described as delicious, featuring local flavors and high-quality ingredients. Plus, the premium open bar is a big plus—offering a selection of drinks to keep you refreshed as you relax in the sun or socialize with fellow travelers.

Reviews frequently mention the great service and attentive staff, who keep the drinks flowing and the food coming. This level of hospitality makes the experience feel special without being overly formal.

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The Crew: Knowledgeable and Attentive

Guides and crew members are repeatedly praised for their professionalism, friendliness, and knowledge. They clearly enjoy sharing their expertise about the waters and coastline, which enhances the trip’s authenticity. Several reviews mention how attentive and accommodating the staff are, making everyone feel comfortable, whether they are seasoned sailors or first-time water explorers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best for adults and older children who appreciate a leisurely, upscale day on the water. If you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a relaxed group adventure, or a special treat, this tour hits all those marks. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who value good food, quality service, and scenic beauty without the chaos of a crowded party cruise.

Practical Details and Tips

• Price: $119 per person, which we consider a fair value given the included amenities—lunch, open bar, water sports equipment, and the high-end vessel.
• Duration: 6 hours, giving ample time to unwind, explore, and enjoy.
• Transport: No hotel pickup or drop-off is included, so plan your transportation to the Vallarta Adventures check-in desk.
• What to Bring: A passport or ID card, sunscreen, and a hat are essential. Towels are provided.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for children under 10 or those with mobility challenges, as the experience involves moving around a boat and water activities.
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before, offering flexible planning.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Many reviews highlight the quality of the crew and the peacefulness of the voyage. One traveler gushed, “Captain Rueban and crew were fantastic! We spent a very leisurely day at sea,” illustrating the relaxing atmosphere. Others appreciated the delicious food and great service, emphasizing that the experience isn’t just about the scenery but also the hospitality.

A common theme is the value for money: “Everything was top notch, from transport to hospitality,” one reviewer noted. While some water clarity issues arose, they didn’t detract significantly from the overall enjoyment, thanks to the crew’s professionalism.

If you’re after a luxury, laid-back day on the water, with beautiful views, good food, and excellent service, this sailing tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those who want to relax, try some water activities, and enjoy the coast in style. The high-quality boats, attentive staff, and inclusive amenities make it a great value for the price, especially given the chance to unwind in such a scenic setting.

This experience isn’t geared toward families with young children or travelers with mobility issues, but if that’s not a concern, it offers a truly memorable way to see Puerto Vallarta from the water. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a peaceful escape, this tour provides a refined, authentic taste of the Bay of Banderas.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a gourmet lunch, a premium open bar, towels, snorkeling equipment, and paddleboards for water fun.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, making it a substantial half-day experience.

Is transportation provided?
No, hotel pickup or drop-off isn’t included. You’ll need to arrive at the Vallarta Adventures check-in desk to start your trip.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card, sunscreen, and a hat. Towels are provided on the boat.

Is it suitable for children?
The tour isn’t recommended for children under 10 or those with mobility impairments.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s the atmosphere like?
Expect a relaxed, classy vibe with attentive staff, scenic views, and a focus on comfort and quality. It’s not a party cruise but a peaceful, upscale day at sea.

In the end, this sailing tour offers a fine balance of comfort, scenic beauty, and fun water activities. It’s best suited for travelers who want a more refined day on the water without sacrificing the chance to explore and indulge. If that sounds like your idea of a perfect break in Puerto Vallarta, you’re likely to come away feeling relaxed, pampered, and with plenty of beautiful memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby