Puerto Vallarta: Luxury Yacht Tour with Lunch and Open Bar

Planning a day on the water in Puerto Vallarta? This luxury yacht tour promises a blend of scenic beauty, fun activities, and pampering, all in a five-hour window. While we haven’t personally hopped aboard, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of an unforgettable experience that combines the natural splendor of Mexico’s Pacific coast with top-notch amenities.

What we love about this tour is its focus on authentic coastal exploration—swimming in clear waters, spotting marine life, and enjoying a delicious lunch—all while cruising comfortably on a well-equipped yacht. The inclusion of an open bar and lounge-style seating makes it a relaxing getaway.

One possible consideration is the cost—at $119 per person, it’s not the cheapest outing, but the value lies in the combination of activities, comfort, and the chance to see some of Mexico’s most beautiful waters. This tour suits travelers who want a mix of adventure and leisure, especially those eager to soak up Puerto Vallarta’s coastal charm with a touch of luxury.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal scenery with views of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline and the Bay of Banderas
• Activities include swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding in accessible, natural locations
• Comfort and amenities like open bar, lunch, and lounge seating enhance the experience
• Marine life sightings such as dolphins, turtles, and tropical fish are common highlights
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later policies
• Suitable for those seeking a luxurious, relaxed day on the water with authentic natural encounters

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Out: From Puerto Vallarta into the Bay of Banderas

The tour begins with a departure from Puerto Vallarta, setting sail into the Bay of Banderas, arguably one of the most spectacular bodies of water in Mexico. This is more than a boat ride; it’s a chance to see the coastline from an angle few get to experience. The yacht itself is described as luxurious, with plenty of comfortable lounge seating—ideal for relaxing while taking in the views.

Travelers will appreciate the professional crew which takes care of everything, allowing you to just enjoy the scenery. As the boat slips through the water, you’ll get your first glimpse of Puerto Vallarta’s lush coastline, with mountains framing the bay and the city’s skyline in the distance.

Exploring Majahuitas Cove: A Hidden Beach Gem

The highlight for many is the stop at Majahuitas Cove, a private beach surrounded by rainforest. Accessible only by boat, this spot offers a slice of natural paradise. The reviews show visitors love the seclusion and beauty of this cove, with Leslie from Australia calling it “Epic,” and Lucas from Brazil simply saying “Excellent.”

Here, the natural environment is the star. The rainforest backdrop provides shade and a sense of adventure, while the crystalline waters invite you to swim, snorkel, or paddleboard. Marine life is often spotted in these waters, including dolphins, sea turtles, and tropical fish, creating great opportunities for photos and wildlife encounters.

Marine Encounters and Water Activities

We loved the way this tour offers more than just a scenic cruise. The snorkeling equipment and paddleboards are included, making it easy to get into the water right from the boat. The reviews suggest that snorkeling can be hit or miss depending on conditions; one guest mentioned “murky” waters but still enjoyed the experience. For most, though, the chance to see marine life up close remains a major draw.

The guided nature of the experience, combined with the natural habitat, makes it worthwhile. You might spot playful dolphins leaping nearby or catch a glimpse of a turtle gliding by. The crew is often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, which enhances the overall enjoyment.

Lunch, Drinks, and Relaxation

After working up an appetite, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch served on deck. While the menu details aren’t specified, the emphasis on high-quality service suggests a well-prepared meal. The open bar is a standout feature, allowing you to sip cocktails, sodas, or water as you lounge and soak up the sun.

The lounge seating and relaxed atmosphere make this a perfect setting to unwind. Many reviews highlight the smooth sailing and attentive service, which elevate this experience beyond a typical boat trip.

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Additional Stops and Coastline Exploration

Beyond Majahuitas, the yacht tour explores more of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline, providing panoramic views and the opportunity to spot more marine life. The route is designed to showcase the most spectacular waters in the region, and the flexible nature of the trip allows the crew to adapt to weather or conditions.

The overall focus is on authenticity and comfort, giving you a genuine feel for the coastline without the crowds or chaos of land-based tours.

Practical Details: What to Know Before You Go

• The tour lasts about 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.
• Start times vary, so check availability and plan accordingly.
• The experience includes snorkeling equipment and paddleboards, plus towels.
• You’ll want to bring your passport or ID, particularly for security at the cruise port.
• There’s an additional $28 harbor fee payable cash, so budget accordingly.
• No hotel pickup is included, so arrange your transportation to the meeting point.
• The tour operates rain or shine, so come prepared for the weather.
• It isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchairs.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate scenic beauty combined with comfort. If you enjoy snorkeling, relaxing on a yacht, and good food and drinks, this tour hits all those marks. It caters well to those who prefer a luxurious, hassle-free day with plenty of opportunities for wildlife encounters and stunning views.

However, if you’re looking for adventure-heavy activities like cliff jumping or long hikes, this might not be the best fit. Also, those with mobility issues should consider other options, as the tour isn’t designed for accessibility.

Authentic Experiences and Real Guest Feedback

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery. One traveler from Canada called it a “Wonderful day” with “very good service,” which speaks to the quality of the crew and overall experience. Others enjoyed the chance to see marine life in natural settings, making it not just a relaxing cruise but an educational outing as well.

While a few noted that snorkeling waters could be murky, most found the experience worthwhile and memorable. The high review score of 4.9 out of 5 reflects a strong consensus that this tour offers excellent value for its price.

This luxury yacht tour is best suited for travelers wanting a balanced mix of relaxation, scenic beauty, and light adventure. It’s perfect for those who value comfort—sipping drinks, enjoying a good meal, lounging in style—while also wanting to explore Puerto Vallarta’s stunning coastline and marine life.

It’s a solid choice for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a hassle-free way to experience Mexico’s waters without sacrificing quality. If you’re after an authentic, memorable day on the water that allows you to unwind and soak up nature, this tour delivers.

For anyone craving a luxurious nautical escape, with the added bonus of snorkel and wildlife encounters, this experience offers a compelling blend of comfort and adventure at a reasonable price point.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point at the cruise port.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 5 hours, providing enough time to enjoy all activities and scenery comfortably.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, plus any personal items you might need for the water, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, or a hat. Luggage or large bags are not allowed onboard.

Is the tour suitable for children or mobility-impaired travelers?
It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as the tour does not accommodate these needs.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, towels, lunch, and an open bar.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, there’s a $28 harbor fee per person, payable in cash at the port.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering good flexibility if your schedule shifts.

This Puerto Vallarta yacht tour balances scenic adventure with comfort and authentic encounters, making it a standout choice for travelers eager to explore in style.

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