Puerto Vallarta: Whale Watching Photo Safari

Traveling to Puerto Vallarta offers many wonderful experiences, but few match the magic of witnessing humpback whales in their natural habitat. The Whale Watching Photo Safari by Vallarta Adventures is a well-organized tour designed for anyone eager to see these majestic creatures up close, while also capturing stunning photographs. Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply want to enjoy a peaceful cruise surrounded by breathtaking views, this trip offers plenty to love.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this experience are the expert guides who share their extensive knowledge about whales and the carefully curated viewing opportunities that maximize your chances of seeing breaching and swimming whales. The opportunity to listen to whale sounds through the hydrophone adds a unique audio dimension to the encounter. That said, it’s a relatively short tour — just three hours — so if you’re hoping for a longer adventure or multiple whale sightings, you might find this is more of a quick, high-impact experience rather than an all-day expedition.

This tour is an excellent choice for travelers who want a focused, educational, and visual encounter with whales in a beautiful setting. It’s especially well-suited for families with children over six, nature lovers, and those interested in photography. Keep in mind, the experience involves boat travel, so if you’re prone to seasickness, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with detailed insights about whale behavior and the local environment.
• Stunning Views: The tour offers remarkable vistas of Banderas Bay and the Pacific Ocean.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see humpback whales breaching, swimming, and possibly rearing their young.
• Photographic Opportunities: With a hydrophone and ample viewing moments, this trip is perfect for snapping memorable photos.
• Short but Sweet: At 3 hours, it’s a concise trip, ideal for those with limited time or as part of a larger Puerto Vallarta itinerary.
• Cost and Value: At $89 per person, it strikes a balance between affordability and a memorable wildlife experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Special?

The Puerto Vallarta Whale Watching Photo Safari is designed to give you a close-up experience of humpback whales in their winter and springtime breeding waters. Departing from Puerto Vallarta, the tour sets sail into Banderas Bay, a known sanctuary where humpbacks migrate from the Arctic to breed and rear their calves. This natural behavior makes for some incredible viewing chances — whales breach, tail slap, and swim in groups, providing plenty of opportunities for awe-inspiring photographs.

The boat used for this tour is an inflatable vessel, which allows for a more flexible and intimate viewing experience compared to larger ships. The smaller size makes it easier for guides to position the boat for optimal sightings and close-up views. Plus, it adds a sense of adventure and closeness to the action, whether you’re peering over the side or listening to the whales’ songs through the hydrophone.

The Guides: Your Knowledgeable Companions

The guides on this tour are a highlight. Rated highly for their extensive whale-watching experience and friendly demeanor, they do more than just point out whales—they educate you. Expect to learn about humpback whale behaviors, migration patterns, and the importance of conservation efforts. One review describes the guide as “very knowledgeable,” which adds confidence that you’re in good hands. They often have years of experience observing whales in the wild, so their insights help deepen your understanding and appreciation of these gentle giants.

The Experience: What to Expect

You’ll start your adventure at the Vallarta Adventures check-in desk, where you check in before heading to the boat. The tour lasts about three hours, giving plenty of time to explore the bay and spot whales without feeling rushed.

Once on board, the boat glides out into the bay, and the crew begins their search. You can relax on the inflatable vessel and enjoy the stunning vistas of the Pacific. As the guides scan the water, they’ll share their knowledge about whale behavior and point out sightings. When a whale breach occurs, you’ll find yourself grabbing your camera in a hurry to capture the spectacular moment.

The inclusion of a hydrophone allows you to listen to the whales’ songs during calmer moments, adding an extra layer of connection to these creatures that communicate across vast distances underwater.

Snacking and Comfort

Included with the tour are a light snack and purified water, enough to keep you comfortable during the trip. The boat’s size and design make for a comfortable ride, though seasickness can still be a concern for some. Travelers mention that the boat is “comfortable,” but it’s good to be prepared if you’re prone to motion sickness.

More Great Tours Nearby

Costs and Additional Fees

The tour is priced at $89 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the quality of the experience. Two additional costs to keep in mind are the $30 MXN conservation fee and a $30 MXN harbor fee, both payable in cash. These fees contribute to whale conservation efforts and port services, respectively, and are standard in many marine tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those over age six, as younger children may find the boat ride challenging. Pregnant women, people with back or neck problems, and wheelchair users are advised against participating for safety reasons. If you’re looking for a short but impactful wildlife encounter, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

Authentic Experiences and Real-World Insights

Travelers who have taken this tour consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. One reviewer notes, “It was a great outing. We saw lots of whales, and the guide was very knowledgeable and the boat was comfortable.” Such feedback underscores that the true value lies in the expert guidance and the chance to witness whales behaving naturally.

Many also highlight the stunning scenery of Banderas Bay. As one traveler described, the views are “amazing” and provide a picturesque backdrop to the whale sightings, making the photographs even more special. The occasional breach or tail slap becomes a picture-worthy shot, especially given the calm waters and clear visibility.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring your passport or ID, especially if you plan to buy souvenirs or participate in other activities.
• Dress in layers; mornings can be cool, and the weather can change.
• Bring cash for the additional fees and any souvenirs or snacks.
• Use sunscreen and sunglasses, as you’ll be out on the water for a few hours.
• Be prepared for a boat ride; seasickness tablets might be helpful if you’re sensitive.
• Arrive at the Vallarta Adventures check-in desk early to ensure smooth boarding.

The Sum Up

The Puerto Vallarta Whale Watching Photo Safari offers a compact yet memorable chance to see humpback whales in their winter habitat. Its strengths lie in the expert guides, stunning scenery, and the opportunity for excellent photographs. The tour’s short duration makes it perfect for travelers with limited time or those combining multiple activities in Puerto Vallarta.

If you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply curious about these gentle giants, this trip provides a friendly, informative, and visually stunning experience at a fair price. It’s especially suited for families with children over six, solo travelers seeking wildlife encounters, or anyone wanting a peaceful break on the water with a good chance of whale sightings.

For those who want a focused, high-quality whale watching experience in a beautiful setting, this safari deserves a spot on your Puerto Vallarta itinerary.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, giving plenty of time for whale sightings and enjoying the scenery.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers a light snack, purified water, and the use of a hydrophone to listen to whale sounds.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes. There’s a $30 MXN conservation fee and a $30 MXN harbor fee, payable in cash. These fees support whale conservation and port services.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for children aged 6 and older. Very young children or those with health concerns might find the boat ride less comfortable.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, cash for fees, sunscreen, sunglasses, and appropriate clothing for variable weather.

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

What if I’m prone to seasickness?
Seasickness tablets may help, and the boat is designed for comfort. Still, keep this in mind if you’re sensitive to motion sickness.

Traveling to Puerto Vallarta and yearning to see whales in their natural habitat? The whale watching photo safari is a practical, rewarding choice that balances wildlife viewing with beautiful scenery and expert guidance. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a curious traveler, it’s a delightful way to connect with nature in Mexico’s Pacific coast.

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