Spend 3.5 hours on Banderas Bay tracking humpback whales from Puerto Vallarta. This guided tour offers close—yet regulated—views of migrating whales, often accompanied by dolphins and seabirds.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The motor cuts, the boat eases off the marina and the horizon opens: Banderas Bay stretches wide, blue and alive, and the ocean seems to breathe with expectation. Within minutes the skyline of Puerto Vallarta recedes, palms and low hills giving way to the wide arc of the bay where humpback whales come to breed and nurture calves.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required; ability to board a small passenger boat and stand for portions of the trip is helpful.
Wildlife
History
Puerto Vallarta’s waterfront evolved from 20th-century fishing and shrimping communities to a tourism gateway; whale watching became a seasonal economy that ties local livelihoods to marine conservation.
Conservation
Operators and regional authorities enforce approach limits and timing to protect mothers and calves; choose companies that brief guests on low-impact viewing and support local marine research.
Reserve your spot on the Whale Watching The Best Of Puerto Vallarta today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Take seasickness prevention
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take medication or wear acupressure bands before boarding; the bay can be choppy, especially in the afternoon.
Pack sun protection
Bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses—the reflection off the water intensifies UV exposure even on overcast days.
Layer up
Mornings can be cool on the water but sun warms quickly; a lightweight windbreaker is useful year-round.
Use respectful optics
Binoculars and a zoom lens let you enjoy close views without encouraging boats to close the distance to whales.
Binoculars
Helps spot blows and distant breaches without approaching animals too closely.
Sunscreen and hat
Protects against strong reflected UV exposure on the water.
summer
Light windbreaker
Blocks wind and spray during cooler morning or late-season trips.
winter
Motion-sickness medication or bands
Reduces nausea risk on choppy days so you can enjoy the viewing.