Board a comfortable catamaran from Puerto Vallarta and spend three hours cruising Banderas Bay in search of migrating humpbacks. Enjoy a deli-style buffet and open bar while a Marine Mammal Expert guides the search and explains local ecology.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The catamaran slips out of the marina as early light paints the mountains; the bay opens and the Pacific dares you to look beyond the horizon. Sea spray cools your face, gulls wheel overhead, and the first blow — a sudden, salty plume — punctuates the quiet. On a calm swell, a humpback arcs and sends water tumbling like applause.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; you will be standing and walking short distances on deck
Wildlife
History
Humpbacks have used Banderas Bay for generations as a warm breeding ground; local communities shifted from fishing-only economies to include seasonal marine tourism.
Conservation
Operators follow federal marine regulations and maintain minimum distances during encounters; avoid single-use plastics and choose operators that fund local conservation efforts.
Reserve your spot on the Whale Watching in Puerto Vallarta today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Morning departures are steadier
Book an early trip for calmer seas and higher chances of sightings when whales are active near the surface.
Bring motion-sickness prevention
If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication or use acupressure bands before boarding — the catamaran is stable but swells can surprise.
Protect from sun and glare
A wide-brim hat, polarized sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen make a big difference on open water.
Respect wildlife viewing rules
Keep to crew instructions during sightings, no drones are allowed, and maintain distance to avoid disturbing whales and birds.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin under strong tropical sun and reduces chemical runoff into marine environments.
summer
Polarized sunglasses and hat
Reduce glare for better spotting and photography on reflective water.
summer
Motion-sickness remedy or acupressure bands
Helps prevent nausea if you’re sensitive to swell despite the vessel’s stability.
Binoculars or telephoto lens
Improves distant identification — useful when whales surface beyond the boat’s approach radius.