When is the best time for whale watching in Puerto Vallarta?

The prime season for whale watching here is from December through March when humpbacks migrate to the bay to calve.

How close do boats get to the whales?

Boats maintain a safe distance to avoid disturbing the whales, usually around 100 yards, aligning with local regulations.

Are these tours suitable for children?

Yes, the tours are family-friendly, though children should be supervised for safety during on-deck activities.

Can I hear the whales during the tour?

Yes, the tour includes a hydrophone allowing guests to listen to whale songs underwater.

Is food and drink provided on the boat?

A continental breakfast and national open bar are included, ensuring a comfortable trip on the water.

What wildlife might I see besides whales?

Dolphins, sea turtles, and various seabirds are commonly spotted within Banderas Bay.

Winter Whale Watching Tours in Puerto Vallarta Bay | Guided Tour | Boat Tour

Puerto Vallarta, along Mexico’s Pacific coast, becomes a prime destination each winter as majestic humpback whales migrate here to give birth in the warm, protected waters of Banderas Bay. AVISTAMIENTO DE BALLENAS offers an immersive whale watching tour that combines the thrill of witnessing these gentle giants with educational insight from marine biologists and expert guides. This four-hour adventure stands out for its intimate experience, featuring an onboard hydrophone that lets passengers listen to whale songs—an extraordinary chance to connect with these creatures beyond sight.

The tour departs from Puerto Vallarta’s marina, a vibrant coastal hub known for its scenic boardwalk, pristine beaches, and lively atmosphere. As you journey through the bay, expect to see whales breaching, tail slapping, and nurturing their calves amidst the clear winter skies and calm ocean. The diverse marine life adds to the allure, with occasional sightings of dolphins and sea turtles.

What makes AVISTAMIENTO DE BALLENAS exceptional is its commitment to sustainable tourism and respect for wildlife. The vessels maintain safe distances, minimizing disturbances during this vital reproductive period. This focus preserves the natural behavior of the whales and contributes to ongoing scientific research.

Guests are treated to a continental breakfast and a national open bar, elevating comfort without disrupting the natural setting. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a curious first-timer, this trip offers a meaningful encounter with one of nature’s most impressive spectacles, framed by the beauty of Puerto Vallarta’s sheltered bay.

Immerse yourself in the winter rhythms of the ocean and witness firsthand why this locale is revered as one of the best whale watching spots on the Pacific Coast of Mexico.

About Vallarta Tours & Rentals

Vallarta Tours & Rentals is a Puerto Vallarta–based tour operator offering a wide range of land and sea experiences throughout Bahía de Banderas and the surrounding Sierra Madre foothills. The company presents guided adventures and rental-based activities that include zip-line canopy courses, RZR off‑road routes, dolphin swim programs, sunset sailing, snorkeling trips to Islas Marietas, whale-watching excursions, and coastal beach visits such as Colomitos and Majahuitas.

Tours are described with clear itineraries and specific trip names—examples include COMBO TIROLESAS & RZR (RUTA EDENVA), SWIM ADVENTURES (NADO CON 1 DELFIN), SUNSET SAILING, and ISLAS MARIETAS PLAYA ESCONDIDA—giving travelers a range of adventure, wildlife, and relaxation options. Several sea-based departures feature snorkeling, open bars, and opportunities to visit protected marine areas. Winter whale-watching trips (AVISTAMIENTO DE BALLENAS) include onboard hydrophone listening and commentary by guides and marine specialists.

Vallarta Tours & Rentals operates from Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, and coordinates transfers and water taxi connections for coastal access points like Colomitos and Los Arcos. The business lists both casual and premium experiences, such as BARCO PIRATA dinner cruises and LUXURY SNORKEL sailing charters, accommodating couples, families, and small groups.

Booking information, trip inclusions, and specific safety notes are provided per experience to help visitors choose appropriate activities. For travelers seeking organized excursions in Puerto Vallarta, Vallarta Tours & Rentals offers a comprehensive catalog of tours and rentals spanning adventure sports, marine wildlife encounters, and scenic relaxation cruises. Reservation details and full itineraries are available when booking each specific tour online or by phone.