Custom 46′ Boat in Puerto & Nuevo Vallarta

If you’re dreaming of a relaxing day on the water in Puerto Vallarta, a private boat trip might be just what you need. Although I haven’t personally been on this specific tour, reviews and details paint a picture of an experience that combines personalized service with the natural beauty of Bahia de Banderas.

This tour offers a flexible itinerary, allowing your group to choose between fishing, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the scenery.

The private setting means fewer crowds and a tailored day, which is perfect for families, friends, or couples looking for an intimate adventure.

What we really love about this experience is its versatility and focus on authentic interaction with the environment. First, the ability to customize your day—whether you want to fish, snorkel, or just cruise—means it’s sure to match your mood and interests. Second, the personalized service makes a big difference, with attentive crew and a boat designed for comfort and fun.

The only possible downside? Since the experience is based on fair weather and depends on your group’s interests, it might not be the best choice if you’re expecting a rigid schedule or very specific activities.

This tour suits travelers who value authentic, flexible, and intimate experiences on the water. It’s ideal for those who want to enjoy the stunning coastlines and natural marine life without the chaos of larger tours. If you’re seeking a laid-back day with a lot of personal touches, this private boat trip should be on your list.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: Entirely private for your group, with tailored activities.
• Multiple activities: Options include fishing, snorkeling, or beach visits.
• Spectacular views: Enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s shoreline and iconic Los Arcos from the water.
• Wildlife encounters: Opportunities to see dolphins, whales, and various marine species.
• Food and drinks: Fresh ceviche, chopped fruit, bottled water, and the chance to enjoy your own music.
• Cost and booking: Priced at $860 for up to 15 people, booked on average 66 days in advance.

The Experience: What to Expect from the Tour

This private 46-foot boat, operated by Mike’s Fishing & Tours, offers a flexible and relaxed way to experience Bahia de Banderas. The tour lasts anywhere from around 4 to 10 hours, depending on your preferences and schedule, giving you plenty of time to soak up the scenery or indulge in activities.

Starting Point and Booking

Most travelers book this tour well in advance—about 66 days on average—so plan ahead if you’re set on a specific date. The price of $860 per group (up to 15 people) covers a family or friends’ outing, making it excellent value for a private experience. Once booked, you’ll receive a mobile ticket, making it easy to coordinate.

Activities and Itinerary Breakdown

The tour’s flexibility means there’s no fixed schedule, but typical stops include:

Bahia de Banderas: The main attraction, where your crew will take you close to some prime fishing spots, snorkeling sites, and scenic beaches. The bay is known for its diverse marine life, giving you a good chance to see dolphins, whales, or other aquatic creatures—especially if you’re lucky or visiting during whale-watching season.

Fishing: With equipment provided, you can try your hand at catching local species. Several reviews highlight the fun of fishing, with one guest noting, “We all caught fish and had fresh fish on the boat.” Another added, “The captain caught fish and made us ceviche,” which suggests a lively and productive fishing session that could turn into a tasty meal.

Snorkeling: The boat is equipped with snorkeling gear, so you can explore underwater habitats. Reviewers mention snorkeling spots that are among the bay’s best, allowing you to see colorful fish and coral right off the boat.

Wildlife and Whale Watching: Multiple reviews mention sightings of dolphins and whales, making this tour a great option for wildlife enthusiasts. One guest was thrilled to see about six whales, with the crew even making sashimi and ceviche from their catch—adding a delicious and authentic touch to the day.

Beach Visits: If you prefer relaxing onshore, your crew can drop you at one of the many surrounding beaches. This is an ideal way to unwind, enjoy a picnic, or simply feel the sun on your face.

Food and Beverage

The tour includes bottled water, chopped fruit, and the chance to enjoy freshly prepared ceviche made from fish caught earlier. The ability to connect your phone via Bluetooth to play your own music keeps the atmosphere casual and personal, which many guests appreciate.

Crew and Service Quality

Multiple reviews praise the crew’s attentiveness, friendliness, and flexibility. One guest said, “The crew was extremely nice and made us feel welcomed,” which is exactly the kind of service you want on a day out on the water. The boat itself is described as clean and comfortable, adding to the positive experience.

Considerations and Limitations

Since this is a private, customizable tour, there are some practical considerations. Transportation to the dock isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange that separately. Towels are not provided, so bring your own if you plan to snorkel or swim. Also, weather can impact the day—poor weather might cancel or reschedule, which is standard for outdoor activities.

The price of $860 is quite reasonable for a private boat capable of accommodating up to 15 people. It means you’re paying for exclusivity and flexibility, rather than a crowded group tour. Plus, reviews confirm that the value is high, especially considering the shared memories and the chance to fish, snorkel, and spot marine life all in one trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private boat experience is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, tailored day on the water. It’s especially suitable for families, small groups of friends, or couples who want an intimate adventure. If your group loves fishing or snorkeling, or if you’re keen on seeing whales and dolphins, this tour offers a great combination of nature and comfort.

It’s also ideal for those who prefer a flexible itinerary, with the ability to choose activities and spending as much or as little time at each stop as desired. While it’s not the best choice for travelers looking for a fixed schedule or all-inclusive package, it excels at providing a more personal, authentic Puerto Vallarta experience.

Final Thoughts: Why Choose This Private Boat Tour?

In essence, this tour offers a personalized, scenic, and engaging day in Bahia de Banderas. The ability to customize your experience means you can focus on what you enjoy most—whether that’s fishing, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the views of Puerto Vallarta from the water. The boat’s comfortable size, attentive crew, and flexible schedule make it a standout option for groups wanting a private escape.

What truly sets this experience apart is the opportunity for authentic encounters with marine life and the chance to enjoy the coast without the hustle of larger tour groups. You’ll love the way the calm waters and stunning scenery make you feel like you’re having a true local adventure, with plenty of room to relax and make the day your own.

If you value high-quality service, flexible activities, and beautiful vistas, this private boat trip is well worth considering as part of your Puerto Vallarta itinerary. It’s a memorable way to connect with the natural environment and create lasting memories with your favorite people.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the dock included in the tour price?
No, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to reach the boat departure point.

How many people can this boat accommodate?
Up to 15 guests can enjoy the boat comfortably, making it ideal for small groups or families.

What should I bring for the trip?
Towels are not provided, so bring your own if swimming or snorkeling. Also, consider bringing sunscreen, hats, and your preferred music to connect via Bluetooth.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather isn’t good?
Yes. You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance if the weather cancels the trip. Otherwise, a full refund is offered.

What activities are included?
Fishing, snorkeling, and beach visits are the main options, with the crew customizing based on your interests.

Are there any hidden costs?
Not according to the provided info. Tips are not included but appreciated, and any additional services like transportation or towels are extra.

Is this experience suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. If you’re okay with outdoor activities and flexible schedules, you’ll enjoy it.

How long does the tour last?
The duration varies from about 4 to 10 hours, depending on your plans and weather conditions.

This private boat tour in Puerto Vallarta offers a deeply personal way to explore Bahia de Banderas, blending scenic beauty with engaging activities. Whether you’re fishing, snorkeling, or just enjoying the coastline, it’s a flexible experience that’s worth planning ahead for—making it perfect for those seeking a memorable, authentic day on the water.