Puerto Vallarta Luxury Sailing with Premium Open bar & lunch

This experience made our article of Puerto Vallarta’s 15 Top Boat Tours & Cruises.

Exploring Puerto Vallarta’s Luxury Sailing Tour: A Complete Guide

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water in Puerto Vallarta, this Luxury Sailing with Premium Open Bar & Lunch promises a blend of relaxation, fun, and spectacular scenery. While we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a convincing picture of a memorable experience you’ll want to consider.

What we love about this tour: First, the mix of beautiful coastal views and accessible water activities makes it perfect for all kinds of travelers — whether you’re an avid snorkeler or simply love soaking up the sun. Second, the high-end touches like gourmet food and flowing drinks elevate it from typical boat trips.

A potential consideration? It’s about six hours long, which might feel a tad lengthy for those with limited patience for being on the water. Still, if you enjoy a relaxed pace and plenty of activities, this could be ideal.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy luxury experiences, water sports, and scenic cruising—perfect for couples, groups of friends, or anyone looking to celebrate a special occasion in style.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary based on weather and sea conditions, ensuring a safe and comfortable cruise
• All water equipment provided—snorkeling gear, paddleboards, lily pad for lounging
• Wildlife sightings are common—dolphins, humpback whales (seasonal), manta rays, sea turtles
• Gourmet lunch and open bar included, offering a high-quality culinary experience at sea
• Small group size (up to 30) guarantees attentive service and a personalized feel
• Ideal for all ages 10 and up, with an emphasis on ease and comfort

Diving into the Experience: What to Expect

From the moment you arrive at the marina or meet your guide at the designated spot, you’ll notice how the tour emphasizes comfort and safety. A small dock fee in cash (around MX$40) is your only extra cost, and once onboard, the crew takes it from there. The boat itself is described as beautiful, clean, and comfortable—perfect for lounging or participating in water activities.

The Route and Duration

Your route will be tailored beforehand, depending on daily conditions — so no fixed itinerary, only a promise of the best possible experience. The majority of the time is spent cruising along the curvaceous coastline of Banderas Bay, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views of rugged rock formations and lush landscapes. The journey typically begins sailing south towards Los Arcos, a renowned marine park, either under sail or with a motor, depending on the wind.

Water Activities and Stops

The highlight for many is the mix of snorkeling, paddleboarding, and relaxing on the lily pad. “We weren’t expecting much from snorkeling, but we had fun,” one guest shares, noting that even casual water lovers will find plenty to enjoy. Equipment is provided, and the crew is attentive, making sure everyone is comfortable. You might even seek out the chance to see manta rays or sea turtles in protected coves.

Some reviews mention stopping at a white-sand beach, offering a brief escape from the boat for a dip or some shoreline exploration. The schedule is flexible, with stops based on conditions and wildlife sightings—so expect surprises.

Food and Drinks

This isn’t just a boat trip; it’s a culinary experience at sea. Expect a delicious deli lunch served while you cruise back, with options that include fresh fruit, cheese, crackers, and guacamole. Several reviewers rave about the quality of the food, describing it as “amazing” and “refined.”

The open bar is a standout feature—think flowing drinks throughout the day, including mixed cocktails, soft drinks, and water, ensuring you stay refreshed. As one guest put it, “Drinks never-ending flow,” which perfectly captures the relaxed vibe.

The Crew and Atmosphere

Guests frequently praise the attentiveness and friendliness of the crew. Captain Sergio, Rubin, Christian, Walter, and Omar all receive high marks for their professionalism, safety-consciousness, and genuine warmth. Several reviews mention the crew’s effort to make every guest feel pampered, whether checking on water levels, helping with water sports, or sharing their knowledge about marine life.

Wildlife and Sightings

Wildlife watching is a major perk. During the season, humpback whales are common sights, often seen breaching or tail-slapping—a true highlight for nature lovers. Dolphins are almost guaranteed, and manta rays and sea turtles add to the marine show. One guest commented, “We saw whales, dolphins, and a sea turtle,” making it clear this tour offers more than just scenery.

The Balance of Price and Value

At $129 per person, this tour offers a lot. For that price, you get roughly six hours of sailing, multiple water activities, a high-quality lunch, and unlimited drinks. Many reviews emphasize the value for money, noting the attention to detail, the quality of food, and the overall relaxed experience.

Compared to typical party boats or shorter excursions, this tour’s focus on comfort, quality, and wildlife makes it a well-rounded choice. It’s especially good for those who enjoy a mix of active and leisurely pursuits without the feeling of being rushed.

The Small Group and Flexibility

With a maximum of 30 guests, you’ll never feel crowded. This smaller size fosters a more intimate atmosphere, where you can easily socialize or find quiet corners to relax. The tour’s flexible routing based on weather and wildlife sightings ensures a dynamic, personalized experience every time.

Water Safety and Accessibility

The tour is suitable for most travelers aged 10 and up, with no exceptions. It’s designed to be accessible, with toilets on the lower deck and small metal ladders for getting in and out of the water. If you’re not comfortable jumping into the sea, paddleboarding and relaxing onboard are excellent alternatives.

Authentic Experiences From Travelers

Many reviewers highlighted the professionalism and enthusiasm of the crew. One described their experience as “truly professional,” and another appreciated the “impeccable service.” The consistently positive feedback about the food—fresh, well-presented, and plentiful—shows the tour’s commitment to quality.

The wildlife sightings stand out as a key highlight. As one guest shared, “We saw multiple species of tropical fish, rays, and whales,” underscoring how this trip isn’t just about scenery but engaging marine encounters.

The Sum Up

This Puerto Vallarta luxury sailing tour is a fine choice if you want a relaxing yet engaging day on the water. It strikes a good balance between water-based activities, scenic cruising, and gourmet hospitality. The attentive crew, high-quality food, and wildlife sightings make it a memorable outing, especially for those who appreciate a touch of luxury.

It’s best for travelers who value comfort and personalized service but also want to experience the natural beauty of Banderas Bay. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking a family-friendly activity, or just want to unwind with a drink in hand, this tour delivers an authentic and enjoyable day on the sea.

FAQs

What is the meeting point for this tour?
Guests can meet at Vallarta Adventures in Marina Vallarta or the designated marina location.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup; you need to arrive at the meeting point yourself.

How much is the port fee?
The small dock fee is MX$40 per person, payable in cash at the marina.

What activities are included?
Snorkeling, paddleboarding, relaxing on the lily pad, and enjoying the scenery from the boat.

What should I bring?
Bring Mexican cash for the port fee, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and waterproof clothing if needed.

Is there an age restriction?
Yes, the minimum age is 10 years old.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately six hours, starting at 9:30 am and ending at the original meeting point.

Are drinks and food included?
Yes, an open bar and lunch are included in the price, with high-quality, freshly prepared options.

Can I expect wildlife sightings?
Yes, dolphins and whales (seasonally), manta rays, and sea turtles are common sights.

If you’re after a day that combines scenic beauty, water fun, and good food, this sailing tour in Puerto Vallarta is a top contender. Just remember to bring your camera, a sense of adventure, and an appetite for relaxing in style.