Sunsets and Whales Mega Yachts ALL INCLUSIVE: Puerto Vallarta

If you’re looking for a way to combine luxury, nature, and fun during your time in Puerto Vallarta, the Sunsets and Whales Mega Yachts tour offers a memorable experience worth considering. This three-hour cruise on a spacious yacht promises magnificent views, the chance to see whales in the wild, and a lively atmosphere complete with an open bar and delicious snacks.

What we love about this tour is how it blends spectacular scenery with comfortable comfort and a relaxed vibe. It’s a perfect way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing or simply indulge in a luxurious evening by the sea. The second highlight is the amazing whale sightings, especially during the whale season, which transforms an already beautiful cruise into a natural show.

However, potential travelers should keep in mind that timing and delays can occasionally impact the schedule — a common situation in group boat tours. Still, with a maximum group size of 115 and a mix of lively music, fresh drinks, and friendly staff, it’s a very social and engaging experience.

This tour is ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for a mix of wildlife and relaxation, with enough amenities to make the experience comfortable and fun.

This experience made our article of Puerto Vallarta’s 15 Best Tours & Things To Do (With Prices & Reviews).

Key Points

• Unmatched views of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline during a sunset cruise.
• Frequent whale sightings, especially during the season from December to April.
• All-inclusive drinks and snacks make it easy to relax without extra costs.
• Professional and friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere.
• Seamless check-in and port security ensure a smooth start.
• An energetic vibe with live music and performances on board.

The Experience and Itinerary: What to Expect

Departure and Meeting Point

You’ll want to carefully choose your meeting place before booking — the tour requires selecting your preferred departure pier in advance. The tour departs from the Puerto Mágico cruise terminal, which is a secure port with strict security checks. Expect to pass through metal detectors and security for weapons, liquids, or electronic cigarettes, as per port rules.

The Boat: Comfort and Style

The yacht itself is described as large and comfortable, with various seating options that allow for both sun and shade. Several reviews mention how clean and well-maintained the vessel is, making it a pleasant floating lounge for the three-hour trip. The boat’s design and layout maximize views, so you can watch whales or enjoy the sunset without feeling cramped.

Whale-Watching and Scenic Sights

The core of this tour is whale spotting. The crew is highly attentive, actively communicating with other boats and scanning the water for signs of activity. This season, humpback whales are the main attraction, especially from December to April, but some reviews note that whales can arrive as early as November.

Guests frequently mention sightings of large groups of whales, with some seeing over 40. Many reports highlight sightings of breaching whales and playful calves, making it a truly magical experience. As one reviewer shares, they saw “maybe 40 whales” and enjoyed a “great time” with the crew’s explanations of whale behavior.

Snacks and Drinks

Immediately upon departure, guests are greeted with an open bar offering an impressive variety of beverages, including juices, smoothies, sodas, margaritas, piña coladas, beer, wine, and tequila. The drinks are described as plentiful and well-chilled, with the staff quick to serve.

The snacks are simple but delicious — fresh-made ceviche, guacamole, and blue corn chips — served seamlessly so you won’t miss a moment of marine life action. Multiple reviews say the food and drinks added to the enjoyment, with some calling the snacks “great” and the drinks “fantastic.”

Live Music and Entertainment

Adding to the lively atmosphere, some trips feature live music or performances that make the cruise more festive, especially as the sun sets and the sky turns brilliant shades of orange and pink.

Sunset and Additional Sights

As the cruise approaches sunset, you’ll be treated to unbelievable views of the horizon over Banderas Bay. Many guests describe the sunset as “gorgeous” and a perfect finish to the day. The scenery from the water offers a different perspective on Puerto Vallarta’s coastline, with the mountains framing the bay beautifully.

Return and Dancing

After the sun dips below the horizon, the party continues with good vibes, music, and maybe some dancing as you head back to port. Some reviews mention ending the cruise with a dance party, making it a lively conclusion to a memorable day.

The Marine Life and Whale Sightings: Why They Matter

The biggest draw of this tour is the opportunity to see whales in their natural environment. Many travelers find that seeing whales breach or spyhopping up close creates lifelong memories. During peak season, sightings are frequent, with reports of 17 whales seen in a single trip, and dolphins often join the show, adding to the excitement.

Some guests mention that the crew’s knowledge about whale behavior enhances the experience, making sightings more meaningful. For instance, one reviewer notes that the crew “gave good explanations of whale behavior,” which helps interpret these majestic creatures’ actions.

Value for Money

At $120 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusions: an all-you-can-drink bar, snacks, and ample whale sightings. Compared to other activities in Puerto Vallarta, the combination of wildlife, scenery, and amenities makes it a worthwhile choice. Several reviewers highlight how the food, drinks, and service exceed expectations for the price.

The three-hour duration strikes a good balance — long enough for a full experience but not so lengthy as to become tiring. Plus, the multiple positive reviews emphasize the professionalism of the crew and the well-organized nature of the trip.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early at the designated meeting point to avoid delays; some reviews mention waiting times due to late arrivals.
• Bring a sweater or blanket for the cooler evening hours after sunset, as it can get breezy on the water.
• Choose your departure pier carefully when booking, since the tour requires pre-selection.
• Bring a camera or binoculars for better wildlife viewing, especially if you want close-up shots of whales.
• Book in advance—the tour is popular and often booked 14 days ahead.
• Consider bringing a windbreaker or light pants if you’re sensitive to wind or cool breezes, as some reviews suggest it can be windy.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience appeals most to wildlife lovers, couples, and families wanting a blend of adventure and relaxation. If you’re excited by the idea of watching whales in the wild and enjoying a luxurious cruise with drinks and snacks, it’s a perfect fit. The lively atmosphere, including music and possible dancing, also makes it suitable for those looking for a fun, social evening.

It’s also great for travelers who want a high-value, all-inclusive experience that combines marine wildlife, stunning scenery, and good food without the hassle of organizing multiple activities separately.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For anyone wanting an authentic yet comfortable way to see whales and enjoy the stunning Puerto Vallarta coastline at sunset, this tour offers a delightful package. The combination of spectacular views, plentiful whale sightings, excellent service, and all-inclusive drinks and snacks creates an experience that balances fun and relaxation perfectly.

While occasional delays or the need to pre-select a meeting point can be minor inconveniences, they don’t overshadow the overall quality and value of the trip. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate wildlife encounters and are happy to indulge in luxury amenities onboard.

Most travelers walk away with great stories and remarkable photos, making this cruise a highlight of their Puerto Vallarta visit. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to a memorable evening on the water, this tour hits the right notes.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Do I need to book this tour in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book at least 14 days in advance, as the tour is popular and often fills up quickly.

What is included in the price?
The $120 fee covers the three-hour cruise, an open bar with soft drinks and alcohol, snacks like ceviche and guacamole, and whale-watching opportunities.

Is there an age restriction for alcohol?
Yes, the minimum drinking age is 18 years old, so this tour is suitable for adults and older teens.

What should I bring?
Bring a sweater or blanket for cooler evenings, camera, binoculars, and possibly a windbreaker if you’re sensitive to wind.

Are there any delays I should expect?
Some reviews mention waiting for late arrivals, and security checks at the port can cause slight delays. Arriving early helps ensure a smooth experience.

Is this tour good for families?
While primarily designed for adults, families with older children who enjoy wildlife and boats will find it enjoyable. However, the focus on whale-watching and drinks makes it more suited to adults.

Are gratuities included?
No, gratuities are optional and not included in the price, but they are appreciated for good service.

In essence, this sunset whale-watching cruise offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience that combines nature, comfort, and fun. Perfect for those seeking a memorable, scenic escape in Puerto Vallarta with the bonus of seeing whales in their natural habitat.