Puerto Vallarta: Luxury Sailing Tour with Open Bar & Lunch

Summary

Sail Banderas Bay, spot dolphins, enjoy open bar & fresh lunch

You’ll sail across Banderas Bay on a luxury yacht with an attentive local crew, enjoying premium open bar drinks and fresh deli-style lunch as you relax or try snorkeling and paddleboarding. Watch for dolphins near the boat and soak up mountain views from deck cushions—this day is all about slowing down and feeling connected to Puerto Vallarta’s sea air.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the way the dock creaked under our feet at Marina Vallarta, and that sharp tang of salt in the air. Our guide—Miguel, I think—had this easy smile and explained a bit about sailing before we even left. I was half listening, half distracted by the sunlight bouncing off all those white boats. We climbed aboard this Leopard yacht (honestly, felt fancier than anything I’ve been on), and someone handed me a cold drink before I’d even figured out where to sit.

There’s this moment when you’re gliding out into Banderas Bay and the city just falls away behind you. The water was so blue it almost looked fake. Miguel pointed out the Sierra Madre mountains in the haze—he joked they always look like they’re napping. The crew kept bringing around snacks (the guacamole was actually amazing) and checking if we wanted another cocktail. I tried paddleboarding for maybe five minutes before realizing my balance is questionable at best, but nobody seemed to mind. At one point someone spotted dolphins swimming alongside us—honestly, seeing them that close made everyone go quiet for a second.

We anchored near a cove where you could snorkel or just float around (I did both). The water tasted salty-sweet and there were these tiny silver fish everywhere. Lunch was this deli spread—fresh bread, cheeses, something herby on the chicken—and it hit different after swimming. The sun got pretty intense but there were shaded spots if you needed a break; one guy just stretched out on a mattress and didn’t move for an hour. The whole day felt kind of suspended, like time slowed down with every wave.

I keep thinking about how peaceful it was when we sailed back—the wind picking up, everyone stretched out with sun-warmed skin and salty hair. Miguel told us stories about whales coming through in winter; he said he never gets tired of it. There’s something about being out there on Banderas Bay that makes you forget your phone exists for a while—you know? I still think about that view over the water as we pulled back into Puerto Vallarta’s marina, not quite ready for it to end.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Luxury sailing and water activities

• Receive sailing basics briefing
• Depart from Marina Vallarta
• Sail across Banderas Bay
• Swim and snorkel in bay
• Stop at secluded beach (weather permitting)
• Swim and snorkel in protected cove
• Relax on cushioned mattresses
• Enjoy premium open bar and cocktails
• Eat deli-style lunch and hors d’oeuvres
• Watch for dolphins, whales, and rays
• Receive personalized service from crew

Top questions

Is lunch included on the Puerto Vallarta luxury sailing tour?

Yes, a deli-style lunch with fresh ingredients is included during your sailing trip.

Are drinks provided during the sailing tour?

Yes, there’s a premium open bar with top-shelf spirits and handcrafted cocktails included.

Can I snorkel or paddleboard during the tour?

Yes, both snorkeling equipment and paddleboards are available for use in Banderas Bay.

Is there hotel pickup for this luxury sailing experience?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; tours depart from Marina Vallarta.

How long does the luxury sailing tour last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but expect several hours including time for swimming and lunch.

What wildlife might I see on this Puerto Vallarta sailing trip?

You may spot wild dolphins, manta rays, turtles, or even humpback whales depending on season.

Is this sailing tour suitable for children?

The minimum age is 10 years old; no exceptions are allowed.

Are there restrooms available onboard?

Yes, toilets are located on the lower deck of the yacht.

Do I need any prior sailing experience?

No experience needed—a short briefing is given before departure from Marina Vallarta.

What’s included

Your day includes departure from Marina Vallarta aboard an exclusive Leopard or Beneteau yacht with attentive crew service throughout; premium open bar with cocktails; fresh deli-style lunch plus gourmet snacks; snorkeling gear and paddleboards for exploring Banderas Bay; cushioned deck spaces to relax between swims; plus access to onboard restrooms—all wrapped up in easygoing hospitality before returning to port in Puerto Vallarta.