Puerto Vallarta: Private Yacht Charter with Waterslides & Open Bar

Summary

Private yacht day in Banderas Bay with slides food drinks toys

You’ll feel the salt spray as you zip down waterslides into Banderas Bay, snack on fresh guacamole with your toes drying in the sun, and laugh with a local crew who make sure everyone feels welcome. Kayaks, paddle boards, open bar — it’s all there for you to dive into or just float away for a bit.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to laugh so much before noon, but that’s what happens when your first real “hello” to Banderas Bay is flying off a waterslide into the Pacific. The boat — ChicaFUN 3 — looks big in photos but somehow feels even bigger once you’re onboard, barefoot on warm deck planks, sun already sneaking under your hat. Our captain nodded as we clambered up top, and someone from the crew handed out icy drinks before we’d even figured out where to sit. I kept thinking, is this really all included?

We drifted along the Puerto Vallarta coastline while pelicans skimmed the surface just off our bow. The water was this impossible blue-green and every now and then you’d hear someone’s shout echo across the bay as they tried out the jumping platform or one of those wild slides (I chickened out on the highest one at first — peer pressure works). The crew joked with us in Spanish and English; I tried to order a michelada in Spanish and got teased for my accent. It felt easy, like everyone was just here for a good time — not just working.

Lunch was guacamole and ceviche so fresh it almost crunched, blue corn chips salty from my wet hands. There’s something about eating outside with sea air that makes everything taste sharper. At some point we anchored near Marietas Islands (or maybe it was Yelapa Falls? I lost track), but honestly, I was more interested in paddling around on a kayak than keeping score of landmarks. My friend tried snorkeling; I just floated on one of those water mattresses staring up at clouds. Sometimes you need that kind of silence, even with music playing somewhere behind you.

The whole day felt like it stretched way longer than seven hours should. Maybe it was the sun or maybe it was watching everyone — family groups, friends, couples — turning into kids again for a while. On the way back I caught myself thinking about how rare it is to feel that loose and unhurried these days. If you’re looking for a private boat tour in Puerto Vallarta that actually delivers on fun without being too fussy about anything else… well, yeah.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private yacht tour in Banderas Bay

• Customize your private boat tour
• Cruise Puerto Vallarta coastline
• Explore Bahia de Banderas
• Enjoy waterslides and water toys
• Relax on sun and shade decks
• Snack and drink from premium bar
• Optional hot Mexican fajitas lunch

Top questions

How many people can join the private yacht charter?

The ChicaFUN 3 trimaran can host up to 35 guests comfortably.

Are food and drinks included on this Puerto Vallarta boat tour?

Yes, there’s an open bar plus fresh snacks like guacamole and ceviche included; hot lunch is optional for an extra fee.

What water activities are available during the tour?

You can use waterslides, jumping platform, splash nets, kayaks, paddle boards, snorkel gear, water mattress and tubes.

Can we customize our route or stops in Banderas Bay?

Yes! You can choose destinations like Marietas Islands or Yelapa Falls; just let them know when booking your private boat tour.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; you need to choose your meeting place when reserving.

Are infants allowed on board?

Yes—infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap during the trip.

What languages do the crew speak?

The friendly crew speaks both English and Spanish during your day trip around Banderas Bay.

What’s included

Your day includes use of all waterslides and water toys—kayaks, paddle boards, snorkel equipment—plus an open bar with everything from juices to margaritas or beer. Freshly made guacamole and ceviche with blue corn chips are served onboard; you can add a hot Mexican fajita lunch for a small fee if you want more. Just pick your meeting spot before booking so everything runs smooth from start to finish.