Puerto Vallarta: Sunset Whale Watching Mega Yacht Cruise

Summary

Whale watching on Banderas Bay with sunset views, premium drinks, and fresh ceviche

You’ll watch humpback whales surface in Banderas Bay while relaxing on a luxury mega yacht at sunset. With premium open bar service, fresh guacamole and local ceviche, plus friendly crew guiding you through every moment — this is an evening where you’ll taste salt on your lips and maybe laugh at your own Spanish.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the light hit Puerto Vallarta’s coastline — gold on blue, with the city fading behind us as we pulled away from the dock. There was this salty breeze and a low hum from the yacht’s engines, but mostly it was laughter and the clink of glasses. Our crew moved around like they’d done this forever; one of them, Ana, handed me a margarita before I even realized I wanted one. She grinned and told us to keep an eye out for whales — “they’re shy but sometimes show off,” she said, which made everyone lean over the rail just a little more.

I’ll admit I didn’t expect to see much so early in the season (it was late November), but suddenly there were shouts — someone had spotted a spout in the distance. The captain steered us gently toward it, no rush, just letting us drift closer. The humpbacks surfaced together, slow and impossibly graceful. It’s hard to describe that sound when they exhale — heavy and soft at once. I caught myself holding my breath. Meanwhile, someone passed around blue corn chips piled with guacamole that tasted like lime and sea air; maybe it was just being there but it felt different from any other snack.

We cruised along Banderas Bay for what felt like hours (it was probably less), spotting dolphins weaving through our wake and pelicans gliding low over the water. The sun started dropping fast after that — colors went from yellow to this deep orange-pink I still think about when I close my eyes. Ana brought out fresh ceviche made with local fish; she laughed when my Spanish slipped trying to thank her (“muy delicioso” came out all wrong). Nobody seemed to mind. On the way back, people wrapped up in sweaters or borrowed blankets as it got cooler — someone played music quietly near the bow and you could just sit there listening to waves and not say anything if you didn’t want to.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale watching and sunset cruise

• Board luxury mega yacht
• Enjoy open premium bar and snacks
• Cruise Banderas Bay to Yelapa
• Watch for humpback whales and marine life
• View scenic Puerto Vallarta coastline
• Experience sunset on the bay

Top questions

When is whale watching season in Puerto Vallarta?

Humpback whale season runs from December to April, though some whales arrive as early as November.

Is food included on this Puerto Vallarta sunset cruise?

Yes, fresh-made ceviche, guacamole, and blue corn chips are served during the cruise.

What drinks are available on board?

The open bar includes water, coffee, juices, sodas, margaritas, piña coladas, beer, tequila, wine, champagne and more.

How long does the cruise last?

The sunset whale watching cruise lasts about 3 hours.

Is pickup included for this tour?

You can choose your meeting place before reserving; pickup options are available.

What wildlife might I see besides whales?

You may also spot dolphins, sea turtles, rays, seabirds and other marine life in Banderas Bay.

Should I bring anything for cooler evenings?

A sweater or blanket is recommended for cooler evenings during the return cruise after sunset.

Are infants allowed on board?

Yes; infants must sit on an adult’s lap during the cruise.

What’s included

Your evening includes premium open bar service with cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks from departure onward; fresh guacamole with blue corn chips; authentic Mexican ceviche made with local fish; friendly crew service throughout; plus flexible meeting point or pickup options arranged before booking for easy boarding in Puerto Vallarta.