Whale Watching on a Speedboat

Experience the thrill of whale watching on a speedboat, getting up close to these ocean giants like never before. Enjoy a swift and exclusive tour, guided by expert naturalists who will show you the magic of the Pacific during this special season.

Activity available for ages 5 and up.

1,420 MXN 1,930 MXN
Whale Watching on a Speedboat — Vallarta To Explore
Whale Watching on a Speedboat
🐋 Experience: Whale Watching by Speedboat – Banderas Bay
📅 Availability: Daily
⏰ Departure Times: Nuevo Vallarta: 7:45 AM / 11:45 AM · Puerto Vallarta: 8:00 AM / 12:00 PM
⏳ Duration: 3 hours ≈ 3 hrs
🎯 Focus: Whale encounters · Nature · Marine education · Adventure
⚠️ Important: Conservation fee + port fee ($25 + $40 MXN per person) not included.
🌄 Experience Description
Feel the excitement of watching humpback whales up close in their natural habitat. Every winter, these gentle giants migrate from the Arctic to the warm waters of Banderas Bay. Our inflatable speedboats let you travel right at ocean level, guided by marine behavior specialists. A safe, educational and thrilling adventure for nature lovers of all ages.
🎒 What to Bring
📸 Camera
👕 Light sun-protective clothing
🧴 Biodegradable sunscreen
🧢 Cap with strap
💵 Cash for fees and tips
Recommended: a light windbreaker during cooler months.
✅ What's Included
  • 🚤 Speedboat tour through Banderas Bay
  • 🐋 Whale watching guided by naturalists and marine biologists
  • 🎧 Underwater whale songs using hydrophones
  • 🍎 Fresh fruit and purified water
  • 🦺 Life jacket and full safety equipment
📅 Itinerary
07:30 AM / 11:30 AM – Check-in at Nuevo Vallarta
07:45 AM / 11:45 AM – Check-in at Puerto Vallarta

07:45 AM / 11:45 AM – Departure from Nuevo Vallarta
08:00 AM / 12:00 PM – Departure from Puerto Vallarta

Navigation + whale watching throughout the bay
10:30 AM / 02:30 PM – Return to the marina
🧠 Essential Information
👧 Minimum age: 5 years
🧒 Children: 5–11 years · Adults: 12+
🐋 Sightings guaranteed from Dec 20 to Mar 1 (if no whales are seen, you can join another tour free of charge)
🚫 No refunds available
⚠️ Not recommended for pregnant guests or people with back/neck issues
🛶 Inflatable boats without onboard facilities (for more comfort, choose our Catamaran Whale Tour)
🚫 Drones prohibited by federal regulation
Not included: Conservation fee + port fee ($25 + $40 MXN per person)
💰 Prices
Adult: $79 USD – Ages 12 and up
Child: $60 USD – Ages 5 to 11

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What the experience is like

Interactive Map

Frequently Asked Questions
📅 When is whale watching season in Puerto Vallarta?

The official season begins in early December and usually ends by late March. We guarantee whale sightings from December 20th through March 1st.

🕒 What is the best time to see whales in Banderas Bay?

January and February are typically the most active and recommended months for whale watching in Puerto Vallarta.

📍 Where do we go to see whales?

There isn’t a “typical day” for this tour — whales and dolphins set the route! Our itinerary adapts daily to their movements to ensure the best viewing experience in Banderas Bay.

🌊 How far from the coast will we travel?

The whale’s location varies each day, but they’re generally found along the coastline between the Marietas Islands and Puerto Vallarta.

🐋 What type of whales can we see?

Humpback whales are the most common visitors. Occasionally, orcas can also be spotted, while other species such as Bryde’s and minke whales appear less frequently.

👶 Is this whale watching tour suitable for children?

Yes! The minimum age to participate is 6 years old.

👕 What should I wear for whale watching?

We recommend dressing warmly for early morning departures: long pants, a light jacket or sweater, closed-toe shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat with a strap (it can get windy on the water).

📷 What kind of camera is best for whale watching?

A smartphone works great if you use burst mode. For professional cameras, a 70–200mm zoom lens is ideal — and remember to protect your gear from sea spray.

🚤 Are there other whale watching excursions available?

Our Photo Safari is done aboard fast inflatable boats — perfect for those who want a closer encounter with humpback whales. For a more relaxed experience, try the Catamaran Whale Watching Adventure , which includes onboard facilities, meals, and drinks.

You can also combine whale watching with other Marietas Islands experiences:
Nopalera Beach, Hidden Beach Speedboat, Majahuitas Beach Club.

For families, Las Caletas is an excellent choice.

Contact us to find the perfect experience for you!

Real Traveler Reviews

What visitors are saying about the whale watching experience in Puerto Vallarta

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CANCELLATION POLICY

Cancellations with at least 48 hours’ notice: full refund (minus a 1–5% administrative fee).

Less than 48 hours: non-refundable.

Date changes: subject to availability; preferably requested 48 hours in advance (in exceptional cases, up to 12 hours before the activity).

Weather: if the activity is canceled, you may reschedule or request a refund depending on the activity.

Medical reasons: with a medical receipt or certificate, a refund may be evaluated.


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