The best way to understand the sheer scale of Banderas Bay is to leave the shore behind. From the deck of a catamaran or the bow of a private yacht, you'll see jungle-clad mountains tumbling into the sea, hidden coves you can't reach by road, and — in winter — humpback whales breaching across the horizon. Whether you want a lively party sail or a quiet luxury charter, Puerto Vallarta has a boat for every style and budget.
Here are the ten best boat tours and yacht rentals in Puerto Vallarta, covering group sailings, private charters and specialty trips, plus what to expect and how to choose the right one.
The 10 Best Boat Tours and Yacht Rentals
1. Luxury Catamaran Charters (Punta Mita & La Cruz)
⛵ Modern sailing catamarans with private chefs, open bars and water toys for small groups.
🐢 Sail to the Marietas, Los Arcos or quiet coves with plenty of swim stops.
🥂 Read our feature on the luxury catamaran rental in Punta Mita for the full experience.
2. Marietas Islands Day Tours
🏝️ Full-day group trips to the famous Hidden Beach and protected marine park.
🤿 Includes snorkeling, kayaking and a guide; access is regulated to protect the reef.
🚤 Departs from Punta Mita, La Cruz and the Marina.
3. Private Yacht Charters
🛥️ Full motor yachts with crew, ideal for celebrations, families and groups who want privacy.
🍾 Customize the itinerary — Yelapa for lunch, Los Arcos for snorkeling, sunset back at the marina.
💎 Premium option with the most flexibility.
4. Sunset Sailing Cruises
🌅 Two to three hours of relaxed sailing as the sun drops behind the Pacific.
🍷 Drinks, light bites and golden-hour photos.
💑 A romantic, low-key option for couples.
5. Yelapa & Majahuitas Boat Tours
🏞️ Cruise the bay's wild south shore to a car-free fishing village and a hidden cove.
💦 Waterfall hike, beach time and snorkeling all in one trip.
🛶 A great mix of culture, nature and relaxation.
6. Pirate Ship Adventures
🏴☠️ A full-scale galleon with shows, games and a buffet — a hit with families and kids.
🎭 Day and sunset sailings with entertainment included.
🎉 Lively, theatrical and unapologetically fun.
7. Speedboat & Panga Tours
⚡ Fast, flexible small boats that reach the southern coves quickly.
🐠 Perfect for custom snorkeling runs to Los Arcos, Colomitos and Las Ánimas.
🎯 Good value for small groups wanting to move fast.
8. Whale Watching Cruises
🐋 December to March, dedicated tours to spot migrating humpbacks.
🔭 Naturalist guides and hydrophones on the best trips.
📸 Combine with snorkeling for a full marine day.
9. Fishing Charters
🎣 Half- and full-day sportfishing for marlin, dorado, tuna and sailfish.
🛥️ Crewed boats with gear, bait and licenses included.
🌊 Banderas Bay is one of Mexico's top sportfishing grounds.
10. Bareboat & Skippered Sailboat Rentals
⛵ Rent a sailboat with or without a captain for a true sailing day.
🧭 Best for experienced sailors or those wanting a hands-on adventure.
🌬️ Afternoon thermals make for excellent sailing across the bay.
Group Tour or Private Charter?
- Group tours are budget-friendly, social and great for solo travelers or couples who don't mind a crowd.
- Private charters cost more but give you a custom itinerary, privacy and personalized service.
- Catamarans are stable and roomy — ideal for mixed groups and those prone to seasickness.
- Motor yachts are faster and more luxurious, perfect for covering more of the bay in a day.
- Speedboats and pangas are nimble and affordable for focused snorkeling trips.
Popular Destinations by Boat
The Marietas Islands
The bay's most famous boat destination — a protected archipelago with the Hidden Beach, snorkeling and abundant wildlife.
Los Arcos
Granite sea arches just south of town, perfect for a half-day snorkel-and-sail combo.
Yelapa
A car-free village with a waterfall hike, fresh seafood and a laid-back beach scene.
Las Caletas
A secluded beach club reachable only by boat, great for a full relaxed day on the water.
Best Time for a Boat Tour
Mornings usually offer the calmest water, while afternoons bring breezes that are great for sailing. The whale season from December to March turns any cruise into a potential wildlife encounter. The dry season (November to May) brings the most reliable weather, while summer offers warm water and dramatic skies. A boat day pairs perfectly with a morning surf — see our piece on surfing and whale watching for how to combine waves and wildlife.
Tips for Booking a Boat Tour
Book popular Marietas and luxury catamaran trips in advance, especially in high season. Confirm what's included — food, drinks, gear and park fees vary widely. Ask about group size if you want a quieter experience, and check the departure point so you're not driving an hour to the marina. Ready to build a full water-focused itinerary? Start on our home page to see everything Vallarta Surf can arrange.