Whale watching 3 hours in Puerto Vallarta

The Whale Watching 3 Hours in Puerto Vallarta tour offers a unique opportunity to see humpback whales in their natural habitat, all within a straightforward 3-hour boat trip. Priced at $48 per person, this tour is an accessible way to enjoy marine wildlife and the scenic coastline of Puerto Vallarta. It departs from Los Peines 332, Isla Iguana, and features a covered boat equipped with padded benches and safety gear, including lifejackets and a whale guide.

While the tour is relatively short, it presents a chance to witness whale spouts, flippers, and tails—with sightings of around twenty humpback whales reported. Because this experience occurs only once a year in Puerto Vallarta, it appeals most to those eager for a seasonal marine encounter. Keep in mind, there is a port tax of 39 pesos that travelers need to pay on the day. The tour’s maximum group size of 12 helps maintain an intimate atmosphere, and it’s suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals.

Key Points

• Price: $48 per person, with a 3-hour duration.
• When it happens: This is a seasonal, once-a-year whale watching event.
• What’s included: Bottled water, lifejacket, and a whale guide.
• Main activity: Watching humpback whales with opportunities for snorkeling at Los Arcos if you’re lucky.
• Guide communication: The boat captain may only speak Spanish, which could affect the experience for non-Spanish speakers.
• Additional fees: A port tax of 39 pesos applies.

Puerto Vallarta Whale Watching Boat: Covered and Comfortable

This tour departs from Los Peines 332 and takes place on a boat with a roof, providing shade and some protection from the sun or wind during the trip. The boat features padded benches for comfort, making the 3-hour experience manageable even for those with limited mobility. The small group size of up to 12 travelers ensures a more personal experience and better chances to view whales without excessive crowding.

The boat’s design prioritizes safety and comfort, with lifejackets provided for all, allowing travelers to relax and focus on the marine spectacle. The meeting point is near public transportation, making it an accessible start for most visitors, and service animals are permitted onboard.

Watching Humpback Whales in Puerto Vallarta’s Waters

During the tour, sightings of humpback whales are common, with reports of about twenty whales spotted in a single trip. Travelers see whale spouting, flippers, and tails rising from the water, providing excellent photo opportunities. The guide leads the viewing, sharing insights about whale behavior, although some reviews note that Spanish is the primary language spoken by the captain.

The best time to observe whales is during the season, which is brief but spectacular when it occurs. The whale encounters are generally considered a good experience, especially for those willing to dress warmly, as the ocean can be quite cold. The viewing experience can sometimes be affected by crowding on the boat or obstructed views, so arriving early or in a smaller group enhances the chance to see the whales clearly.

The Snorkelling Option at Los Arcos

A notable feature of this tour is the opportunity to visit Los Arcos for snorkeling, often included if whales are less visible. The guide may take the group to the famous Los Arcos for a snorkeling stop, where the clear waters and vibrant marine life make for a pleasant side adventure.

Travelers are advised to wear swimsuits and bring towels, as snorkeling gear is not explicitly mentioned as provided. This stop offers a chance to enjoy underwater scenery, even if whale sightings are limited or absent. The snorkeling is a bonus factored into the tour, adding variety to the short voyage.

Language and Communication on Board

One aspect to consider is that the boat captain may only speak Spanish, which could pose challenges for English-speaking travelers. Some reviews mention that the guide’s limited English did not significantly impact the overall experience, especially since the primary focus is on whale watching. However, those who prefer detailed commentary in English should be aware of this potential language barrier.

The whale guide included in the tour helps interpret whale sightings, but for precise understanding, some participants may need to rely on gestures or translation apps. Before booking, travelers comfortable with basic Spanish or seeking a quieter, more observational experience may find this less problematic.

Practical Tips and Warnings for the Tour

Dressing warmly is recommended because ocean temperatures can be quite cool, especially during the season. Bringing towels and extra layers ensures comfort during the 3-hour trip. The port fee of 39 pesos is not included in the ticket price, so travelers should prepare to pay this on-site.

The group size is limited to 12 people, which improves viewing chances but also means early booking is advisable since the tour is booked on average 16 days in advance. Travelers should also be aware that some reviews mention late departures and overcrowding on the boat, which can reduce the quality of the whale viewing.

Value and Overall Experience

The tour’s price of $48 makes it an affordable option for whale enthusiasts, especially considering the rarity of the once-a-year season. The inclusion of a whale guide, water, and safety gear adds value to the experience. However, the variable quality of whale sightings and language limitations are worth keeping in mind.

Most reviews highlight good value for money and friendly guides, especially for those keen to see humpback whales in their natural environment. Despite some inconsistencies in organization and communication, the spectacle of whales and the scenic boat ride remain the main attractions.

Final Thoughts on Puerto Vallarta Whale Watching

The 3-hour whale watching tour in Puerto Vallarta is a practical and reasonably priced way to encounter humpback whales during their seasonal visit. The covered boat offers comfort, and the small group size enhances the chances of sightings. The snorkeling option at Los Arcos adds extra enjoyment for those interested in underwater scenery.

While the guide’s limited English and possible overcrowding are considerations, the spectacular whale behavior and the seasonal exclusivity make this tour worth considering for travelers wanting a memorable marine wildlife experience. Suitable for most, especially those prepared for the cool ocean weather and additional port fee, it offers a straightforward introduction to Puerto Vallarta’s whale season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this whale watching tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s short duration and small group size make it suitable for most children, especially if they enjoy being on boats and looking for whales.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
The tour does not specify if snorkeling gear is provided, but it’s recommended to bring your own if you plan to snorkel at Los Arcos.

Can non-Spanish speakers understand the guide?
The boat captain may only speak Spanish, which could limit detailed commentary. Travelers comfortable with basic Spanish or focusing on the visual experience will still enjoy the tour.

What should I wear for the trip?
Dressing warmly is advised due to the cold ocean breeze, and bringing towels helps stay comfortable during the trip.

How do I pay the port tax?
The 39 pesos port tax is paid on-site, separate from the ticket price, so travelers should be prepared for this additional expense.

What is the cancellation policy?
The tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, ensuring flexibility if plans change.

This Puerto Vallarta whale watching tour combines the thrill of seasonal whale sightings with the ease of a small-group, short trip. It’s an accessible, affordable way to connect with local marine life, especially for those eager to witness humpback whales during their annual migration.