Neon Party in Puerto Vallarta: A Fun Night on the Water

Looking for a lively night out in Puerto Vallarta that combines the thrill of a party with the beauty of the sea? The Neon Party aboard a sleek catamaran might just be what you need. While it’s not a luxury cruise, it offers a spirited atmosphere with music, drinks, and views that are hard to beat—ideal for those wanting to dance the night away under the stars.
What we really appreciate about this experience is its casual, energetic vibe and the fact that it’s a great way to meet both locals and fellow travelers. Plus, the stunning views of the bay and fireworks from the sea are genuinely memorable. On the flip side, some might find the watered-down drinks and group size a bit limiting, especially if you’re looking for a more upscale or intimate experience. But if a high-energy, social night on the water sounds appealing, this tour offers excellent value for the price.
This tour is best suited for party-goers, sunset lovers, and anyone eager to experience Puerto Vallarta’s lively nightlife in a relaxed, fun setting. Keep in mind, it’s a lively group activity that’s perfect for those wanting to dance, socialize, and enjoy the beautiful scenery from a different perspective.
Key Points

- Vibrant Atmosphere: A lively party with DJ music, lighting, and a fun crowd.
- Stunning Views: Enjoy the bay, boardwalk, and fireworks from the sea, offering a unique perspective.
- All-Inclusive Drinks: Open bar throughout the tour, though some reviews mention the drinks are watered down.
- Short but Sweet: About 3.5 hours, making it a manageable evening activity.
- Group Size: Limited to 30 travelers, fostering a communal feeling.
- Additional Costs: Includes the tour but excludes port fees and transportation.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Puerto Vallarta.
A Closer Look at the Neon Party Experience
When we consider a night out that combines music, drinks, and water views, this tour checks many boxes. However, it’s important to understand exactly what’s on offer to see if it aligns with your expectations.
The Itinerary and Setting
The tour begins at around 8:00 pm at the A.P.I. Puerto Vallarta terminal, a conveniently located spot near public transportation. After a brief check-in, you’ll hop aboard a prestigious catamaran—a vessel that’s designed to be both stylish and comfortable. The duration of approximately 3 hours 30 minutes makes it perfect for an evening escape without taking up your entire night.
Once onboard, you’ll immediately notice the upbeat DJ music and the light show that sets a festive tone. The boat’s open bar runs throughout the journey, offering dry snacks as well. While the drinks are generally considered part of the fun, some passengers have noted that the alcohol can be watered down, which might be disappointing if you’re expecting strong cocktails.
The Views and Atmosphere
One of the biggest highlights—the stunning vistas of Puerto Vallarta’s bay. From the open deck, you’ll see the brightly lit boardwalk and, if timing aligns, fireworks erupting over the skyline, creating an atmospheric backdrop for photos or just soaking it all in. As one reviewer described, “The boat ride and atmosphere is what I expected,” emphasizing how the scenery and social vibe blend into a memorable night.
The dry snacks keep you fueled as you dance and socialize, and the DJ’s playlist generally earns positive comments for its vibe. The light show adds a splash of color, making the entire experience lively and visually engaging.
What the Reviews Say
- One guest praised the party atmosphere with the comment, “No Title,” noting it’s “a great booze cruise” to party with locals.
- Another mentioned that drinks aren’t strong, but the overall vibe and music kept the experience enjoyable.
- A third review commented that watered-down drinks were a downside but appreciated that “it was what I expected,” and the group atmosphere was fun.
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The Drawbacks
Some attendees felt the alcohol service could be improved—drinks being watered down was a common complaint. This might matter if you’re hoping for a more potent experience; otherwise, the open bar still offers a variety of beverages to keep the party going.
The group size (up to 30 travelers) fosters camaraderie, but it also means the experience can feel quite lively and loud, which isn’t ideal if you prefer a quieter cruise or more intimate setting.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour suits young travelers, party lovers, and those wanting a unique perspective of Puerto Vallarta at night. It’s perfect if you want to combine scenic views with a fun, social atmosphere. However, if you’re after luxury, exclusivity, or a more subdued experience, you might find this tour a bit too energetic or casual.
The Practicalities

Price-wise, at $75 per person, this experience offers decent value given the duration, drinks, and views. Though it’s not the cheapest activity available, the all-inclusive drinks and lively entertainment justify the cost for many. Keep in mind, additional expenses like port fees and transportation are not included, so plan for that extra bit of planning.
The starting point is easy to reach and near public transit, which is a plus for travelers staying in or near the hotel zone. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward.
Final Thoughts
This Neon Party cruise is all about having fun and enjoying Puerto Vallarta’s lively nightlife from a different angle. It’s not a quiet, romantic sunset cruise, but rather an energetic, colorful party on the water. For travelers looking to dance, socialize, and take in beautiful bay views, it offers a memorable evening.
While some may wish for stronger drinks or a more intimate setting, the overall atmosphere, scenic backdrop, and lively crowd make it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a spirited night out.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re in Puerto Vallarta and want to experience the town’s nightlife with a splash of water and music, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially good for groups of friends, young couples, or solo travelers eager to meet others. It’s a relaxed way to enjoy the bay, with plenty of opportunities for photos, dancing, and soaking up the cheerful, celebratory vibe of Puerto Vallarta at night.
FAQs
Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation is not included. The meeting point is at A.P.I. Puerto Vallarta, which is accessible via public transit or taxi.
What is the start time for the tour?
The tour begins at 8:00 pm, making it an ideal activity for after dinner or to kick off a night of exploring.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, enough for a lively evening without it feeling too long.
Are drinks really unlimited?
Yes, there’s an open bar throughout the cruise, but some reviews mention that the drinks can be watered down.
What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes DJ music, a light show, dry snacks, insurance on board, and a tour of the bay. It does not include port fees or transportation.
Is this activity suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s generally appropriate for those looking for a fun, social night out. However, those preferring a quieter experience might want to consider other options.
Final Words

The Neon Party cruise in Puerto Vallarta offers a lively, scenic, and social way to enjoy an evening in Mexico’s popular beach town. It’s perfect for those who want to dance under the stars, see the bay from a new perspective, and mingle with fellow travelers and locals alike. While it might not appeal to everyone—especially if you’re after a tranquil sunset or upscale experience—it provides a spirited night that many will find worth the price.
If you’re looking for a cost-effective, fun-filled night with great views and good company, this tour might be just what you need to cap off your Puerto Vallarta adventure.
More Tour Reviews in Puerto Vallarta
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