Puerto Vallarta: Private Ocean Adventure

If you’re looking for a flexible, personalized way to enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s stunning coastline, the Private Ocean Adventure tour might be just what you need. This 4-hour experience combines sightseeing, snorkeling, and fishing in a private setting, giving you the chance to tailor your day on the water. It’s ideal for travelers who want an authentic, intimate experience away from crowded group tours.

We love that this tour offers a combination of activities, allowing you to enjoy both the visual splendor of Puerto Vallarta’s shoreline and its vibrant marine life. Plus, the private setup means you can customize the itinerary to suit your preferences—whether that’s fishing, cooling off with snorkeling, or just relaxing and soaking in the views.

One possible consideration is that, at $572 for a group of up to six, it’s a pricier option compared to larger, group tours. However, for the privacy and flexibility, many find it offers good value. This tour is best suited for small groups or families who appreciate a private, tailored experience and want to make the most of their limited time on the water.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience with sightseeing, snorkeling, and fishing in one tour
• Depart from Marina Vallarta, cruising past iconic landmarks and scenic neighborhoods
• Fishing for seasonal species like bullfish, Spanish mackerel, dorado, or sailfish
• Snorkeling around Los Arcos or El Paredón with clear waters and vibrant marine life
• Includes bottled water, ice, and docking fees—no hidden extras for these essentials
• Suitable for small groups (up to six people) seeking an intimate adventure

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect on the Puerto Vallarta Private Ocean Adventure

This tour kicks off at the OXXO on Calle Popa, which is a straightforward meeting point in Puerto Vallarta. From there, your crew, which speaks both English and Spanish, will take you aboard a comfortable vessel designed for small groups. The four-hour window offers a well-paced experience—long enough to enjoy multiple activities but short enough to keep it lively.

The Scenic Cruise Along Puerto Vallarta’s Coastline

The journey begins with a relaxing cruise along the coast, giving you a chance to see some of Puerto Vallarta’s most famous sights. As you glide past the Hotel Zone, Downtown, and the lively Malecón, you’ll enjoy views of lush hillside neighborhoods and beachfront resorts. Many reviews mention how much travelers appreciate this part—“The views are stunning, especially as we cruised past Conchas Chinas,” one guest noted.

This scenic cruise isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s also a chance to get comfortable on the water before moving to the active parts of the tour. The crew is attentive, and the vessel provides a good vantage point for photos, so keep your camera ready.

Fishing in Bahia de Banderas

Next comes the fishing segment, which takes place on outriggers equipped with artificial bait. The captain will suggest the best spots based on the season and current conditions. Catching fish like bullfish, Spanish mackerel, dorado, or sailfish—depending on the time of year—is part of the fun.

We loved the way the crew made fishing accessible, even for beginners. If you’re not into fishing, just let them know; they’re happy to customize the experience. Remember, this part of the tour is about the thrill of trying your luck and enjoying being out on the water.

Snorkeling at Los Arcos and El Paredón

After fishing, it’s time for snorkeling. The crew will point you toward the best spots—likely Los Arcos or El Paredón—where the waters are clear and teeming with life. The underwater scenery includes vibrant fish, coral formations, and other marine creatures.

We found the snorkeling to be a highlight—the visibility was great, and the marine life lively. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, the crew’s guidance helps ensure everyone has a memorable experience. If snorkeling isn’t your thing, the crew is flexible; you can relax on the boat or explore other scenic points along the coast.

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Customization and Flexibility

One of the best aspects of this private tour is its adaptability. If you prefer more time snorkeling or fishing, or want to skip certain activities, just ask. The crew is eager to tailor the experience, making it a perfect fit for your interests.

Is This Tour Worth the Cost?

Considering the $572 price tag for up to six people, the tour offers a good balance of exclusivity and value. For small groups or families, it’s a cost-effective way to enjoy the water without sharing the experience with strangers. The private boat and crew services mean personalized attention and flexibility that larger tours can’t provide.

The included features—bottled water, ice, and docking fees—are standard but helpful amenities. Not included are meals or additional drinks, so plan accordingly if you want to extend your on-board refreshments. Also, note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your transportation to the meeting point.

The Review from Others

Many guests have expressed satisfaction with the views and the personalized approach. One reviewer commented, “The crew was friendly and made us feel like VIPs for the day,” highlighting the intimacy of the experience. Others appreciated the stunning vistas, particularly during the cruise portion, which many felt made the trip worthwhile on its own.

Timing and Group Size

Most trips are scheduled in the morning, which tends to be ideal for calmer waters and better lighting. The small group size (up to six) ensures a relaxed atmosphere, and the flexible itinerary allows you to enjoy your preferred activities without feeling rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private ocean adventure caters well to travelers who want a personalized, flexible day on the water. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for a mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and fishing. If you’re someone who values intimate experiences and wants to avoid large, crowded tours, this option is worth considering.

It’s especially appealing if you enjoy scenic cruising and marine activities and are okay with paying a bit more for tailored service. If your group has specific interests or wants a custom experience, this tour’s flexibility makes it a good choice.

The Sum Up

To sum it up, the Puerto Vallarta Private Ocean Adventure offers a well-rounded, flexible way to enjoy the coastline. Its combination of sightseeing, fishing, and snorkeling makes it suitable for a range of interests, and the private setup ensures a more personalized, comfortable experience. The scenic cruise alone is worth the price, with stunning views of Puerto Vallarta’s hillside neighborhoods and beach resorts.

While the cost is on the higher side, the intimacy and customization—plus the chance to catch seasonal fish and snorkel in clear waters—add significant value. It’s ideal for small groups or families who want a memorable day out on the water without the crowds.

If you’re seeking a flexible, personalized ocean experience that balances adventure and relaxation, this tour is a strong contender. Just remember to plan for transportation to the meeting point, and consider whether the price matches your budget and expectations for an exclusive day on the water.

FAQ

How do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is at the OXXO in Calle Popa in Puerto Vallarta. It’s a straightforward location, and your crew will be ready to welcome you there.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes a private charter, captain and deckhand service, bilingual crew, bottled water, ice, and docking fees. These essentials are covered in the price.

Can I customize the activities?
Yes, the tour is flexible. If you prefer more snorkeling or fishing, or want to skip certain activities, just let your crew know. They’re happy to adapt the itinerary.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately four hours, typically scheduled in the morning to maximize good weather and calmer seas.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the information doesn’t specify age restrictions, small groups and family-friendly activities suggest it could be appropriate for children who are comfortable on boats and enjoy marine activities.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You may want to bring snacks or drinks if you plan to spend longer on the water.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you should arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

This private ocean tour in Puerto Vallarta offers an authentic, versatile way to enjoy the coast—perfect for those who value intimacy, flexibility, and stunning views. Whether you’re after a fishing adventure, snorkeling excitement, or just soaking up the scenery, this experience is worth considering for a memorable day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: