Whale watching 3 hours in Puerto Vallarta

Taking a whale watching tour in Puerto Vallarta is often pitched as a must-do, especially during the once-a-year humpback whale season. While we haven’t been on this specific trip ourselves, we’ve compiled a detailed look based on reviews, the tour’s features, and what you can realistically expect. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family seeking memorable adventures, or a solo traveler craving a dose of oceanic wonder, this experience offers a compelling option—and at a reasonable price.

What makes this tour appealing? First, it’s a small, intimate group with a maximum of 12 travelers, which promises more personalized attention and less crowding. Second, the knowledgeable guides—even if they primarily speak Spanish—are praised for their experience and enthusiasm, often making the trip more than just a whale sighting. On the downside, some reviews mention language barriers and organizational hiccups, so it’s worth knowing what you’re signing up for ahead of time.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy marine wildlife, outdoor adventure, and authentic experiences. If you’re expecting a perfectly polished, high-end cruise, you might find this more rustic. However, if you’re looking for a genuine, value-packed experience with local flavor, then this tour could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal and less crowded experience.
• Wildlife Viewing: Usually sees around 20 humpback whales, with opportunities to see spouts, flippers, and tails.
• Language and Guides: Guides are experienced but may primarily speak Spanish, which could be a consideration for non-Spanish speakers.
• Pricing and Value: At $48 per person, including water, lifejacket, and a whale guide, it offers good value—though a port tax of 39 pesos applies.
• Weather Preparedness: Dress warmly, as the ocean can be quite chilly, and bring towels if you plan to snorkel at Los Arcos.
• Additional Costs: Expect a port fee of 39 pesos, which isn’t included in the ticket price.
• Reviews Highlight: Travelers appreciated seeing whales and valued the experience despite some organizational issues.
• Best For: Wildlife lovers, budget-conscious travelers, and those seeking an authentic local tour experience.

What to Expect on the Tour

Meeting Point and Duration

The adventure starts at Los Peines 332, Isla Iguana in Puerto Vallarta, with the tour lasting approximately 3 hours. The boat departs from this central location, which is accessible by public transportation and convenient for most travelers. After about three hours, the boat returns to the original meeting point, making it a manageable half-day activity.

The Boat and Safety Measures

The vessel is described as having a roof for shade, padded benches for comfort, and a skipper in charge. Safety gear like lifejackets is provided, which is reassuring for those concerned about safety on the water. While the boat isn’t specified as a large cruise ship, reviews suggest it’s a smaller, more intimate vessel that allows for better wildlife viewing and a more personal atmosphere.

Wildlife Watching and Experience

The main event is whale viewing. Most reviewers mention seeing around twenty humpback whales, which is quite good considering the short duration. Viewings include whale spouts, flippers, and tails, giving ample photo opportunities. One reviewer noted, “The whale spouting and a ten-foot flipper in the air,” which captures the excitement of marine wildlife encounters.

Guides and Commentary

The guides are praised for their experience and friendliness, though some reviews mention limited English. Shaida, for example, noted that language wasn’t a major obstacle for enjoying the tour, but others pointed out that communication might be more challenging if you don’t speak Spanish. The guides’ knowledge added value, especially if they are familiar with whale behavior.

Additional Stops and Activities

One feature that stood out was the guide’s kindness in taking the group to Los Arcos for snorkeling when whale sightings were limited. This adds extra value, turning a potentially disappointing whale sighting into a full marine adventure. It’s wise to come prepared with swimsuits and towels if you want to take advantage of this.

Weather and Packing Tips

Since the ocean can be quite cold, especially in the winter months, dressing warmly is advised. A windbreaker, layers, and warm clothing will make the experience more comfortable. Also, bringing towels for snorkeling or simply to keep comfortable is a good idea.

Price and Value Analysis

At $48 per person, this tour is reasonably priced for the experience it offers. It includes bottled water, a lifejacket, and a whale guide, which adds to the perceived value. However, the additional port fee of 39 pesos (roughly $2 USD) is not included in the price, so be prepared for that extra expense.

Some reviews point out organizational issues — for example, late departures, overpacking, or guides not speaking English fluently — but these seem to be minor inconveniences within an overall positive experience. The fact that it’s a small boat with fewer travelers means you’re more likely to get close to the action and avoid the crowds that larger tours might attract.

Is it Worth It?

For wildlife lovers and those seeking a low-cost, authentic marine adventure, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. Seeing at least a dozen whales, plus the chance to snorkel at Los Arcos, makes it a solid choice for a half-day outing. The informal, small-group setting tends to foster a more relaxed and genuine atmosphere compared to larger, more commercial tours.

How It Compares to Other Experiences

While this tour focuses primarily on whale watching, similar experiences might include longer or more luxurious options, such as all-inclusive yacht trips or eco-reserves with more extensive commentary. However, for the budget-conscious traveler wanting a straightforward whale encounter with some added snorkeling, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Other tours at Viator include trips to the Natural Reserve Los Arcos or Yelapa waterfalls, but this whale watching tour is unique in its seasonal timing and focus. Its short duration and small size make it ideal for a quick, authentic experience rather than a drawn-out cruise.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This whale watching tour in Puerto Vallarta is best suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate wildlife, budget-conscious visitors, and those looking for a genuine, small-group experience. If you’re flexible with some language barriers and organizational quirks, you’ll find this is a fun, reasonably priced way to witness humpback whales in their natural habitat.

The tour offers genuine value—especially if you’re keen on seeing whales and enjoying the ocean in a less commercial setting. While it might not be perfect in all respects, it delivers on the core promise: a memorable marine encounter with the chance to see impressive wildlife and explore the coast.

For families, solo travelers, or couples eager for a memorable adventure, this trip can be a highlight of your Puerto Vallarta visit. Just remember to dress warmly, bring your camera, and prepare for a bit of small-boat charm.

FAQ

Is this whale watching tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers of all ages can participate, especially if they are comfortable on boats and dressed warmly.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes bottled water, a lifejacket, and a whale guide. You’ll need to pay a small port tax of 39 pesos separately.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 3 hours from start to finish, including the boat ride and whale watching.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour limits up to 12 travelers, making it a more intimate and less crowded experience.

Will I see whales every time?
While sightings depend on the season and luck, reviews suggest seeing about twenty whales is common during the season.

Are guides fluent in English?
Most guides are experienced but may primarily speak Spanish, which could be a consideration for non-Spanish speakers.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly, bring towels if you plan to snorkel, and consider camera gear for photos.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

In summary, this Puerto Vallarta whale watching tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife viewing, authentic local experience, and good value. While not perfect, it’s a solid choice for those wanting to connect with nature and enjoy a fun, small-group marine adventure.