Whale Watching Cruise In Puerto Vallarta & Nuevo Vallarta

Whale watching in Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta is an exhilarating adventure for nature enthusiasts. Operated by Mike’s Fishing & Tours, this unforgettable cruise offers close encounters with the majestic humpback whales that migrate to the warm waters from November to April. With a 96% recommendation rate, the tour promises an exceptional experience complemented by knowledgeable guides and a delectable Mexican lunch. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this whale watching excursion is sure to leave you in awe of the Pacific coast’s stunning scenery and the sheer power of these magnificent marine mammals.

Key Points

• A whale watching cruise operated by Mike’s Fishing & Tours, offering close-up encounters with humpback whales in their breeding grounds along the Pacific coast.
• Includes a buffet lunch with Mexican specialties, complimentary beverages, and educational commentary from knowledgeable guides about whale biology and behavior.
• Departs from two locations, Nuevo Vallarta and Puerto Vallarta, with punctual schedules and free transportation, gratuities, and cancellation options.
• Highly praised for the quality of the experience, with a 5.0 rating and positive reviews highlighting the attentive crew and ample whale sightings.
• Recommended for nature enthusiasts, with the tour providing a hassle-free way to witness the humpback whales’ seasonal migration and breeding activities.

Overview and Experience

The whale watching cruise in Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta promises a memorable encounter with the area’s renowned humpback whales, which migrate to these waters from November to April to give birth.

Operated by Mike’s Fishing & Tours, the cruise boasts 312 reviews with a 96% recommendation rate from travelers. Guests can expect close-up views of the marine life and onboard commentary from knowledgeable guides.

The cruise’s prime location along the Pacific coast makes it a renowned birthing hub for these majestic creatures, offering an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.

Inclusions and Amenities

Beyond the close-up encounters with marine life, the whale watching cruise offers a range of inclusions and amenities to enhance the experience.

Passengers can indulge in free alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks throughout the tour. A buffet lunch featuring Mexican specialties like ceviche, guacamole, and marlin burritos is provided, complemented by a continental breakfast.

The onboard live commentary from knowledgeable guides adds an educational element to the journey. Plus, the following are included:

• Gratuities
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Transportation to and from the attractions
• Entrance fees (port fees apply)

Meeting Points and Logistics

Passengers have a choice of two departure locations for the whale watching cruise – either Nuevo Vallarta at the Paradise Village Public Pier before 8:30 am or Puerto Vallarta at the API Terminal (Puerto Magico) before 9:30 am.

The activity ends back at the meeting point. The cruise can accommodate a maximum of 120 travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s stroller accessible.

Service animals are allowed on board. Travelers should arrive at the departure points on time, as the cruise can’t wait for late arrivals and refunds aren’t issued for missed tours due to late arrivals.

Customer Feedback

Travelers consistently rate the whale watching cruise highly, with an overall 5.0 rating based on reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor.

Customers praise the attentive crew, educational commentary, ample whale sightings, and good food. However, some issues have been noted, such as confusion around meeting times/locations and transportation post-cruise.

Specific praises have been made for the cruise’s organization and crew members.

Key highlights from the customer reviews include:

• Attentive and knowledgeable crew
• Educational and engaging onboard commentary
• Abundance of whale sightings during the tour
• Satisfying Mexican cuisine served during the buffet lunch

Pricing and Booking

The whale watching cruise typically ranges from €95.55 per person, with the price varying based on group size.

Travelers can take advantage of the Lowest Price Guarantee, ensuring they get the best deal. Customers have the option to Reserve Now and Pay Later, providing flexibility with their booking.

The tour company offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, though refunds won’t be issued for missed tours due to late arrival.

Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, allowing guests to plan their trip with confidence.

Highlights of the Cruise

One of the highlights of the whale watching cruise is the opportunity for close-up encounters with the magnificent humpback whales.

The cruise operates in a renowned birthing hub for these majestic creatures, allowing travelers to witness their breaching, tail-slapping, and other captivating behaviors from November through April.

The onboard guides provide live commentary, sharing their deep knowledge and passion for the whales.

Travelers can also expect:

• A buffet lunch featuring authentic Mexican cuisine, including ceviche, guacamole, and marlin burritos
• Free alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy while taking in the scenic views
• Continental breakfast to start the day off right
• Gratuities included for a stress-free experience

What to Expect Onboard

Aboard the whale watching cruise, passengers can expect an engaging and educational experience led by knowledgeable guides. The onboard commentary provides insights into the marine life and the humpback whales’ breeding habits.

Throughout the tour, guests can enjoy free alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as a buffet lunch featuring Mexican specialties like ceviche and guacamole. The crew is attentive, and the overall organization of the tour is praised by previous travelers.

While some have experienced minor issues with transportation, the majority of reviews highlight the close-up encounters with whales and the overall quality of the experience.

Preparing for the Adventure

When embarking on the whale watching cruise in Puerto Vallarta, it’s important to prepare accordingly.

Consider the following tips to make the most of your adventure:

• Pack sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen to shield yourself from the Caribbean sun.

• Bring a light jacket or windbreaker as the ocean breeze can be cool, especially during the early morning departure.

• Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes to navigate the boat with ease.

• Bring any necessary medication and stay hydrated throughout the excursion.

The cruise operators provide a continental breakfast and a bountiful Mexican-inspired buffet lunch, so you can focus on spotting whales and enjoying the scenic coastal views.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Cruise?

The cruise doesn’t have any age restrictions. Children of all ages are welcome to join the tour, though parents should ensure young kids can safely board the vessel and participate in the activities.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Onboard?

The cruise provides free alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, as well as a buffet lunch. Passengers are not permitted to bring their own food or beverages on board, as the cruise includes these amenities for all travelers.

Is There a Dress Code for the Whale Watching Tour?

The tour operators don’t have a strict dress code. Casual, comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended for the whale watching excursion, as the boat ride may involve some wind and sea spray.

How Often Do the Cruises Depart During the Day?

The cruises depart multiple times daily, with one departure from Nuevo Vallarta at 8:30 AM and another from Puerto Vallarta at 9:30 AM. The specific schedule may vary, so it’s best to check with the operator for the most up-to-date information.

Are There Any Special Amenities for Children on the Tour?

The cruise offers services catered to families, with a continental breakfast and buffet lunch that includes child-friendly options. However, the tour is not specifically designed for children and doesn’t provide any special amenities or activities for them.

The Sum Up

Experience the thrill of whale watching in Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta. Operated by Mike’s Fishing & Tours, this unforgettable cruise offers close-up encounters with humpback whales, complemented by knowledgeable guides and a buffet lunch featuring authentic Mexican cuisine. With a 96% recommendation rate, this tour promises an exceptional adventure for nature enthusiasts.