A 100-foot yacht makes Bahia de Banderas yours. This private charter is built around your day at sea—big-bay scenery, marine-park options, and plenty to do in the water—plus all the food and drinks so you can actually relax. I love the private setup for up to 15 people, and I also love that the day includes water toys and snorkeling gear.

One real heads-up: the vibe can get loud. If you want a quieter cruise, ask about music volume ahead of time, because one long day included nonstop loud music and no calm spots.

Key things to know before you go

• A 100-foot limousine-style yacht: this is a “spread out and enjoy” boat, not a cramped speedcraft.
• All the fun gear is included: snorkeling gear, paddle boards, kayak, water mattress, and water tube.
• Food and drinks are part of the price: fresh snacks plus alcoholic drinks and soft drinks.
• You can shape the day: your route can be customized around Bahia de Banderas and Puerto Vallarta.
• Playa Chica Locca can add a waterfall hike: an extra layer beyond just cruising and swimming.
• Wildlife is possible in-season: humpback whales typically arrive December through April.

What kind of day is this, really?

Think of this as a private floating hangout in the Bay of Banderas, with the option to turn it into a full-on beach and adventure day. The boat focuses on “do what you want” energy: cruise, swim, snorkel, paddle, and snack and drink while you’re doing it.

The bay itself matters. Bahia de Banderas is huge, and it connects to major marine areas like Marietas Islands and Los Arcos. That’s how you get the chance for scenery that feels like it’s changing every few minutes, even if you’re just cruising along the Puerto Vallarta coastline.

It’s also private. Only your group is on the yacht, which makes a big difference if you’re traveling with friends, planning a wedding meet-and-greet, or you just want your own space without sharing the experience with strangers.

The yacht experience: service, space, and safety

This charter is marketed as a luxury 100-foot “limousine of the sea” experience, and the details support that feel. The yacht setup is designed for groups—wide-open space, time in the sun, and an on-deck atmosphere that’s meant for enjoying a full half-day together.

Service seems to be a major part of the appeal. In the feedback, the crew gets praised for being attentive and for making safety a focus while still keeping the day fun. That balance matters on a boat day because you’ll be moving between swimming, using paddle boards or kayaks, and returning for snacks and drinks.

You’ll also want to know that crew personalities show up in the stories. Names like Baby David and Ricky appear in praised service, which tells me this isn’t run by a distant, hands-off crew. It’s more like you’re being hosted.

Included food and drinks: this is where the value hides

A lot of boat tours charge extra for drinks and snacks. Here, the pricing model is different: you get a full bar setup and food built into the experience.

On the snack side, you’ll have fresh items like ceviche and guacamole, with blue corn chips. On the drink side, the list is broad: water, coffee, juices, sodas, mineral water, and alcoholic options such as margaritas, beer, wine, piña coladas, and champagne—or whatever you choose to drink from that lineup.

If you’re doing a morning version, breakfast is included too: fresh in-season fruit, pastries, coffee, and juices. That’s a smart move for a half-day at sea. You don’t want to spend your energy bargaining for food or trying to find a place to eat after you’ve already gotten wet.

The water toys and snorkeling gear (and how to use them well)

You get snorkeling gear and an impressive mix of activities: paddle boards, a kayak, and float gear like a water mattress and water tube. This is important because it gives you options even if people in your group don’t want to do the same thing.

Here’s how I’d plan it for best results:

• If your group has different comfort levels, do a “rotation” so snorkelers and paddle board riders can each get time in the water.
• Use the paddle boards or kayak earlier in the day, when everyone’s still fresh and the group energy is high.
• Keep one person as the checkpoint watcher when others are in and out for snorkeling or tubing, especially if the group includes kids or mixed-experience swimmers.

Also, pack like you’re spending hours on the water: reef-safe sunscreen (if you use it), water-friendly sandals, and a dry bag for phones. You’ll thank yourself when you’re not scrambling for a place to stash stuff.

Your itinerary at a glance: custom Bahia de Banderas time

The day is built around your desires, and that’s the biggest difference between this and a fixed-route tour. The description points to multiple marine areas and coastline experiences in Bahia de Banderas, and you can customize where you go.

A private stop centers on Puerto Vallarta, with about 2 hours set aside for time along the Bahia de Banderas and Puerto Vallarta coastline. This is usually your window to enjoy the scenery without rushing, and to decide how much time you want to spend actively in the water versus cruising.

From there, the extra “adventure level” depends on what you choose. The tour can also include a run to the remote beach paradise Playa Chica Locca for an all-inclusive day with all food and drinks and a waterfall hike. Los Arcos Marine Park can also be accessed.

And if you’re planning this in whale season, timing helps. Humpback whales are typically present from December through April, and dolphins, turtles, and rays are common sightings.

Playa Chica Locca and the waterfall hike option

If you want more than “just boat time,” Playa Chica Locca is the added layer. The big promise here is an all-inclusive beach day feel, plus a waterfall hike. That’s the kind of plan that gives your group a story beyond the photos: ocean time, then jungle time, then a refreshing payoff at the end of the hike.

This option also pairs well with mixed groups. People can swim and use water toys near the beach area while others prefer the hike. Because the day is private, you’re not stuck watching a crowded schedule where your entire group must move in lockstep.

One practical note: bring shoes you can handle on a hike and expect to get wet. Even if you don’t do the hike, you’ll still be near water, and the waterfall plan usually means humidity and humidity means you’ll feel warmer than you expect.

Puerto Vallarta time: scenery plus a calm pace

The Puerto Vallarta portion of the day gives you coastline time in a way that feels more flexible than a short “pass by the highlights” cruise. Two hours is enough to settle in, enjoy the views, and still have time to go in the water without turning your day into a sprint.

This also matters because the Bay of Banderas is not one static view. You’ll see changes in shoreline character and how the marine area opens up. If you’re someone who likes photos but also likes time to actually live in the moment, this pacing usually works.

If you’re traveling with older family members or anyone who likes a steadier rhythm, the Puerto Vallarta cruise component can be a good “anchor” even if you choose not to go all-in on the waterfall hike.

Wildlife season: when whales and rays are on the menu

This is one of those destinations where timing can pay off. In-season whale watching begins in December and runs through April, with humpback whales visiting the waters. Even if whales don’t show, you’re still in a wildlife-friendly area.

The info also calls out other sightings like dolphins, turtles, and rays. That’s why I like planning a boat day here during the season if you can. It’s not guaranteed, but the odds are better than a random day outside peak months.

For me, the best wildlife tip is simple: stay present. Spend time looking out over the water instead of bouncing between screens. It’s hard to be distracted when the boat day is set up to keep you comfortable and fed.

Price and value: what $6,455 buys for up to 15

The price is $6,455 per group, up to 15 people, for about 4 hours. On paper, that sounds high if you compare it to cheap public tours. But when you break it down, you’re paying for privacy plus a lot of included spending.

You’re already covered for:

• Snorkeling gear and multiple water toys
• Alcoholic drinks plus soft drinks and coffee/juices
• Fresh snacks like ceviche and guacamole
• Landing and facility fees
• A licensed guide
• A private experience for your group only

If you fill the capacity, you’re effectively splitting the cost in a way that feels more like a private venue than an excursion. The biggest “value boost” is drinks and water gear. Most boat days add those costs later, and it changes the feel of the day if you’re mentally tracking every round of drinks.

Extra costs to expect are more limited: souvenir photos and ground transportation to the check-in location. There’s also the small but real tip factor. One piece of feedback encouraged bringing cash tips because the service can be worth it.

Music and group comfort: how to avoid the loud-day problem

The boat experience can be party-friendly. One reviewer complained about incessant loud music for a long stretch, especially since the group included many people over 45 and there were no quiet areas.

I take that seriously because it can change the mood of the entire day. If your group leans toward calm conversation, ask ahead about music volume and whether the crew can adjust the energy. If you’re coming for a DJ-style atmosphere, you’ll probably love that high-energy vibe.

Either way, you’re in charge. Private tour means you can communicate what works for your group before you’re out on open water for hours.

Logistics that matter: meeting place and getting there

The tour emphasizes that you must choose your meeting place before submitting your reservation. Pickup is offered, but the meeting point selection is not optional in their process.

If you need help with transportation to the meeting area, the guidance is clear: request it, and call Gil, the owner. That’s a useful service detail for large groups, especially if you’re coordinating multiple travelers or you don’t want to stress about last-mile transport.

You’ll also get a mobile ticket. That’s practical for boat days, where paper tickets can get damp fast.

Who this is best for

This charter makes a lot of sense when you want a private setting and you don’t want to compromise on activities or included comfort.

It’s especially good for:

• Big friend groups that want a shared boat day with lots to do
• Wedding meet-and-greet moments where you need a fun, hosted setting
• Families and mixed-age groups where not everyone will want the same activity
• Anyone who likes the idea of cruising Bahia de Banderas but also wants to actually use the gear in the water

If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, the per-group cost can be hard to justify unless you’re already planning a group trip.

Practical packing tips that keep the day easy

You’ll have water toys and a snorkeling component, plus the waterfall hike option if you choose it. Pack with that in mind.

I’d bring:

• Sun protection and water-friendly clothing
• Water sandals or shoes you can hike in if you choose Playa Chica Locca
• A dry bag or waterproof phone case
• A small towel and a change of clothes for the ride back

Also, if you like getting the best photos without stress, plan to wear something you’re comfortable moving in. Boat decks are active places. You want clothes that work for sitting, standing, swimming, and re-rigging yourself on deck without constant adjustments.

Should you book Luxury Mega Yacht 100′ Limousine of the Sea 2?

Book it if you want a true private boat day with real inclusions—gear, food, and drinks—plus route flexibility around Bahia de Banderas and Puerto Vallarta. I also think it’s a great fit for groups who want a hosted experience and don’t want to manage logistics mid-trip.

Don’t book it if quiet is your top priority. The music level can be intense on at least some days, and there may not be enough quiet space for a mellow crowd. If that’s you, ask about music volume and your options for calmer areas before you go.

If you’re planning for whale season, your timing can help, too, since humpback whales are typically present from December through April. And if your group wants something extra beyond the sea, the Playa Chica Locca waterfall hike option is the reason many people end up loving this kind of charter.

FAQ

How long is the Puerto Vallarta yacht experience?

The duration is about 4 hours.

What is the group size limit?

The price is per group, up to 15.

Is pickup offered?

Pickup is offered. You’ll need to choose your meeting place before submitting your reservation.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. It is private, and only your group will participate.

What activities and water gear are included?

Snorkeling gear, paddle boards, kayak, water mattress, and water tube are included.

What food and drinks are included?

Snacks are included, including fresh made ceviche, guacamole, and blue corn chips. Drinks are included too, including alcoholic beverages (margaritas, beer, wine, piña coladas, champagne or whatever you choose to drink) and non-alcoholic options like water, coffee, juices, sodas, and mineral water.

Is there a meal included for morning tours?

Yes. Morning tours include fresh in-season fruit, pastries, coffee, and juices.

What destinations can the day include?

The day can be customized around Bahia de Banderas and the Puerto Vallarta coastline. Options mentioned include Marietas Islands and Yelapa access, Los Arcos Marine Park access, and Playa Chica Locca with an all-inclusive day and waterfall hike.

Is whale watching possible?

In season, whale watching begins in December through April, when humpback whales visit the waters.

What if weather is poor?

This experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.