Puerto Vallarta Luxury Sailing with Premium Open bar & lunch

Luxury sailing here is calm, not chaotic. You’re out on Banderas Bay with a premium open bar and a crew that keeps things moving at sea speed.

Two things I really like: the drinks flow without feeling like a party boat, and the whole ride feels polished from start to finish.

You also get a small-group vibe. Even though the cap is 30, many outings feel much quieter, and the boat itself is described as very clean and comfortable.

One thing to consider: the tour is still a full chunk of time on the water, and the snorkeling quality can depend on water visibility and conditions.

Key highlights worth knowing

• Premium open bar that’s actively managed, with drinks served throughout the cruise
• Small-group feel (max 30), which makes the day more relaxed and personal
• Swim, snorkel, and SUP are built in, and you get the gear for all of it
• Wildlife spotting is a real possibility, including dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles, and humpback whales in season
• Lunch is a proper onboard meal, with a set menu like guacamole, a Serrano ham sandwich, and brownie
• Water access is hands-on: you jump in off the boat and use short metal ladders to get back

Luxury sailing on Banderas Bay, with a party-optional feel

If you’re picturing the typical “stand around, wait for your turn” boat day, this tour plays it differently. The day is built around smooth pacing, plenty of time in the sun, and a crew that seems to understand what you came for: sea views, marine life, and a relaxed pace.

The open bar stands out because it doesn’t feel like you’re waiting for someone to refill a cup when they remember. You get regular drink attention as you move through sailing and water time. That matters on a 6-hour outing, because the best kind of luxury is the kind that keeps your mind off small annoyances.

The other big win is the boat vibe. You’re on a larger sailboat (not a tiny skiff), and people note it’s very clean with multiple bathrooms, which can change the whole experience on a longer trip. And with a group size that stays small, you can actually breathe.

Where you meet the boat (and the one fee you’ll pay cash)

You meet at Vallarta Adventures at Marina Vallarta (Mástil 13). The start time is 9:30 am, and the tour ends back at the same meeting point.

You’ll do one small reality check before boarding: a port/dock fee is listed as MX$40 per person, and it’s paid in cash at the marina. This fee is separate from the tour price, so it’s worth having the money ready so you can board without slowing down the group.

No hotel pickup is included, so plan to get yourself to the marina. If you’re staying in Nuevo Vallarta, you may start from that area, or you may head directly to the Puerto Vallarta marina depending on how your day is set up. Either way, you’re on the water early enough to actually enjoy the morning light.

A practical note about boarding and bathrooms

This isn’t a “step onto a ladder and you’re done” situation. To get in the water, you jump off the boat. Getting back on involves small metal ladders. If you’re expecting a gentle, step-in entry, this may not match your style.

Toilets are located on the lower deck. That’s handy to know up front because you won’t be hunting around during water time.

The sailing rhythm: how wind shapes your route

Sailing in Banderas Bay isn’t one fixed loop every day. The route is selected daily based on conditions, so expect a plan that flexes with the wind. That’s not a problem. In fact, it’s often what keeps the ride comfortable.

You’ll cruise past rugged rock formations and scenic coast views, with the captain choosing where to go for the best mix of sailing and water activities. On many outings, you also get the chance to head toward Los Arcos and then return toward port in a calmer rhythm.

The sailing time isn’t guaranteed to be every single minute either. Some days use the motor to reach the best areas for snorkeling and activities, then you sail again on the way back. This is a good tradeoff: you still get the feel of sailing, but you’re not stuck “waiting for wind” while the day slips by.

Swimming, snorkeling, and SUP without the hassle

This is the type of tour where the water activities are genuinely part of the plan, not just optional extras. You’ll have equipment provided for snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding, plus time to swim wherever conditions allow.

Snorkeling expectations (the good and the realistic)

Wildlife sightings can be excellent here. People mention dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles, and multiple kinds of tropical fish. Humpback whales are possible in season, and sometimes the crew makes multiple stops for whale sightings.

That said, snorkeling visibility can vary. One person said the snorkeling felt underwhelming due to poor visibility in the area they visited. Another said snorkel time was great and saw lots of sea life. So your best expectation is this: you’re going to get the chance to snorkel, but the quality depends on conditions that day. If you’re the type who gets frustrated by that kind of variability, keep your plan flexible.

SUP time and calmer waters

SUP gets mentioned a lot as a “worth it” moment. If the ocean mood is too choppy for some snorkelers, SUP can still work because you can choose your pace and find a comfortable spot. The day’s vibe helps too: you’re not just rushing from one activity to the next.

Water entry matters

Remember the entry and exit routine: you jump off the boat to enter and use small metal ladders to get back on. If you’re nervous about that, bring confidence with you. If you have mobility limitations, this is a clear factor to weigh before booking.

Wildlife spotting: how to think about whales and dolphins

This tour is built for ocean watching. You cruise with time set aside to look for dolphins, manta rays, and sea turtles, and you might spot humpback whales when they’re in season.

Multiple reviews note whale sightings, including days where whales were far away, and days where the crew made extra stops (3–4 in one case) specifically for whales. That tells me the crew doesn’t treat wildlife spotting like a bonus. They monitor the water and adjust the plan when sightings happen.

What you can control is your attitude. Keep your eyes up, listen to the crew’s cues, and don’t treat every sighting as guaranteed. When you get it right, it feels like you’re watching nature do its own timing.

Lunch and drinks: what you actually eat on board

Food is not an afterthought here. The sample menu is straightforward and enjoyable, with items that travel well on a boat.

Here’s what’s listed:

• Infused water and seasonal fruit
• Guacamole with pico de gallo and tortilla chips
• A gourmet sandwich: Serrano ham, tomato, pickle dressing, manchego cheese, arugula, and homemade bread
• Dark chocolate brownie

In real life onboard, people describe the lunch spread as well-organized and plentiful, with fruit and snack trays appearing at the right times. One review talked about charcuterie-style food and multiple courses during the cruise, and another mentioned fresh ceviche and fruit tart. So while the menu is set, the way it’s presented seems to get attention.

On the drinks side, people specifically appreciated that the bar doesn’t rely on weak, pre-mixed pitcher-style drinks. Instead, drinks seem to be made individually. That’s one reason the open bar can feel truly premium rather than like a checkbox.

Bring sunscreen

A small but important tip from a review: sunscreen matters. You’re out for hours in strong sun, and you’ll be active—snorkeling, paddling, lounging—so sun protection isn’t optional.

The crew experience: attention without hovering

A huge part of why this tour earns a high rating is how the crew works. People describe attentive staff who keep the day on schedule, stay friendly, and manage the boat and activities smoothly.

Specific names show up in the feedback. Captain Sergio is mentioned as super attentive, and other crew names like Rubin, Christian, and Walter appear in reviews as people who took great care of the group. In at least one outing, the captain was in the water to make sure the experience hit the mark.

I also like that the crew seems to balance two moods: calm luxury and real instruction. The snorkeling guide is described as helpful, and SUP/snorkel gear is provided, so you’re not left guessing.

If you’re someone who enjoys organization in the background, this is your style.

Is this tour worth $129?

At $129 per person, you’re paying for a few things that matter on a 6-hour boat day: a boat that’s clean and comfortable, an onboard meal, an open bar that’s actually used during the cruise, and structured water activities with gear.

Then there’s the practical value side:

• You’re not paying separately for lunch.
• You’re not paying separately for snorkeling/SUP equipment.
• You’re getting enough water time to make the trip feel like it was planned around the ocean, not just sailing for scenery.

The one extra cost you should expect is the MX$40 port/dock fee paid in cash. Add that in mentally and you’re still in the “premium day on the water” range.

Where value gets real is the group size. Even though the cap is 30, people describe small numbers like 8 or 10, and that changes the whole feel: more space, less waiting, and a more personal day. If you’re traveling with a group that wants comfort and downtime, this pricing starts to make sense quickly.

Who should book this, and who should pause

This tour fits best if you want:

• A relaxed luxury day on the water
• Multiple water activities (snorkel and SUP) without extra planning
• Real ocean watching for dolphins, turtles, manta rays, and possible whales
• Staff attention and a clean, comfortable sailboat

It may not fit as well if:

• You get sea sick easily. You’ll be on a moving boat for hours, and water entry includes jumping off.
• You have mobility limitations. The ladder entry and the physical nature of boarding and water access can be a deal-breaker for some.
• Your top priority is guaranteed top-tier snorkeling. Visibility can vary, and one outing was described as underwhelming for snorkeling conditions.

Also, if you’re expecting a nonstop-sailing fantasy, note that the day can use a motor depending on conditions. You still get sailing later, but the pacing is about the best overall experience, not squeezing in every possible sailing minute.

Should you book Puerto Vallarta Luxury Sailing with Premium Open Bar and lunch?

I’d book it if you want a premium, comfortable day that mixes sailing, wildlife watching, and real time in the water—without turning into a loud party scene. The open bar experience, the lunch spread, and the small-group feel are exactly what make a difference on a long outing.

I’d think twice if you’re uncomfortable with jumping in from the boat, have mobility issues, or get sea sick. And if snorkeling is your main goal, go in with flexible expectations based on the day’s visibility.

If your trip includes Puerto Vallarta on a schedule that can handle a 9:30 am start, this is one of those experiences that gives you a full day of ocean time without the stress of planning your own stops.

FAQ

What is the duration of the Puerto Vallarta luxury sailing tour?

The tour lasts about 6 hours.

What time does the tour start?

The start time is 9:30 am.

Where do I meet for the tour?

The meeting point is Vallarta Adventures at Marina Vallarta (Mástil 13, Marina Vallarta, 48335 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico).

How much is the tour?

The price is $129.00 per person.

Is hotel pickup included?

No, hotel pickup and drop off are not included.

Is there a port fee?

Yes. There is a port fee of MX$40.00 per person, paid in cash at the marina.

What’s included in the price?

The tour includes the day cruise, lunch, an open bar, and snorkeling & paddle boarding (with equipment provided).

Are snorkeling and paddle boarding equipment included?

Yes, snorkeling and paddle boarding equipment is provided.

What is the minimum age?

The minimum age is 10 years old, with no exceptions.

What should I know about getting in and out of the water?

You jump off the boat to enter the water, and you use small metal ladders to get back on board. Toilets are on the lower deck.

Can I cancel and get a full refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, you won’t receive a refund.