The 15 Best Puerto Vallarta Private Boat Tours for a Luxurious Experience
Ready to book the best private boat tours in Puerto Vallarta?
You’re in the right place because the 15 best Puerto Vallarta private boat tours are all featured here. How do I know they’re the best?! I’ve lived in Mexico since 2018, so I know what I am talking about.
I have been on several Puerto Vallarta boat tours throughout the years, and vetted all the tours in this article to make sure they’re highly-rated and well-reviewed — so all you have to do is book, and enjoy!
Don’t have time to read the whole article? I recommend this All-Inclusive Puerto Vallarta Private Yacht — with a perfect 5 Star Rating.
If that’s not for you, there’s many other options for those who want to explore the coast of Puerto Vallarta Mexico.
In fact, there’s something here for every kind of traveler. You can find private yachts for large groups, more intimate experiences, and even niche Puerto Vallarta fishing tours.
Your perfect experience awaits! Below, you’ll find 15 of the best boat trips Puerto Vallarta offers, so you know you’re making the right choice when booking your tour.
Our Top 3 Picks: Puerto Vallarta Private Boat Tours
#1 TOP PICK
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
All-Inclusive Private Boat Puerto Vallarta
✔️ Premium open bar
✔️ 2 Waterslides
✔️ Water toys included
#2 PICK
Snorkeling, Sightseeing & Private Beaches Tour
✔️ Snorkeling equipment
✔️ Fishing gear
#3 PICK
58-Foot Luxury Yacht in Puerto Vallarta
✔️ Premium open bar
✔️ Snorkeling equipment
✔️ Water toys included
Top Puerto Vallarta Private Boat Tours
1. 5-Hour All-Inclusive Private Boat Tour Puerto Vallarta for up to 15 People
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 5 hours | 🛥️ Check Rates and Availability
This All-Inclusive Private Boat Tour of Puerto Vallarta is the perfect way to explore some of Mexico’s most breathtaking sites with your closest friends and family.
This 55-foot yacht (17 m) has a fully upgraded interior and can hold up to 15 people. It also has luxurious gear like waterslides, water mattresses, paddle boards, and snorkeling gear for you to enjoy.
The whole entire crew was incredible! They were so fun, accommodating, and willing to help in any way possible!
-reaves (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
This all-inclusive full day experience treats you to a premium open bar and continuous snacks, featuring favorites like guacamole and ceviche.
The best part? You can customize the boat rental in Puerto Vallarta to fit your preferences. The crew is ready to make your journey along the Puerto Vallarta coastline unforgettable.
So why not charter a boat to visit the famous Marietas Islands or explore the gorgeous hidden beach? Anything is possible on this Private Puerto Vallarta Boat Tour.
2. Puerto Vallarta Snorkeling, Sightseeing & Private Beaches
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 5 hours | 🤿 Check Rates and Availability
Set sail on this Private Yacht and uncover the hidden gems of Puerto Vallarta, where paradise meets the sea.
Enjoy a top-shelf open bar and stunning coastal views, perfect for groups of up to 10. Get ready to explore the Bahía de Banderas, framed by mountains, beaches, and the vibrant cityscape.
We were a party of 6 and enjoyed relaxing privately with friends… You may think this is pricey but I guarantee it’s worth the money.
-etta (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
Adventurous spirits can snorkel, kayak, or fish with equipment provided. Take a dip at the scenic beaches of Gemelas, Punta Negra and Bungee — keeping an eye out for the area’s diverse marine life, including sea turtles.
The tour culminates at Los Arcos, a prime snorkeling spot teeming with colorful aquatic life. Relax and admire the impressive rock formations or dive in to explore the underwater world.
With a blend of relaxation and adventure, this Private Sightseeing, Snorkeling and Beaches Puerto Vallarta Yacht Tour promises a memorable Puerto Vallarta experience.
3. Hatteras 58′ Luxury Yacht in Puerto & Nuevo Vallarta
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 4-6 hours | 🛥️ Check Rates and Availability
This Hatteras 58′ Luxury Yacht Tour is the best luxury Puerto Vallarta tour on this list. The mega yacht is incredible, with two huge decks on board.
The upper deck is fitted with sunbeds and a table, while the lower deck is indoors and has comfortable, luxury furniture if you need some time out of the sun.
We had an amazing time with Jonathan and his team. The margaritas were amazing, the ceviche was fresh and delicious — and the activities (kayaking, paddling boarding, etc) were so fun. This is a must if you’re in the area!
-james (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
On this private excursion, you and up to 15 guests will spend between four and six hours on the water. Enjoy activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and SUP paddleboarding.
An open bar with unlimited drinks and a tasty buffet lunch at a secluded beach are also included. While it’s not a private beach, it will surely feel like you’ve discovered a hidden island!
4. Discover Vallarta on a Private Yacht Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 3.5 hours | 🛥️ Check Rates and Availability
This Private Yacht Tour is the ideal boat tour for large groups looking to explore the beaches and snorkeling sights around Puerto Vallarta.
It’s a 3-hour snorkel tour with a maximum of 18 passengers and includes bottled water, kayaks, and snorkeling equipment. (Note: The price you see when you book is for up to 10 people, but the boat can hold 18).
Our group had a wonderful time at sea with the crew, they were thoughtful, accommodated all our requests, and made sure we had a memorable experience.
-Diontrey (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
You can create your own itinerary, but the most popular places to visit are Los Arcos, Colomitos, El Caballo, Las Ánimas, and Punta Negra.
You can bring your own food and drinks to save some money, but they are also available for purchase on the yacht.
This tour makes for an unforgettable experience, and you can even extend your Puerto Vallarta boat charter and see more places for an extra $3,000 pesos (about $170 USD) per hour.
5. Bertram 38′ Convertible Boat in Puerto & Nuevo Vallarta
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 4-6 hours | 🛥️ Check Rates and Availability
Embark on an exclusive adventure aboard a Bertram 38′ Convertible Boat and bask in the allure of Banderas Bay’s sights on this private tour.
This incredible private boat tour is perfect for medium-sized groups, as it can comfortably fit about eight people (and the crew).
Our family of seven had a great time on the sightseeing tour and everyone enjoyed kayaking. The food service and drinks were awesome.
-scot (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
Set off on a four to six-hour trip to Los Arcos National Marine Park. There, you’ll have a blast snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, and swimming in the clear waters of Puerto Vallarta. It’s a day full of exciting water sports and fun.
Additionally, this Private Puerto Vallarta Boat Tour includes a buffet lunch with unlimited drinks as you soak up the sun in paradise.
6. All-Inclusive Private Boat Tour in Puerto Vallarta
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 3 hours | 🛥️ Check Rates and Availability
This All-Inclusive Private Boat Tour in Puerto Vallarta is a double-decker, 65-foot yacht (20 m), which gives you access to a spacious deck with opportunities for both sun and shade throughout the day.
We saw so many whales and had the best time with the staff. They even went above and beyond with a birthday cake for our friend turning 30. No one ever had a second without a drink in their hand.
-marissa (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
There are water activities such as waterslides, paddle boards, and snorkeling available on board. Also, enjoy the upgraded interior and premium open bar with cold beer and snacks like guacamole and chips.
The crew from Chica Loucca will make sure your Puerto Vallarta excursions are nonstop fun as you sail around the beautiful coastline of Puerto Vallarta.
7. South Shore Private Sightseeing Cruise
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 5 hours | 🛥️ Check Rates and Availability
This Puerto Vallarta Private Sightseeing Cruise is an amazing way to explore the beaches and marine life south of Puerto Vallarta.
You and your party of up to eight passengers will set off on a 26-foot yacht (8 m) for a private boat tour in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
This was the most perfect day in PV. The crew is so great and welcoming. We had drinks and snorkeled, [and had] lunch on the beach… Please book this if you are in PV, you won’t be sorry!
-kim (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
Most guests choose to go snorkeling at Los Arcos de Mismaloya, followed by lunch at Playa Las Animas Beach — but you can customize your itinerary however you’d like.
As your Puerto Vallarta private yacht adventure comes to a close, you’ll cherish all the memories you’ve made on this Private Puerto Vallarta Sightseeing Cruise.
8. Private Boat Whale Watching Adventure Around the Bay
⭐️ Rating: 4.77 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 3.5 hours | 🛥️ Check Rates and Availability
Please Note: Peak whale-watching season in Puerto Vallarta is from December to March, when you will have the best chance to see whales. This tour operates outside of season, but you likely won’t see whales.
This Private Whale Watching Tour is one of the most popular whale-watching tours in Puerto Vallarta — but also one of the top-rated boat tours even outside of the Mexico whale season (December-March).
It was the best Puerto Vallarta experience we have had. This experience was better than we expected… I loved the perspective and want to do it again. We loved this day. I highly recommend.
-jennifer (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
Experience the breathtaking spectacle of humpback whales on this tour, designed for intimate groups of 2-10 people.
Guided by seasoned experts, you’ll venture into the tropical waters of Banderas Bay, a hotspot for these majestic creatures.
The tour also includes snorkeling at the stunning Los Arcos Puerto Vallarta. Although equipment is provided, bringing your own snorkeling gear will enhance your underwater exploration.
This Private Whale Watching Tour in Puerto Vallarta tour promises an unforgettable close encounter with nature’s marine wonders.
9. Private Sunset Sailing in Puerto Vallarta with Open Bar
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 7 hours | 🛥️ Check Rates and Availability
This Private Sunset Cruise in Puerto Vallarta Mexico is the perfect way to explore the stunning Puerto Vallarta coastline in style.
Led by Eduardo, a lifelong sailor, this experience guarantees a delightful and laid-back atmosphere for each and every guest.
Stellar experience. Beautiful boat, great crew. My whole group of friends had the best time. Would do it again in a heartbeat.
-Jérôme (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
Departing from the Puerto Vallarta Marina, you’ll board the ship and enjoy a delicious meat and cheese platter for breakfast.
From there, you’ll set sail directly to the breathtaking Los Arcos Marine Park.
After swimming, snorkeling, and taking pictures, Eduardo and his crew will serve dinner on the sailboat with a view of the Romantic Zone and Malecon in beautiful Puerto Vallarta.
One of the best Puerto Vallarta sailing tours, don’t miss out on this Sunset Dinner Cruise Puerto Vallarta.
Just make sure to bring enough sunblock since you’ll be on the open water during the whole day.
10. Private Inshore Fishing Adventure in Puerto Vallarta with Snacks
⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 4 hours | 🎣 Check Rates and Availability
Have you ever wanted to go fishing in Puerto Vallarta? Well, now you can on this Private In-Shore Fishing Experience in Puerto Vallarta.
This tour includes a private guide and all the fishing gear you need to catch sailfish, yellowfin tuna, grouper, mahi mahi, and even marlin.
If I could give the team and this excursion more than 5 starts I would! They got us on fish right away and my husband and I both caught a lot… I definitely recommend this amazing fishing charter!
-Tegan (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
Plus, your personal guide will give you pointers and help you discover top Puerto Vallarta fishing spots that you might have missed if fishing by yourself.
Regardless of whether you catch a fish or not, this Private Puerto Vallarta Fishing Tour hosted by La Vida Bella Boat Tours Puerto Vallarta promises to be an epic adventure.
11. Private Snorkeling Tour to Los Arcos Puerto Vallarta
⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 4 hours | 🎣 Check Rates and Availability
Immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater realm of Los Arcos Marine Reserve on this Personalized Private Snorkeling Tour from Puerto Vallarta.
Perfect for nature enthusiasts and beginners alike, this excursion offers a chance to encounter colorful marine life, including angel fish, puffer fish, parrot fish, damsels, and moray eels, in their natural habitat.
This is one of the BEST experiences we had (and I’ve traveled all over the world and taken many excursions)… I would give this more than 5 Stars if I could — highly recommend it!!
-jamie (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
The journey is adaptable, making it enjoyable for kids too. From the comfort of a boat, guests can soak in clear, unobstructed views of Puerto Vallarta’s picturesque landscape.
The tour includes refreshing beverages, snacks, and snorkeling gear, ensuring a seamless experience.
Tailoring the itinerary to suit individual preferences, this Puerto Vallarta Private Snorkeling Tour truly offers a unique marine adventure
12. Learn to Sail a Catamaran & Go Fishing in Puerto Vallarta
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 3 hours | ⛵️ Check Rates and Availability
This awesome boat experience in Puerto Vallarta allows you to learn how to sail a Catamaran and try fishing for your own lunch.
After a short demonstration, each person on the catamaran cruise in Puerto Vallarta can practice their skills in real-time by navigating the sailboat themselves.
Absolutely a once in a lifetime and breathtaking experience! The guides and all of the people that helped make this possible were amazing from start to finish… we saw humpback whales up close and personal, caught fish, and learned how to freaking SAIL!!!
-amber (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
Then after learning how to sail, you can use their fishing gear (or bring your own) for deep-sea fishing. Whatever you catch, you will cook up right then and there for lunch on the boat.
One the best Puerto Vallarta Catamaran tours, this Learn How to Sail and Fish is also one of the most exciting tours from Puerto Vallarta because it combines learning something new with great views and fresh food!
13. Private Los Arcos Snorkel and Beach Tour from Puerto Vallarta
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 4 hours | 🤿 Check Rates and Availability
If you want a private snorkeling tour with beach time and exploration, don’t miss this Private Puerto Vallarta Beach Tour and Los Arcos Snorkel Adventure.
This half day tour is a great way to see some of the most notable places in the area without spending the entire day on the water.
The snorkeling was great! We really enjoyed how knowledgeable our guide, Chema, was. He answered all our questions and pointed out local wildlife. Lunch on the beach was also amazing!
-jennifer (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
At Los Arcos, tour guides provide sanitized snorkeling gear to explore the caves, underwater tunnels and vibrant reef systems. (🤿 Of course, bringing your own snorkel gear is always best).
After an hour, you’ll head to Playa Las Ánimas, a secluded beach only accessible by boat or foot. Here, you’ll enjoy a free lunch at Los Conos Seafood Restaurant, and relax for the rest of the afternoon.
If you are looking for a Private Snorkeling Puerto Vallarta Experience, this is arguably the best Puerto Vallarta tours to take from a cruise ship! So cruise ship passengers, don’t miss out!
14. VIP Snorkeling Experience in Puerto Vallarta
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 3.5 hours | 🤿 Check Rates and Availability
This VIP Snorkeling Experience is a great option for friends or families who are looking for a private tour that just has snorkeling.
The guide will pick you up at your hotel and take you to a remote fishing village, where you will jump on the private boat and sail for 45 minutes until you reach a premier snorkeling area.
Great experience with a very friendly and attentive guide… The route to get to the place where we snorkeled was very beautiful, and we are very happy to have had this experience!
-miranda (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
The instructor will provide safety instructions and equipment for the activity. Then you will have about one hour to explore the colorful coral reefs and marine life.
It’s also a great tour for those who want to experience a locally operated excursion in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico without spending an entire day in the ocean.
15. Diana’s Boat Tours Booze Cruise
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 8 hours | 🛥️ Check Rates and Availability
Diana Puerto Vallarta Boat Tours is an LGBTQ-friendly tour company that offers a bonafide booze cruise in Puerto Vallarta.
They can take up to 30 people on a single eight-hour tour, and each ticket comes with access to an open bar, snacks, a complimentary motion sickness pill, breakfast and lunch.
This Puerto Vallarta party is one of the only gay cruises in Puerto Vallarta, and the whole Puerto Vallarta gay cruise crew has amazing energy, making the entire day fun for everyone!
Please Note: For this party boat Puerto Vallarta tour, you do have to bring your own towel, sunscreen, bathing suit, sunglasses, etc.
Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide & Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Puerto Vallarta?
You’ll want to fly into Puerto Vallarta International Airport (Code: PVR), which is only about 25 minutes from the main areas of Downtown and Zona Romantica.
You can often find direct flights with inexpensive airfare to Puerto Vallarta. Several U.S. airlines fly to Puerto Vallarta through major cities, including Atlanta, Dallas-Fort Worth, Chicago, LA, and many more.
If you can’t find a direct flight, you can connect via one of the airports near Puerto Vallarta, like Mexico City Airport (code: MEX) or Guadalajara Airport (code: GDL).
You can also go the Cancun to Puerto Vallarta route through Cancun International Airport (code: CUN).
What is Puerto Vallarta best known for?
Puerto Vallarta is best known for its stunning beaches, luxury resorts, vibrant nightlife, and delicious food scene.
Other famous natural landmarks are Los Marietas Islands National Park and Los Arcos National Marine Park.
It’s also known for being one of the top honeymoon destinations in Mexico and one of the best LGBTQ-friendly destinations in Mexico.
How many days should I spend in Puerto Vallarta?
You should spend between three and seven days in Puerto Vallarta. For a quick weekend getaway, two to three days are enough to explore the city and laze on the beaches.
But if you’d like more time to relax at the beach or enjoy a few boat trips from Puerto Vallarta, it’s best to stay for five to seven days.
📝 Need a more detailed Puerto Vallarta guide to plan your trip? Head to this article, Puerto Vallarta Itinerary How to Spend 3, 4 or 5 Days in PV.
Is Puerto Vallarta a walkable city?
Yes — Puerto Vallarta is a walkable city, especially if you’re staying near the Malecón, Centro (Downtown Puerto Vallarta), the Zona Romantica, Viejo Vallarta (Old Town) or the 5 de Diciembre neighborhood.
This area has everything you need within walking distance, including many restaurants, shops, art galleries, and the beach.
If you’re looking for something more unique than just walking around town, head to the Puerto Vallarta Malecon and the Rio Cuale Craft Market — which has the best shopping in Puerto Vallarta.
You can also rent a car in Puerto Vallarta and explore the neighboring towns of Sayulita, Punta Mita, Nuevo Vallarta, San Pancho and the San Sebastián del Oeste pueblo magico (magic town).
There are a lot of great Puerto Vallarta day trips.
What is the best time of year to go to Puerto Vallarta?
As with most Mexico beach towns, the best time of year to visit Puerto Vallarta is winter and spring to get the best weather and avoid the rainy season.
It is also the busiest time to visit, with December being the busiest month for tourism. While you can expect higher prices in winter, you’ll also get great weather, so there’s a trade-off.
🌡️ Puerto Vallarta Weather
If you’re looking to find a Puerto Vallarta party boat, the best time to go to Puerto Vallarta is either December, the busiest month for tourism, or March to April, during Spring Break.
🐳 For those hoping to see the whales migrating, Puerto Vallarta’s whale watching season runs from December to March, a good time for nature lovers.
What do I pack for Puerto Vallarta?
When packing for Puerto Vallarta remember that Puerto Vallarta Mexico has a tropical climate.
As you saw in the weather chart above, this part of Mexico is hot and humid 🥵 for most of the year, so pack your Water-To-Go Bottle.
This will keep you hydrated and filter your drinking water so you don’t get sick in Mexico. Sound like something you need?! SAVE 15% on your water bottle with code SOLO15 → Shop now.
Mosquitoes are also an issue, so don’t forget your eco-friendly bug spray, and bring reef-safe sunscreen so you practice responsible tourism in Mexico.
If you’re planning to drink a lot, this anti-hangover medicine is an Amazon best seller with 100,000+ reviews! If you’re going to party hardy, this needs to be on your What to bring to Puerto Vallarta list.
🧳 Need more Puerto Vallarta packing tips? Head to this article, Packing List for Mexico: Outfit Ideas & FREE Printable Download.
What is the nicest area in Puerto Vallarta?
The nicest area in Puerto Vallarta is the Marina District. This is an upscale part of Puerto Vallarta, and the most posh of all Puerto Vallarta neighborhoods.
Here you can find luxury villas and resorts, high-end shopping boutiques, cafes and restaurants, art galleries, and more.
The Marina District is also the starting point for many Puerto Vallarta cruise tours heading to Banderas Bay.
Some additional areas that visitors love include the Zona Romantica (Romantic Zone) and Viejo Vallarta (Old Town Vallarta), both located near downtown.
What is a fun fact about Puerto Vallarta?
Puerto Vallarta’s Banderas Bay is the largest bay in Mexico at 298.6 square miles (773.3 km²) — and by some calculations, the third largest bay in the world.
It is also nearly 3,000-feet-deep (915 m) at its deepest point. The sheer size is one of the reasons that there are so many beaches and a variety of marine life.
What is the vibe of Puerto Vallarta?
The vibe of Puerto Vallarta is relaxed, laid-back and friendly. This beach town has a strong sense of community and is known for its warmth and hospitality.
You can also find pockets of upscale resorts near the Marina, ideal for high-end travelers. For those who want to party, there’s great food and nightlife on the Puerto Vallarta Malecón Boardwalk.
Final Thoughts: Best Puerto Vallarta Private Boat Tours
Puerto Vallarta is a paradise for those looking to explore the ocean and its wildlife. These are just some of the many private boat tours Puerto Vallarta offers from which to choose from…
🛳️ Still undecided? I recommend the Hatteras 58’ Private Boat Tour for a truly luxurious experience, and this Private Yacht Tour as an affordable option for a larger group.
Those not for you? With so many private Puerto Vallarta boat rides available, finding one that meets your needs and interests is easy, and here are a few more suggestions:
- Book a traditional boat trip from Puerto Vallarta to Los Arcos Island for some Puerto Vallarta snorkeling tours.
- Try something different with an exclusive luxury yacht boat ride.
- For those wanting unique things to do in Puerto Vallarta, nothing beats this Puerto Vallarta pirate ship 🏴☠️
⚠️ Know Before you Book
Before booking any tours of Puerto Vallarta, read through customer reviews or ask travel agents about their experience with different Puerto Vallarta tour companies.
Puerto Vallarta Pro Tips: Some companies offer a refund on advance reservations; some don’t, so be sure before you book because travel plans can change — and you don’t want to be left high and dry if you cancel.
All this will ensure that you are getting the private boat charter Puerto Vallarta you want is the best value for your dollar before you enjoy a safe day on the water.
More Puerto Vallarta Travel Blogs
I can tell you firsthand that a private boat tour is one of the best ways to enjoy Puerto Vallarta — so I’m glad you landed on this article to book yours.
If you’re looking for more info on traveling to Puerto Vallarta Mexico, check out these additional Puerto Vallarta travel guides:
- Renting a Car in Puerto Vallarta Mexico
- Puerto Vallarta Itinerary: 3, 4 or 5 Days
- 20 Unique Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta Mexico
- Best Food Tours in Puerto Vallarta
- Best Puerto Vallarta Snorkeling Tours
- Best Puerto Vallarta Booze Cruises
- Top 10 Puerto Vallarta ATV Tours
- Best Marietas Islands Tours from Puerto Vallarta
- Best Yelapa Tours from Puerto Vallarta
