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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before most tours

Banderas Bay · Marine

Humpback Whale Watching Expedition

4.9(530 reviews)Marina Vallarta, Dock BFree cancellation
Humpback Whale Watching Expedition

Humpback whales come to Banderas Bay each winter to calve. Watch breaches and mothers with calves alongside a marine biologist guide.

Duration
3.5 hours
Group size
Up to 24
Level
Easy
Ages
3+
Languages
English, Español
Season
December – March

Highlights

  • Marine biologist on every departure
  • Listen with an on-board hydrophone
  • Responsible-distance whale watching
  • Sightings practically guaranteed in season

Itinerary

Times are based on the 8:00 AM departure and may shift with weather and sea conditions.

  1. 1

    8:00 AM

    Board at Marina Vallarta

    Welcome coffee and a short talk on humpback behavior.

  2. 2

    8:30 AM

    Search the bay

    The captain follows sighting reports while you watch for spouts.

  3. 3

    9:15 AM

    Whale encounter

    Observe at a respectful distance and listen to whale song.

  4. 4

    11:30 AM

    Return to marina

    Snacks and drinks on the way back.

What’s included

  • Marine biologist guide
  • Hydrophone listening
  • Snacks & soft drinks
  • Life vests

Not included

  • Hotel transportation
  • Gratuities
  • Alcoholic drinks

What to bring

  • Light jacket for the morning
  • Binoculars
  • Camera with zoom
  • Reef-safe sunscreen

Meeting point

Marina Vallarta, Dock BMarina Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco

Open in Google Maps

The exact pin and arrival instructions are emailed with your confirmation.

Reviews

4.9530 reviews

“Swimming into the Hidden Beach was the highlight of our trip. The crew kept the group small and made our kids feel safe the whole time.”
SSarah M. · Austin, TXIslas Marietas Snorkel & Hidden Beach · August 2026
“Seven stops, zero tourist traps. Our guide knew every taquero by name. We went back to two of the spots on our own.”
DDaniel & Priya · Toronto, CanadaZona Romántica Taco & Street Food Walk · July 2026

Good to know

Cancellation policy
Cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours and no-shows are non-refundable. If we cancel because of weather or a port closure, you choose a full refund or a new date.
Accessibility
Please contact us before booking if anyone in your group uses a wheelchair or has limited mobility. We will confirm what is possible on this tour.
Health & safety
Not recommended for travelers with back problems, heart conditions or who are pregnant. Life vests and safety gear meet Mexican Navy and SECTUR standards.

Read all FAQs →

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$89 USD

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