Watersports in Puerto Vallarta, on your terms. This private Bertram 38′ convertible boat cruise in Banderas Bay is built around getting you out on the water for shoreline sights and a real snorkeling moment at wildlife rocks.

I like two things a lot: the included snorkeling equipment and fishing gear mean you are not scrambling for extras, and you can have fun with watersports like kayaking and fishing right from the boat.

One thing to consider: there is no hotel pickup, so you will need to get to the dock area yourself, and towels are not included.

Key highlights to know before you go

• Private for your group (up to 8 people), so the pace stays yours
• Banderas Bay shoreline sightseeing from the water, not a bus stop
• Wildlife rocks snorkeling stop, with views both above and below the surface
• Fishing and kayaking options, with gear provided
• Snacks, bottled water, and chopped fruit are included
• Beach casual dress code, soft shoes, and plan for good weather

A Bertram 38′ convertible boat day is the point

If your idea of a great Puerto Vallarta day includes open water, quick stops, and the freedom to do more than look from shore, this trip fits. The boat is a Bertram 38′ convertible, which matters because you are getting a higher-comfort, proper excursion setup compared with cramped, bus-style water transport.

The core value is simple. You get sightseeing from the sea, plus a snorkeling stop where the water is the main event. Add in fishing gear and watersports like kayaking, and your half-day to full-day plan can feel like an active vacation day, not a checklist.

The best part is that it stays flexible for your group. The reviews point out that couples and families enjoyed the day because the crew ran it smoothly and allowed a custom-feeling experience. One group even described a longer 6-hour plan with a stop at Ocean Grill, which suggests the day can be shaped within the trip framework if timing and conditions allow.

Price and value, especially when you fill the boat

This costs $800 per group, up to 8 people, and it runs about 4 to 8 hours. Private boat pricing can scare people at first, but this is one of those cases where the math can work if you actually pack the group.

• With 8 people, you are effectively around $100 per person.
• If you have fewer than 8, the per-person cost goes up, because the price is group-based.

So here is my practical take. If you are a couple, you are paying more per seat, but you still may love the privacy. If you have a family or a group of friends, you likely get much better value because everyone shares the boat cost.

Also watch for what is included. You are not just paying for time on a boat. You get snorkeling equipment, fishing gear, bottled water, and chopped fruit. That reduces the usual “we need to buy stuff first” friction.

Getting set up: what matters before you even board

This is a private tour/activity, and only your group participates. That usually means you can expect less waiting around for other people to show up late, and you can keep the day more controlled.

You also get a mobile ticket, and the tour is offered in English. Confirmation comes at booking, so you should be set once you reserve.

Two logistics points that affect your day:

• No hotel pickup or drop-off is offered. Plan your own transport to the meeting area.
• Towels are not included. Bring them if you want to dry off comfortably after snorkeling or if you plan to swim.

Dress code is beach casual. Soft shoes, no heels, and swimsuit-ready planning if you plan to snorkel or swim. The simplest way to avoid awkward changing moments is to show up already dressed for the water.

Finally, the experience requires good weather. That is not just a technicality. It affects whether the day runs as planned or gets rescheduled.

The shoreline sightseeing: Puerto Vallarta seen from sea level

The first big segment is a shoreline sightseeing cruise around Puerto Vallarta. From the water, you get a different scale of the city. You see the bends, the coastline, and how the bay frames everything.

What I like about doing this by boat is that it is a “slow look.” You can take in views without having to line up for viewpoints or walk up and down stairs to catch the same angles. And because you are on the water already, the shift into active time later feels natural.

This is also where the group’s energy usually sets the tone. If you want a calmer vibe, the shoreline stretch works. If you want to jump quickly into snorkeling or fishing, you still get the scenery, but you are not stuck doing it for hours without a payoff.

The snorkeling stop at wildlife rocks: the main event

The standout moment is a stop at a set of rocks full of wildlife. This is where you snorkel and get magnificent views both above and below the water.

Here is what makes this worth your time, beyond the standard “there is snorkeling.” Rocks in shallow or protected areas tend to offer clearer structure for looking at sea life, and the fact that wildlife is mentioned matters. You are not just drifting around. You are going to a specific spot that is interesting to look at.

Practical advice for getting the most out of this stop:

• Treat snorkeling like a timed activity. Get your gear on quickly so you can spend more time in the water.
• Since you are on a boat, you have an easy transition from viewing to doing. Pay attention to how the crew manages the stop duration so you do not rush in and out.
• If you wear soft shoes during the boat time, you can keep things comfortable until you are in the water.

The reviews also support that this stop is a big highlight. People mention snorkeling as part of what made the day feel fun and worth it.

Watersports like fishing and kayaking, plus the included gear

One reason this trip works for a wide range of groups is that it is not a one-activity day. The cruise is set up so you can enjoy watersports like fishing and kayaking.

Fishing gear is included, and snorkeling gear is included. That is a big deal because it removes the awkward part of planning: you do not have to figure out what to bring, what is provided, or whether you are missing a key item.

Kayaking is specifically called out as something the group can enjoy. In one review, a family of seven highlighted kayaking along with the sightseeing and food. So if kayaking is part of your vacation fantasy, this is the kind of tour where it can fit into the day rather than being a separate add-on adventure.

What to expect is that the crew will manage how the boat supports those activities. Since you are on a private trip, you should also find it easier to match the plan to your group’s comfort level.

Snacks, fruit, and the onboard comfort factor

Included food is not just “something to snack on.” You get bottled water and chopped fruit. That is helpful in the real world, because it keeps you from feeling like you need to buy food immediately after boarding.

A couple of reviews also bring up that the food service and drinks were awesome, and that entertainment and the staff experience helped the trip feel more like a party day than a routine tour. One person even said the pictures service was well worth the money, which suggests there may be an on-the-spot photo component during the outing.

One more review described customizing the day and adding a stop at Ocean Grill. That hints that there may be ways to build in a meal or break into the longer format, depending on how the timing works.

Duration flexibility: from half-day plans to longer group days

The listed duration runs about 4 to 8 hours. On a private boat, that range is a gift. You can plan for a morning and early afternoon, or you can extend the day if your group wants more water time.

One review mentioned a custom-designed 6-hour trip with a stop at Ocean Grill. That tells you that the experience can be shaped beyond a strict fixed timeline, at least in some cases. If you have a specific goal, like more kayaking time or a particular meal stop, ask when you book or right after confirmation about what can be accommodated with your timing.

The main drawback of flexibility is weather. Since good weather is required, the crew may adjust timing or the plan if conditions change. If a day is important to your schedule, keep a backup day on your itinerary if possible.

Who this private cruise is best for

This is a private tour/activity for your group only, up to 8 people. That makes it a great fit for:

• Families who want an active day without everyone splitting into separate rides
• Couples who want privacy and an “active sightseeing” vibe
• Small friend groups who want to fish or try watersports together
• Anyone who wants snorkeling without bringing a bunch of gear

Children must be accompanied by an adult, which is standard, but it also means you should plan for clear adult supervision during snorkeling time.

If you travel with a service animal, service animals are allowed, which is another practical plus.

The trip is also described as near public transportation. Since there is no hotel pickup, that matters. You can still reach the dock area without relying on a hotel shuttle.

The biggest practical watch-outs

Most of what can make or break your day is not complicated. It is the basics.

1. No hotel pickup means you must handle transport

Build in extra time so you are not rushing when you arrive.

1. Towels are not included

If you plan to snorkel or swim, you will want something to dry off and stay comfortable afterward.

1. Good weather is required

If weather cancels or disrupts the plan, the operator offers a different date or a full refund, depending on what happens.

1. Bring the right swim setup

The dress code calls for beach casual, soft shoes, and swimsuit for those who swim or snorkel. Follow that and your day will flow better.

Booking mindset: aim for a month ahead, especially in peak times

On average, this is booked about 30 days in advance. That tells me you should not wait until the last minute, particularly if you are traveling during busier weeks.

If you want to snorkel and do watersports, earlier booking gives you more room to line up the day that works with weather and timing. Since the trip depends on conditions, having flexibility in your travel schedule can help too.

Should you book this Bertram 38 convertible cruise?

Book it if you want a day that blends Puerto Vallarta sightseeing from the water with hands-on fun like snorkeling at a wildlife rock stop, plus fishing gear and kayaking options. The private setup is a real quality-of-life boost, and the included snorkeling and fishing gear cut down the hassle.

Skip it if your group wants a super structured, shore-based tour with lots of walking and fixed attractions. This is for people who prefer being on the sea, doing activities, and staying in motion.

If you have a group of friends or family up to 8, this is also one of the more value-friendly private boat options, because the price is group-based and the inclusions help offset what you would otherwise need to buy.

Final thought: this is the kind of outing that feels worth it because it delivers on the water experience, not because it tries to be everything to everyone. If your ideal day in Puerto Vallarta includes snorkeling and watersports, you are likely to be very happy with it.

FAQ

How many people can join the private tour?

The tour is priced per group and supports up to 8 people.

Is the tour private?

Yes, it is private. Only your group participates.

Where is this experience located?

It is in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

How long is the boat cruise?

The duration is about 4 to 8 hours.

Is snorkeling gear included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

Is fishing gear included?

Yes. Fishing gear is included.

Are hotel pickup and drop-off included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

Are towels provided?

No. Towels are not included.

What is the dress code?

Beach casual. Bring soft shoes and no heels. Wear a swimsuit if you plan to swim or snorkel.

What is the cancellation policy and what if weather is bad?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The experience requires good weather, and if it is canceled due to poor weather you will be offered a different date or a full refund.