Boat rental in Puerto Vallarta — Islas Marietas, Los Arcos, Yelapa, whales and tips for 2027

Puerto Vallarta lies on Banderas Bay, one of the largest bays on Mexico's Pacific coast, with the Sierra Madre rising straight behind the town. From the water you reach coves that have no road access, the rock arches of Los Arcos, the protected Islas Marietas and, in winter, humpback whales that come to the bay to calve. This guide explains where you can go by boat, which rules apply and when the best time to sail is.

What we currently offer

To be upfront: there are currently no published boats or trips for Puerto Vallarta on the location page, so this guide does not list prices. If you want a boat in Puerto Vallarta, send us an enquiry through the contact page and we will check what can be arranged.

Where boats leave from

Most boats leave from Marina Vallarta near the airport, from the marina in Nuevo Vallarta on the Nayarit side of the bay, or from La Cruz de Huanacaxtle and Punta Mita on the northern shore. Small water taxis to the south-shore coves leave from the Los Muertos pier in the old town and from Boca de Tomatlán. See also the boats in Nuevo Vallarta page.

Where you can go

• Los Arcos (about 6 NM south): granite rock arches rising from the sea in a protected marine park, good for snorkelling over rocky reefs.
• The south-shore coves (about 8–16 NM): Las Ánimas, Quimixto, Majahuitas and the village of Yelapa with its waterfall, all without road access. A classic full-day trip with swimming stops.
• Islas Marietas (about 20 NM from Puerto Vallarta, much closer from Punta Mita): uninhabited volcanic islands and a national park with blue-footed boobies, coral and the famous Hidden Beach. Access is limited and only with authorised operators.
• Punta Mita and the north shore (about 15–20 NM): surf beaches, calm anchorages and views back across the bay.
• Sport fishing: sailfish, dorado (mahi-mahi), tuna and marlin are caught offshore, with the best season depending on the species.

For the Caribbean side of Mexico, see our guide to boat rental in Cancún.

Rules and tips

• Captain. In Mexico, trips and hire are usually organised with a licensed operator and a captain. Check with the operator which permits they hold and what is included.
• Protected areas. The Islas Marietas and Los Arcos are protected; there may be fees, visitor limits and rules on sunscreen, and biodegradable products are often required.
• Whale watching. Between December and March whale watching is regulated, with rules on distance, speed and time near the whales. Go with an operator that holds a permit.
• Sun and water. The tropical sun is strong even on cloudy days; take a hat, plenty of water and reef-safe sunscreen.

Season and weather

• November to May is the dry season: calm seas, sunny days and comfortable temperatures. From December to March humpback whales are in the bay.
• June to October is hot and humid, with short afternoon storms. The sea is warmest, around 29 °C, at the end of summer.
• Hurricanes. The Pacific hurricane season runs from mid-May to the end of November and peaks in September and October; sailing then depends on the forecast.

A boat in Puerto Vallarta with Crystalium Booker

We do not currently have boats in Puerto Vallarta on offer, but we will gladly help you check the options. Send us an enquiry through the contact page with your date, number of guests and preferred route. Do you hire out a boat in Puerto Vallarta or elsewhere in Mexico? List it with us and we will present it to guests in 29 languages.