Whale and Dolphin Watching with a Biologist in Puerto Vallarta
About Whale and Dolphin Watching with a Biologist in Puerto Vallarta
This is a wildlife trip on Banderas Bay run by Wildlife Connection, whose guides are professional biologists. You head out by boat to watch whales and dolphins in their natural environment, and your trip also supports the team’s research project on Puerto Vallarta’s dolphins. With a 4.9 rating from about 700 reviews, it is a favorite with travelers who want to learn about the animals, not just photograph them.
The trip lasts about 4 hours. Hotel pickup is not included: you meet at OPEQUIMAR in Marina Vallarta, across the street from the Westin Resort, and should arrive 10 to 15 minutes before the tour. Guides speak English and Spanish.
What’s included
- Granola Bars
- Bottled water
- NO alcohol beverages
- Baguette sandwich (turkey, vegables and cheese). Only by request : Vegetarian, vegan or special food option requesting by message, email or phone call minimum 24hr previous tour
Meeting point
OPEQUIMAR is located across the street from Westin Resort in Marina Vallarta. At security gate tell them you are going for whales so they will let you in. Inside look for our sign with a whale and dolphin. We receive at the Azzul Marino Restaurant. Pleaes be 10-15 min prior tour
What to expect on the day
At the OPEQUIMAR security gate, tell the guard you are going on the whale tour and they will let you in. Inside, look for the sign with a whale and a dolphin; the team receives guests at the Azzul Marino Restaurant. From there you board the boat and head out into the bay.
Out on the water, the biologists look for whales and dolphins and explain their behavior as you watch them from a respectful distance. You also learn how the sightings feed into their dolphin research. Bottled water, granola bars and a turkey, vegetable and cheese baguette sandwich are provided on board.
Prices and extra costs
- Included: boat trip with biologist guides, bottled water, granola bars and a baguette sandwich. Vegetarian, vegan or other special meals are available if you request them at least 24 hours before the tour. Prices start from about $105 USD per person.
- Not included: alcoholic drinks are not served, and hotel pickup is not included. The listing does not mention any other extra fees.
What to bring
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat for several hours on open water.
- A camera or phone with a zoom lens for whale and dolphin photos.
- A light jacket or windbreaker for the boat ride.
Tips for a better day
- Know the password: tell the security gate at OPEQUIMAR that you are going for the whales.
- Order special meals early: message, email or call at least 24 hours ahead for a vegetarian, vegan or other food option.
- Bring the little ones: infants ride on an adult’s lap, and strollers are fine for small children.
Who it’s best for
- Best for: families, nature lovers and curious travelers of any fitness level who want to see marine life with expert guides.
- Consider another option if: you want to get in the water yourself. The Marietas Islands snorkel tour and Hidden Beach adds snorkeling to the boat ride.
Restrictions
The tour suits all fitness levels and is wheelchair accessible. Service animals are allowed, infants sit on an adult’s lap and small children can ride in a stroller. It is not recommended for travelers who are more than 7 months pregnant.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
FAQ about Whale and Dolphin Watching with a Biologist in Puerto Vallarta
How long is the whale and dolphin watching tour in Puerto Vallarta?
The tour lasts about 4 hours.
Is hotel pickup included?
No. You meet at OPEQUIMAR in Marina Vallarta, across from the Westin Resort, 10 to 15 minutes before the tour.
Who are the guides?
The guides are professional biologists from Wildlife Connection, who also run a dolphin research project.
What food is included?
Bottled water, granola bars and a turkey, vegetable and cheese baguette sandwich are included. Alcohol is not served.
Can I get a vegetarian or vegan meal?
Yes, if you request it by message, email or phone at least 24 hours before the tour.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The tour is listed as wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels.
Can I bring a baby?
Yes. Infants sit on an adult's lap and small children can ride in a stroller.
Can I go if I am pregnant?
It is not recommended for travelers who are more than 7 months pregnant.
How do I get into the OPEQUIMAR marina?
Tell the security gate you are going for the whales, then look for the whale and dolphin sign and go to the Azzul Marino Restaurant.
What is the cancellation policy?
You get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.