These Puerto Vallarta Tours Are Trending With Travelers In 2024

Last Updated 2 days ago

Puerto Vallarta is one of the most popular destinations for Americans headed to Mexico in 2024. A new report shows that this year, boat tours are trending more than ever, with many travelers aiming to catch a glimpse of the city’s stunning coastline.

From whale-watching tours to rental yachts, Puerto Vallarta stands out as being one of the most adventurous city destinations in Mexico. The Mexican Pacific city offers the perfect combination of laid-back fun and plentiful outdoor opportunities.

With that in mind, here’s a look at the most popular boat tours in Puerto Vallarta this year.

Boat Tour Bookings Increase Amid Excellent Safety And Top-Rated Excursions 

Puerto Vallarta lies at the heart of the gorgeous Banderas Bay, which not only offers travelers sweeping ocean views but also the opportunity to swim, dive, and participate in boat tours.

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While excursions taking place on all sorts of vessels have been a popular pastime for many Puerto Vallarta travelers, this year boat tour bookings are rising sharply.

That’s according to new statistics published by Puerto Vallarta’s port authority, according to which a total of 37,000 boat tours were carried out in 2023. That’s an increase of nearly two perfect compared to 2022, which was also a record-shattering year.

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And as travel numbers continue to skyrocket in 2024, local excursion firms are gearing up for the busiest year on record. This year, nearly 700,000 visitors are expected to purchase a ticket to one of Puerto Vallarta’s countless boat tours, which include a growing number of sights and highlights. 

According to local tourism representatives, the most sought-after destinations nearby Puerto Vallarta include Los Arcos, a stunning geological formation close to the coastal city. Meanwhile, beach destinations like Las Ánimas are also seeing growing demand due to their pristine sand and turquoise waters. 

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During the winter season – the busiest in terms of arrival figures – whale-watching tours are also particularly popular with travelers. Puerto Vallarta is one of the top destinations in Mexico to spot humpback whales, dolphins, and manta rays, with January and February offering travelers the highest chance of encountering these marine giants. 

Puerto Vallarta is home to dozens of specialized excursion companies offering excellent top-rated tours. Some of the standout choices include Eco Explorer and Estigo Tours, each offering an array of exciting adventures ranging from island getaways to more thrilling diving tours. 

@themaxwellstravel Magical day on the water in PV! #whales ♬ Dancing In The Moonlight – 苏颜悦

Another reason why boat tours are so popular in Puerto Vallarta is thanks to the city’s intense efforts to improve safety. Although several high-profile accidents have occurred in the coastal hotspot, incidents involving tour companies are extremely rare. 

Puerto Vallarta is known for having some of the strictest regulations in Mexico, with a recent study finding the city to be the 5th safest in the country. That safety also extends to the many tour companies that operate within the coastal hotspot, meaning travelers can feel safe about purchasing a water-based tour.

@vallartalife

Whale watching in Puerto Vallarta ☀️

♬ Aesthetic – Tollan Kim

That said, it’s still important to book tours carefully. Travelers are advised to read reviews and opt for reputable firms with years of experience in the field. Tour companies should also offer travelers essential life-saving equipment, including lifejackets. 

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While Puerto Vallarta is home to some of the most impressive nature sights in Mexico, new efforts to protect the region’s delicate ecosystem mean that travelers might be affected by new restrictions, limiting access to certain beaches and islands.