Whale Watching Season Officially Begins In Puerto Vallarta

Last Updated 1 month ago

Travelers on a winter escape to Puerto Vallarta are in for a treat – the annual arrival of humpback whales.

After a long journey through the North Pacific, these majestic creatures have reached Banderas Bay, marking the start of the whale-watching season lasting until March.

Puerto Vallarta’s warm waters create an ideal winter haven for these gentle giants during their breeding season. 

Once hunted to the brink of extinction, humpback whales are now a protected species, and luckily, their populations are gradually rebounding.

Yet, these magnificent creatures are still affected by human activity. Ship collisions, entanglement in fishing nets, and noise pollution continue to pose threats to their well-being.

Recognizing the importance of safeguarding humpback whales, Puerto Vallarta has taken proactive measures to protect them. 

Initiatives like ‘Swim for the Whales’ aim to raise awareness and gather funds to support the conservation of these beautiful marine mammals.

Thanks to Puerto Vallarta’s strategically located bay, glimpses of these whales are possible from various vantage points, even from the malecón and, if you’re lucky enough, your own hotel room. 

@ginnythenomad humpback whale season 🐳 #puertovallarta #mexico #digitalnomad #traveltips #whalewatching ♬ original sound – ginny 🌞 traveling full-time

However, the best way to fully appreciate the grandeur of these giants is by booking a whale-watching tour, an experience readily available through numerous providers.

But before embarking on a fascinating encounter with humpback whales, there are some essential considerations to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience. 

Puerto Vallarta Whale Watching Tours – What Travelers Need To Know

Whale watching stands out as one of Puerto Vallarta’s most popular attractions, drawing in countless travelers every year eager to witness this awe-inspiring spectacle.

But with over 200 options to choose from and prices spanning from a modest $65 USD to a staggering $1,900 USD, choosing the right tour for you can get tricky.

Most tours depart from Marina Vallarta and typically last 3-4 hours, each offering different experiences.

Some provide hydrophones, allowing participants to listen to the mesmerizing vocalizations of humpback whales, while others feature an onboard biologist to shed light on the fascinating lives of these creatures. 

@mermaid.kayleigh Replying to @julsss1324 their songs are described as hauntingly beautiful. Do you find them scary or beautiful? For me it’s peaceful. They remind me of elephants. 🐋🎶💙 @kaimanaoceansafari #whalesounds #whalesong #hawaii #ocean #deepwater #deepsea #thalassophobia #whales #humpbackwhales ♬ original sound – mermaid.kayleigh

Meanwhile, more exclusive options offer the possibility of renting your own private yacht, complete with snacks, drinks, WiFi, and other perks.

However, it’s crucial to book certified tours following the Mexican Official Standard NOM-131 to ensure a safe and respectful encounter. 

Biologist Maria Eugenia Rodriguez, leader of the environmental awareness company Wildlife Connection, advises taking this step to avoid issues associated with non-certified tours, such as a lack of proper vessels, equipment, and training.

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However, it’s worth noting that whale-watching tours are strictly regulated by the Federal Government for the most part.

What To Expect From The Experience

Floating in a small rubber boat next to a 40-ton, 17-meter-long marine mammal might sound a bit scary.

Fortunately, humpback whales are docile creatures, but they can act unpredictably if they feel threatened.

That’s why it’s essential to keep a distance of at least 60 meters to ensure a safe experience – yet another reason to choose a certified tour that follows these safety guidelines.

That said, the only thing you’ll need to worry about during your tour is enjoying the sight of these impressive animals – well, that and the sudden realization that you don’t remember whether your tour is actually certified as you leave port.

But rest assured, more than 2,000 whales arrive in Puerto Vallarta every year, so your chances of spotting several of them are pretty high.

Moreover, Banderas Bay is home to a wide range of species, so you’re more than likely to spot more sea creatures such as dolphins, turtles, and manta rays on your tour.

Whale-Watching Tips

To make the most of your whale-watching experience in Puerto Vallarta, here are a few tips and recommendations:

• Eat light before the tour (you likely know why)
• Stay hydrated
• Take some motion sickness pills with you, just in case
• Safeguard your electronics and valuable belongings
• Book in advance to avoid higher prices and less availability

By following this advice, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy one of the most unforgettable and inspiring experiences Puerto Vallarta has to offer.