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How to explore Banderas Bay: every way to get out on the water

Catamaran, private yacht, water taxi, kayak, diving and more: the ways to explore Banderas Bay in Puerto Vallarta and who each one is for.

Banderas Bay · Updated October 2026

Fact sheet

Most complete: Catamaran tour
Most private: Private yacht or boat
Transport only: Water taxi
Most active: Kayak, paddleboard and diving

Banderas Bay is one of the largest bays in Mexico, and the best way to understand Puerto Vallarta is to see it from the water. There are many ways to do it; this guide helps you choose by plan, group and budget.

Catamaran tour

It's the most complete option for a day at sea: catamarans are stable and roomy, with shade, restrooms and space to move around, and tours usually include food, drinks, snorkel and kayak gear, and stops at beaches only reachable by sea. Ideal for families, couples and groups of friends who want everything taken care of.

Private yacht or boat

It gives you privacy and the freedom to design your own route. It's the most expensive option per person and suits celebrations or groups who want the boat to themselves.

Water taxi

The boats leaving the Los Muertos Pier and Boca de Tomatlán are transportation, not a tour: they take you to Las Ánimas, Quimixto or Yelapa and you arrange the rest (food, activities and the ride back).

Kayak, paddleboard and diving

For those who want exercise or to explore underwater. They're rented on several beaches, and there are dive trips to Los Arcos and other spots in the bay; many boat tours already include kayak and paddleboard.

Sunset and night cruises

Short trips to watch the sunset or the lit-up city from the sea, sometimes with dinner or a party on board.

How to choose

Check what the price includes (food, drinks, gear, port fees), where it departs from, how long it lasts, which beaches it visits and the operator's recent reviews. If you're traveling with kids, ask about life jackets in their size and optional activities.

How to go

If you'd like to go with us

At Grupo Naviero de la Bahía we run all-inclusive catamaran day tours from the Puerto Vallarta Maritime Terminal: Arcos, Ánimas & Quimixto, Yelapa & Colimilla, and Madagascar & Ánimas.