A private boat day in Banderas Bay hits different. For me, the biggest wins are snorkeling at a wildlife-filled rock stop and the simple fact that you’re doing Puerto Vallarta sightseeing from the water instead of from the street. The outing also has room to mix in fishing and kayaking, which makes it feel like your day, not a rigid checklist. One possible drawback: hotel pickup isn’t included, so you’ll want a plan for getting to the dock.

At $800 per group (up to 8), this isn’t a cheap impulse buy, but the math gets easier when you split it among friends or family. I also like that the setup includes the snorkeling gear, fishing gear, bottled water, and chopped fruit, so you’re not doubling back for basics. The vibe is laid-back, beach-casual, and built for people who actually want hands-on water time.

Key highlights worth your attention

• Private group up to 8: you and your people set the pace, not a crowd schedule.
• Shoreline sightseeing off Puerto Vallarta: see the coast from the water for better perspective.
• Rock-and-wildlife snorkeling stop: built for looking under and over the water.
• Fishing + kayaking friendly: you can lean active or go more relaxed.
• Included gear and light snacks: snorkeling equipment, fishing tackle, bottled water, chopped fruit.
• English available: the experience is offered in English, with crews who may speak multiple languages.

A Bertram 38′ cruise: what makes this boat day feel different

This is a private outing on a Bertram 38′ convertible boat, and that changes the tone fast. With up to 8 people per group, you avoid that shoulder-to-shoulder scramble that can happen on larger tours. Instead, you get more freedom to spread out, ask questions, and spend extra minutes where the water looks good.

The duration runs about 4 to 8 hours, so it can work for both a half-day plan and a longer, more relaxed cruise. You’ll be on the water enough to feel like you truly left land behind, even if you only book the shorter window.

And because it’s a convertible style boat, you tend to get flexible comfort during your ride. In plain terms: you can likely find a spot that’s shaded when the sun gets punchy, and you’re not stuck only in one bright corner.

Puerto Vallarta shoreline sightseeing: why seeing the coast from the water matters

The tour starts with shoreline sightseeing of Puerto Vallarta. That sounds simple, but it’s exactly the point. From land, the city can look flat on a map. From the boat, you get the curve of the bay, the way beaches and neighborhoods line up, and a cleaner sense of where everything sits.

This part is also a good warm-up. You settle in, take a few photos, and get your “what’s around us” bearings before you jump into the more active stop. If your group includes mixed comfort levels, this shoreline stretch is the easy entry for everyone.

There’s no need to sprint through. It’s more of a cruise-and-look experience, and that’s a nice break if you’ve been on your feet all day already.

The wildlife rock snorkeling stop: what to expect and how to prep

The main water moment is a stop at a set of rocks full of wildlife, where you can snorkel and enjoy views under and over the water. This is the kind of stop that rewards you for staying calm and paying attention, not for rushing.

Here’s what you’ll want to plan for based on what’s included and what’s not:

• Snorkeling equipment is included, so you can travel lighter.
• Towels are not included, so bring one from your hotel or plan to dry off another way.
• Your best comfort comes from wearing a swimsuit if you plan to swim or snorkel, plus soft shoes instead of sandals with flimsy soles.

Also, a quick reality check: water conditions matter. This experience requires good weather, so if conditions are poor, your day may be adjusted or moved. If snorkeling is a priority, keep your expectations tied to what the day’s conditions allow.

One more practical tip: treat snorkeling like a slow skill, not a stunt. If you’re new, start by keeping your breathing steady, hold your position, and let the view come to you. The best “wow” moments usually come when you stop fighting the water and just float with it.

Fishing and kayaking on the same outing: best way to split your time

The highlights specifically call out watersports like fishing and kayaking, and the gear list supports that. You’ll have fishing gear included, and the snorkeling kit is there if your crew wants a break from fishing.

This mix is valuable because it gives your group options. People who care more about action can fish or kayak. People who prefer scenic time can stay in cruise mode and join the snorkeling stop. In a private setting, you’re not forced to do the exact same thing at the exact same time.

If you want a simple strategy, I’d do it like this:

• Spend the shoreline segment getting oriented.
• Then choose one main “active” block, either fishing or kayaking, before the snorkeling stop.
• Finish with whatever feels good, because the total outing can run longer.

From the reviews, kayaking seems to be a real crowd-pleaser, and several people describe the water time as a highlight. That suggests the boat crew keeps things moving in a way that feels fun, not chaotic.

Snacks, drinks, and the Ocean Grill custom stop

The included food is refreshingly basic: bottled water and chopped fruit. That’s a good baseline for a half-day-ish outing because it keeps you from feeling like you have to locate snacks mid-trip.

Then the reviews add color on top of that. One group mentioned a custom-designed 6-hour trip with a stop at Ocean Grill. That’s worth noting if you love the idea of mixing sightseeing and actual dining, because it hints that your captain/crew may be open to shaping the day (at least in some cases).

Another review mentioned food service and drinks feeling excellent, plus entertainment and a photos option that someone called worth the money. The key point for you: while only certain items are officially listed as included, the overall service experience seems to go beyond just handing you gear and leaving you to figure things out.

So if you’re food-motivated, ask questions when you book about what’s available during the trip and what can be arranged as add-ons.

Price and value: $800 for up to 8 people

Let’s do the math. The price is $800 per group, and your group size max is 8. If you fill all eight seats, you’re effectively paying about $100 per person. If you only have four, it’s closer to $200 per person.

That’s why the value is strongest when you can travel with others: couples traveling together, a small family, or a tight group of friends. Because it’s private, you’re paying for the boat, the crew, and the flexibility—not just for the sightseeing itself.

The duration also matters. Since it’s 4 to 8 hours, you can match it to your energy level. A longer day spreads out the cost and gives you more time for snorkeling, fishing, and that extra bit of cruising where the bay looks good.

One more detail: this is commonly booked around 30 days in advance on average. If you’re going at a popular time, don’t wait for perfect timing. Lock it in early if you want your preferred slot.

What to bring and how to dress (so you’re not miserable)

This outing is beach casual. That’s great because you don’t need a closet full of “boat clothes,” but it does come with a few musts:

• Wear soft shoes and avoid heels.
• Plan on a swimsuit if you want to snorkel or swim.
• Bring a towel, since towels aren’t included.

If you’re the kind of person who hates wet gear, consider packing a small dry bag for your phone and valuables. Nothing in the provided info mentions waterproof storage, so assume you’ll want basic protection.

Also, this experience is near public transportation, which can help if you’re not staying in a place with easy pickup. Just don’t count on the tour providing hotel pickup and drop-off, because that part is explicitly not included.

Weather, timing, and how to avoid the annoying surprises

This boat day runs when conditions are right. The experience requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

That means you should keep your schedule flexible if you can. If you’re trying to fit this into a very tight port plan, you’ll want to be realistic about what happens if plans shift.

One review doesn’t mention weather specifics, but the overall structure is clear: you’re paying for a water-focused experience. When weather is good, it tends to be smooth and fun. When it’s not, plans can change quickly.

Who should book this Bertram boat tour?

This is a strong fit if you want:

• A private Puerto Vallarta boat tour for up to 8 people.
• Real snorkeling time with included gear.
• A mix of activities: fishing, kayaking, and cruising.
• A day that feels relaxed but not boring.

It’s also a good choice for family groups, since the rules state that children must be accompanied by an adult. And for people who need a service animal, it’s allowed.

If you’re traveling alone, the price may feel steep unless you’re okay paying as a solo buyer for privacy. But if you’re part of a group, the setup feels fair.

Should you book Mike’s Fishing & Tours on this Bertram 38′?

If your priority is a hands-on day on Banderas Bay—shoreline views, a wildlife-rock snorkeling stop, and the chance to add fishing and kayaking—then yes, I think booking makes sense. The included gear and snacks reduce the hassle, and the private format makes the experience feel more personal than a big-group cruise.

I’d only hesitate if you don’t want to handle your own transportation to the dock, because hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included. Also, if your dates are inflexible and weather risk would stress you out, plan carefully.

Overall, the ratings are strong, and the most praised parts point to a day that runs on good energy: friendly crew, fun water time, and service that actually seems to matter. For a private boat day in Puerto Vallarta, this one looks like a solid value when you split it with your people.

FAQ

What is the price for the Bertram 38′ convertible boat tour?

It costs $800 per group and fits up to 8 people.

How long is the tour?

The duration is about 4 to 8 hours.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. It’s a private tour/activity, and only your group participates.

What’s included for snorkeling and fishing?

The experience includes snorkeling equipment and fishing gear, along with bottled water and chopped fruit.

Are hotel pickup and drop-off included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included.

Do I need to bring towels?

Yes. Towels are not included.

Is the tour affected by weather?

Yes. It requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.