Puerto Vallarta Pirate Premium Sailing Cruise

Puerto Vallarta knows how to do fun, and this pirate sailing cruise turns a normal port day into something you can bring the whole family to. You trade shore time for a day on a real-wood replica of Columbus’ Santa Maria, then head to the secluded Majahuitas Beach by boat for water time and beach games.

What I like most is the hands-on vibe. The crew runs interactive games on the ship and really leans into making kids, teens, and adults feel included, not just herded around. I also like that snorkeling and kayaking gear are included, so the beach portion is more than just lying in the sun with a cup of something cold.

One consideration: it is a 6-hour outing and the boat ride can get choppy. If you have a sensitive stomach, plan accordingly, because the day can feel longer when the waves pick up. Also, one review noted that Spanish helps to fully follow onboard instructions, so if you speak little Spanish you may rely more on your pirate crew and the general fun cues.

Key highlights to know before you go

• A real-wood Santa Maria replica: three masts, triangular sails, and about 700 tons of ship.
• Majahuitas Beach is boat-access-only about 29 km from Puerto Vallarta.
• Snorkeling and kayaking equipment are included, not an add-on.
• A full pirate program with onboard games, contests, and a show.
• Lunch and an open bar keep the day from feeling like you paid only for the boat ride.
• Guaranteed on-time return to your ship through the worry-free policy.

A real-wood Santa Maria at sea: what makes the cruise feel special

This isn’t a flimsy boat with a costume theme pasted on top. The sailing vessel is a replica of Columbus’ Santa Maria, built from 100% real wood, with three masts and triangular sails. It weighs around 700 tons, which gives it a solid, old-world feel even before the pirate antics start.

That matters because this cruise is built around the ride itself. You get sailing time through the Bay of Banderas, the big coastal bay shared by Jalisco and Nayarit. The bay’s size is part of why the excursion feels like a real outing instead of a quick hop to the next dock.

Now, let’s be honest. Even on a sturdy ship, time at sea can mean motion. One caution from experience: if you’re the type who feels waves fast, don’t pretend you won’t. Bring motion-sickness help if you need it, because the itinerary includes real sailing, not just a short “coast cruise.”

Majahuitas Beach is the payoff: snorkeling, kayaking, and down-to-earth beach time

The second stop is Majahuitas Beach, and it is not an easy walk-from-town kind of beach. Access is by water, about 29 km from Puerto Vallarta, which is exactly why it feels less crowded and more like a real escape.

Once you arrive, you get a chunk of time (about 3 hours) for beach fun. The main activities are snorkeling and kayaking, and the equipment is included. That’s a big deal for value and convenience. You don’t need to bargain with extra rentals or show up wondering if you packed the right mask.

You’ll also have time for casual beach time, and there’s mention of beach volleyball as well. In other words, this is set up for active families, but it still works if you just want shade, a swim, and a slower pace.

One practical note: because the beach is reached by boat, you’re not just “dropping in.” You’re committing to a half-day island-style rhythm. If your family wants calm, simple swimming and beach games, this is a good fit.

Pirate show and onboard games: where the crew makes the day

On paper, this cruise sounds like a themed ride. In practice, it is built like a full, staged experience. There’s a pirate show, plus games and contests run right on the ship as you sail through Banderas Bay.

What stands out from the vibe is personal attention. You may get assigned a pirate host, and names shared include Flucky, Mike, Flash, Silver, and Pepe. Regardless of the name, the pattern is the same: the crew is not just performing at you. They work the crowd, check in, and keep the energy moving.

That’s why it plays well for kids. There are lots of moments where children can participate instead of only watching adults take photos. Even reviews that mention teens note the entertainment keeps a good pace, even if the show can feel a little cheesy at times. The humor is part of the point, and the crew usually sells it with energy.

Another detail that can make a difference: a passenger mentioned a photographer captured lots of moments. If that’s part of your experience, you’ll likely come back with more than just phone photos of a crowd shot.

Safety also came up. Multiple people highlighted that they felt safe the whole trip. In a family excursion, that matters more than fancy marketing.

Lunch, open bar, and why $240 can be fair value for families

At $240 per person for about 6 hours, it’s not a bargain. But you’re also not paying for one thing. You’re paying for a full program, including:

• Lunch
• An open bar
• Snorkeling equipment
• Kayaking
• The pirate cruise and show
• Onboard games and contests

When I look at value like this, I see why families often feel good about the price. If you were to plan the day separately, you would still pay for boat transport, food, and water activities. Here, the cost is bundled and timed into one smooth morning-to-afternoon outing.

There’s also a practical comfort factor. The cruise has a maximum group size of 80 travelers, which usually helps keep the day from turning into a slow-moving crowd problem. It won’t feel like a private yacht, but it also isn’t a huge mob.

The open bar isn’t an excuse to ignore safety, but it does keep the mood festive and helps adults enjoy the ride instead of just tolerating it for the kids.

If your group is mostly adults who want a quiet beach day, you might prefer something more low-key. If you’re traveling with children or teens, this kind of bundled fun is where the price starts to make sense.

Getting there without stress: terminal details and the smart arrival time

The tour starts at 9:00 am at Terminal Maritima APIB at Blvd. Francisco Medina Ascencio, Las Glorias, 48333 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico. It ends back at the same meeting point.

One tip that can save you stress: plan to arrive well before the start time. A review specifically advised getting to the marina around 8:15, since check-in can take a while. For a family day, that early buffer matters. Lines, paperwork, and getting everyone grouped can eat up time fast when you’re traveling with kids.

You’ll also use a mobile ticket, so have it ready on your phone. And keep in mind it’s a daytime excursion, roughly 6 hours, so you’ll likely want a simple breakfast and some sun protection.

Also worth noting: the cruise is covered by a worry-free policy that focuses on guaranteed on-time return to your ship. If you’re on a cruise ship schedule, that return promise is not a small detail.

Who this cruise suits best, and who should think twice

This is a family-first outing, and you’ll feel it from how the crew runs the day. It’s a great match if you want:

• Kids who need structured fun, not a “sit still” beach day
• Teens who will actually join games and entertainment
• Families that want a single ticket to cover food and activities

You can also make it work for solo travelers and couples. Some people mentioned enjoying it even without children, because the show and the ship atmosphere keep things entertaining.

Age fit is where you should use your best judgment. One review suggested it’s especially good for children around 8 and below, while another mentioned it was fun for 8 and up and that teens enjoyed it too. Translation: if your kids are young and playful, you’ll likely love it. If your kids are older and prefer sports or quiet, you might still have fun, but you may want to look at other options too.

The other caution is motion. If you or your group gets nauseous with waves, prepare for a choppier ride. Bring what you need, and don’t plan on feeling great every minute.

Finally, language could be a factor. A less positive note said you may need to speak Spanish to fully enjoy instructions. If you don’t speak Spanish, it doesn’t mean you’ll be lost, but you should be okay relying on visuals, the crew’s interaction, and general participation cues.

Should you book the Pirate Premium Sailing Cruise in Puerto Vallarta?

Book it if you want a family-friendly day of structured fun with a real-wood ship, a proper show, and included water activities. The best reason to choose this cruise is the combination of pirate entertainment plus included snorkeling and kayaking, plus lunch and an open bar, all wrapped into one outing with a return guarantee.

Skip it or compare alternatives if your group hates boats, you know you get motion sick, or you want quiet, independent beach time without games. It’s a “whole experience” type of tour, not a calm, DIY day.

If your family is game for costumes, games, and a beach that’s more “destination” than “walkable,” this is a strong choice for a memorable Puerto Vallarta shore day.

FAQ

How long is the Puerto Vallarta Pirate Premium Sailing Cruise?

The cruise lasts about 6 hours.

What is the starting time and meeting point?

It starts at 9:00 am at Terminal Maritima APIB, Blvd. Francisco Medina Ascencio, Las Glorias, 48333 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico.

What is the ship used for the cruise?

You sail aboard Marigalante, a replica of Columbus’ Santa Maria made of 100% real wood, with three wooden masts and triangular sails.

Where do you go for the beach stop?

The beach stop is at Majahuitas Beach, which is accessed by water and is about 29 km from Puerto Vallarta.

What activities are included at Majahuitas Beach?

You can snorkel and kayak, and the equipment is included. Beach volleyball is also mentioned as an available activity.

What food and drinks are included?

Lunch is included, and there is an open bar.

Are snorkeling equipment and meals included in the price?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included, and lunch is included as part of the experience.

What is the group size limit?

The tour has a maximum of 80 travelers.

Is there a policy to help with ship departures?

The experience is covered by a worry-free policy that guarantees on-time return to your ship.

What is the cancellation window?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts for a full refund.