The 7 Best Dolphin Watching Tours in Puerto Vallarta

1.Watch and Swim with Dolphins in the Wild

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 668 reviews · 3 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $105Our pick

Swim with wild dolphins in Puerto Vallarta with a biologist guide, hydrophone, small groups, marine research, and honest wildlife expectations.

“Gema and Cesár were amazing. We started with an information session, then took a boat out to popular “dolphin spots.” We got in the ocean/bay and swam very close with wild dolphins for at least an hour or so. It was so cool to be that close with them, as the dolphins are quite playful and social. At least 3 dolphins came up to us and would swim with us multiple times throughout the time in the water. Gema taught us a lot and was so fun to be with. She and Cesár made sure to point them out as we got on and off the boat into the water,…”

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2.Whale and Dolphin Watching with a Biologist in Puerto Vallarta

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 666 reviews · 4 hours (approx.) · from $105Top rated

Review of Puerto Vallarta’s biologist-led whale and dolphin tour, including wildlife, citizen science, boat comfort, value, and practical tips.

“We went all the way to the Marietas Islands and saw five male whales and one female — truly magical. Jema was warm, knowledgeable, and clearly loves what she does. Captain Jorge was excellent, getting us right to the action with a smooth ride. Whales everywhere, great crew, and yes… surprisingly good sandwiches. Book it. You won’t regret it. 🐋✨”

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3.Whale & Dolphin Watching Cruise in Puerto Vallarta All Inclusive

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 · 212 reviews · 4 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $78Best value

Review of Puerto Vallarta’s whale and dolphin cruise, with meals, open bar, marine biologist, timing, fees, boat size, and booking advice.

“Great experience. Highly recommend Friendly and fun Really starts at 9am. Look for Vallarta by boat in the plaza. Make sure to buy the port ticket. Would recommend to friends visiting”

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4.Wild Dolphin Encounter & Snorkeling Adventure

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 147 reviews · 4 hours (approx.)

Swim near wild dolphins, snorkel at Los Arcos, and learn from a biologist on this intimate four-hour Puerto Vallarta boat tour.

“We booked the experience for my friend’s birthday and Maggie and Rafael did not disappoint. The whole process from booking to check-in was easy. Then the trip…WOW! We had such a great time and the knowledge of the crew helped to get us up close to dolphins, whales, sea turtles and more. They really connected with our group of 7 and made for an amazing birthday experience! Thank you Maggie and to Rafael our captain.”

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5.Wild Dolphin Encounter in Puerto Vallarta

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 20 reviews · 3 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $110

See wild dolphins responsibly near Puerto Vallarta, swim nearby, hear their calls by hydrophone, and enjoy lunch in a small group.

“This tour was terrible......we may be able to swim with them and maybe not. DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY”

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6.Private Wild Dolphin Encounter in Puerto Vallarta

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 13 reviews · 3 hours 30 minutes (approx.)

Swim near wild bottlenose dolphins in Puerto Vallarta with a marine biologist, lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and a private boat.

“This excursion was the highlight of our trip. The guide and captain were wonderful and very knowledgeable. Ypu can tell that they love what they do. There were so many dolphins. They would swim under and around us. This is the second tour we have done with Vallarta Natours and we will definitely be back for another in the future. Highly recommend!!”

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7.Swim and Paddle Board with Wild Dolphin Pods in Puerto Vallarta

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 12 reviews · 4 hours (approx.) · from $110

Swim, paddle, and snorkel near wild dolphin pods in Puerto Vallarta, with marine-life guidance, whale sightings, and a private boat trip.

“We booked a private tour for six of us - lovely time. We had lots of views of whales and dolphins. Swimming in the middle of the pacific was a real thrill.”

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