Vallarta Icon
Marietas Islands Snorkel
Discover the Hidden Beach, the most important bird sanctuary and marine life haven in the bay.
View DetailsHumpback Whale Watching
A Scientific and Educational Expedition in Banderas Bay
Winter Season
Whale Watching Experience with Marine Biologists
Small Groups
Wildlife
Family Friendly
Authorized Tour
The greatest experience of your life awaits aboard Explora Vallarta's incredible eco-adventures. Undoubtedly, watching the amazing Humpback Whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) is our flagship tour.
During the winter season, we invite you to join this exciting adventure. You will explore the waters of Banderas Bay guided by Marine Biologists, who will interpret the behavior of these mysterious cetaceans in their natural habitat for you.
Biological Identification Guide
You will discover the different behaviors of the humpback whale, ranging from spectacular breaches and tail slaps, to mothers with their playful calves or groups of males courting a female.
BREACHING
(Salto)
TAIL SLAP
(Coletazo / Fluking)
SPYHOP
(Espionaje)
Identification of typical Humpback Whale behaviors in Banderas Bay.
Additionally, you will experience a magical moment listening to their enigmatic songs thanks to our onboard hydrophone. Our guides will explain fascinating aspects of their biology, mating rituals, migration, and parenting. And keep your eyes peeled: it is also very likely to see sea turtles, dolphins, giant manta rays, and seabirds.
Your Ticket Funds Science
At Explora Vallarta, we don't just tour; we conserve. Part of your ticket allows us to support various marine conservation projects:
RABEN Network
Active support for the Whale Disentanglement Network to rescue whales trapped in fishing gear.
Research
Participation in various research projects on Humpback Whales and other species in the Bay.
Education
Programs for local children and continuous training for other tour operators.
Wildlife Rescue
Assistance to stranded marine wildlife such as dolphins, whales, turtles, sea lions, and birds.
Book Your Spot
Adult Price
$112 USD
Child Price (4-11 yrs)
$90 USD
Reserve with 50%
Official Season:
Dec 8th to March 23rd.
We comply with NOM-131-SEMARNAT-2010 for wildlife management.
What's Included?
- 3 hours observing majestic whales.
- Specialized Guides: Marine Biologists.
- Certified boat captain.
- Hydrophone: To hear their songs live.
- Box Lunch: Baguette, water, juice, soda, fruit.
- Expedition photos (Courtesy).
- Life jackets and traveler insurance.
What to Bring?
- Biodegradable sunscreen.
- Sunglasses and hat/cap.
- Windbreaker or light sweater (it gets breezy).
- Motion sickness medicine (take 30 mins prior).
- Camera with plenty of memory!
- Dry bag or plastic to protect electronics.
Family & Scientific Company
Meet Your Expert Guides
At Explora Vallarta you are not just a tourist, you are our guest. We are a family of Biologists and Naturalists dedicated to protecting what we love most: the ocean.
Biol. Jorge Morales
Director & Marine Biologist
With years of experience in cetacean research, Jorge will teach you how to interpret every movement of the whales with scientific rigor and passion.
Fabiola Flores
Naturalist Guide
Specialist in connecting people with nature. Her educational approach makes the experience unforgettable for children and adults alike.
Capt. José Ángel
Boat Captain
No one knows the Bay like him. His experience guarantees a safe, respectful approach with the best angles for photography.
What Our Explorers Say
"Incredible experience. Not your typical tourist tour; here you really learn. The biologists know so much and greatly respect the distance from the whales."
- Mariana R.
"We were able to hear the songs with the hydrophone, it was magical. The group was small which made the experience very personalized. 100% recommended!"
- John D.
Expedition Captures
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the probability of seeing whales?
Our success rate exceeds 95%. Being marine biologists and using hydrophones to listen for their songs, it is easier to locate them. If for some extraordinary reason we don't see any, you have a guarantee to repeat the tour.
Is swimming with whales allowed?
No. By federal regulation (NOM-131-SEMARNAT-2010) and for the safety of both the whales and passengers, entering the water with them in Banderas Bay is strictly prohibited.
What is the minimum age for children?
We recommend this tour for children aged 4 and up (though younger children can join). Thanks to our educational approach, we involve them in the adventure with language they understand, ensuring the whole family enjoys it. It is a very safe and educational experience.
Can I bring pets?
No. Federal regulations state that pets are not allowed on board. This measure is to avoid health risks and possible contagion to marine mammals. Currently, safety regulations for this type of watching vessel do not allow access for service animals.
How close do we get to the whales?
Our priority is respect for the animal and safety. Under NOM-131-SEMARNAT-2010, our vessel (being smaller in size) maintains a distance of 60 meters. Unlike large boats that must stay 80 meters away, we offer a closer and more private experience. Unauthorized vessels must stay 240 meters away.
Will I get seasick?
The sea is usually calm in the morning, but if you are sensitive to motion, we recommend taking a motion sickness pill (Dramamine or similar) 30 minutes before boarding. Then you're ready to enjoy the eco-tour 100%.
What is the difference between Explora Vallarta and large agencies?
Our main difference is intimacy and direct contact. We are not a massive corporation; we are a local family of Marine Biologists. With us, you avoid the crowds of massive boats, guaranteeing small groups, personalized attention from the owners, and the certainty that your money directly supports science and local families.
Other Conservation Adventures
If you loved learning about whales, these biologist-guided tours will enchant you.
Vallarta Icon
Conservation
Sea Turtle Release
Release a hatchling and witness its first journey to the sea. A moving experience.
View Details
NO Captivity
Wild Dolphin Encounter
Find pods of dolphins in their natural habitat, with no tanks or tricks.
View Details