Does the boat have shade, a restroom, cushioned seating, and easy boarding?
Most of our family yacht and sportfisher options have shade, cushioned seating, a restroom and crew support for boarding. Exact amenities depend on the boat, so we confirm the layout, boarding point and comfort details before you book.
Can we do a mixed day: sightseeing, swimming/snorkeling, relaxing, and some fishing?
Yes. A mixed day is often the best fit for families and first-time groups. We can plan a private route with sightseeing, swim or snorkel time, relaxed cruising and some fishing, shaped around sea conditions and your group.
How long should we book for a first-time Puerto Vallarta charter: 4, 6, or 8 hours?
Four hours works for an easy introduction, six hours gives most groups a more relaxed premium day, and eight hours is better for corporate groups, celebrations or travelers who want a fuller route and more fishing time. More time on the water usually means more chances for catches. If it gets too hot or anyone gets seasick, the captain can adjust the route. Pickup from a safe, accessible stopping point may be arranged, subject to availability and any quoted transfer charge.
Where would we leave from: Marina Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta, La Cruz, or Punta de Mita?
These are possible departure areas, depending on your chosen boat, route and conditions. We meet you at the designated departure port for your charter. Your confirmation includes the exact meeting point and arrival time. Pickup from a different port may be possible, subject to the boat, route and conditions, and may carry an additional charge. Private hotel, villa and airport transfers can be arranged separately, subject to availability and a tailored quote. We confirm any additional charges before you book.
What is included: captain, crew, fuel, fishing gear, bait, licenses, food, drinks, towels?
Every quote confirms inclusions before you pay. Private fishing charters usually include captain, crew, standard fuel for the booked route, fishing gear, bait, licenses and ice. Food, drinks and towels vary by boat, and we can arrange catering or confirm what is already onboard.
Are life jackets provided?
Yes. Life jackets for adults and kids are provided. Tell us the ages and approximate sizes of the kids in your group so the crew can prepare appropriate life jackets before departure. Pet life jacket rentals may be available for an additional charge.
What happens if the ocean is rough or someone gets seasick?
The captain makes the safety call and may adjust the route, keep the day inside calmer water or reschedule if conditions are not suitable. If someone is prone to seasickness, tell us in advance so we can recommend the right boat, departure time and route.
What fish are realistic right now, and how far offshore would we need to go?
Fishing changes by month, water temperature and current conditions. Inshore trips can target species around the bay and reefs, while El Morro, El Banco and Corbeteña require longer runs for offshore species such as dorado, sailfish, marlin and tuna. Use our fishing chart as a planning guide, then we will confirm what is realistic for your exact dates. View the fishing chart.
Can the crew clean or prepare any fish we catch?
Yes, within Mexican fishing regulations. The crew can clean and bag your catch, and depending on the charter we can make ceviche onboard if you reach out beforehand to let us know you want that.
What is the cancellation/weather policy?
Weather decisions are made for safety by the captain. If a trip cannot run because conditions are unsafe, we work to reschedule during your stay or refund according to the confirmed booking terms.
Are there extra fees: dock fees, gratuity, fuel surcharge, park fees, fishing licenses?
We flag required fees before you book. Fishing licenses are normally included on fishing charters, while gratuity is separate. Required dock fees depend on the charter and the dock, so check with our team first when you reach out. Alternative-port pickup may carry an additional charge; private transfers are arranged separately. Park, pickup or fuel surcharges depend on the boat, route and meeting point, and will be listed in your quote if they apply.
Can you arrange hospitality for a larger group or celebration?
Yes. We can arrange open bar, premium spirits & champagne, catering, a private chef, private transfers, event styling and corporate or celebration coordination. Optional arrangements are quoted separately and depend on guest count, duration, boat and availability. Refreshments and equipment are confirmed in your quote; any listed inclusions remain included. Any limited margarita service is not a full-charter open bar. Share your dates, guest count, occasion and desired add-ons. We confirm overnight guest capacity and sleeping arrangements separately from day-trip capacity.
