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If you’re wondering about the pirate ship in Puerto Vallarta, you’re in the right place. We live in PV and see the pirate ship every night as it shoots of fireworks while cruising the bay. This tour is one of the top things to do in Puerto Vallarta, and with good reason.
Yo-ho-ho and a bottle of… tequila? You can still have the rum, but there’s definitely some tequila as well on the Puerto Vallarta pirate ship tour!
Yaar me maties. Batten down the hatches and hope you don’t have to walk the plank. We’ll tell you all about it in this post and why it deserves a spot on your Puerto Vallarta itinerary.
Pirate Ship Puerto Vallarta Summary/Overview
Going aboard the pirate ship is one of the funnest things to do in Puerto Vallarta! Evening trips include:
- Entertaining show
- Tour around the bay
- Fireworks
- Open Bar
- Delicious Meal with six choices
+ More
What is the Pirate Ship Puerto Vallarta?
Let’s start by talking about the impressive pirate ship. The Marigalante Galleon is a replica of the Santa Maria that Columbus used on his maiden voyage to the New World.
It took 30 species of tropical wood and seven years to put this swashbuckling vessel together, and what a sight it is! Walking the Malecon around sunset, you’ll see the Marigalante passing by and will surely stop in your tracks to exclaim “Shiver me timbers!”
This massive ship weighs 700 tons and can fit up to 220 people across its four decks.
The Marigalante features an air-conditioned dining area, a full bar, and several restrooms. It has everything you need for the perfect evening out at sea.
If you end up getting three sheets to the wind from the open bar, never fear – the pirate ship is equipped with life jackets for all. They also have emergency boats and fire extinguishers, and the staff all undergo training on what to do in case of an emergency.
Now that you know a bit more about the vessel, it’s time to shout “Weigh anchor and hoist the mizzen!” Let’s get this pirate party started.
🤩 Check Prices and Availability!
Puerto Vallarta Pirate Ship Tour
You have two different options for your Puerto Vallarta pirate boat. There are day and night tours that provide a different experience.
Both tours depart from the Maritime Terminal, that’s across from Sam’s Club and Walmart. Any local bus that says “Walmart” on the window will get you there for just 10 pesos, or you can take an Uber/Taxi. Click here for directions.
There is a port fee for each passenger of 30 pesos that you need to pay before boarding the pirate ship, so be sure to bring some small change to take care of that. Once you’re paid up, it’s all aboard with your fellow buccaneers.
Daytime Pirate Ship Tour
The day tour starts at 8:30 AM from Tuesday to Sunday and starts off with an “Under the Sea” breakfast served in their tavern. Some fun activities on deck follow as they hoist the sails and hit the open sea.
While cruising across Banderas Bay, you’ll get to enjoy the pirate show. It’s a good time full of your favorite chanteys that will have you yelling “Blow me down!”
Before you know it, you’ll arrive at the stunning Playa Majahuitas. Here you can enjoy various activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, or banana boat rides.
All that activity is sure to work up an appetite. Once you’re back on board the ship, it’s time for lunch. The menu includes plenty of seafood choices (salmon, octopus, and tuna) along with chicken and BBQ ribs.
They also have vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Just be sure to specify in advance if you would like one.
If you’re in need of some grog to wash it all down, there’s an open bar with plenty of options. They have rum, vodka, and of course tequila in addition to beer and wine. Just don’t be too much of a carouser or they’ll make you walk the plank.
For an additional charge, you can upgrade to premium. This includes lobster tail and filet mignon as well as a variety of whiskeys.
After lunch, there are some more fun activities in store such as pirate face painting and contests with some cool prizes. In all, the day tour lasts about six hours, returning back to the pier around 16:00 PM. Click here to book your spot.
Puerto Vallarta Pirate Ship Night Tour
Whereas the daytime tour is fun for the whole family, the evening tour is meant for adults. It happens every night and starts with check-in at the terminal at 16:45 PM.
If you’re a lowly landlubber, it’s all good. The crew will get everything ready to set sail as you enjoy live music and a drunken pirate show. Get your sea legs with a clap of thunder from the open bar.
As with the day tour, there are some fun group activities on board as you sail across the bay. Next, it’s time to head to the dining room for a scrumptious dinner. The menu is similar to the day tour with the addition of a stuffed chicken option.
After dinner, you’ll get a little history lesson about the ship before the big pirate show. A major selling point of the evening show is that you get to enjoy a fireworks display.
It winds down with a full-blown booze cruise on the way back to the terminal.
What’s included on the pirate ship tour?
- Welcome Pirate
- Live music
- Entertainment
- Pirate Show Contests
- Sailing Trip
- Fireworks
- Party
- Tour of the bay
- Dinner (six choices to choose from)
- Open bar
Who is the Pirate Ship for?
The Pirate Ship tour in Puerto Vallarta is for travelers who are looking for a fun and unique experience while getting the best views of Puerto Vallarta.
The daytime tour is ideal for families and couples with kids who are looking for an entertaining day where they can see the beautiful Banderas Bay. Keep in mind that youngsters are only allowed on the day tour.
While the nighttime experience is suitable for adults who want to let loose and have a few drinks while admiring some amazing fireworks over one of Mexico’s most beautiful party cities.
Pirate Ship Price
Costs fluctuate depending on the low/high season, so it’s best to check online for the latest prices. Keep in mind that youngsters are only allowed on the day tour. It costs around $20 to upgrade your meal to include the lobster and filet mignon.
While that may seem like a lot of booty to part with, you’re not getting hornswoggled on this tour. With all the activities, the pirate show, and an open bar with a delicious meal (or two), the pirate ship tour is well worth it.
It’s also advised to bring some pesos on the ship to tip your server and the cooks if you enjoy the meal and service. They have photos and videos for sale as well if you’d like a little keepsake from your pirate adventure.
Puerto Vallarta Pirate Show Alternatives
Not into the pirate ship? Check out these alternative tours!
Rhythms of the night – Sail to a private beach for a romantic dinner by candlelight, where you can enjoy an amazing circus performance raved by thousands. Read more about Rhythms of the Night here.
Luxury yacht day trip – Enjoy unlimited drinks as you cruise along the bay on this luxury yacht, passing by Los Arcos and more secluded beaches. One of the best catamaran tours in PV.
FAQs About Pirate Ship Puerto Vallarta
The Pirate Ship Tour lasts for approximately four hours.
The tour includes a pirate-themed dinner show, open bar, and a cruise on a pirate ship through Banderas Bay.
It’s recommended to bring a light jacket or sweater, as it can get chilly on the water in the evening. Comfortable shoes are also recommended.
Yes, the daytime Pirate Ship Tour is family-friendly and suitable for children of all ages.
Unfortunately, the tour is not wheelchair accessible due to the layout of the ship.
No, transportation to the pier is not included in the tour. However, the pier is easily accessible by taxi or public transportation.
Yes, the Pirate Ship Tour is safe, and all safety precautions are taken to ensure the well-being of passengers.
Final Thoughts: Is The Pirate Ship Worth It?
Whether you choose the day tour with the visit to Majahuitas or the evening tour with the fireworks display, you’re guaranteed a good time at sea. Don’t be a scurvy dog and get yourself on the pirate ship for an unforgettable experience.
Planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta? Check out these posts!
- Puerto Vallarta Airport Transportation Options
- Best Puerto Vallarta Water Parks
- How to Plan The Perfect Puerto Vallarta Itinerary
🇲🇽 Puerto Vallarta Quick Guide 🇲🇽
✈️ Airport – The Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) airport is a 20-minute ride to the city center. You can book an airport transfer here.
🏩 Hotels – The best websites for booking hotels and resorts are Booking.com and Expedia, which search all properties to find you the best deals. For inspiration on where to stay, head to my ultimate guide to Puerto Vallarta hotels.
🚗 Getting around – Puerto Vallarta is easy to get around by walking and Uber, but renting a car is the best way to explore the surrounding areas. Discover Cars is the best website for finding deals, which searches International and local Mexican companies.
🌊 Things to do – Puerto Vallarta is a paradise for outdoor adventure! Some of the top things to do are whale watching, yacht trips, and ATV tours.
✔️ Don’t forget travel insurance! I use and love SafetyWing, which is insurance for remote workers. For shorter trips, I recommend HeyMondo – you can get 5% off by using that link.
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