The pirate ship dinner cruise is one of Puerto Vallarta's classic evening excursions, and it is pitched squarely at people who want fun rather than formality. Guests board a sailing-ship style vessel in the marina area and head out into Banderas Bay as the sun drops behind the horizon. Costumed performers stay in character through the evening, with swashbuckling skits, music, games and dancing, and the crew weaves the entertainment around dinner and an open bar or drinks package, depending on the product you choose. The bay is at its prettiest at this hour: the sky turns orange, the Sierra Madre darkens behind the town, and the hotel strip lights up along the shoreline. The tone is playful and a little silly, which is exactly why families with children, groups of friends and celebrating couples tend to enjoy it. Children are often pulled into the action, and adults who commit to the spirit of the night usually have the best time. It is not a quiet, romantic cruise, so if you want hushed conversation over dinner, a sunset sail is a better match; if you want a lively evening with a story, a show and a view, this is the one.
How the evening works
You check in at the marina before departure, board and find your table or deck seating, and the ship casts off while the first performance begins. Dinner is served on board and is typically a set menu with a choice of main course, so mention vegetarian or allergy needs when you book.
Entertainment continues through the meal and afterwards, building towards a finale before the ship returns to the dock. The route stays inside the sheltered part of the bay, so motion is usually modest, though the open deck can feel breezy once the sun is down.
Getting there and what to bring
The marina area is a short taxi ride from most hotels in the hotel zone and the Old Town, and many versions of the excursion offer hotel pickup, which is worth checking when you reserve. Bring a light layer for the wind, flat comfortable shoes for moving around a ship, and a little cash for tips for the crew and photographers.
Photos taken on board are often offered for sale afterwards, so keep your phone ready if you want your own. Dress is casual; shorts and sandals are fine, and some guests wear a pirate hat or an eye patch for fun.
Who it suits and what to know: it is a good pick for a family night, a birthday or a group evening, and it works for first-time visitors who want a single memorable night on the water. Adults who prefer a calm, grown-up atmosphere may find the entertainment loud, in which case a sunset sail is the better choice.
Alcohol is part of the experience on many versions, so confirm exactly what is included and the age rules before booking. As with every boat excursion, weather and sea conditions can change departures, so choose a flexible booking and keep your evening plans loose.
One more consideration is timing within your trip. Because the cruise is loud and energetic, many travelers place it early in a stay, when everyone has energy for a late night, and keep quieter evenings for later. If you are travelling with grandparents or anyone sensitive to noise, ask where the quieter seating is on board.
What to expect
The experience
A sunset-to-night cruise on a ship-style vessel with a set dinner, drinks, live pirate-themed entertainment and views of the lit shoreline.
Best time
Evenings year-round; the sunset departure gives the best light and the most atmosphere.
How long
About three hours from boarding to return, depending on the departure.
Tips
Mention allergies when you book, bring a light layer for the breeze, and carry small cash for tips and optional photos.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and groups who want a lively, theatrical evening on the water.
- Families
- A real crowd-pleaser for children, who are often invited to join in the skits and games.
- Couples
- Fun rather than hushed; couples who want a quiet sail should look at the sunset catamaran instead.
- Pair with
- An easy morning on the Malecón or at Los Muertos beach the next day.
- Time needed
- An evening of about three hours.
Good questions
Is the pirate cruise good for kids?+
Yes. The costumes, skits and games are aimed at a mixed audience, and children are often involved. Check age rules for any drinks packages.
Is dinner included?+
Dinner is part of the programme. Confirm the menu choices and any dietary options when you reserve.
Where does it leave from?+
From the marina area. Many options include hotel pickup, so check what is offered for your hotel.
Will I get seasick?+
The route stays in the sheltered bay and most guests are fine, but take a remedy if you are sensitive.
What should I wear?+
Casual clothes, flat shoes and a light layer for the breeze once the sun goes down.
