Guide

Preview We are still checking and adding to this guide. If something looks wrong, let us know.

What Wildlife Can You See on Your Cruise?

Port by port: what is seen, in which months, and whether you see it from the ship, from shore or on a tour.

Wildlife in Puerto Vallarta

Humpback whaleCommonOn a tour

Humpbacks breed and calve in Banderas Bay December to March; official season about December 8 to late March. Source Source 2

DolphinsLikelyOn a tour

Bottlenose, spotted, spinner and rough-toothed dolphins live in the bay; the source states no season. Source

Sea turtleLikelyOn a tour

Olive ridley hatchling release programs on Banderas Bay beaches. Source Source 2 Source 3 Source 4

Your Cruise, Stop by Stop

Type the official name of your ship, then choose your sailing.

Likelihood words (common, likely, possible, rare) summarise what parks, tour operators and tourism boards publish. Each row links its source.

Months only: we never claim one day is better than another.

Last reviewed October 22, 2026