Marina Vallarta Maritime Terminal

Just three miles north of downtown Puerto Vallarta, the Marina Vallarta Maritime Terminal is where the large cruise lines dock their massive ships. Marina Vallarta also has facilities for docking personal vessels, such as sailboats and yachts. Most of the Banderas Bay tour operators, including charter fishing companies, scuba and snorkeling vendors, and Whale Watching operators depart from the docks of Marina Vallarta. Cruise ship passengers can simply stroll from their ship to depart on a fabulous Whale Watching adventure.

If you'd like to grab a bite to eat or do a little souvenir shopping, there are plenty of options within walking distance of the Maritime Terminal. There are some nice restaurants and bars with amazing panoramic views of the harbor at resorts such as or Vista Club Playa de Oro, Flamingos, or Iguana. You can easily find a spot to enjoy a fabulous Pacific sunset over Banderas Bay. In addition to boutiques selling local products, American shopping is also available at Wal Mart and Sam's. If you are suffering from internet withdrawal, there are several internet cafes close by, such as El Kiosko and Internet B@r.

The most convenient methods of transportation from the MaritimeTerminal are the plentiful taxi cabs that meet departing cruise ship passengers at the docks. A less expensive transportation option is the bus travel. Busses can be caught on Avenue Francisco Medina Ascencio (the main road into Puerto Vallarta). If you are looking for a little independence, rental cars are readily available – please check with your insurance company to make sure you are covered in Mexico.