| | |  News from Around Banderas Bay 
Sailing on the Bay of Banderas
 David Schoenberg & Darlene Ball - PVNN
June 11, 2010
| | If you choose to sail on Ada, trips can be arranged for small groups or an intimate private charter for 2. For more information, visit AdaSailing.com. | |
No trip to Puerto Vallarta would be complete without a day on the Bay of Banderas. One way to enjoy the day is on an intimate beautifully restored 45 foot ketch. Our choice was aboard the sailboat Ada.
Our day began as we arrived at Los Peines Marina just adjacent to Marina Vallarta. We were greeted at the gate by Captain Ernesto along with several large Green Iguanas who were enjoying some quality time climbing the trees. As we walked along the docks past pangas and crews working on their boats we arrived at the Ada.
We were then introduced to our crew who showed us around and immediately welcomed us with a cold beverage. As Captain Ernesto eased Ada away from the slip the marina quickly gave way to the Bay of Banderas.
We motored out of the channel and turned into the wind as the main sail was being raised. We began heading north toward Nuevo Vallarta. As we passed Boca de Tomates we saw and heard many families out enjoying their day at the beach.
It didn't take long before the jib was raised and we were completely under sail. Wildlife like pelicans, Frigate Birds, and dolphins joined us on our northward tack. While sailing, you can choose to listen to a variety of music selections from the likes of James Taylor, Michael Buble, Jimmy Buffett, or any number of genres you can think of. Of course you can also choose to turn down the music and listen to the sound of the waves caressing the boat or the chirps of the sea birds overhead.
Marta, our chef for the day served us a tray of blue corn tortilla chips with fresh guacamole while she offered to refresh our drinks. Choices ranged from champagne, margaritas, beer, wine, and soft drinks. Something to quench anyone's thirst under the warm Mexican sun.
Conditions were perfect for sailing with 83 degrees and a 10 knot wind from the west. It kept us moving steadily toward Punta de Mita. Captain Ernesto asked if we wanted to go for a swim and snorkel as he knew a peaceful cove ahead, but conditions were so perfect we opted to continue our sail.
As our captain turned the boat to the south we found ourselves on a perfect course towards Los Arcos. A trip that would dissect the Bay and allow us a relaxing 1 hour journey to our swim and snorkel spot. It also provided the opportunity to have a delicious bruschetta prepared by Marta in the galley below.
With Los Arcos approaching the crew lowered the sails and positioned Ada carefully just a few meters away from a sea cave where we anchored to enjoy some swimming and snorkeling before lunch. Ernesto provided a mask, snorkel and fins just before jumping into the refreshing bay waters. As we snorkeled toward the sea cave several brightly colored varieties of fish surrounded us which created a memorable experience and a refreshing way to cool off.
While we were enjoying the waters, Marta and Ernesto were preparing a gourmet lunch in a romantic setting at the back of the yacht. After showering off, we were served a hearty meal consisting of sautéed shrimp in a light cream sauce with fresh vegetables that paired wonderfully with a chilled Chardonnay. Although we were quite full from our lunch we were presented with a delectable flan prepared by Ernesto's daughter for dessert.
With the anchor raised and the sails back up Ada cruised just west of Los Arcos towards Mismaloya where we were dazzled by stunning cliff side villas that were fit for royalty. (Which is how we felt during our time aboard Ada.) After passing beneath the setting used by John Houston to film Night of the Iguana with Richard Burton and Ava Gardner, we turned towards the east on our journey back to the marina.
Along the way we hugged the coastline passing Zona Romantica and Los Muertos Beach. We cruised along the Malecón viewing it from a perspective few tourists get to see.
As the sails were lowered for the last time we turned back into the channel toward Ada's home. Knowing our journey was coming to an end we hoisted our final beverage and toasted with champagne to Ernesto and his crew, who provided us with a day that we will not soon forget.
If you choose to sail on Ada, trips can be arranged for small groups or an intimate private charter for 2. The choice is yours. The captain and crew will cater the trip to your needs. For more information, visit AdaSailing.com.
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