Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – One of Puerto Vallarta’s most iconic attractions is preparing for a long-awaited comeback. The company operating the Marigalante II galleon has confirmed that the ship will officially begin tourist service on December 29, restoring a familiar and beloved presence to the Vallarta coastline.
The timing of the return is significant, coinciding with the December holiday season, one of the most important periods for tourism in the region. Visitors and residents alike will once again see the distinctive silhouette of the galleon sailing across Banderas Bay, marking a new chapter for an experience deeply connected to the city’s identity.
The arrival of the Marigalante II represents a fresh chapter following the loss of the original wooden vessel, which served the bay for nearly three decades before its retirement in October. While the previous ship left behind a storied legacy, this successor is designed to carry that spirit forward into a new era. The transition ensures that the city’s deep-rooted pirate lore and nautical entertainment remain a staple of the local experience.
To cater to travelers of all ages, the ship will debut a dual-tour schedule that highlights different aspects of the region’s natural beauty, starting with the “Land of Pirates” day tour to Majahuitas Beach. This excursion begins with breakfast on board as the ship sails toward the southern coastline, where the crew immediately immerses passengers in a world of swordsmen and acrobatics. These high-energy pirate shows accompany the journey toward paradise, ensuring that the voyage is just as entertaining as the destination itself.
Upon reaching the secluded cove, the adventure continues both on the water and along the shore. Guests can dive into crystal-clear waters to snorkel among tropical fish, explore the coastline by kayak, or enjoy a high-speed adrenaline rush on a banana boat. After a morning of exploration and beachside recreation, a full lunch is served to refuel the adventurers before they head back to port. This comprehensive experience seamlessly blends the thrill of maritime lore with the natural splendor of the Mexican Pacific.
As evening approaches, the galleon shifts its focus to the legendary sunsets that have made Puerto Vallarta a world-class destination. The “Pirates of the Bay” night tour transforms a standard sunset cruise into a high-energy theatrical event, where the themed decor of the ship serves as the backdrop for a production filled with acrobatics, sword fights, and stunning special effects. This immersive atmosphere provides a front-row seat to the horizon, allowing guests to witness the sky change colors from the deck of a vessel that feels truly alive with history.
Beyond the action on deck, the experience is defined by a commitment to hospitality and festive celebration. Guests can enjoy a selection of exquisite dishes served by a pirate crew that treats every passenger with a unique sense of honor. To keep the energy high throughout the voyage, an open bar ensures that glasses remain full while the show unfolds. This combination of fine dining and rhythmic entertainment ensures that the Marigalante II remains a centerpiece of the Vallarta coastline long after the sun goes down.
Reservations can now be made on the official website pirateshipvallarta.com. There you can find schedules, tour options, and availability.
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