La Marigalante: The Galleon that Sails Through the Heart of Puerto Vallarta

A Treasure Sailing Between History and Fantasy

There are experiences that are not only lived — they are remembered with a smile every time you tell the story. Such is the feeling when you step aboard La Marigalante, the iconic pirate ship of Puerto Vallarta, a majestic replica of Christopher Columbus’ Santa María caravel. Built between 1980 and 1987 from more than 30 types of tropical wood — including lignum vitae, mahogany, and cedar — this magnificent vessel was created by the civil association Mar, Hombre y Paz (“Sea, Man and Peace”) to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the Discovery of America. Her journey began in Veracruz, crossed the Atlantic, and visited dozens of ports around the world, sailing more than 52,000 nautical miles before finding her final home in the beautiful Bay of Banderas.

A Legend Recognized Around the World

Today, La Marigalante is not only a historical treasure but also one of Puerto Vallarta’s most awarded tours. In 2025, it received the prestigious Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award, ranking among the world’s best-rated tourist experiences, with an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars and over 1,800 glowing reviews calling it “unmissable.” Its magic lies in the perfect blend of history, showmanship, and the warm hospitality that defines Vallarta.

“Boarding the pirate ship feels like traveling through time — but with a joyful heart and the Pacific breeze on your face.”

— Mar de Momentos

Two Adventures, One Pirate Spirit

Land of Pirates – Day Tour

By day, families become adventurous crews.

The journey includes snorkeling, kayaking, beach games, a treasure hunt, delicious food, and lively entertainment for all ages.

Pirates of the Bay – Night Tour

As night falls, the ship lights up and the magic begins:

A gourmet dinner, open bar, sword fights between pirates, live music, humor, and fireworks over the sea.

A romantic, fun-filled experience that has become a beloved nighttime tradition in Puerto Vallarta.

An Essential Part of Vallarta’s Soul

More than just a tour, La Marigalante embodies the spirit of Puerto Vallarta — adventure, family, spectacle, and that warm touch that turns every night into a story worth telling.

Located right by the Maritime Terminal, only minutes away from the Malecón and Buenaventura Grand Hotel, this experience perfectly complements both family vacations and romantic getaways.

Each voyage aboard La Marigalante reaffirms why Puerto Vallarta is not just a destination you visit — it’s one you live and feel.

Memories That Become Tradition

From children discovering their first treasure to adults toasting at sunset, La Marigalante has a special way of uniting generations under the same starry sky. This ship doesn’t just sail the ocean — it sails through emotions: laughter, wonder, surprise, and that sweet nostalgia of not wanting the night to end.

Here, every wave tells a story. And every visitor, no matter their age, becomes part of the legend.

In Puerto Vallarta, adventures aren’t only lived on land — they’re also sailed. And every night that La Marigalante raises her sails, the sea once again tells the story of a destination where fun, family, and wonder always move in the same direction.

Each voyage leaves an unforgettable memory, and every wave carries the echo of a great moment.

Q&A

Where is the pirate ship La Marigalante located?

It departs from the Maritime Terminal of Puerto Vallarta, just minutes from downtown and the Malecón boardwalk.

What’s the difference between the day and night tours?

The day tour includes snorkeling, beach time, and water activities; the night tour features dinner, an open bar, and an exciting pirate show with fireworks.

Is it suitable for small children?

Yes! La Marigalante is designed for families, offering kid-friendly entertainment and attentive onboard service.

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes, especially during high season. You can reserve directly on the official website: pirateshipvallarta.com/en.

Why is this ship so famous?

Because it’s a replica of the Santa María, has sailed more than 52,000 nautical miles, and today stands as one of Puerto Vallarta’s most awarded and photogenic attractions.

What makes La Marigalante special in Puerto Vallarta?

La Marigalante is a faithful replica of Columbus’s Santa María, recognized with the 2025 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award and considered one of the must-do experiences in Puerto Vallarta. It offers both day and night tours with live shows, dinner, open bar, and breathtaking views of Banderas Bay.