Ultimate Whale Watching Experience All-Inclusive

This is a daytime whale watching cruise in the Bay of Banderas aboard stable yachts, set up as an all-inclusive outing. It lasts about 180 minutes and focuses on humpback whales, with the chance of seeing other marine life along the way.

Humpback whale season runs from December to March, when the whales choose the area as their winter home to breed, give birth and raise their young. Besides humpbacks, you may also come across sea turtles, rays, dolphins and seabirds, as well as the coastline itself. The listing speaks of chances, not guarantees, so treat sightings as likely rather than certain.

On board, the crew and a cruise director follow current whale watching conditions and choose viewing options accordingly. The boat cruises to various spots in the bay while everyone scans the horizon for fins and tails. The staff also look after your safety and make sure you are enjoying yourself.

The all-inclusive part covers snacks, breakfast and an open bar with water, coffee, juices, sodas, mineral water, margaritas, beer, wine, tequila and piña colada. The listing also mentions guacamole and chips. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, and gratuities are optional and extra.

This is an easy outing for most people. Infants must sit on an adult's lap, public transportation is nearby, and all fitness levels are welcome. The minimum drinking age is 18. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are available if you tell the operator at booking, and the tour may be run by a multilingual guide.

Two practical points: you must choose your meeting place before submitting your reservation, so do not skip that step. And drones are prohibited, because of federal regulations and to protect the flight path of endemic birds.