Forget austere and cramped tour boats from now on! Puerto Vallarta’s tourism scene just got a massive upgrade with the launch of the “Ferry Vallarta,” a modern passenger ferry designed to boost tourism along the Banderas Bay coastline.

Beginning in late January, a new maritime route will connect Puerto Vallarta with the Islas Marías, an archipelago of profound natural and historical significance situated about 70 miles west of the port. 

A new galleon has arrived in Puerto Vallarta to replace the Mari Gallante, which sank during a storm in the bay on October 10.

“Mar de Regalos” are the words on everyone’s lips in Puerto Vallarta this holiday season! It’s a joyful, citywide Christmas bash running from December 18 through January 1. This sun-kissed municipal celebration wraps the city in twinkling lights, music, tradition, and plenty of reasons to gather, laugh, and celebrate together.

Mexico’s Supreme Court (SCJN) has nixed the planned tourist tax on foreign visitors to Puerto Vallarta that was programmed to take effect in September.

Puerto Vallarta is a vibrant destination teeming with activity and excitement. However, if you’re looking to immerse yourself in some events that offer a more local feel, here are my three top recommendations for next week, each guaranteed to provide fun and a deeper connection with the culture of the area.