Puerto Vallarta Maritime Terminal

The Marina Vallarta Maritime Terminal, where the enormous cruise ships dock, is located about 3 miles north of Puerto Vallarta's downtown. There are also facilities for berthing private vessels, such as yachts and sailboats. Most of the Bahia de Banderas tour vendors, including fishing charter boats, scuba diving and snorkeling operators, and whale watching outfits, head out from Marina Vallarta. Cruise ship passengers can merely saunter down the dock from their vessel to depart on a fabulous Snorkeling excursion.

If you are hungry, there are a number of great restaurants with fabulous views within walking distance. Sip on a tropical drink as you watch the sunset over Banderas Bay. Some of the best spots include Flamingos, Iguana, and Vista Club Playa de Oro. Shop for some great bargains on locally produced crafts and artwork at the local boutiques. If you are looking to stock up on some American products, Sam's Club and Wal Mart are also close by. If you need to satisfy your internet fix, stroll over to one of the internet cafes including Internet B@r and El Kiosko.

There are a number of transportation options available at the Maritime Terminal. Plenty of taxi cabs, perhaps the most convenient method of transportation in the area, will be lined up waiting for departing cruise passengers. The bus, a more cost efficient option, can be caught on the main road, Avenue Francisco Medina Ascencio. If you want to explore Puerto Vallarta on your own, rental cars are easily available, but be sure to check with your insurance company to ensure that you have coverage in Mexico.