Esta publicación también está disponible en: English Español
When Philip Manly, owner of Vallarta Yacht Rentals, invited my colleague Max Buendía and me to experience his sunset cruise aboard his yacht “Escándalo,” we couldn’t resist. As a true vallartense and beach lover, I thought it would be a perfect opportunity to change my perspective on one of my most ingrained habits: watching the sunset.
One Thursday afternoon, around 4 p.m., we headed to BRUMA Café & Cocktails in Marina Vallarta. This cozy spot is the meeting point for the company’s tours. While we waited for all the attendees, the crew offered us a complimentary first drink—a refreshing Margarita. As we sipped, we began to socialize and get to know a little about who would be joining us on board. Max and I quickly connected with a gay couple from Florida who were visiting the port for a week. Our host, Philip (who likes to be called Felipe), made us feel welcome with his warm demeanor.
Shortly before 5 p.m., we set off toward the dock where the captain and the boat’s crew were waiting. Escándalo is a 48-foot vessel with outdoor and indoor lounge areas, ideal for up to twelve people.
Soon after, we were underway. The yacht began its journey to leave the Marina and, as it approached the cruise ship section, we were surprised by an unusual sight: three immense Princess cruise ships were docked at Puerto Mágico, and we had to stop for a few minutes as one of them was about to leave the bay. It was quite a spectacle to witness its size, its movement to depart the maritime terminal, and the official exit procedures, which Felipe explained to us in detail. Subsequently, we left this area to sail the waters of the bay in all their splendor.
The friendly Vallarta Yacht Rentals crew offered us more drinks and a charcuterie board that delighted our palate as we chatted. Other delicious appetizers were offered throughout the trip, including beef dumplings, skewers, spring rolls, and crackers with cheeses, accompanied by jams and sauces.
As we traveled the route toward Los Arcos de Mismaloya National Park, we enjoyed the sight of dolphins jumping, the view of the city illuminated by the gentle afternoon sun, and a sunset oriented toward the south of the bay and accompanied by large clouds. Every sunset is special in the bay, but this one felt truly unique. Shortly before the sun dipped below the horizon, we took a moment for individual and group photos. We definitely wanted to immortalize this moment.
The cruise atmosphere was very relaxed, accompanied by pleasant music that ranged from ’80s disco classics to current pop hits, all played at a moderate volume so as not to interrupt conversation.
Upon arriving at Mismaloya, we could appreciate the birds flying over the national park after sunset—countless specimens making their characteristic calls. A feast of nature that is worth appreciating at least once.
After another round of photos with these spectacular rocks as a backdrop, we began the return journey at a moderate speed, which allowed us to appreciate the illuminated city skyline as night fell.
Arriving back at port around 8 p.m., we said goodbye to Felipe and his crew, offering a tip for such a special experience and treatment. Since it was Market Thursday (Jueves de Mercado), we stayed a little longer to enjoy the atmosphere and admire the handicrafts, art pieces, and food offered by local producers.
For more information about Vallarta Yacht Rentals, visit their website: https://vallartayachtrentals.com.
Photos and video by Max Buendía and Christian Velasco.
Esta publicación también está disponible en: English Español
