Esta publicación también está disponible en: English Español
Looking back at 2025, Puerto Vallarta experienced a year of dramatic shifts—from the heartbreaking loss of a maritime icon to developments in the city’s infrastructure and nightlife. Based on our readers’ interest, here is a look back at the stories that shaped the year, based on a review of our website, which recorded nearly 450,000 page views in 2025.
Pirate ship sinks off coast
The most read story of 2025 was the sinking of the Marigalante, a wooden pirate ship that served as a tour vessel in Banderas Bay.
The ship sank on Friday, Oct. 10, near the Los Arcos de Mismaloya marine park. The Civil Protection and Firefighters of Puerto Vallarta reported the incident began around 10 a.m. when the vessel took on water due to a failure in the bilge pumps. Choppy water conditions contributed to the hull’s failure.
Officials confirmed no tourists were on board when the ship went down. The crew of approximately 30 people evacuated safely with assistance from nearby vessels and emergency personnel. No injuries were reported.
The Marigalante was a replica of the Santa María, one of Christopher Columbus’ ships, and had operated as a floating venue for pirate-themed shows and dining for over three decades.
Following the incident, the ship’s operator, Naviera Juan de la Cosa, announced plans to replace the vessel. A steel-hulled ship, formerly known as the Jolly Roger in Cancún, arrived in Puerto Vallarta in late December to continue the tour operations under the name Marigalante II.
U.S. citizen found dead
Concerns regarding safety in the Romantic Zone drove significant traffic to reports of the death of a U.S. citizen in September. Henry Patrick Murphy, 58, was found dead in his condominium on Friday, Sept. 19.
Police discovered Murphy’s body in a unit at the D’esire building on Constitución Street after friends requested a welfare check. Authorities said Murphy had not responded to messages for several days.
The Jalisco State Prosecutor’s Office opened an investigation into the death. The incident drew high reader engagement, coinciding with wider community discussions regarding the safety of international residents and tourists in the Emiliano Zapata neighborhood.
Hurricane Priscilla
On Oct. 7, Hurricane Priscilla passed near the Jalisco coast, causing high waves and coastal flooding. The storm did not make direct landfall in Puerto Vallarta but generated sufficient storm surge to close major roadways.
The Traffic and Road Safety Department closed lateral lanes of Avenida Francisco Medina Ascencio near the hotel zone after seawater backed up through storm drains. In the city center, authorities cordoned off access to the Malecón at Morelos and Corona streets due to dangerous surf.
Terminal 2
Readers also tracked progress on Terminal 2 at the Puerto Vallarta International Airport. The new terminal, designed to be a “Zero Energy” facility, continued construction throughout the year. Operator Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP) stated the terminal would open in phases, with full operations expected by 2026.
Pride parade and business changes
Cultural events and business news in the LGBTQ+ district also garnered significant views.
The 2025 Puerto Vallarta Pride Parade took place on May 22. Organizers reported approximately 40 floats and groups participated in the procession through the Romantic Zone. The event theme, “There is no future without memory,” focused on the history of the local LGBTQ+ rights movement. City Councilwoman Melissa Madero served as the event’s “Ally of the Year.”
In local business news, the listing of La Noche bar for sale in January was widely read.. For over 20 years, La Noche has been a cornerstone of the city’s gay nightlife. This year, the community was surprised by the news that the business was officially for sale. As a “turnkey” opportunity, the sale marks the end of an era for owner Kevin Johnson and an opportunity for a new chapter in the Romantic Zone’s history.
Culture and Celebration
Despite the challenges, the spirit of Vallarta remained vibrant. The year kicked off with the annual Puerto Vallarta Carnival, filling the streets with color and music. Our community also turned out in record numbers for the Best of 2024 Voting, celebrating the local businesses and personalities that make the city unique.
On the artistic front, Puerto Vallarta’s talent reached the state level as the Dionisio Theater Group’s production, “2012: El Mundo se va a Acabar” (The World is Going to End), was selected to perform at the Jalisco State Theater Exhibition in Guadalajara. The biodrama, written by Juan Pablo Hernández, received high acclaim, showcasing the depth of Vallarta’s performing arts scene beyond the beaches.
Top 10 Stories
- Iconic Pirate Ship Marigalante Sinks In Puerto Vallarta
- U.S. Citizen Found Dead In Puerto Vallarta Condo Investigation Underway
- After Pirate Ship Sinking Sister Ship Set To Keep Pirate Legacy Afloat
- Michoacan Earthquake Felt In Puerto Vallarta
- Puerto Vallarta Carnival Begins This Weekend
- Puerto Vallarta Airport Terminal 2 Gradual Opening In 2025 Fully Operational By 2026
- Puerto Vallarta Gays Best Of 2024 Voting Now Open
- Vallarta Play To Shine At Jalisco State Theater Exhibition
- La Noche Bar For Sale
- Coastal Flooding Closes Roads Due To Hurricane Priscilla
Esta publicación también está disponible en: English Español
