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On the afternoon of Sunday, December 21, 2025, residents and tourists in Puerto Vallarta witnessed the anticipated arrival of the vessel set to replace the iconic “Marigalante” pirate ship, which sank off the coast of Camarones Beach on October 10, 2025.
According to official sources, the original ship—which had spent nearly 30 years providing tours across the waters of Banderas Bay and was famous for its onboard fireworks displays—sank due to failures in its bilge system.
The new vessel, known as the Jolly Roger, arrives from Cancun, Quintana Roo, where it operated its pirate tour until officially closing operations there on October 20, 2025. This ship is a fully steel-hulled vessel that will be renamed “Marigalante II” to carry on the legacy of its predecessor.
After departing the Mexican Caribbean on November 10, 2025, the ship undertook a 41-day journey. It first headed toward Central America to transit the Panama Canal before entering Pacific waters and sailing north to its new home in Banderas Bay. The ship has a capacity for 252 passengers and 8 crew members.
Current Status and Operations
The Marigalante II is currently docked at the Maritime Terminal near Marina Vallarta. While the company Pirate Ship Vallarta has not yet opened reservations, their website features a subscription form for news and updates regarding the ship’s official launch. Additionally, the company announced via social media that the vessel will offer private group tours featuring dinner, an open bar, and live entertainment.
Public Expectation
Witnesses of the ship’s arrival shared videos and photos on social media, expressing widespread enthusiasm. Since the Marigalante II has arrived just ahead of Christmas and New Year’s Eve, expectations are high that the ship will once again captivate the public with a signature pyrotechnic display on New Year’s night.
For more information about the Marigalante II pirate ship, visit their official website or follow their Facebook page.
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