Puerto Vallarta Cruise Guide

Puerto Vallarta masterfully plays the part of a remote tropical getaway, even as it grows into a larger city that's connected to the outside world by multinational chain stores and a steady stream of jets and cruise ships.

Looks have a lot to do with Puerto Vallarta's success. The city's whitewashed walls and terra-cotta-tiled roofs are nestled along Banderas Bay, with the ornate crown of the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe serving as a focal point. The lush, green foothills of the Sierra Madre mountains make for a beautiful and dramatic backdrop.

Puerto Vallarta's style is another key. Even as more and more travelers have arrived, and more and more hotels have been built, Puerto Vallarta (or "PV," as it's often called, particularly by gringos) has retained a cultured grace that's rare in heavily touristed areas. Artists, architects and chefs flourish in this rarified climate of tropical creativity. The restaurants, galleries and shops are some of the best in the country, drawing talent from Mexico City, Guadalajara, Italy, Switzerland and the U.S.

Cruise ships sail into Banderas Bay and dock at Terminal Maritima, expanded and remodeled in 2007. Tourist information is available in the terminal, and you'll also find local tour operators, immigration, souvenir shops, access to the Internet, taxis and a restaurant there. Just north of the terminal is Marina Vallarta, a yacht harbor and resort. Puerto Vallarta's Centro is about 5 minutes south of the terminal. Buses and taxis provide transportation. Just across the main highway is a shopping center including Liverpool, cafes, restaurants and boutiques.

Consider signing up for the excursions offered by your ship. They may not be the least expensive way to see the area, but you won't have to waste your limited time making arrangements yourself—and you won't have to worry about missing the ship. Shore excursions—and their prices—vary from cruise line to cruise line. Typical shore excursions offer tours of the city; beaches and the surrounding villages; day trips on the pirate ship Marigalante; zip-line excursions in the jungle; horseback rides; tequila tasting; swimming and snorkeling; or whale-watching excursions (December-March). Check with your travel agent or your ship's shore-excursion staff for additional information.