Some stories the sea refuses to let go of. It holds them under the water for a while, and just when you least expect it, it brings them back to shore in a different shape, but with the same soul. That's exactly what has happened in Puerto Vallarta with the Marigalante II, the pirate galleon now sailing back into the horizon of Banderas Bay, and here at Hacienda Buenaventura we're celebrating the way a family celebrates: with pride and with a story worth telling well.
If you spent an evening in Puerto Vallarta before October 2025, you probably remember that silhouette of triangular sails outlined against the sunset. It was part of the scenery, almost part of the Vallarta family. This is the story of how it left, and how it came back.
A goodbye no one expected
In October 2025, after nearly three decades as a tourist and cultural symbol of Puerto Vallarta, the original Marigalante galleon suffered a mechanical failure at sea. Water began flooding the engine room, and despite the crew's efforts and a swift response from the Mexican Navy and Jalisco's Civil Protection agency, the vessel ultimately sank in Banderas Bay. Fortunately, the ship wasn't carrying tourists at the time, only its technical crew, and everyone was rescued safely.
The news struck a deep chord in the community. For many local and visiting families, the Marigalante was more than just a tour: it was part of their best vacation memories, those nights of dinner, music, and fireworks over the sea that stay with you forever.
A journey worthy of legend
The pirate spirit, however, doesn't sink so easily. The operating company announced that a sister ship —the Jolly Roger, which had been sailing in Cancún— would take up the flag. So began a journey of more than a month: crossing the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, and the Pacific Ocean, until finally reaching Banderas Bay in late December 2025.
"The sea keeps the stories that truly matter. Sometimes they just change ships."
Before beginning its new life under the name Marigalante II, the crew made a stop that will stay in Puerto Vallarta's memory: they sailed to the exact spot where the original galleon sank and paid tribute to it at sea. It was a quiet, respectful close, right before a welcome full of celebration: Vallarta locals gathered on the Malecón, greeting the new ship with the lights of their phones while it answered with its foghorn under a sky lit up with fireworks.
Since December 29, 2025, the Marigalante II has officially resumed its tourist excursions, and today it's once again that point on the horizon so many had missed.
Two ways to experience the adventure
Day tour
The daytime excursion includes breakfast on board, an open bar, a pirate show with swordsmen and acrobatics, and a destination that's easy to fall in love with: the shores of Banderas Bay, perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and family water activities.
Night tour
The night excursion departs from the Puerto Vallarta Maritime Terminal at sunset and combines dinner, an open bar, sword fights, rope acrobatics, and a fireworks finale that lights up the entire bay. It's the festive version of a tradition that's already part of this destination's identity.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Marigalante II?
It's Puerto Vallarta's new pirate ship. It arrived in Banderas Bay in late 2025 to carry on the tradition of the original galleon.
What happened to the original Marigalante pirate ship?
It sank in October 2025 after nearly 30 years of service in Puerto Vallarta, due to a mechanical failure at sea. No one was injured.
Where does the Marigalante II tour depart from?
It departs from the Puerto Vallarta Maritime Terminal, just steps from the Malecón and the northern hotel zone.
Is there a Mexican hacienda-style hotel near the Maritime Terminal?
Yes, Hacienda Buenaventura is just minutes by car from the Maritime Terminal, with tropical gardens, Mexican gastronomy, and temazcal at Piedra Viva Spa.
Is it a good plan for families?
Yes, both tours —day and night— are designed for all ages, with shows and water activities for kids.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially during high season, since it's one of Puerto Vallarta's most popular tours.
Ready to live your own story in Puerto Vallarta? At Hacienda Buenaventura, we welcome you with tropical gardens, traditional Mexican gastronomy, and the warmth of a home away from home, just minutes from where the new Marigalante II sets sail. Discover our offers and experience Puerto Vallarta the way it's meant to be lived: with tradition, sea, and Mexican hospitality.