"We are a passionate and adventurous team".
OUR TEAM
A Passionate Team
A Shared Purpose
At Whale Watchers Vallarta, our team brings together ocean lovers, scientists, oceanographers, marine biologists, naturalists, and experienced captains who share a deep commitment to marine conservation, education, and exceptional guest experiences.
Together, we create meaningful wildlife encounters that inspire a deeper appreciation for the ocean and the marine life that calls it home.
Our Mission
To connect people with the beauty and importance of the ocean, inspiring respect, awareness, and action to protect marine life.
Expertise in Marine Mammals.
Passionate & Multilingual Team.
Committed to Conservation.
Excellent Communication Skills.
As the founder and director of Whale Watchers Vallarta, Marisel has dedicated over 25 years to studying, protecting and sharing the extraordinary world of humpback whales in Banderas Bay.
25+ YEARS
of Whale Watching Experience & Marine Conservation
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Whale Watching Pioneer
A pioneer in whale watching in
Banderas Bay.
Whale Research
Expertise in Humpback whale and
dolphin behavior and Humpback Whale
Photo-Identification.
Marine Conservation Advocate
Involvement in Whale-watching
regulations in Banderas Bay and
responsible tourism.
Ocean Education
Contributor to HappyWwhale, Passionate
marine educator and meaningful wildlife
encounters.
Speaks Spanish and English.
We had an amazing 2.5 hour private tour from Punta Mita. Within minutes of leaving we had multiple whales swimming around us. The babies were so curious. Marisel was very informative and even though she sees them regularly her excitement was contagious. It was educational, fun and an all-around fantastic morning. Highly recommend!
BRIAN BURKE
MARISEL
OCEANOGRAPHER & FOUNDER
Mariano has extensive experience working with whales, dolphins, and sea turtles. He is passionate about marine conservation and sharing his knowledge through respectful and meaningful wildlife encounters around the world.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Marine Mammal Ecology and Behavior
Specializes in marine mammal ecology and
behavior.
International Whale Guide
Guides whale and dolphin watching tours in
Portugal.
Seasonal sperm whale swimming guide in
Dominica, Caribbean.
Sea Turtle Conservation
Experience in sea turtle conservation and nesting
protection.
Scuba Diving and Underwater Exploration
Experienced scuba diver and underwater explorer.
Sustainable and Responsible Tourism
Dedicated to ethical wildlife encounters and
sustainable tourism.
Marine Education
Passionate educator committed to ocean
conservation and awareness.
Speaks Spanish and English.
A carefully and thoughtfully curated adventure that places the well-being of the whales, sea turtles, and ocean at front and center. Mariano is a passionate and knowledgable marine biologist and a kind person, and it was an honor to go on a voyage with someone who shared a deep and authentic love of the natural world. Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding area is quite safe, and I can't imagine a better agency for a conservation-centered whale experience.
JUSTIN HEINZE
MARIANO
MARINE BIOLOGIST & INTERNATIONAL MARINE WILDLIFE GUIDE
International Whale and Dolphin Guide
Portugal, Dominica, and Mexico
JEANNE
NATURALIST & ECOTOURISM GUIDE
Beyond the Ocean: A Passion for
Wildlife, Nature & Exploration.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Wildlife and Nature Guide
Experienced guide specializing in sea turtle
watching, tropical birdwatching, and other wildlife
encounters.
Nature Hikes and Ecotours
Guided hikes in Yelapa, Mismaloya, and
surrounding areas, exploring the region’s unique
natural landscapes.
Local Biodiversity
Knowledge of the diverse wildlife, tropical habitats,
and coastal ecosystems of Banderas Bay.
Conservation and Environmental Education
Passionate about wildlife conservation,
environmental awareness, and inspiring respect for
nature.
Sustainable and Responsible Tourism
Dedicated to creating meaningful nature
experiences that promote conservation and respect
for local ecosystems.
Speaks French, Spanish, and English.
Our Morning Whale Watching tour with Jeanne was an unforgettable experience! Her passion for dolphins and whales, and friendly personality made the trip truly special. She helped us understand the whales’behavior and made sure everyone had a wonderful time. Seeing humpback whales so close was the best part of our experience!
ALEXA TAYLOR
Jeanne has a deep passion for wildlife, nature, and outdoor exploration. She leads a variety of nature experiences in the region, sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm for the natural world and inspiring others to appreciate and help protect it.
KATHARINA
Actively Involved in Coral Reef Restoration in the Marietas Islands
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Marine Conservation and Research
Volunteer with GRIMMA Marine Mammal
Conservation, supporting marine mammal
conservation efforts.
Coral Reef Restoration
Currently involved in coral reef restoration projects
in the Marietas Islands, Banderas Bay, Mexico.
Scuba Diving and Freediving
Certified scuba diver and passionate freediver with
hands-on experience exploring marine
environments.
Whale Watching and Marine Wildlife Guide
Experienced in guiding whale-watching tours and
sharing knowledge about marine wildlife.
Ocean Stewardship
Committed to marine conservation, responsible
tourism, and raising awareness about the
importance of healthy ocean ecosystems.
Speaks German, Spanish, and English.
MARINE BIOLOGIST
This whale excursion was absolutely incredible. To be out with the whales and dolphins is something very powerful. The guide, Katharina and Captain made the tour not just informative but they had a true love and excitement for the ocean and animals that was sincere and gave me a new appreciation and perspective that I had no idea I would be made to feel a part of. The experience did not feel like a "tour". It was more like being shown an appreciation and accommodated to ensure I was comfortable and kept in the action. I felt like I was the only one on the tour. She took the time to teach me about the science and patters of the whales and specifics of the importance of the region but also have a very keen sense of allowing me to soak it in on my terms and enjoy the moment on my own. There was great security to enter the marina. I never had any kind of unsure or unsate feelings with all of the recent events of the local happenings. I cannot stress enough to not pass on this. It is a one of a kind experience. Not only because of the incredible marine wildlife but also the personal touch of my guide and Captain. An experience I will always have. Thank you Katharina and Captain.
This tour alone will make PV my vacation destination in Mexico. I will always go. Cheers!
ANDY ASHBROOK
Katharina is a marine biologist with a strong passion for ocean conservation and marine wildlife. She combines scientific knowledge with hands-on field experience, contributing to marine conservation, coral reef restoration, and responsible wildlife encounters in Banderas Bay and beyond.Volunteer with GRIMMA Marine Mammal Conservation
OUR CAPTAINS
EXPERIENCED AT SEA
Our experienced captains specialize in whale-watching and marine wildlife tours. With extensive knowledge of Banderas Bay, they navigate coastal waters safely and responsibly, helping guests enjoy exceptional wildlife-viewing opportunities while respecting the animals and their natural habitat.
YAHIR
ADRIAN
ERICK
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PROTECT AND INSPIRE