Rhythms of the Night: Cruise, Dinner & Show – Is it Worth it?

Over the years the Rhythms of the Night show has become the most popular entertainment attraction in the entire Puerto Vallarta area, making it the jewel in the crown of all the shows being offered locally. Its exotic location, the variety of musical elements, and the talented international artists have contributed enormously to its popularity and prestige.

The newly released version of Rhythms of the Night, ALMA, brings in a fresh load of imaginative content, renovated costumes, and cultural features… but does it measure up to the previous shows? Is this tour still worth the money, or has it lost its magic? Below is a thorough review of this popular tour, and our thoughts regarding the new show, ALMA!

Rhythms of the Night Review

In our opinion, the new version of the timeless Rhythms of the Night show, ALMA, is just as good as the original. It was truly a fantastic time from the moment you take the boat to the arrival at a virgin beach lit by torches and brought to life by the sounds of tropical music. While Rhythms of the Night can be the perfect romantic tour and the ideal romantic dinner on the beach, it can also be a great opportunity to have fun with a friend, a relative, and (why not?) by yourself. The smiling, attentive staff will make you feel among friends at all times and invite you to join the party. Nothing like a night celebration in a tropical paradise, right?

  • Departure Time: 7:00 PM
  • Duration:  5 hours approximately
  • Cancellation Policy: Full refund up to 24 hours in advance. 

The Cruise

The Rhythms of the Night experience begins during the boat ride, where you’ll be welcomed by friendly staff who will guide you to your seat and offer you drinks. There is an open bar for the entire boat ride, and alcoholic drinks are included and unlimited. The usual options of beer, margaritas, and a rum punch are readily available, but the bartenders can make you anything you’d like. The spectacular scenery and the boat trip prior to the show prepare you for what’s to come.

Set sail from Puerto Vallarta and enjoy a unique sunset over the waters of Banderas Bay. The music and joyful ambiance on the boat will keep your spirits high and ready for the big show. You’ll be offered drinks during the trajectory by the attentive staff and crew. If you’re on the tour between November and March, you’ll get to see some whales if you are lucky!

The boat rides are smooth since it is a large catamaran, but if you get seasick or motion sickness easily, we recommend taking some Dramamine.

After about an hour of cruising, you’ll arrive to the exotic Las Caletas beach where you’ll be guided through a sandy, torch-lit path (since there’s no electricity available there) all the way to your dining table. Next, you’ll be offered a delicious dinner by candlelight.

Dinner Menu

Take the time to satisfy your palate with a three-course dinner menu under the stars. It is quite the menu to choose from: a juicy grilled steak, a tasty catch of the day fish, crispy chicken breast, shrimp curry, or a fettuccine alfredo with mushrooms. All the food can be accompanied either by soft handmade tortillas, bread, or salad. There is even a cheese platter with Panela, Aged Manchego, and Gouda. But that’s not all, the dinner finale comes by way of a dessert buffet where you’ll be able to indulge in tropical fruits and delicious pastries such as Tres Leches cake, Mexican Buñuelos, flan, and more.

In our opinion, the food was not AMAZING, but it was good… the ambiance is what really makes it.

After dinner, you will be invited to the amphitheater, where hundreds of guests will be eager to witness the outdoor show.

The Show

This world-class performance executed by international artists and acrobats will keep you on the edge of your seat every minute. It is the kind of show you would expect to see in Las Vegas, Cirque du Soleil style with a Mexican twist.

The essence and sequence of the show flow like a masterpiece, bringing all the elements into a perfect symphony.  The torches, the lush jungle, the incredible costumes of the artists, the choreography, and the festive music make it just perfect. It is an outdoor amphitheater-style show, so the available seating is long benches (there are no cushions).

Finally, your fantastic night will conclude with a boat ride back to Puerto Vallarta as the ocean breeze caresses your face and the city lights on the horizon await your return. All in all, this fabulous experience brings your senses to life in a very special way.  The persistent sound of the waves, the jungle setting, the flickering torches, and the ocean breeze will undoubtedly transport you to a magical place where reality ends and the myth begins. It really is that extraordinary. 

Additional Info

The Rhythms of the Night tour is all-inclusive and is definitely not to be missed while visiting Puerto Vallarta. Below is some additional information you’ll need before buying your tickets.

What’s Included 

  • Cruise from Puerto Vallarta to the island
  • Unlimited open bar
  • 3-course candlelight dinner
  • Theatrical performance at the Pyramid Amphitheater

What’s Not Included

  • We recommend taking some cash for tipping if you feel like the service was well done (waiters and/or boat staff).
  • Hotel pickup and drop off
  • A port fee of $30 MXN must be paid in cash before boarding your boat.

VIP Package

  • Avoid the queue and pre-board the catamaran to enjoy a drink and find the best seat for the boat ride.
  • Priority entrance for the show.
  • Exclusive seating area at the amphitheater for the show. Most seats at the show provide good views, but front-row seating may be worth the extra money.
  • [ See Pricing ]

Rainy Season

If it rains, staff will provide umbrellas and rain ponchos. The show is designed to be held rain or shine, but sometimes the weather can get too intense with lighting and heavy rain. In these cases, the show will be canceled, and guests are offered a chance to change their date or choose a different tour to go on (of equal or less cost).

Our Suggestions

  • Wear comfortable shoes.
  • Bring mosquito repellent (especially in the summer).
  • Rhythms of the Night is a romantic tour especially designed for adults and couples. 
  • Be aware that it is not wheelchair accessible.

Prices & Tickets

We recommend buying tickets online at least 4 days in advance to due to limited availability.

en_USEnglish