For Phoenix travelers, the ocean is the whole point, and a Punta Mita boat tour delivers it in style. Nonstop flights from PHX reach Puerto Vallarta in under three hours, and a short drive takes you to La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, the marina that serves Punta Mita and the Riviera Nayarit. There, Rayando el Sol, our Tanna 47ft luxury catamaran, is chartered privately for your group of up to 16 guests. Trade dry desert heat for a sea breeze and plenty of shade: cruise toward the Marietas Islands, snorkel in clear water, paddleboard, ride the underwater sea scooters or float on the lilypad off the stern. A private chef prepares a four-course gourmet menu, and the open bar keeps craft cocktails, mocktails and cold drinks coming all day. The 3-hour sunset cruise for up to 12 guests is the easy choice for couples and small groups. From December to March, humpback whales are often seen in Banderas Bay. It's a short flight to the kind of water day Arizona can't offer.