San Felipe watersports - Inflatable banana boat

Imagine what your friends and family will say when you tell them you rode a giant banana in San Felipe through the Sea of Cortez! They may be confused, which is when you will clarify that it was actually a huge, inflatable boat in the shape of banana. You’ll then explain to them what a fun and unique experience it was and that EVERYONE should try a banana boat ride when they’re in San Felipe.

As you walk the Malecon or soak up the sun on the beach, you’ll see a lot of activity, both in the water and on the coast. You’ll see fishing boats heading out to Konsag Island, you’ll see people clamming on the coast, and you’ll even see people flying high in what looks like a flying go-kart, also known as an ultra light plane. The calm waters and sandy beaches of San Felipe are major tourist attractions for this busy city, and there is always something new and exciting to do in or around the water. 

If you’ve tried everything else on the beach and want to try something new with some adventure, look for a group of people riding a long inflatable banana boat in the water, and head over to the stand to get in line for the next ride 

The inflatable banana boat seats 6-8 people comfortably and is pulled by a panga boat, If there are small kids on board, the panga boat captain will take it easy and pull the banana boat at a slow and gentle speed. If the group is mostly teenagers or adults, the captain will step on the gas a little harder and pull the boat quickly through the water for an exciting ride though the water. The waves off the coast of San Felipe are usually very mild, so you won’t have to worry about a bumpy or uncomfortable ride. Everyone on board is given life jackets, and there are handles on each side of the boat to grab onto. If you do fall off, the boat captain will circle around and come back to get you. Getting back onto the boat is easy, and you can continue your ride without a hitch.

The boat ride lasts about 30 minutes and costs $20-$30 per rider. Just like many other activities in Mexico, prices can be negotiated, so barter with the captain and see what kind of deal you can get. 

“The banana boat ride was so fun! Our boat captain talked and joked with us while we were getting set up with our life jackets and everyone was really friendly. We asked to go slow at first, but once we got a hang of it, he really turned it up a notch and we were going fast! 30 minutes is MORE than enough time out there, and it was a fun way to be in the sun but still stay cool. We were walking down the Malecon close to The Taco Factory when we saw the banana boat rental sign. We got right on and had a blast!”

Mark, Portland Oregon

Regardless of what company you go through for your banana boat experience, you can expect a friendly and professional team who will walk you through the entire process. Safety is always the main concern, so a banana boat rental team member will assist you with your life jacket, describe the boat to you and show you how to properly mount the boat. They will also give you tips on how to sit and lean depending n the speed of the boat when it is in motion. The team members will show you the best way to grip the ropes and handles for a safe and comfortable ride. These companies are used to working with tourists, and almost everyone you come in contact with regarding the banana boats will speak English. 

San Felipe is a mecca for water sports, and everyone should give the large, inflatable banana boat rides a try!  If you are staying in a fully furnished condo or vacation home on El Dorado Ranch Resort, the Malecon is just a short walk from the resort, making riding a banana boat in the middle of the day totally possible!