What was I thinking? If you were expecting a lazy “boat ride” on the river, well, hold onto your hat - this is going to be a lot more fun than you expected! If you're looking for something totally different, fun, and exciting, then you won't be disappointed. There is nothing like going out for a “cruise” on a hovercraft. The sensations, views, and thrills are unlike those experienced on any other type of motorized craft.
 
Where do we go? Our cruises take you up and down the Ameca River in Nayarit, Mexico, between Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta. Unlike a powerboat, we get onboard the hovercraft on dry land, and then hover to the water – it’s exciting. Also unlike a powerboat, we don’t NEED water. We glide over sand bars and mudflats, over shallows, up and down rapids, and over all types of obstacles that would bring a conventional boat to a grinding halt.

Can this thing float? Absolutely. Our hovercraft meets all the U.S. Coast Guard requirements and is actually registered as a boat. We can shut down and float all day long, if that is what we want to do. And the craft is highly stable, owing to its wide beam, foam core construction, and flat bottom.It almost looks like a life raft!
 
How does a hovercraft operate? The Neoteric HoverTrek is powered by a single 100-HP, 3-cylinder, liquid-cooled aircraft engine, which drives a 28-inch ducted fan. The outflow from the fan is split, with most of the air passing through a rudder system to propel and steer the craft. The rest passes through a ductwork system that inflates the flexible “skirt” and provides the air cushion on which the craft rides. Unlike many other hovercraft, the HoverTrek has a thrust-reverser system, which allows the pilot to control and even reverse the direction of the propulsion air, so the craft can back up, stop, and maneuver very effectively.

What can we bring? From a safety standpoint, we don’t allow loose clothing or items that could fly off and get caught in the fan that’s powering us. Everything must be secured onboard for safety sake. You can bring your camera, but be careful about the spray!

What should we wear? Dress for sun and fun, and don't forget sun protection. Expect some wind and spray - it wouldn't be fun otherwise!

Is it hard to get in and out? Not at all. When parked on dry land, the hovercraft sits quite low, and it is very easy – even for those with restricted mobility - to simply step in and sit on the seat. Small children might need a little help getting seated and settled...

Is the hovercraft noisy? A hovercraft is propelled by an engine-driven ducted fan, so yes, it is somewhat noisy. It is MUCH quieter than an airboat, but louder than a snowmobile or wave runner.Special headsets are worn that allow you to talk with one another and listen to your tour guide/pilot.

How about safety? Safety is our primary concern. We always wear life vests, and you can expect a complete safety briefing before we start the engine and get moving. The Captain’s word is final when it comes to all safety matters. We also carry first aid and emergency communication equipment – just in case!

I’ve got to have one of these things. Where can I get one? Four and six-seat hovercraft are readily available. You can buy a complete, ready-to-go machine, or a kit (4-seat craft only) that you finish yourself. We can give you all the details, place your order, and even train you to operate your new hovercraft. Contact us for more information.

I have more questions. Can you help me? We would be happy to! Use our "contact" page to email Banderas Bay Hover Tours with any and all questions...