Cabo Catamaran Snorkel Arch and Santa Maria Bay Open Bar Snacks

If you’re headed to Cabo San Lucas and want a balanced taste of sea, scenery, and relaxation, this 3-hour catamaran tour offers just that. For $75 per person, you’ll enjoy floating in calm waters at Santa Maria Bay, snapping photos of the iconic Arch, and unwinding with drinks and light bites—all aboard a comfortable, mid-sized vessel called La Princesa. The experience is led by a friendly crew that emphasizes personal service, making it a great choice for families, couples, or anyone eager to see Cabo’s highlights without feeling overwhelmed by large crowds.

What truly sets this tour apart is its all-around value: quality snorkeling gear, an open bar, and extra water activities like kayaking and floating mats are included. We especially loved the intimate setting—shaded seating and front netting meant we could chat comfortably and get unobstructed views of the scenery. Plus, the itinerary hits all the classic sights, from the Sea Lion Colony to the Lovers Beach, along with a protected snorkeling spot in Santa Maria Bay.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour starts at 1:00 pm and doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off. If you’re looking for a super-sociable party boat or a private experience, this might feel a bit more laid-back. But if you want a well-rounded, scenic, and engaging half-day with good value, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace, friendly guides, and a mix of sightseeing and water fun. It’s ideal for those who want to avoid the chaos of larger boats while still enjoying all the classic Cabo highlights in one go.

Key Points

• Comfortable, mid-sized boat with shaded seating and front netting for great views
• Includes snorkeling gear and extra water activities like kayaking and floating mats
• Balanced itinerary with visits to the Arch, Lovers Beach, and Santa Maria Bay
• Open bar and snacks make for a relaxed, social atmosphere
• No hotel pickup/drop-off, so plan your logistics accordingly
• Free cancellation provides peace of mind in case your plans change

In-Depth Review of the Cabo Catamaran Tour

Starting Point and Meeting Logistics

We found the meeting process straightforward. The tour departs from D Dock in the Cabo San Lucas Marina, right in front of the Luxury Avenue Mall behind Plaza Puerto Paraiso. Once there, a friendly representative helps you check in and board the vessel. The meeting at 1:00 pm means you have the afternoon free to explore nearby before heading out on the water.

The marina location is convenient, especially if you’re staying nearby or plan to do some light shopping or dining beforehand. Since the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, it’s best to coordinate your own transport—many hotels are within walking distance or accessible by taxi.

The Vessel: La Princesa

The boat itself is a mid-size catamaran, striking a good balance between intimacy and comfort. We appreciated the shaded seating areas, which provided relief from the Mexican sun. The front netting is perfect for lounging while enjoying the views and taking photos—an activity we found irresistible at each scenic stop.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: D Dock

The departure point is simple to find, and the staff is welcoming. You’ll want to arrive a little early to settle in, especially if you have questions or want to double-check your snorkeling gear.

Stop 2: El Arco de Cabo San Lucas

The iconic Arch is perhaps Cabo’s most photographed feature. The boat pauses here for about 25 minutes, giving everyone ample time for photos and to admire the marine life around the rocks. From this vantage point, the views of the sea lion colony and Lovers Beach are spectacular, especially with clear weather.

We loved the opportunity to snap pictures from the boat, but the real highlight here is just soaking in the scenery. It’s a classic Cabo moment that feels authentic without the crowds that sometimes come with larger tour groups.

Stop 3: Lovers Beach

Passing by Lovers Beach is a quick, scenic stop. The view from the boat shows why this stretch of sand is so famous. No long layover here, but enough time to appreciate its beauty and snap a few photographs.

Stop 4: Santa Maria Beach for Snorkeling

This is the heart of the tour. Santa Maria Bay is a protected marine sanctuary, renowned for its calm, clear waters and tropical fish. The water is often so tranquil that even beginners can easily enjoy snorkeling. The provided gear is in good condition, and we appreciated that the crew made sure everyone knew how to use it.

Guests noted that “Santa Maria Bay offers calm, clear waters and abundant tropical fish that make it an ideal location for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.” The marine environment here is vibrant but not overwhelming—perfect for a relaxed underwater experience.

Stop 5: Return Cruise with Open Bar

The final hour is all about unwinding. The crew offers a domestic open bar, serving beer, soft drinks, and sometimes cocktails, along with light snacks. The laid-back atmosphere—music, ocean views, and friendly chatter—makes the return trip feel like a mini beach party.

Reviewers mention that “the atmosphere is laid-back, with music and ocean views to enjoy as we head back to the marina.” It’s a nice way to cap off the tour, sharing drinks and stories with fellow travelers.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers good value, with snorkeling gear, the boat ride, visits to key sights, open bar, and snacks included. Additional costs like towels or photos are not covered, and the tour does not include hotel transportation.

While some travelers might wish for pickup options, the central marina location compensates for that. The crew is friendly and communicative, ensuring everyone understands what’s included and what to expect.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

Even though reviews are limited, the overall sentiment is positive. Travelers appreciated the personalized service and the well-paced itinerary. One noted, “We loved the way the crew took the time to make sure everyone was comfortable and had fun,” highlighting the attentiveness of the staff.

The snorkeling experience gets high marks for its calm waters and lively fish, making it accessible for all skill levels. The scenic stops, especially at the Arch and Lovers Beach, deliver classic Cabo views without feeling overly commercial.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early at D Dock to streamline check-in.
• Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat—shade is available, but sun exposure can add up.
• Towels aren’t provided, so pack one if you plan to swim.
• Confirm your transportation options beforehand, as hotel pickup isn’t included.
• Consider purchasing photos if you want souvenirs of your trip.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best for travelers looking for a relaxed, well-rounded half-day that combines scenic sightseeing, snorkeling, and socializing. It’s ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers who want to enjoy Cabo’s top sights comfortably and affordably. Nature lovers will appreciate the protected marine environment, while those seeking lively atmosphere will enjoy the open bar and friendly crew.

If you prefer large party boats or private charters, this may feel a bit more subdued. But if you want a friendly, authentic experience with good value, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

Final Thoughts

The Cabo Catamaran Snorkel Arch and Santa Maria Bay tour offers a solid combination of scenery, water activities, and laid-back fun. The inclusive snorkeling gear, scenic stops, and open bar make it an enjoyable way to see Cabo’s highlights without the crowds or hefty price tags.

The personalized feel of the mid-size vessel and the attention to comfort mean you’re not just another face in the crowd. It’s a sensible choice for travelers who want a straightforward, enjoyable, and reasonably priced marine adventure that captures the essence of Cabo.

Whether you’re after underwater sights, iconic landscapes, or just some time to relax with a drink, this tour gives you a pretty good taste of what Cabo has to offer—at a price that’s hard to beat.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to make your way to D Dock in the marina for check-in.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a towel if you plan to swim or snorkel. Towels are not provided.

How long is the snorkeling stop at Santa Maria Bay?
You’ll spend about one hour snorkeling in the protected waters of Santa Maria Bay, enough time to see plenty of marine life.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, the tour features an open bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, plus light snacks during the return cruise.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour generally accommodates up to 52 travelers, ensuring a friendly atmosphere without overcrowding.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, and you’ll receive a full refund.

This tour offers a practical, enjoyable, and well-priced way to experience some of Cabo’s best sights and activities—all with a relaxed, friendly vibe. For those wanting a taste of Cabo’s iconic scenery, vibrant marine life, and ocean-side socializing, it’s well worth considering.