Luxury Whale Watching Dinner Cruise in Cabo

A Closer Look at the Luxury Whale Watching Dinner Cruise in Cabo

If you’re dreaming of a sunset cruise along the coast of Cabo San Lucas, this luxury whale watching dinner cruise offers a blend of scenic beauty, marine encounters, and a tasty Mexican buffet. Priced at $145 per person, the 2.5-hour tour promises not just a chance to see whales (seasonally), but also to snap photos of the iconic Arch of Cabo San Lucas and enjoy a complimentary open bar. Guided by local experts, the experience is designed to pair natural wonder with a relaxed, festive atmosphere.

What we particularly like about this cruise is the combination of sightseeing and cuisine—a rare pairing on the water—and the insider stories that guides share, making the experience more meaningful. Plus, the air-conditioned transport to and from your hotel adds a touch of comfort to the day. On the downside, the $2 dock fee can feel like an extra, unanticipated cost, and some reviews hint at safety or equipment concerns, so it’s worth considering if these are deal-breakers for you.

This experience is best suited for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a relaxed, scenic outing that includes good food and potential marine sightings. However, those expecting a pristine, high-end vessel or a fully-equipped boat might be disappointed, considering some reviews have questioned safety and boat condition.

Key Points

• Includes scenic stops at iconic landmarks like the Arch, Lover’s Beach, and the Sea Lions Colony.
• Delicious Mexican buffet featuring grilled steak, BBQ chicken, guacamole, and fresh fruit.
• Open bar with national drinks, water, soda, and juices for travelers aged 18+.
• The tour is private, offering an intimate experience with your group.
• Potential marine sightings include whales (seasonal), dolphins, sea turtles, manta rays, and sea lions.
• Beware of extra fees like the $2 dock access charge, and be aware of mixed safety reviews.

An In-Depth Review of the Luxury Whale Watching Dinner Cruise

Starting with the Basics: What’s Included

For $145, this cruise promises a half-day escape that combines nature, culture, and cuisine. The pickup service (offered in most cases) simplifies logistics, especially after a day of exploring Cabo. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures you’re comfortable on the way to the marina, which is a big plus in the sometimes sweltering Cabo climate.

Once aboard, you’ll enjoy a Mexican buffet-style dinner featuring grilled steak, BBQ chicken skewers, and a variety of sides like vegetable rice, beans, chips, tortillas, and fresh fruit. For those of us who appreciate good food with our sightseeing, this is a definite highlight. The national open bar means you can sip on local drinks or sodas as the sun sets—adding a celebratory touch to the evening.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The cruise kicks off with a coastal cruise along Cabo’s famous beaches, including Medano Beach, the lively hub of beachside activity. We love how this part offers a gentle introduction to the area, giving you a chance to get your bearings and enjoy the views before reaching the main attractions.

Next, the boat stops briefly at the Sea Lions Colony, where you can snap photos of these playful creatures basking on rocks. Nearby, you’ll have a chance to catch the famous Arch of Cabo San Lucas, which is truly worth the camera clicks. The photo stop here is about 15 minutes—ample time to snap some memorable shots.

Finally, the cruise approaches Lover’s Beach, renowned for its clear waters and picturesque setting. It’s an ideal spot to relax and take in the panoramic views—though, on a sunset cruise, you’ll likely be enjoying the scenery from the boat itself rather than onshore.

Marine Life and Sightings: What’s Possible?

One of the best parts of this tour is the chance to see marine wildlife. If you’re traveling during whale season, you might catch a glimpse of humpback whales, a true highlight for nature lovers. The guides share insider stories and educational tidbits, adding depth to the experience.

However, reviews reveal some skepticism about marine sightings—“You’re risking your life if you get on this boat,” one reviewer laments, citing safety concerns and fumes. Marine encounters are not guaranteed, but the possibility of seeing dolphins, sea turtles, manta rays, and sea lions keeps the experience exciting.

The Boat and Safety Considerations

While the tour is marketed as luxury and private, some reviews paint a different picture. One reviewer harshly described the boat as not the one pictured and expressed concerns over diesel fumes, lack of safety equipment like life preservers, and poor radio communication. This warrants caution—if safety and comfort are your priorities, it’s worth doing extra research or reading recent reviews.

The Price and Overall Value

At $145 per person, you’re paying a premium for the experience, but it’s vital to weigh what you’re getting: scenic vistas, a decent meal, drinks, and potential wildlife sightings. While the food and open bar are definite benefits, the mixed reviews about boat safety and conditions should temper expectations. It might be best for those who prioritize the scenic and culinary experience over the boat’s luxury or safety features.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is suited to families with children aged 4 and up, groups wanting a private, relaxed evening, and travelers eager to combine sightseeing with a meal. If your goal is a safe, smooth ride with guaranteed marine sightings, you might want to explore other options. But if you’re after a fun, scenic, and tasty outing, this could fit the bill—just keep your expectations in check and review recent feedback.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Your Time?

This luxury whale watching dinner cruise offers a combination of stunning scenery, good food, and a relaxed vibe, especially if you enjoy sightseeing with a casual meal and drinks. The views of the Arch and Lover’s Beach are undeniably beautiful and memorable. The buffet dinner and open bar elevate the experience, making it feel more like a celebration than just a boat ride.

However, the safety concerns and mixed reviews regarding the boat itself remind us to approach this tour with a bit of caution. It’s not the most luxurious vessel, nor is it likely to satisfy those expecting a pristine, high-end experience. Still, for those wanting a casual, scenic outing with the chance of marine wildlife, it offers good value.

If you’re a nature enthusiast, keen on photography, or just looking for a fun, relaxing evening on the water, this cruise can be a decent choice—just do your homework and consider your priorities before booking.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is typically included, which makes transportation hassle-free, especially after a busy day exploring Cabo.

How long does the cruise last?
The entire experience lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes, including stops and sightseeing.

Are marine sightings guaranteed?
No, marine life sightings like whales or dolphins are not guaranteed. The tour offers the possibility, especially during whale season.

What food is served onboard?
A Mexican buffet featuring grilled steak, BBQ chicken, guacamole, vegetable rice, beans, chips, tortillas, and fresh fruit is included.

Is alcohol included in the price?
Yes, there is a national open bar serving drinks to travelers 18 and over, with non-alcoholic options for minors.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Absolutely, children aged 4 and above can participate, but they should be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, a $2 dock access fee is payable per person, which is not included in the ticket price.

To sum it up, this cruise offers a blend of scenic vistas, wildlife potential, and good food in a relaxed setting. It’s best suited for those valuing the overall experience over high-end boat amenities or guaranteed marine sightings. As with any tour, reading recent reviews and considering your own expectations will ensure it’s a good fit for your Cabo adventure.