Discover the Beauty of Cabo San Lucas on a Glass Boat Tour
Picture yourself gliding over the calm waters of Cabo San Lucas, aboard a transparent glass boat that offers a clear view of the vibrant marine life beneath you. This tour, costing about $44 per person, lasts roughly two hours and takes you straight to the iconic Arch of Cabo San Lucas, one of Mexico’s most photographed natural landmarks. Along the way, you’ll encounter sea lions, marvel at fascinating rock formations, and enjoy the unique perspective of seeing marine creatures like colorful fish and manta rays swimming just below your feet.
What makes this experience truly memorable are two aspects: the crystal-clear view of marine life through the boat’s glass bottom, and the opportunity to see the sea lions up close at the Arch. We also appreciate that it combines natural beauty with a bit of local flavor, thanks to the included shopping, tequila tasting, and convenient pickup service.
A couple of considerations are worth noting. Some guests have mentioned transportation hiccups, and the tour’s group size is limited to 12 travelers, which can be both good for intimacy and a potential drawback if you prefer larger groups. Still, this tour suits those who love stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and a relaxed pace. If you’re after an authentic, value-packed adventure that blends nature, culture, and comfort, this tour could be a great fit.
Key Points
- Stunning Marine Views: The glass-bottom boat provides a unique perspective on colorful fish, manta rays, and sea lions.
- Iconic Location: The tour centers around the famous Arch of Cabo San Lucas, a must-see natural wonder.
- Additional Experiences: Opportunities for shopping in downtown Cabo and tequila tasting at Hacienda Tequila.
- Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 12 travelers, offering a more personal experience.
- Value for Money: At $44, it combines scenic beauty, wildlife, and cultural insights.
- Potential Transportation Concerns: Some guests report issues with the pickup service, so plan accordingly.
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in San Jose del Cabo
An In-Depth Look at the Glass Boat Tour
When you book this tour through Novo Tours, you’re signing up for a fairly compact but engaging two-hour experience that promises plenty of visual intrigue. Starting with a pickup (if included), we love the convenience it offers, especially when exploring a busy town like Cabo San Lucas. But as one reviewer pointed out, transportation can be a bit unpredictable — so be prepared for a little patience if things don’t go perfectly.
The Journey to the Arch
The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the cruise across the bay to the famed Arch of Cabo San Lucas. The boat itself is specially designed with a transparent glass bottom, a feature that elevates the experience beyond your typical boat ride. Imagine leaning over the rails as colorful fish dart beneath you, or catching a glimpse of a sea lion colony lounging on rocks nearby.
One guest, Isabelle_C, commented that it’s “cool that you can see the fish right under the boat,” and the marine fauna is indeed a major draw. The rock formations and towering cliffs framing the bay add dramatic scenery, making this a photographer’s paradise.
Wildlife Encounters
A major selling point here is the opportunity to observe sea lions in their natural habitat. At the Arch, you might see these playful animals basking on rocks or swimming nearby, adding a lively touch to the surroundings. Similar to what Edlynn_R experienced, the knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with interesting commentary, making the wildlife sightings even more rewarding.
The Rock Formations and the Arch
Once at the Arch, you can marvel at the natural sculpting that has shaped this iconic destination over thousands of years. It’s a photogenic spot, drawing visitors from all over the world. We love how the tour combines natural beauty with an up-close view of marine life, all from the comfort of a boat that feels like a floating aquarium.
Additional Activities
After the boat ride, you’ll get some free time in downtown Cabo San Lucas for shopping. The craft markets are perfect for picking up souvenirs, local crafts, or just wandering through the lively streets. Then, a visit to Hacienda Tequila offers a chance to taste and learn about Mexican liquors, adding a cultural flavor to your day.
Authenticity and Value
The price of $44 per person might seem modest for what you get: scenic boat ride, wildlife observation, shopping, and tasting experiences. Multiple reviews highlight the value of this tour, especially given the small group size that allows for a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere. For instance, Edlynn_R noted that the guides — Nacho and the captain — were “fantastic and very knowledgeable,” which truly enhances the experience.
Practical Considerations
While most travelers find the experience enjoyable, some do mention transportation issues. As one reviewer observed, the pickup process can be chaotic, and communication might not always be perfect. It’s advisable to confirm pickup details beforehand and be patient if delays occur.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is ideal for travelers who value authentic wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and cultural elements like tequila tasting. It suits those who appreciate small groups and are looking for a relaxed yet informative outing. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy natural scenery, marine life, and a bit of shopping and tasting, this experience hits the right notes.
Final Thoughts
In sum, the Tour to the Arch of Cabo San Lucas in a transparent glass boat offers a unique view of marine life combined with the chance to see the legendary Arch up close. The small group size, affordable price, and multifaceted experience make it a compelling option for anyone seeking a well-rounded, authentic taste of Cabo.
While transportation may pose some minor hurdles, the stunning scenery, marine wildlife, and cultural stops make this a worthwhile outing. It’s especially good for those who love nature, photography, and local flavors — all wrapped into a two-hour adventure that leaves plenty of room for exploring more of Cabo afterwards.
FAQ
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, but some guests have reported issues with finding the driver. It’s best to confirm your pickup details beforehand and arrive as instructed.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately two hours, including the boat ride, shopping, and tequila tasting.
What can I expect to see during the boat ride?
You’ll see marine fauna like fish of various colors, sea lions, and manta rays. You’ll also enjoy views of the rock formations and the Arch itself.
Is the boat comfortable for all travelers?
The boat is designed with a transparent glass bottom that allows everyone to see below. The ride is smooth, but be prepared for the small group size (up to 12), which keeps things cozy.
Can I purchase photos of the trip?
Yes, some guests mentioned that photos are available for purchase, but they are not included in the tour price.
Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the experience is generally family-friendly, especially if your kids enjoy marine life and scenic views.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Embark on this tour if you’re eager for a stunning view of Cabo’s natural beauty, and don’t mind a small bit of logistical hiccups. It’s a wonderful way to see the sea lion colonies, enjoy marine vistas, and add a touch of local culture with shopping and tequila tasting.
More Boat Tours & Cruises in San Jose del Cabo
- All-Inclusive catamaran Espiritu Santo Island Tour from Los Cabos
- Snorkel Boat and City Shopping Tour
- Half-Day Private Snorkel Sailing Adventure in Cabo San Lucas
- Private Luxury Sailing Cruise in Los Cabos with Lunch and Open Bar
- Sunset Dinner Show Cruise Tour in Cabo San Lucas
- Shared Cabo Sunset Cruise with Open Bar and Scenic Views
More Tours in San Jose del Cabo
More Tour Reviews in San Jose del Cabo
- Adventure Can-am X3 Turbo – 1 Driver & 2 Passenger! + Round Transportation
- Extreme Swing – Fly from the Glass Bottom Gondola
- Los Cabos Luxury Tesla Transfer from Airport to San José del Cabo Area
- One Way Airport Transfer from SJD-Hotel or Hotel-SJD San Jose del Cabo area
- Private Escalade Airport Transfer in Los Cabos
- Surf Lesson Tours (Full day)
More San Jose del Cabo experiences we've covered
- Adventure Can-am X3 Turbo – 1 Driver & 2 Passenger! + Round Transportation
- Extreme Swing – Fly from the Glass Bottom Gondola
- Los Cabos Luxury Tesla Transfer from Airport to San José del Cabo Area
- One Way Airport Transfer from SJD-Hotel or Hotel-SJD San Jose del Cabo area
- Private Escalade Airport Transfer in Los Cabos
- Surf Lesson Tours (Full day)
- All-Inclusive catamaran Espiritu Santo Island Tour from Los Cabos
- Airport to Cabos Private Round Trip
- Los Cabos Airport Transfers
- Roundtrip Luxury Private Airport and City Transfers.
- Snorkeling at Pelicans Rock
- Migriño Beach Horseback Riding Experience
