Huatulco: Bays of Huatulco boat tour

When you think of a day in Huatulco, what probably comes to mind are its glistening bays, lush coastline, and the promise of peaceful beaches. This 7-hour boat tour offers a chance to soak all of that in—visiting five breathtaking bays, snorkeling in a protected underwater park, and enjoying fresh seafood—all for around $48 per person. Guided by friendly bilingual experts, this trip is well-suited for anyone eager to see Huatulco from the water while savoring authentic local flavors.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances nature, culture, and leisure. We loved the way the snorkeling spot in Bay of Chachacual allows you to see colorful marine life in a pristine, eco-friendly setting. Also, the scenic views of the coast, including landmarks like the “Rostro Mixteco” stone face, make for fantastic photo opportunities.

One potential consideration is that the beach in Chachacual can get crowded later in the day, which might be less ideal if you’re seeking complete solitude. Plus, the tour is quite full-day, so it’s best suited for travelers who want a rundown rather than a quick splash-and-go.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to combine guided exploration, snorkeling, and local cuisine. It’s also ideal if you’re traveling with older kids or teens who can enjoy swimming and snorkeling, but perhaps not suited for those with mobility issues or very young children, as some reviews have pointed out.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: You’ll see multiple bays, including Santa Cruz, Organo, Maguey, Cacaluta, and Chachacual, each offering unique scenery.
• Snorkeling in a Virgin Bay: The shallow reef in Chachacual, part of the Huatulco National Park, is a highlight for marine life lovers.
• Photo Opportunities: From the natural rock formations to the turtle-shaped island, many spots are perfect for memorable photos.
• Authentic Seafood Lunch: Expect a meal featuring local specialties like fish a la talla, lobster, and shrimp with butter.
• Eco-friendly Focus: The first stop in Chachacual emphasizes natural beauty and ecological preservation, making it a meaningful experience.
• Full-Day Experience: With hotel pickup and drop-off included, it’s a well-organized day that maximizes your time on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Huatulco Bays Boat Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

Your adventure begins with a hotel pickup in La Crucecita, a charming town that’s the hub for many of Huatulco’s tours. The transportation is smooth, with pickup times around 8:30 AM, giving you a comfortable start to your day. We appreciated that the tour provider includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which saves the hassle of navigating local transport and ensures you’re ready for a prompt start.

Once at Santa Cruz pier, you’ll board a comfortable boat with enough space for everyone—some reviews mention the boat’s size adds to the comfort, especially when cruising from bay to bay. The bilingual guide will accompany you, sharing insights and answering questions, making the experience more engaging and educational.

The Itinerary – What You’ll See and Do

First Stop: Bay of Chachacual

This ecological reserve, part of Huatulco National Park, is a spot we found particularly captivating. Its virgin beaches, surrounded by mangroves and low-deciduous jungle, give you a real sense of untouched beauty. The guide explains that this bay is home to species like acacia, ficus, and mangroves, emphasizing the area’s environmental importance.

The highlight here is snorkeling in shallow waters. You’ll explore a reef teeming with colorful fish, starfish, and sea urchins. The beach itself stretches about 1,200 meters, with gentle waves that make swimming accessible yet lively enough to keep your adrenaline up. One reviewer notes, “Service on board is very good and the views are spectacular,” which rings true here.

An important tip is to bring biodegradable sunscreen and waterproof gear—it’s an eco-sensitive area. The experience of floating above a vibrant underwater world, with the possibility of glimpsing manta rays or turtles offshore, is a highlight.

Second Stop: Scenic Sights & Marine Wildlife

After snorkeling, the boat cruises past some iconic natural sights like the bufadero (blowhole), the “Rostro Mixteco” stone face, and a turtle-shaped island. These formations add a touch of magic to the journey, and if you’re lucky, you might spot dolphins, manta rays, or sea turtles paddling nearby—many guests have commented on seeing dolphins during the tour.

The guide’s commentary enhances the experience, making these moments more meaningful than just pretty scenery. One review mentions, “The employees are very friendly and attentive—especially the captain,” which is reassuring when you’re cruising offshore.

Maguey Bay: Relaxation and Lunch

The third bay stop is at Maguey Bay. Here, you can swim, relax, or take a quick dip. The bay offers a more tranquil atmosphere with fewer crowds early in the day, though some reviews note that by late morning, it can get busier.

The lunch part of the trip is a real treat—expect fresh seafood dishes like fish a la talla, lobster with butter, and shrimp au gratin. Many reviewers say the quality and flavors are excellent, making this a memorable meal. You might also find some local snacks and tropical fruits on offer.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Snorkel equipment is available for rent at an additional cost—$200 per person—so if snorkeling is a priority, plan accordingly.
• The port fee of $5.50 per person and the conservation bracelet costing $58 are not included in the base price but are straightforward to pay on site.
• Bring cash, as some expenses like snorkeling gear or tips are cash-only.
• The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, as some uneven terrain and the boat’s layout might make access difficult.
• The full-day nature of this tour means you’ll want to wear comfortable clothing, bring sun protection, and stay hydrated.

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Authentic Experiences Based on Reviews

Based on past travelers’ feedback, the guides are knowledgeable and attentive, often going out of their way to make sure everyone feels safe and informed. One traveler says, “The guides take care of you at all times while you are in the water,” which adds peace of mind. Also, many mention that early arrival at the beaches means you can enjoy less crowded conditions, especially in the morning.

The quality of the seafood lunch is consistently praised, often described as “mouthwatering” and “authentic,” adding a delicious local touch to the day. The combination of spectacular scenery, marine life encounters, and relaxing beach time offers great value for the price, especially considering the included transportation and guide service.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip will appeal most to adventurous travelers who want a full immersion in Huatulco’s natural beauty. It’s excellent for families with older children, snorkelers, and those who love a scenic boat ride with plenty of opportunities to relax and indulge in fresh seafood.

If you prefer quiet beaches or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. However, if you’re eager to experience multiple bays, see marine wildlife, and learn about the environment from friendly guides, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable day.

Final Thoughts

The Huatulco Bays Boat Tour offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty, ecological interest, and delicious local cuisine, all wrapped in a well-organized package. You’ll get a taste of Huatulco’s untouched bays, enjoy the thrill of snorkeling in a protected area, and savor a fresh seafood lunch that highlights the region’s culinary traditions.

While it’s a full day and can be busy, the experience’s value for money and authentic touches make it a worthwhile choice for travelers looking for an active, scenic, and culturally rich adventure. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or simply seeking a day away from the hustle, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into what makes Huatulco such a special destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a bilingual guide, drinks onboard (soda and water), and liability insurance. Lunch and snorkeling equipment are not included but available for rent or purchase.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 7 hours, giving plenty of time to explore each bay, snorkel, and enjoy the beach.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Snorkel gear is available for rent at an additional $200 per person. It’s advisable to bring your own if you’re experienced.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), hat, sunglasses, towel, swimwear, and cash for extras like gear rental or port fees.

Are children allowed on this tour?
The tour is best suited for older children who can swim or snorkel. It’s not recommended for small children or those with mobility issues, as per reviews.

What is the cost?
The base price is $48 per person, excluding port fee ($5.50) and conservation bracelet ($58), which are payable on-site.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?
No, this tour isn’t designed for travelers with mobility issues due to walking and boat access considerations.

What wildlife might I see?
You may see dolphins, sea turtles, or manta rays offshore, with many guests reporting sightings during the cruise.

How crowded does the beach in Chachacual get?
It can get busy later in the day, but arriving early helps you enjoy a more peaceful experience.

Can I opt out of snorkeling?
Yes, if you prefer relaxing on the beach or just sightseeing, you can skip snorkeling, as some travelers have chosen.

Whether you’re after scenic vistas, underwater marvels, or a taste of local seafood, this tour offers a well-balanced and memorable day on the water. It’s a great way to see the best of Huatulco’s bays while enjoying the comforts and insights provided by knowledgeable guides.

You can check availability for your dates here: