Baja California Sur is a fantastic place for boat tours and cruises. Its clear waters, dramatic rock formations, and abundant marine life make it a natural playground for sea adventures. We particularly love the whale watching tour in Los Cabos, where you can witness humpbacks breaching and listen to their songs—an experience that feels truly alive. The cabo arch is iconic, and seeing it from a boat never gets old. For those seeking a more relaxed evening, the private sunset cruise offers a peaceful way to enjoy the spectacular coastline with a drink in hand. Baja’s coastlines are dotted with natural wonders and lively marine life, making any boat trip a memorable highlight of your trip.
If you’re unsure which tour suits your style, don’t worry. We’ve broken down each option, from high-speed whale safaris to intimate sunset cruises, so you can pick what fits your interests and schedule. Whether you’re here for wildlife encounters, scenic views, or a romantic evening, Baja’s waters won’t disappoint.
Quick Overview
Our list covers four of the best boat tours and cruises in Baja California Sur. From the thrilling whale watching adventure in Los Cabos (see details), to an exclusive sunset cruise in San Jose del Cabo that features appetizers and an open bar (see details), and a city tour combined with a transparent boat ride (see details). Finally, for those who want to snorkel in style, the Cabo’s premier catamaran snorkeling cruise (see details) offers an all-in-one marine adventure. Each offers a different experience, catering to wildlife lovers, romantics, city explorers, and underwater enthusiasts alike.
1. Whale Watching, The Famous Arch and Fast Boat Tour in Los Cabos
At number one, this whale watching tour combines an adrenaline rush with iconic scenery. Departing from Cabo San Lucas, you’ll hop onto a fast zodiac boat that whisks you across the Sea of Cortez and Pacific Ocean in search of humpback whales. During the winter migration from December to April, these giants breach, splash, and sometimes even chase each other, providing plenty of photo opportunities. The guide, equipped with onboard hydrophones, makes whale songs audible, turning a visual experience into an auditory one as well.
The tour also offers a scenic cruise past El Arco, Lovers Beach, and the sealion colony, making it more than just whale viewing. The boat ride itself is lively, with a focus on delivering close encounters with marine mammals. The reviews consistently praise the smooth organization and knowledgeable guides. “We saw so many whales breaching, it was incredible,” said one traveler. The 2-hour 15-minute duration makes it a perfect half-day activity, especially for families or anyone eager for an active marine adventure.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want a high-energy, up-close look at whales combined with sightseeing, all for around $99—a solid value for the experience.
2. Private Sunset Cruise in San Jose del Cabo Appetizers, open bar
Number two on our list is the Private Sunset Cruise in San Jose del Cabo, perfect for travelers seeking an intimate and relaxed evening. This 2-hour cruise glides smoothly over the calm waters of the Sea of Cortez, providing spectacular views of the coastline as the sun dips below the horizon. It’s a private experience, with no crowds, so you can enjoy the scenery and tranquility at your own pace.
What makes this cruise stand out are the complimentary appetizers and open bar, which includes white wine and margaritas. The boat is plush and comfortable, creating an elegant yet laid-back atmosphere—ideal for couples or small groups wanting a romantic moment. The guide tailors the experience, making it feel personal and special. Several reviews mention how peaceful and beautiful the sunset was, with one noting, “This was truly a magical way to end the day.”
While the price is higher at $200 per person, the exclusivity and premium amenities justify it for those celebrating an anniversary or just looking to unwind in style. The lack of crowding and personalized service make it stand out.
Bottom Line: Best suited for romantics or those wanting a quiet, luxurious evening with excellent drinks and snacks, at a price that reflects the exclusive experience.
3. CityTour in Cabo San Lucas and Transparent Boat Tour to the Arch
Number three blends cultural discovery with natural beauty. This 5-hour tour kicks off with visits to a glassblowing factory, where you’ll see artisans craft art from molten glass—an intriguing mix of art and craft. Then, it’s a short trip to Tequila Lighthouse for a tasting of Mexico’s famous spirit, with insights into its distillation process, making it educational as well as flavorful.
The highlight, of course, is the transparent boat experience (more info), which allows you to admire the Arch and surrounding rock formations without the boat blocking your view. The certified captain and guide ensure safety and provide plenty of photo opportunities. The boat’s clarity offers a unique perspective—perfect for photography enthusiasts.
The final hour lets you explore Cabo San Lucas’ town center at your leisure, giving you a chance to absorb local culture and pick up souvenirs. The reviews praise the variety and educational value, although some mention the tour’s duration might be a bit long for very young children.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want a mix of art, culture, and scenic boat views—especially suitable for curious travelers who enjoy learning and sightseeing.
4. Cabo’s Premier Catamaran Snorkeling: Explore the Waters!
Finally, the Cabo’s Premier Catamaran Snorkeling offers a full 3 to 4-hour marine adventure. It departs from Los Cabos and takes you to three spectacular locations: Playa de los Amantes, the Arch, and the Sea Lion Colony Reserve. The boat is designed for comfort, with all snorkeling equipment included—no need to bring your own gear.
The highlight is the opportunity to swim among vibrant tropical fish and observe sea lions in their natural habitat. The boat is equipped with an open bar and a packed lunch, making it a great way to relax and socialize while enjoying the scenery. Over 30 years of experience behind it, Pez Gato is known for safety and quality, making this trip a reliable choice.
While reviews are sparse, the focus on service and scenery suggests this is a well-rounded, enjoyable option for snorkelers and lovers of aquatic life. The itinerary is carefully designed to maximize both sightseeing and underwater exploration.
Bottom Line: Ideal for water lovers who want to snorkel in beautiful waters with all amenities provided, perfect for families or groups seeking a mix of relaxation and activity.
$129.00 per person
How to Choose Your Baja California Sur Boat Tour
When deciding among these options, consider your interests and pace. If wildlife watching is your priority, the whale watching tour (see details) offers a lively, memorable experience. For a romantic evening, the private sunset cruise (see details) provides exclusivity and comfort. If you want a blend of cultural insight and scenic views, the city tour plus transparent boat (see details) might be your best fit. Lastly, for underwater exploration and marine wildlife, the catamaran snorkeling cruise (see details) is hard to beat.
Think about your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you prefer active wildlife encounters or relaxed scenic moments. Booking early is wise, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date.
Final Words
Baja California Sur offers a wide variety of boat experiences that suit different interests and travel styles. If you’re after a thrilling whale encounter, the zodiac tour ranks high. For a more intimate, calming evening, the sunset cruise is perfect. Those interested in combining cultural sights with views from the water will appreciate the city tour with transparent boat ride, while snorkelers will find the catamaran cruise a rewarding aquatic adventure.
No matter which you choose, each trip promises a memorable way to see the stunning coastlines and marine life that make Baja California Sur special. Remember to book ahead, pack your camera, and prepare for a day or evening on the water that you’ll be talking about long after you return home.