Cabo Escape Snorkel Fun Cruise

Exploring the Cabo Escape Snorkel Fun Cruise: A Practical Review

Cabo San Lucas’s sparkling Sea of Cortez is a magnet for travelers seeking beautiful beaches, dramatic rock formations, and vibrant marine life. For those wanting to experience this natural wonder from the water, the Cabo Escape Snorkel Fun Cruise offers a solid way to enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of the region in just over three hours. Priced at $89 per person, this tour caters to a wide range of travelers and tends to be booked about 11 days in advance—an indication of its popularity.

This cruise hits the highlights of the coastline, including Pelican Rock, Lovers Beach, and the famous Arch — all from the deck of a comfortable boat. Plus, it combines snorkeling at Chileno Beach with a delicious grilled lunch and open bar, making it a well-rounded half-day escape.

What do we love about this tour? First, the waterfront views of iconic landmarks like The Arch are simply unbeatable, giving you a different perspective from what you’ll see on land. Second, the snorkeling at Chileno Beach offers a chance to glimpse the Baja’s vibrant marine life, which many travelers find enjoyable—even if not overwhelming. The inclusion of lunch and drinks adds good value, especially since the tour is mostly about fun and relaxation.

A couple of considerations are worth mentioning. The snorkeling experience can be hit or miss, with some reviews noting limited sea life or uncomfortable safety measures like mandatory life jackets. Also, the timing and logistics—like potential lines or waiting—might affect your overall experience. This tour tends to suit travelers who are looking for a relaxed, scenic outing with some snorkeling and a lively atmosphere, rather than an extensive underwater exploration.

If your idea of a good vacation day is soaking in the sun, enjoying some drinks, and taking in the views, this cruise could be your perfect fit. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy a casual, social vibe.

Key Points

• Iconic Landmarks: Get excellent views of The Arch, Pelican Rock, and Lovers Beach from the water.
• Snorkeling at Chileno: Offers a chance to see Baja’s marine life, but experiences vary.
• Inclusive Lunch & Drinks: Enjoy grilled food and an open bar, adding value to the tour.
• Timing & Logistics: The tour lasts around 3.5 hours, starting at noon, with potential lines or delays.
• Group Size & Atmosphere: Can accommodate up to 200 travelers, offering a lively, social environment.
• Cost & Value: At $89, including lunch and drinks, it’s a reasonable option for a half-day adventure.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Itinerary & What You Can Expect

We start our journey at Cabo Escape Tours in Marina El Medano, with check-in happening around 12:30 pm. From here, it’s a short walk or taxi ride to the boat, which is typically a comfortable vessel capable of handling up to 200 passengers. The boat departs promptly, heading out towards Land’s End, the jagged rocks and the famous Arch that has become Cabo’s signature.

Once underway, you’ll pass by Pelican Rock, a well-known spot for snorkeling and sunbathing. Many travelers appreciate this part of the cruise for the photo ops and the chance to see the coastline’s stunning cliffs. From the deck, the views of Lovers Beach are spectacular—perfect for snapping pictures of this secluded and picturesque stretch of sand accessible only by boat.

Snorkeling at Chileno Beach

After about an hour of cruising, the boat stops at Chileno Beach, considered one of Baja’s premier snorkeling sites. Here, the tour provides snorkeling equipment—a real relief if you’re new to the sport—and invites you to explore the underwater world.

Some reviews mention that the sea life is decent, with around 15 fish spotted on a good day, but others point out that encountering sea turtles or sea lions is not guaranteed. A notable concern is the requirement to wear life jackets, which some find a bit restrictive. Still, many say that the clear water and calm conditions make for a pleasant experience, especially if snorkeling is new to you.

Lunch and the Open Bar

Back on deck, the aroma of grilled tacos fills the air, and most reviewers agree the lunch is tasty enough—simple but satisfying. The included open bar means you can enjoy beers, tequila, vodka, and sodas, which certainly adds to the social, festive atmosphere on the boat.

A few travelers mention that the lunch could be improved with more variety like chips and salsa or different options, but overall, it’s a solid component of the tour. It’s especially appreciated by those who want to relax and not worry about additional costs.

The Return and Final Views

As the cruise winds down, you’ll glide back along the coast, soaking in the views and enjoying the camaraderie of fellow travelers. Some reviews note that the boat’s shaded seating helps keep things comfortable, but others mention that lines and waiting times for boarding can be frustrating, especially if arriving early or late.

Authentic Reviews and What They Reveal

Many travelers find this tour “great for first-time snorkelers” and praise the attentive staff who make the experience smooth and fun. One reviewer, Stephanie, mentions that the staff was “very attentive with everything,” making her first snorkeling trip enjoyable.

On the flip side, some travelers express disappointment about the snorkeling conditions. John noted that the trip was advertised as family-friendly but felt more like a booze cruise with a brief stop and little sea life. Similarly, Sarah felt that only about 15 fish were seen, and snorkeling was somewhat limited, with some participants required to wear life jackets, which can hinder movement.

A few reviews point out frustrations with line management and missing the tour due to late tendering from their cruise ships. These are important logistical considerations, especially for travelers with tight schedules.

Transportation & Group Size

The tour starts at Cabo Escape Tours in Muelle del Cabo, conveniently located near public transportation options. The max group size of 200 makes for a lively, social experience, but it’s worth noting that the large group can also mean more waiting, especially at busy times or if the boarding process isn’t well-managed.

Price, Value, and Practical Tips

At $89 per person, with lunch and drinks included, this tour offers decent value for a half-day of entertainment and sightseeing. It’s not a deep-dive into marine ecology, but it provides a fun, relaxed way to see Cabo’s coastline and enjoy some aquatic activity.

To make the most of your experience, arrive early to avoid delays, and remember that snorkeling conditions vary—if you’re seeking an in-depth underwater adventure, this might not be the best choice. Still, if you’re looking for a lively, scenic cruise with some snorkeling thrown in, you’ll likely find this tour to be just right.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors or those looking for a casual, social outing. It’s perfect if you enjoy scenic boat rides, snorkeling, and socializing over drinks and food. Families with kids who are comfortable in the water might also enjoy it, but keep in mind that some reviews point out limited sea life and safety constraints like life jackets.

It’s less suited for serious snorkelers or wildlife enthusiasts hoping to see turtles or sea lions, as wildlife sightings are unpredictable. If you’re on a tight schedule or expecting more personalized service, the large-group setup might not be ideal.

The Sum Up

The Cabo Escape Snorkel Fun Cruise offers a relaxed, lively way to experience some of Cabo’s most iconic sights. With a focus on landmark views, basic snorkeling, and delicious food and drinks, it provides a fairly good value for travelers wanting a taste of the waters without diving deep into marine exploration.

While the snorkeling experience can be variable, most travelers enjoy the scenic boat ride and the social atmosphere. The included lunch and open bar make it perfect for those looking to unwind and socialize in a beautiful setting.

If your goal is a fun, social outing that highlights Cabo’s coastal beauty without too much hassle, this tour is a decent choice. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors, groups, or families who want a lively, scenic adventure with some underwater activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 12:30 pm and ending back at the meeting point.

Where do we meet?
You’ll start at Cabo Escape Tours in Muelle del Cabo, Marina El Medano, a location accessible by public transportation and close to the cruise terminal.

Are meals included?
Yes, a grilled lunch is included, along with an open bar featuring beer, vodka, tequila, and sodas, plus bottled water.

What is the snorkeling like?
Snorkeling happens at Chileno Beach, a popular spot with clear waters. Many travelers see around 15 fish, though encounters with turtles or sea lions are not guaranteed.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, there’s a dock and protected areas fee of $5.00 per person that’s paid on-site.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour start are non-refundable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it can be family-friendly, some reviews mention the booze cruise atmosphere and safety measures like mandatory life jackets, which may not appeal to very young children.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a towel. Snorkel gear is provided, but you may prefer to bring your own mask and fins if you’re particular.

This cruise offers a fun, scenic, and social way to spend an afternoon in Cabo San Lucas. It’s perfect for relaxing, sightseeing, and a bit of underwater exploration, especially if you enjoy lively group atmospheres. With a good balance of views, food, and drinks, it’s a solid choice for those wanting a memorable, fuss-free water adventure.