Exploring Cabo with a Glass-Bottom Boat Arch Tour for Cruise Passengers

When your cruise docks in Cabo San Lucas, finding a quick yet memorable way to see the sights can be a challenge. The Cabo Glass Bottom Boat Arch Tour offers a well-balanced mix of iconic scenery and marine exploration in just about an hour. For $19 per person, you get a relaxed cruise departing from the Cabo San Lucas Marina, just a short walk from the tender dock—perfect for travelers with limited time but big appetite for scenery.
What we particularly like about this tour is its focus on famous landmarks like El Arco, and the chance to see marine life through glass panels, which adds an extra layer of excitement. The small-group experience ensures a more personal touch, and the professional local crew are known to be friendly and knowledgeable.
A possible drawback is that, based on some reviews, the boat used may not always have a glass bottom as advertised. While this didn’t seem to detract from the overall enjoyment, it’s worth keeping in mind if viewing marine life through the boat’s floor is a priority for you.
This tour is best suited for cruise passengers or travelers with limited time who want a quick, scenic overview of Cabo’s most famous sights without the fuss of longer excursions. It’s ideal if you’re looking for value, simplicity, and authentic views in a short window.
Key Points

- Short & sweet: Around 1 hour, perfect for cruise shore excursions or those on tight schedules.
- Iconic sights: Passengers cruise past El Arco, Lovers Beach, and Lands End with stunning natural formations.
- Marine life: Glass-bottom panels provide a glimpse of tropical fish and underwater scenery.
- Small-group feel: Up to 15 travelers, making for a more intimate experience with personalized attention.
- Convenient location: Departure from Cabo San Lucas Marina, close to tender docks.
- Mixed reviews on glass bottom: Some guests noted the boat wasn’t always glass, so don’t expect an aquarium experience.
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An In-Depth Look at the Cabo Glass Bottom Boat Arch Tour

Starting Point: The Marina and Check-in
The tour begins at the Cabo San Lucas Marina, an accessible hub near the cruise tender area. You’ll check in and get a safety briefing before stepping onto your boat. The check-in process is generally smooth, and the location’s proximity to the tender dock means you won’t need to go far to start your adventure.
The Scenic Cruise and Landmarks
Your boat heads out along Cabo’s rugged coastline, with the first major highlight being El Arco, the iconic natural arch that’s often the symbol of Cabo. From the water, you’ll get a panoramic view of this dramatic rock formation, which rises from the sea with an almost surreal presence. The boat’s glass-bottom panels allow you to catch glimpses of the marine life beneath, adding a layer of curiosity as you look into the clear waters.
Next, you’ll pass by Lovers Beach, a picturesque stretch of sand flanked by towering rocks. From the water, you can see the contrast between the calm Sea of Cortez and the more turbulent Pacific Ocean just beyond, a visual reminder of the meeting of these two waters.
Marine Life and Underwater Viewing
While the marine viewing experience is touted as a feature, some guests have noted that the boat may not always have a true glass bottom. Still, the panels often provide enough of a view of tropical fish and underwater formations to satisfy most casual observers. The boat’s professional crew is known to be friendly and informative, often sharing insights about marine life and Cabo’s geology.
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The Return Trip and Timing
The cruise concludes back at the Cabo San Lucas Marina, giving you ample time to return to your ship. The tour’s timing is perfect for cruise passengers—short, sweet, and leaving enough time for other adventures or simply relaxing after your boat ride.
What Travelers Say
One reviewer appreciated the “great value” and the “fun experience”, especially mentioning the knowledgeable guide. However, they pointed out that the boat was not a glass-bottom vessel as advertised—a reminder to manage expectations if this feature is a must for you.
Another guest highlighted the beauty of the beaches and landscape, praising the tour for being informative and enjoyable. They enjoyed the crew and the scenic views, indicating that even with the glass bottom inconsistency, the overall experience was worthwhile.
Practical Details and Value
For $19, this tour offers solid value, especially considering its proximity to the cruise port and the opportunity to see Cabo’s most famous sights. The small-group size enhances the experience, making it more personal and comfortable. Keep in mind, additional costs like a $5 dock fee apply, and food or drinks are not included.
Who Would Enjoy This Tour?
If you’re a cruise passenger looking for a brief, scenic overview of Cabo’s landmarks, this is an excellent choice. It’s also suitable for travelers who want to max out their sightseeing in a short time, or those on a budget seeking authentic views without the fuss. Families or small groups wanting a relaxed, guided experience will get the most out of this trip.
The Sum Up

The Cabo Glass Bottom Boat Arch Tour offers a simple, scenic way to see some of Cabo’s most photographed landmarks in just about an hour. With friendly guides, a prime location, and reasonable pricing, it’s a practical option for cruise travelers or anyone short on time but eager to experience Cabo’s natural beauty. While the glass bottom feature may not always meet expectations, the overall experience remains fun and picturesque. Expect stunning coastlines, iconic rock formations, and a peek beneath the surface of the Sea of Cortez—perfect for those wanting a taste of Cabo’s signature scenery.
For travelers seeking a low-stress, close-to-port excursion, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially well-suited for families, first-timers, or anyone who values value and authenticity over high-end luxury.
FAQs

- How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, making it ideal for cruise schedules or short visits. - Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from the Cabo San Lucas Marina, close to the tender dock area. - Is the boat always glass-bottom?
Not necessarily. Some reviews mention that the boat used may not have a glass bottom as advertised, so don’t rely on this feature being available. - Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price. - What is the cost of the tour?
The tour costs $19 per person, with an additional $5 dock fee payable locally. - Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
This glass-bottom boat tour packs a lot of classic Cabo into a short, manageable trip—perfect if you want to tick off the top sights without sacrificing your entire day.
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