Cabo San Lucas and Santa Maria Bay Snorkeling Sightseeing Cruise

Cabo San Lucas and Santa Maria Bay Snorkeling Sightseeing Cruise Review

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water amidst Cabo’s dramatic coastline, this half-day snorkeling and sightseeing cruise might just be what you need. For around $80, you get approximately three and a half hours exploring the famous Arch at Lands End, snorkeling at Santa Maria Beach, and enjoying a laid-back boat ride complete with an open bar, lunch, and plenty of opportunities to capture memorable photos.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the stunning views of Cabo’s rugged coastline, especially around the iconic Arch, are impossible to beat. Secondly, the snorkeling experience at Santa Maria Beach is surprisingly good—several guests love how abundant the fish and marine life appeared, even if the visibility was sometimes affected by weather.

One point to consider: this is a shared tour, which means the boat can get crowded, and the snorkeling spot is offshore rather than directly on the beach, which might limit time on the sand. Still, this tour is well-suited for those eager to see Cabo’s highlights without breaking the bank and willing to share the boat with other travelers.

If you enjoy scenic boat rides, lively crews, and a chance to snorkel in beautiful waters, this tour hits many marks. It’s especially great for first-time visitors or families looking for a relaxed, fun-filled outing with plenty of photo ops and good food.

Key Points

• Stunning Coastal Views: The trip offers iconic sights like the Arch and the coastline of Los Cabos.
• Snorkeling at Santa Maria Bay: A designated safe area with equipment included, often praised for its marine life.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Unlimited drinks, a tasty lunch, and snorkel gear make it easy to relax and enjoy.
• Expert Crew: Friendly, attentive staff who focus on guest safety and fun, with many reviews highlighting their helpfulness.
• Limited Beach Access: The boat moors offshore, so no actual beach time during snorkeling—something to keep in mind.
• Ideal for Families & First-Timers: The moderate pace and inclusive nature make it suitable for a broad range of travelers.

A Deep Dive into the Cabo Blue Snorkeling Cruise Experience

The Itinerary in Detail

This cruise begins at the Cabo Blue Boat dock near the Main Marina in Cabo San Lucas, easily accessible if you’re staying nearby or using public transportation. The check-in is straightforward, but arriving at least 20 minutes early is a smart move to ensure smooth boarding, especially during busy times.

The first stop is a quick 15-minute visit to the Main Dock Marina, a lively spot full of boats, vendors, and the usual tourist buzz. From there, the boat sets sail towards the famous Arch at Lands End. This iconic natural formation carved by wind and water is a must-see. Guests often appreciate having crew members like Juan or Carlos helping with photos, ensuring you get those perfect shots against the striking backdrop of the Sea of Cortez.

Next, the boat anchors offshore near Santa Maria Beach for about 45 minutes. This is the core of the trip—snorkeling in calm, protected waters. Equipment—masks, fins, snorkels, and life jackets—are provided, and many guests comment on how well-organized and friendly the staff are in helping everyone get comfortable. “Snorkeling was such a beautiful experience,” wrote Shaunte, highlighting how she loved the marine life and stunning scenery. Some reviews mention encountering sea turtles or a variety of colorful fish, making the underwater part of the trip a highlight.

The crew also offers paddleboards, kayaks, and floating mats—though the availability depends on ocean conditions. One reviewer noted that “the water visibility was okay, but rough seas and wind might affect that,” so if you’re hoping for crystal-clear waters, it might vary.

Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere

The lunch is simple but satisfying: freshly prepared baguettes with turkey, cheese, and vegetables, plus various appetizers like guacamole, Mexican salsa, tuna salad, chips, and fruit. Many reviewers call it “delicious,” especially after some snorkeling and boat time.

The open bar keeps the atmosphere lively—unlimited soft drinks and alcohol, including margaritas and other mixed drinks, flowing throughout the trip. Several travelers mention how attentive the crew is in refilling drinks and ensuring everyone’s glass is never empty, which adds to the relaxed, festive vibe.

Music is played via the Bluetooth sound system, elevating the fun atmosphere, and many reviews praise the crew’s ability to keep everyone entertained while maintaining safety.

The Crew Makes the Difference

Guests frequently mention the friendly, attentive crew—they’re described as knowledgeable, energetic, and genuinely caring. Shaunte called the staff “super attentive and friendly,” and another reviewer appreciated how the crew kept the drinks flowing and took lots of photos to help preserve memories.

This warmth and professionalism foster a feeling of being well cared for, which is crucial on a water-based outing where safety and comfort are top priorities. Some reviews also mention the crew’s effort to accommodate special requests, making everyone feel like VIPs.

Snorkeling & Marine Life

While the snorkeling spot at Santa Maria Beach is generally praised, some mention the water’s visibility can depend on weather conditions. “Snorkeling was so pretty,” and “we saw some of the most beautiful fish I’ve encountered,” are common sentiments. Several guests report seeing sea turtles, which adds a magical element to the experience.

However, one reviewer noted that the snorkel site is offshore, meaning there is no actual beach time or swimming directly on the sand. This is mostly a boat anchoring point rather than a beachside stop, so if relaxing on a sandy shore is your priority, this might not fully satisfy that craving.

Additional Comforts and Considerations

The boat itself has shade on the deck, protecting you from the sun, which is vital during those sunny Cabo days. It’s described as clean and well-maintained, with a single deck that’s enough for about 40 guests.

The rinse-off hose and floating water mat are thoughtful touches, allowing guests to cool down and relax after snorkeling.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits travelers who want a balanced experience—they get to see Cabo’s most famous sights, enjoy snorkeling, and indulge in good food and drinks without the expense or commitment of a full-day excursion. It’s ideal for families with kids over 5, first-time visitors, or those lacking time but eager to get a taste of Cabo’s natural beauty.

If you’re looking for an active, social, and scenic outing that offers excellent value and memorable photo opportunities, this tour ticks those boxes well. Keep in mind that the crowd levels can be high, which might affect your snorkeling experience and the overall atmosphere.

Practical Details for Your Planning

The tour departs at 1:00 pm from Cabo Blue Boat, and the entire experience lasts about 3 hours 30 minutes. It includes snorkeling gear, lunch, drinks, and a fun crew, making it quite a good deal considering the amenities offered.

Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons, and don’t forget cash for gratuities—the crew appreciates a tip for their attentive service.

While the price point of $79.80 per person might seem modest, you’re paying for a well-rounded experience with no hidden costs—just remember the $1 government fee is extra.

The Sum Up

This cruise is a smart choice for travelers wanting an authentic, relaxed day on the water with a mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and social fun. The friendly crew, beautiful coastal scenery, and delicious lunch create a memorable outing that balances adventure and comfort. It’s especially suitable for families, first-timers, or anyone looking for a value-packed half-day excursion.

While it may not satisfy those craving beach lounging or crystal-clear visibility every time, the overall experience—highlighted by good food, lively atmosphere, and impressive sights—makes it a solid pick in Cabo San Lucas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes snorkeling gear, a delicious lunch, an open bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, paddleboards, kayaks, and a floating water mat.

How long is the snorkeling?
Guests typically snorkel for around 45 minutes at Santa Maria Beach, giving ample time to see marine life and enjoy the water.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is suitable for travelers age 5 and up.

Does the tour go directly to the beach?
No, the boat moors offshore, about 60 yards from the beach, which means there’s no direct access for beach lounging or swimming on the sand.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund.

Is this a private tour?
No, this is a shared experience with up to 40 guests, which helps keep costs down and social atmosphere lively.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuities are not included—please bring cash if you’d like to tip the crew for their excellent service.

Where do I meet the boat?
The departure point is Cabo Blue Boat at Muelle Principal, Marina del Rey, and arriving at least 20 minutes early is recommended to check in.

The Cabo Blue Snorkeling Sightseeing Cruise offers a fantastic way to see Cabo’s signature sights, enjoy good food, and relax with a lively crew—all in about three and a half hours. Whether it’s your first time to Cabo or a return trip, this outing provides a fun, convenient, and affordable taste of the region’s natural beauty and vibrant marine life.