Cabo San Lucas: Tour al Arco en Barco Fondo de Cristal

Cabo San Lucas: Tour al Arco en Barco Fondo de Cristal

When visiting the stunning coast of Baja California Sur, you can’t miss the chance to see the famed Arch of Cabo San Lucas—a striking rock formation that defines this rugged coastline. For just $21 per person, you can hop aboard a 40-minute glass bottom boat tour offered by Sea Cabo Activities. This tour departs from Playa El Medano, the lively heart of Cabo’s beach scene, and takes you across Medano Bay to explore not only the iconic Arch but also other fascinating sights like Lovers Beach, Pelican Rock, and a Sea Lion colony. The guides, like Joel and Juan, bring local insights that make the experience genuinely engaging.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how accessible it is for families and those looking for a quick, visually stunning excursion. The glass bottom allows everyone to see the colorful marine life without getting wet—a real bonus in the heat of summer or for travelers who prefer to stay dry. Plus, during the winter months from December to April, there’s a good chance you’ll spot whales, adding an extra layer of excitement to the trip.

A couple of considerations: the length is quite short—just 40 minutes—so if you’re after a more in-depth exploration, this might feel a bit limited. Also, the supplier’s rating of 3.3 suggests that while many enjoy the tour, there could be some variability in the experience. And, if you want hotel pickup or snacks, you’ll need to arrange those separately.

This tour is best suited for families, first-time visitors, and those eager to see the iconic Cabo scenery without much fuss. It’s a quick, affordable way to tick off the must-see sights and take some memorable photos.

Key Points

• Affordable and Family-Friendly: At just $21, it’s a budget-friendly way to see Cabo’s most famous landmark.
• Stunning Views from a Glass Bottom: You get a clear look at vibrant fish and sea life without getting wet.
• Guides with Local Knowledge: Guides like Joel and Juan enhance the experience with fascinating insights.
• Possibility of Whale Sightings: Winter trips may include whale watching, adding extra value.
• Short & Sweet: The 40-minute duration is perfect for a quick introduction or a filler activity.
• Additional Sights: Includes Lovers Beach, Pelican Rock, and the Sea Lion colony for a well-rounded tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Cabo San Lucas Glass Bottom Boat Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

Your adventure begins at Pueblo Bonito Rose Beachfront, near Cascadas Hotel on Medano Beach. From there, the tour typically involves a short van ride of about an hour to the departure point. This transfer is straightforward, but if you prefer to arrive by yourself or need a hotel pickup, you’ll want to contact the tour provider beforehand, as this isn’t included in the base price.

The Boat Ride: What to Expect

Once onboard, you’ll be greeted warmly by the crew, who support the entire experience with friendly service and informative commentary. The boat itself features a clear glass bottom, which is the main attraction. This design allows everyone, whether seated inside or on the deck, to marvel at the colorful marine life teeming beneath.

The scenic cruise lasts approximately 45 minutes, during which you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Medano Bay and the rock formations that make Cabo so famous. Keep your camera ready—the views of the Arch are simply breathtaking, especially when the boat approaches the limestone cliffs that rise out of the sea.

Key Sights Along the Way

• The Arch of Cabo San Lucas: The main event, this towering rock formation divides the Pacific Ocean from the Sea of Cortez. It’s a popular photo spot, and guides often share stories about how it was formed.
• Lover’s Beach: Accessible only by boat, this secluded stretch of sand is perfect for a quick photo and a sense of the untouched coastline.
• Pelican Rock: A favorite snorkeling spot, visible from the boat, and home to an abundance of fish.
• Sea Lion Colony: You might catch the playful antics of sea lions lounging on rocks—a fun photo opportunity.
• Marine Life: Many travelers note the vibrant schools of fish visible through the glass bottom, and occasional whale sightings during winter.

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Additional Activities: Snorkeling Option

After the boat cruise, there’s an optional 20-minute snorkeling stop at Bahía de Cabo San Lucas. While not part of the core tour, this is a rewarding opportunity for those interested in seeing more underwater scenery, and it’s included in some packages. Expect to see more fish and possibly even some small reef formations.

What’s Not Included & Extra Costs

• Food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring water or snacks if needed.
• Hotel transfers are also extra—if you’d like to be picked up and dropped off at your hotel, contact the provider in advance.
• Souvenirs or additional activities, like extended snorkeling or diving, are outside the scope of this tour.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many visitors praise the knowledgeable guides who enhance the trip with fun facts and local stories. One traveler said, “Joel was fantastic—he made us laugh and shared interesting tales about the rock formations.” Others have enjoyed the stunning views and found the glass bottom feature especially impressive for kids and non-swimmers.

Some reviews mention that the short duration is perfect for a quick sightseeing fix, but a few noted that more time at each stop would be welcomed. The variability in ratings (3.3 out of 5) suggests that experiences depend heavily on the crew and weather conditions.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Arrive early to secure good seats and avoid the rush.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses—Cabo’s sun is strong.
• Confirm if hotel pickup is available if that’s important to you.
• If whale watching is a priority, plan your visit between December and April.
• Be prepared for some photos and videos—this scenery is worth capturing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for families, first-time visitors, and anyone wanting a quick, scenic overview of Cabo’s most iconic sights. It’s especially good for those who prefer a relaxed, dry experience without the need for swimming or strenuous activities. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the affordable price, and point-and-shoot photographers will enjoy the opportunity to snap fantastic vistas.

The Sum Up

The Cabo San Lucas Tour al Arco en Barco Fondo de Cristal offers a cost-effective, family-friendly way to see the iconic Arch, Lovers Beach, and marine life without getting wet. The friendly guides and stunning views enhance the experience, making it a memorable part of any trip to Cabo. Although the short duration might leave some craving more time at each site, what you gain in convenience and affordability makes it a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.

This tour works well for travelers who want a light, scenic excursion that captures the essence of Cabo’s dramatic coastlines. It’s particularly suitable if you’re traveling with children, on a tight schedule, or simply want a stress-free way to enjoy Cabo’s top sights.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, especially since the glass bottom allows children to see marine life without getting wet.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bring your own if you plan to be on the water longer or want snacks.

Can I see whales on this tour?
Yes, whale sightings are possible during the winter season from December to April.

Is hotel pickup available?
Pickup and drop-off are not included in the base price. You can contact the provider if this service is needed.

How long does the tour last?
The actual boat cruise lasts about 40 minutes, with additional time for transfers and optional snorkeling.

What languages are available?
Tours are offered in Spanish and English, often with live guides who speak both languages.

In essence, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly, visually stunning, and easy introduction to Cabo’s famous scenery, this glass bottom boat tour delivers. It’s perfect for those wanting a quick snapshot of Cabo’s natural beauty, especially with the added bonus of guide insights and whale sightings in season.

You can check availability for your dates here: