Stepping aboard a private boat to explore Huatulco’s five celebrated bays is a fantastic way to see one of Mexico’s most beautiful coastal areas. For about $79 per person, you get a well-paced, roughly 7-hour adventure that takes you through some of the most captivating stretches of coastline, including Cacaluta, Chahué, Órgano, and Maguey. Your guide, often bilingual and personable, will navigate you past turquoise waters, rocky outcrops, and offer insights that bring each bay’s personality alive.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the exclusive nature of a private tour means you’re not crammed into a large group – it’s just your family or friends, giving you flexibility and intimacy. Second, the tour includes all necessary equipment for activities like snorkeling, so you can relax and focus on the fun.
A potential caveat is that this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so it’s essential to plan accordingly if mobility is an issue. Also, while lunch isn’t included, this can be a good opportunity to explore local eateries or pack a picnic to enjoy on one of the bay beaches.
This tour suits travelers craving a personalized experience, with a mix of relaxation, scenic beauty, and underwater exploration. It’s especially appealing if you want to avoid crowded group tours and enjoy the stunning coastline at your own pace.
Key Points

- Private boat experience ensures personalized attention and flexibility
- Snorkeling equipment and activities included, making it easy to enjoy the water
- Visit five unique bays with distinct charms, from pristine beaches to secluded spots
- Includes transportation from your hotel, simplifying logistics
- Good for families and friends seeking a relaxed, intimate day on the water
- Not wheelchair accessible, so plan accordingly
The Itinerary: A Closer Look

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Morning Pickup and Departure
Your day begins at around 8:30 am, with a friendly driver picking you up at your hotel. From there, you’ll head to the port of Huatulco, where your bilingual guide and boat captain await. This door-to-door service is a real plus, saving you from the hassle of navigating unfamiliar streets or arranging separate transport.
The Journey North: Ocean Views and Wildlife
Once onboard, you’ll start heading north along the coast, passing the lighthouse and the impressive blow-hole — a natural spectacle where ocean spray is shot high into the air. It’s a quick but memorable stop that sets the tone for the day. As we cruise along, many travelers have been lucky to spot whales, dolphins, or turtles, which adds a thrilling wildlife component to the trip.
Visiting the Bays: Cacaluta, Chahué, Órgano, and Maguey
Each bay offers something unique:
- Cacaluta: Known for its impressive, untouched beaches and a snorkeling reef, this spot is perfect for a quick swim or photo session. One reviewer notes, “The pristine beach and clear waters make it a lovely spot to relax or snorkel.”
- Chahué: A lively yet peaceful bay, often chosen for its scenic views and calm waters. While not explicitly detailed in reviews, its inclusion hints at a good balance of activity and tranquility.
- Órgano: Its secluded, private vibe appeals to those wanting a quieter escape. The rocky formations and quiet waters make it ideal for exploring on your own or just soaking in the views.
- Maguey: With its azure-colored waters and snorkel reefs, this spot is frequently praised by visitors who love underwater life. One traveler writes, “The reefs here are colorful and full of life — perfect for snorkeling.”
Lunch and Relaxation at Cacaluta
After exploring these bays, the tour makes a stop back at Cacaluta Bay for some well-deserved downtime. You can lie on the white sandy beach, snorkel on the reef, or just relax under the sun. While lunch isn’t included, you might find local eateries nearby or choose to bring your own picnic.
Return and Reflection
The tour wraps up around 4 pm, with your guide escorting you back to the port and your driver taking you back to your hotel. This seamless logistics setup ensures you end the day relaxed, not exhausted.
The Value of the Experience

What’s Included and What’s Not
The $79 price covers a private boat, all activities, entrance fees, bottled water, soft drinks, and necessary snorkeling gear. This all-in-one package offers great value, especially considering the personalized service and exclusive access.
Food isn’t included, which is a common choice for tours like this, allowing you to tailor lunch plans to your preferences. Bring snacks or a packed meal if you wish, or plan to explore local cafes post-tour.
Transportation and Group Size
The air-conditioned door-to-door transport is a major convenience, saving time and hassle. And since the tour is private, you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers, making for a more relaxed and flexible experience.
Duration and Timing
Spanning roughly 7 hours, the tour strikes a good balance — long enough to explore thoroughly, but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring. Multiple start times are available, so you can choose according to your schedule.
Suitability
This tour is best suited for families, couples, or friends who want an intimate, flexible experience. It’s also great for those interested in snorkeling and beach lounging, thanks to the included equipment and stops at reef-rich bays. However, those with mobility issues should consider the accessibility note.
Authentic Insights and Traveler Perspectives

Many reviewers appreciate the personalized attention from guides, who often share interesting facts and local stories. One says, “Our guide was friendly and knowledgeable, making us feel comfortable and engaged throughout.” Others mention the beautiful scenery and the chance to see dolphins or whales — a highlight for wildlife lovers.
Some note that lunch isn’t included, and while this gives flexibility, travelers should plan ahead. The beaches are described as gorgeous — perfect for a lazy rest or snorkeling — but some mention that the reefs can be a bit crowded during peak times, so early or late in the day might be best.
Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private bay-hopping trip is ideal if you value personalized service, want to explore Huatulco’s bays at your own pace, and love snorkeling or beach time. It’s well-suited for small groups seeking an authentic, relaxed day on the water without the crowds. If you’re traveling with family or friends and want a flexible itinerary that covers multiple bays, this is a strong choice.
The From Huatulco: Private 5 Bays Boat Tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that combines scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and the chance to unwind on some of Mexico’s most stunning beaches. Its private setting, inclusive activities, and scenic stops make it a good value for those craving an intimate day on the coast.
If you’re someone who enjoys underwater adventures, appreciates quiet, unspoiled beaches, and prefers a tailored experience over large tour groups, this trip suits you well. It’s a wonderful way to get a genuine feel for Huatulco’s coastal charm while enjoying the comforts of a private guide and personalized service.
For the budget-conscious, the included equipment and door-to-door transport add significant value, but be prepared to pack your lunch or plan for eating out afterward. Accessibility might be an issue if mobility is limited, so check if you’re comfortable on a boat and on uneven beaches.
This tour offers the right mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic scenery — perfect for making treasured memories of your time in Huatulco.
Is this tour private or shared?
It’s a private group, meaning it’s just you, your family, or friends with your guide and boat captain.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 7 hours, from about 8:30 am pickup to 4 pm return.
What’s included in the price?
All activities, entrance fees, bottled water, soft drinks, and snorkeling gear are included.
Are meals provided?
No, lunch isn’t included, so you might want to bring your own or plan to eat afterward.
Is transportation to and from my hotel included?
Yes, air-conditioned door-to-door pickup and drop-off are provided.
Can I see wildlife during the tour?
Yes, many travelers have reported sightings of whales, dolphins, or turtles during the cruise.
Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, all necessary equipment for snorkeling is included.
What are the main bays visited?
Cacaluta, Chahué, Órgano, and Maguey, each offering different scenery and experiences.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Generally yes, but consider the boat ride and snorkeling if traveling with very young kids.
Are there any mobility restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly if mobility is an issue.
This detailed review aims to help you decide if this private boat tour aligns with your travel style. Whether you want a peaceful day on the water, snorkeling adventure, or scenic sightseeing, it offers a genuine taste of Huatulco’s coastal beauty.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Boat Tours & Cruises in Huatulco
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More Huatulco experiences we've covered
- Huatulco: Surf Lesson with surf instructor. All Levels
- La Crucecita: Private Yacht Cruise in Huatulco with Drinks
- From Huatulco: Rafting, Beach Viewpoint & Snorkelling Tour
- Huatulco: Nature Park with Fruit Tasting & Optional Zipline
- Huatulco: Nighttime Sea Turtle Monitoring guided by a biologist
- Huatulco: Private Tour Seven Bays HT
- Huatulco: Private Day of the Dead Experience
- Huatulco:Ventanilla, Zipolite,Mazunte, and Puerto Angel Tour
- Huatulco: Private Tour of Magical Waterfalls of Copalitilla
- Huatulco: Bio and Liberation Tour
- Huatulco: 5-Bay Exclusive Premium Panga Experience
- Huatulco: Sunrise Dolphin Watching with Beach Visit
