Private Sailboat tour in Cabo San Lucas with Papillon Yachts

Exploring Cabo San Lucas on a Private Sailboat with Papillon Yachts

Imagine slipping away from the bustling town of Cabo San Lucas and drifting along the shimmering Sea of Cortez in your own private sailboat. For around $1,102 per group, up to six people, you’ll enjoy a three-hour journey that takes you past iconic sights like the Arch of Cabo San Lucas, Chileno Bay, and the Pacific coast, with the chance to snorkel, paddleboard, and spot whales (season permitting).

The guides and crew are praised for their knowledgeable service and friendly attitude, making this a smooth, enjoyable experience. We love that the tour includes snacks and drinks from an open bar, and the flexibility of choosing from three different departure times. However, keep in mind that towels are not included, so packing your own might be wise.

This trip suits travelers who appreciate a mix of ** scenic beauty, personalized service, and active water fun**, especially those eager to relax with drinks while soaking in remarkable views. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a private slice of Cabo’s coast, this tour delivers a tailored experience in a small-group setting.

Key Points

• Private and Intimate: Small boat capacity (up to 8), making for a personalized experience.
• Stunning Sights: Highlights include the iconic Arch, Chileno Bay, and whale watching (seasonal).
• Active & Relaxing: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and lounging with unlimited drinks and snacks.
• Flexible Scheduling: Three departure times to fit your day.
• Well-reviewed crew: Friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable guides.
• Good value for a private experience: All-inclusive drinks, snacks, and water included.

The Details of the Cabo San Lucas Sailboat Tour

When we think about what makes this tour stand out, a few key elements come into focus. First, the itinerary is thoughtfully organized to give you a taste of Cabo’s most photogenic spots while allowing time for both adventure and relaxation. Second, the small-group format means you’re not just another face in a crowd—this is a more personal way to see and enjoy the coastline.

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at Papillon Yachts Rental, located conveniently at the Marina in Cabo San Lucas. The tour includes private transportation—a real plus if you’re staying nearby or want a seamless start. Many reviews mention that the pickup process is smooth, with staff confirming reservations and transport details promptly.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: El Arco de Cabo San Lucas
This is the star of the show. As you approach, you’ll see the famous Arch, a natural rock formation rising dramatically from the water. The crew often points out a colony of sea lions lounging nearby, adding a lively element to your photo ops. Expect about 30 minutes here—enough time to admire the view, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere.

Stop 2: Chileno Bay
Next, the boat moves to Chileno Bay, a protected spot renowned for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. It’s an ideal setting for snorkeling and paddleboarding, with water toys provided on board. Several reviews highlight that the crew is attentive, offering gear and assistance, making this a highlight for water lovers. Expect about an hour here to explore, swim, and relax.

Stop 3: Pacific Coast & Whale Watching
Depending on the season, this segment offers either whale watching or simply extraordinary coastline views. Many travelers rave about seeing giant whales swimming right next to the boat, which is a genuinely memorable experience. This part lasts about an hour and adds a sense of adventure to the trip.

Stop 4: Medano Beach
The final stop gives you a chance to chill on the Médano Beach area. Here, you can sip on drinks from the open bar, snack on guacamole, pico de gallo, cheese quesadillas, and fresh fruit. The relaxed vibe allows for unwinding after your water activities, with plenty of room to lounge or walk along the beach.

Included & Optional Extras

The tour includes snorkel gear and stand-up paddleboards, which guests frequently mention as a fantastic way to explore the vibrant underwater scene. The unlimited open bar offers a selection of alcoholic beverages, beers, and bottled water, ensuring you’ll stay refreshed. Plus, snacks like quesadillas and fresh fruit are included.

While the experience covers most needs, travelers should note that towels are not provided, so bringing your own can enhance comfort. Professional photos are available for purchase, but they’re an optional extra.

The Experience and What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the crew, especially mentioning guides like Martin, Jessica, Sergio, and Ali. Many highlight their friendly, attentive service and expertise. One guest remarked, “The staff was amazing, views were incredible, and the food was a nice surprise,” emphasizing how well-rounded this experience is.

The scenery is described as “beautiful” and “breathtaking,” with multiple mentions of whale sightings and large schools of colorful fish during snorkeling. The boat itself is in great shape, and the private nature of the tour means you can set your own pace without feeling rushed.

Practical Considerations

• The tour lasts about three hours, which is perfect for a half-day adventure.
• Bookings are typically made around 19 days in advance, so plan accordingly during peak seasons.
• The tour operates near public transportation, but private transport makes the experience smoother.
• Most travelers can participate, with some reviewing highlights the crew’s flexibility and attentiveness.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

Looking at the price, $1,102 for a small, private group might seem high at first glance. But considering it includes all water toys, snacks, unlimited drinks, private transportation, and personalized attention, it offers a good deal for a bespoke experience. It’s a way to enjoy Cabo’s top sights without the crowds, all while feeling like you’re on a luxury boat.

The reviews show that many guests find this tour exceeds expectations, especially praising the mix of scenic stops, active water fun, and attentive crew. The ability to snorkel in clear waters and watch whales (seasonally) makes it especially appealing for nature lovers.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This sailboat tour is best suited for couples, families, or small groups celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to enjoy Cabo in a more personalized and relaxed setting. If you’re someone who appreciates beautiful scenery, good food, and engaging guides, this is a great choice. The small-group size and private nature make it ideal for travelers seeking intimacy, flexibility, and a touch of luxury, all while exploring Cabo’s iconic landmarks and vibrant marine life.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
All water gear (snorkels and paddleboards), private transportation, bottled water, snacks (guacamole, pico de gallo, quesadillas, fruit), and an unlimited open bar are included.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, cancellations due to bad weather are allowed with a full refund or rescheduling. You must cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

How many people can join the tour?
It’s designed for up to 6 guests per group, making for a more intimate experience with personalized service.

Are there any hidden costs?
Towels are not included, and professional photos are optional extras. Gratuities for the crew are appreciated but not mandatory.

What should I bring?
Bring towels, sunscreen, and hats—but leave your towels at home unless you plan to swim a lot. Also, packing a waterproof bag for valuables can be helpful.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers found the experience suitable for most ages, especially those comfortable with water activities and small boat rides.

What makes this tour special compared to others?
The private, small-boat setting, the attention of the crew, and the variety of activities and sights make it stand out. Plus, the inclusion of snacks and unlimited drinks adds to the value.

Final Thoughts

This private sailboat tour in Cabo San Lucas offers an excellent blend of scenic beauty, active water fun, and personalized service. With highlights like the Arch, Chileno Bay, and the chance to spot whales, it’s perfect for travelers who want a memorable, intimate adventure. Many guests leave raving about the friendly guides, delicious snacks, and beautiful vistas—a true way to experience Cabo from the water.

While the price may seem steep, the exclusive nature of the trip and the all-inclusive amenities make it a worthwhile splurge for those seeking a more luxurious yet authentic Cabo experience. Whether you’re celebrating, sightseeing, or just want a relaxing day on the water, this tour is likely to deliver more than you expect.

If you value small-group intimacy, stunning scenery, and active water play with great food and drinks, this sailboat experience stands as a top choice in Cabo San Lucas. It’s a memorable way to see the coast, enjoy world-class views, and create lasting memories with your loved ones.