Private Snorkel Cruise in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas offers countless ways to enjoy its stunning coastline, but if you’re looking for a private, lively adventure that mixes snorkeling, sightseeing, and a good dose of fun, the Private Snorkel Cruise with Jungle Cruise might be just what you need. For $1,000 per group (up to 15 people), you get about three hours of cruising along some of Cabo’s most famous landmarks, including the Lover’s Beach, Pelican Rock, the Arch, and Santa Maria Bay. The tour departs from the marina — an easy-to-find spot that puts you right in the heart of the action.

Two things we love about this experience are the all-inclusive nature of the cruise, especially the unlimited drinks, and the chance to see some of Cabo’s top sights like the Sea Lion colony and the iconic Arch up close. The other highlight is the snorkeling off Santa Maria Bay, which offers vibrant marine life in clear waters. On the flip side, one possible downside is that this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the marina.

This adventure is perfect for groups seeking a private, all-in-one outing that combines sightseeing, snorkeling, and socializing in one package. It suits travelers who enjoy a lively atmosphere, but also want to experience Cabo’s natural beauty and iconic landmarks firsthand.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with snorkel gear, snacks, water, and unlimited drinks.
• Private group ensures a personalized, relaxed atmosphere.
• Multiple sightseeing stops, including Lover’s Beach, Pelican Rock, and the Arch.
• Snorkeling at Santa Maria Bay offers vibrant marine life.
• No hotel transfers, so plan your logistics accordingly.
• Duration of about 3 hours makes it a manageable yet fulfilling outing.

An In-Depth Look at the Snorkel Cruise Experience

When considering a boat trip in Cabo San Lucas, it’s important to understand what makes this particular private snorkel tour stand out. While snorkeling itself is a major draw, the overall experience hinges on the blend of sightseeing, social atmosphere, and comfort. This tour offers a compact three-hour window — enough to hit several top spots without feeling rushed or exhausted.

Starting at the Cabo San Lucas marina, the departure point is convenient and well-situated for travelers staying in or near the town. Once on board, you’ll immediately notice the friendly vibe, as reviews mention the attentive crew and the welcoming atmosphere. One traveler from June 2023 remarked, “we were greeted on board with water and beer, or you could request any cocktail,” which sets the tone for a relaxed, party-like atmosphere.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour’s itinerary is structured to showcase Cabo’s most photogenic and lively spots.

First Stop: Lover’s Beach and Pelican Rock
These iconic locations are easily recognizable symbols of Cabo. Lover’s Beach, accessible only by boat or water taxi, is a tranquil spot where you can admire the white sands and dramatic rock formations. Pelican Rock, a well-known snorkeling site, teems with colorful fish, making it a favorite among snorkelers. One reviewer highlighted the ease of finding the location, noting, “the location was easy to find being right at the marina,” which is a big plus for first-timers.

Second Stop: The Arch and Sea Lions Colony
The Arch of Cabo San Lucas is the unmistakable rock formation that frames countless photos. Watching Sea Lions lounging on nearby rocks adds to the fun and gives you a chance to see local wildlife up close. The tour allows a good vantage point for photos, especially since the boat gets close enough for some memorable shots, as one reviewer shared, “great pictures at the arch.”

Final Stop: Santa Maria Bay
This secluded cove is a vibrant snorkeling spot with calm, clear waters and plenty of fish to observe. Many travelers consider snorkeling here the highlight of the tour. The experience is complemented by the included snorkel gear, though some reviews mention that the gear provided—masks, snorkels, and orange life jackets—was sometimes put on backwards or lacked fins, with no instruction given.

Snorkeling: A Closer Look

Snorkeling off Santa Maria Bay is a key feature, and many reviewers agree that the marine life is lively. One enthusiast described it as “loads of fish,” reinforcing that this spot offers good value for snorkeling fans. The gear is included, which is a plus, but some travelers noted the gear could be better—fins and instructions would enhance the experience, especially for beginners or those unfamiliar with snorkeling gear.

The Social Atmosphere: Drinks and Snacks

A major aspect of this tour is the unlimited open bar. As one reviewer noted, “the crew was very attentive,” and you never had to walk over to the bar—you could simply request drinks as you relaxed on deck. The drinks, which include beer, water, and cocktails, help create a fun, party-like environment that many guests enjoy.

Snacks and bottled water are also included, helping you stay refreshed during the cruise. Several comments highlighted how much fun they had, with one saying, “it was definitely more of a party boat than a snorkel cruise,” which might appeal to those looking for a lively, social outing.

Authentic Experience and Authenticity

While many reviews focus on the fun atmosphere, some critics point out that the focus can lean more towards socializing and drinking rather than snorkeling or sightseeing. One review from November 2019 mentions that it felt more like a “party boat,” with limited instruction or fins provided. This highlights that if your priority is serious snorkeling or wildlife observation, you might find this tour less comprehensive.

Practical Considerations

The tour costs $1,000 for up to 15 people, which breaks down to about $67 per person if the group fills the boat. For groups wanting a private outing with drinks and sightseeing, it offers good value. Keep in mind, transportation to and from the marina is not included**, so plan accordingly.

The tour is non-refundable, and weather can impact whether the trip runs; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Perfect for travelers who prefer certainty but should also be prepared for possible last-minute changes due to weather.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This private snorkel cruise is ideal for groups looking for a fun, social experience with a mix of sightseeing and snorkeling. It’s perfect for guests who want to enjoy Cabo’s iconic sights with the added bonus of unlimited drinks and a lively atmosphere. If you’re traveling with friends or family who love a bit of a party, this could be a hit. However, if you’re searching for an in-depth snorkel adventure or wildlife-focused tour, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts on Value and Experience

For those seeking a relaxed, private outing that combines stunning scenery, light snorkeling, and plenty of drinks, this cruise hits the mark. The convenient marina departure, the chance to see Cabo’s famous Arch and Lover’s Beach, and the lively onboard vibe make for a memorable day out.

The all-inclusive drinks and snacks are a real bonus, especially if you enjoy socializing in a fun, casual setting. The possibility of encountering sea lions and colorful fish keeps the experience grounded in the natural beauty of Cabo.

However, if your priority is serious snorkeling or wildlife observation, some reviews suggest the gear and instruction could be better. And remember, transportation to the marina is not included, so plan to get there on your own.

This tour offers a lively, private way to experience Cabo’s coastline—with enough flexibility to suit groups looking for fun rather than a formal excursion. It’s best suited for those who want to combine sightseeing, socializing, and snorkeling into a compact, memorable outing.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, transportation to and from the marina is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own means of getting there.

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable outing that fits well into a day of sightseeing.

Are snorkel gear and drinks included?
Yes, all snorkel gear is provided, and you can enjoy unlimited drinks, including beer, cocktails, and water.

Can I bring my own drinks or snacks?
No, the tour provides all drinks and snacks; outside food or beverages are not mentioned and likely not allowed onboard.

What sights will we see?
You’ll visit Lover’s Beach, Pelican Rock, the Arch, and Santa Maria Bay, with chances to see sea lions and marine life while snorkeling.

Is this tour suitable for families or only adults?
The minimum age is 18, so it’s geared toward adults looking for a lively, social experience.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If canceled due to weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund. The experience is weather-dependent for safety and comfort.

In sum, this private snorkel cruise in Cabo San Lucas offers a lively, scenic, and social way to experience some of the area’s most famous sights. With its favorable reviews and inclusive vibe, it’s a solid choice for groups seeking a fun, memorable outing — especially if you enjoy a drink or two along the way.