The Arch Tour on a Clear Boat from Cabo San Lucas

A Unique Look at Cabo San Lucas: The Clear Boat Tour to El Arco

If you’re heading to Cabo San Lucas, seeing the famous El Arco (The Arch) is a must-do—no trip feels complete without a glimpse of this striking natural formation. We recently experienced a 45-minute small-group tour that takes you to The Arch in a transparent-bottom boat, offering a fresh and engaging perspective you won’t forget. The tour costs $45 per person, and for those who love a good mix of sightseeing and a dash of adventure, it’s well worth the modest price.

What makes this experience stand out? First, you’re cruising in a glass-bottom boat, so you get a front-row view of the vibrant marine life beneath you—colorful fishes and the possibility of spotting local sea lions up close. Second, the tour takes you along the coast, giving you a chance to see Pelican Beach, Lovers’ Beach, Pirates’ Cave, and the Sea Lion Colony, all narrated by a knowledgeable captain and guide team.

One thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t a private tour, with a maximum of 14 travelers, so if you’re seeking solitude or a more exclusive experience, it’s good to plan accordingly. Also, the tour does not include hotel pickup or meals, so you’ll want to arrive at the meeting point ready to go. This trip suits travelers who appreciate informative guides, engaging marine views, and a laid-back pace, especially cruise lovers who enjoy a small group.

Key Points

• Unique transparent-bottom boat provides a vivid view of underwater life while traveling.
• Short, 45-minute tour offers an efficient yet comprehensive experience of Cabo’s main sights.
• Knowledgeable bilingual guides enhance the experience with interesting facts and local insights.
• Limited group size (up to 14 people) ensures a more intimate and engaging journey.
• No hotel transfer included, so plan to meet at the designated dock.
• Pricing at $45 offers good value for a scenic, guided boat ride with marine views.

Exploring the Cabo Experience: The Details That Matter

When considering a tour in Cabo San Lucas, it’s the details that often make or break the experience. This The Arch Tour on a Clear Boat offers a chance to see the iconic El Arco in a way that’s as close and clear as possible. The 45-minute cruise is brief but packed with sights, making it ideal for travelers with limited time but a craving for authentic views.

Starting at the Envatours CaboMarina, you’ll check in at the office first—important to note, check-in occurs 30 minutes prior to departure, not at the dock. The boat departs from Dock P, and you’ll be back at the same spot after your trip. This process helps keep the experience smooth and organized, although it’s worth arriving on time to avoid missing out, as rescheduling incurs a $16 fee.

The boat itself is a small, open-air vessel with a clear bottom, which is the star feature. It feels like walking on water while peering directly into the sea beneath. Several reviews highlighted how much they appreciated the visual clarity—a vast improvement over typical glass-bottom boats with tiny windows. One traveler described it as “feeling like you’re standing on water,” which captures the experience perfectly.

Your captain and guide are there to provide interesting commentary about the sights. Expect to learn about The Arch, Pirates’ Cave, Sea Lion Colony, and some famous beaches like Lovers’ Beach and Pelican Beach. The guides are generally praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making the trip both fun and informative.

The tour doesn’t include hotel pick-up or drop-off, which might be a downside for some but offers flexibility if you’re staying nearby. Once on the boat, you’re only allowed one drink per person in non-glass containers—a sensible safety rule. Photos taken by the boat’s photographer are available for an extra fee—so if you’re keen to preserve the memories, be prepared for that.

One review pointed out that the boat’s maintenance might not be as pristine as some other options, and they felt the boat couldn’t get as close to the rocks as other boats. However, most guests found the views and overall experience more than satisfying, especially considering the affordable price.

What You’ll See and Experience

The Itinerary:
The tour’s highlight is, of course, El Arco, a dramatic granite formation where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. The boat’s transparent bottom allows you to see the colorful fish darting beneath, which is a delightful surprise. You’ll also cruise past Pirates’ Cave, a rocky hollow steeped in local lore, and the Sea Lion Colony, where playful pups lounge lazily on the rocks.

The trip also includes views of Pelican Beach and Lovers’ Beach, two of Cabo’s most famous stretches of sand. Lovers’ Beach is accessible only by boat, giving it an exclusive allure, and it’s often dotted with sunbathers and kayakers. Pelican Beach gets its name from the numerous pelicans that perch nearby, and it’s a favorite spot for bird-watchers.

The marine environment:
Several reviews mentioned how the clear-bottom boat provides a vivid view of the underwater scene. Expect to see colorful fish and perhaps some rays or sea turtles in calmer days. The experience is especially rewarding for families or anyone interested in marine life, as you get a closer look than from larger, noisier boats.

The guides:
Guests frequently commented on the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. Nora, one reviewer’s guide, was described as fun and interactive, which made the trip enjoyable. The captain, Luis, was praised for being attentive and safe, emphasizing that safety always comes first.

The Price and Its Value

At $45 per person, this tour offers solid value, especially given the small-group setting and direct marine views. Compared to larger, more commercial tours that might cost more and offer less intimacy, this experience feels personal and engaging. The 45-minute duration is perfect for a quick sightseeing stop without feeling rushed.

Keep in mind that photos are extra, and if you want souvenirs, those will be additional costs. However, given the quality of view and the knowledgeable guides, many guests found it a worthwhile expense.

The no hotel pickup policy might be inconvenient for some travelers, but its straightforward meeting point at the marina keeps things simple. The rescheduling fee of $16 USD if you miss your spot is a small price to pay for peace of mind, provided you confirm your schedule.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking an affordable, scenic, and engaging way to see Cabo’s most iconic sights. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy and marine viewing. If you’re short on time but want a memorable experience that combines sightseeing with marine life, this tour checks all those boxes.

It’s also a good choice if you prefer guided commentary and want to learn about the local landmarks while enjoying the fresh sea breeze. However, if you’re looking for a private or luxury experience, you might want to explore other options.

The Sum Up

The Clear Bottom Boat Tour to El Arco offers an authentic, scenic, and fun way to see Cabo’s standout natural features. Its small-group size and vivid underwater views make it a highlight for those wanting an immersive experience without an inflated price tag. The knowledgeable guides and well-paced itinerary keep the trip engaging, and the marine views are simply stunning, especially for families or marine enthusiasts.

While it may not be perfect for travelers seeking private or ultra-luxurious tours, it excels at providing accessible, informative, and visually impressive adventures. If you value authentic sights, friendly guides, and a unique perspective on Cabo’s coastline, this tour is a smart choice.

This experience offers good value for the money, delivering memorable views and interesting stories in an intimate setting. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, it’s an easy and rewarding way to connect with the natural beauty of Cabo San Lucas.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to meet at the provided marina location.

How early should I arrive for the tour?
You should check in at the Envatours office 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time to avoid missing your boat.

Can I reschedule if I miss the tour?
Rescheduling is possible but incurs a $16 USD penalty fee if done less than 24 hours before the tour; no reschedules are allowed on the day of the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the experience is generally family-friendly, especially since it’s short and features vivid marine views.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, and only one drink per person in a non-glass container is permitted onboard.

What is the group size?
The boat accommodates a maximum of 14 passengers, ensuring a more personal and less crowded experience.

Is the boat safe and well-maintained?
Most reviews say yes, with a focus on safety and cleanliness, though some noted the boat’s maintenance might not be as pristine as other options.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring sun protection like hats and sunscreen, wear comfortable clothes suitable for a boat ride, and arrive ready for marine views.

This small but spectacular tour can be a highlight of your Cabo trip—especially if you love the water, marine life, and iconic landscapes. It’s a practical choice that balances affordability with authentic experiences, making it well worth considering during your stay.