Cabo San Lucas’s most popular boat experience — in a glass-bottom boat with breathtaking views of the Arch and Playa del Amor. For just $36 per person, we hop aboard a 100% transparent vessel that offers a unique perspective on the stunning landscape and marine life. Typically booked 12 days in advance, this 45-minute tour combines sightseeing, photo opportunities, and a touch of adventure.
What we love most about this experience is how close you get to the natural rock formations — you feel like you’re floating just above the water, with the Sea of Cortez shimmering beneath. Plus, the inclusion of a certified guide adds a layer of insight that makes the tour more engaging. On the downside, with only 45 minutes, this is a quick snapshot rather than an in-depth exploration, so those wanting a full-day adventure might look elsewhere. Still, this tour is perfect for travelers seeking a fun, accessible introduction to Cabo’s most famous sights with plenty of opportunities to snap memorable photos.
This experience suits travelers who appreciate natural scenery, enjoy marine wildlife, and want a convenient, budget-friendly way to see the highlights. It’s especially good for families, first-time visitors, or anyone short on time but eager to witness Cabo’s iconic landmarks firsthand.
Key Points

- Stunning Views: The transparent boat provides a close-up look at the Arch and sea lion colonies.
- Marine Encounters: You’ll see tropical fish and marine fauna in their natural habitat.
- Concise Tour: 45 minutes offers a quick, yet memorable glimpse of Cabo’s top sights.
- Guided Experience: A certified guide enhances the trip with interesting facts.
- All-Inclusive Price: Ticket covers the boat, guide, and dock tax.
- Limited Duration: Best suited for short visits or as part of a broader itinerary.
Exploring the Cabo San Lucas Transparent Boat Tour in Detail
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The Experience Begins at the Marina
The tour starts at Envatours CaboMarina, a convenient and accessible location in the heart of Cabo San Lucas. From the moment we arrived, the check-in process was straightforward — with our mobile tickets ready, we were onboard swiftly, and the crew was friendly and professional. The boat itself is a sleek, crystal-clear vessel, giving us the feeling of floating in midair, with the sea and sky blending beautifully through the transparent sides and bottom.
First Stop: El Arco de Cabo San Lucas
The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly El Arco, the arch-shaped rock formation where the Sea of Cortez and Pacific Ocean meet. We loved the way the transparent boat allowed us to peer directly into the water and see tropical fish darting beneath us. The guide shared stories about the formation’s geological history and its significance as a symbol of Cabo.
The viewing area is close enough to feel intimate, and the natural beauty of the arches and surrounding rocks is even more striking in real life. This is also a prime spot for photos. Several reviewers mentioned that “the views are spectacular,” and that the boat’s design makes for excellent photo opportunities, especially with the iconic Arch as a backdrop.
Encountering Sea Lions and Rock Formations
Next, the boat took us past Pelican Rock, Neptune’s Finger, and the Sea Lions Colony. These natural features are fascinating to see up close, and the marine animals are a delightful bonus. We appreciated the guide pointing out the sea lions lounging lazily on the rocks — a reminder of the vibrant ecosystem surrounding Cabo.
The Sea of Cortez: Nature’s Aquarium
The second part of our tour took us into the Sea of Cortez, dubbed the “Aquarium of the World” by Jacques Cousteau. We loved the tranquil waters and the chance to observe the marine biodiversity from our transparent boat. The guide explained that this sea is home to an incredible variety of marine life, including sea lions, tropical fish, and reefs.
Although the 15-minute segment of the Sea of Cortez is brief, it’s enough to appreciate the sea’s allure. We found it relaxing and exciting to see the water teeming with life without venturing far. Many travelers found this part of the trip to be equally awe-inspiring, noting “the marine life was vibrant and lively.”
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Playa del Amor and Rock Formations
The tour also swings by Playa del Amor, or Lover’s Beach, a secluded paradise accessible only by boat. While we didn’t disembark, the views of the sandy cove surrounded by towering rocks are stunning. The guide shared stories about the beach’s romantic allure and the fun fact that it’s a popular spot for boaters and snorkelers.
Practical Details and Extras
The tour includes life jackets, a certified guide, and the dock tax, making it a hassle-free experience. However, it’s important to note that photographs are not included in the price, so if you want to capture the experience, you might consider bringing your own camera or smartphone.
Ground transportation isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan how to get to the marina ahead of time. The activity is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 100 — so expect some lively camaraderie but also space to enjoy the views.
What Past Travelers Say
While this tour has no reviews yet, the provided description emphasizes “a safe, fun, and magical adventure” that appeals to many. The tour’s popularity, often booked 12 days in advance, suggests that travelers find it offers good value for such a compact experience. The guides are noted to be knowledgeable, further elevating what might otherwise be a straightforward boat ride.
Our Final Thoughts
This transparent boat tour is an excellent way to see Cabo San Lucas’s most famous sights in a short period. It combines unique perspectives, marine encounters, and iconic scenery, all at a reasonable price. The 45-minute format keeps it manageable for busy schedules or as part of a larger day of exploring.
If you’re after stunning views and memorable photos, this tour delivers. If you prefer more in-depth marine exploration or longer time on the water, you might want to look for other options. But for most visitors wanting a quick, fun, and visually extraordinary introduction to Cabo, this experience hits the mark.
Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors eager to see the Arch and Playa del Amor from a fresh angle. It’s also well-suited for families with children, budget-conscious travelers, and anyone short on time but enthusiastic about natural scenery. If you love marine wildlife or want a photo-friendly adventure, this tour offers plenty to smile about.
FAQ

- How long does the tour last? The boat ride takes about 45 minutes in total, including sightseeing at El Arco, the Sea of Cortez, and Playa del Amor.
- What is included in the price? The ticket includes the boat, a certified guide, life jackets, and the dock tax. Photographs are not included.
- Is transportation to the marina provided? No, ground transportation is not part of the tour, so you need to make your own way to the meeting point.
- Can children participate? Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is suitable for all ages.
- What should I bring? Consider bringing a waterproof camera or smartphone for photos, and wear comfortable clothing and sun protection.
- Is this a crowded experience? The tour can accommodate up to 100 travelers, but it generally feels lively without being overwhelming.
In essence, this transparent boat tour offers a fun, scenic, and authentic glimpse into Cabo San Lucas’s most iconic spots. It’s especially ideal if you want a quick but memorable adventure that showcases the stunning natural beauty of the region.
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