San Jose Del Cabo is a fantastic base for Boat Tours & Cruises thanks to its stunning coastline, clear waters, and proximity to iconic landmarks like the Arch of Cabo San Lucas. Whether you’re after a quick scenic ride, a luxurious private yacht, or a whale-watching adventure, you’ll find plenty of options here. We particularly enjoy the 6-Hour Guided City and Cruise Tour of Los Cabos, which combines culture, a boat ride to the arch, and delicious local food—all in one manageable day. Its small group size and personalized experience make it a standout for those who want a taste of everything without feeling overwhelmed.
While many tours focus on the iconic Land’s End and the Sea Lion colony, others dive into more exclusive experiences like private sailing or whale watching. No matter what you choose, each offers a chance to see Los Cabos from a different angle—by water, of course.
Quick Overview
In this list, you’ll find a variety of boat tours and cruises tailored to different interests and budgets. From half-day snorkeling trips (Snorkel & Explore Pelican Rock) to luxury private yacht charters (Private Yacht, Snorkeling or Sunset), there’s something for all. Some tours emphasize cultural experiences like tequila tastings and glass-blowing (Experience the Clear Boat adventure & Cabo San Lucas City Tour), while others focus on wildlife with whale-watching excursions (Whale Watching in Cabo San Lucas).
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each top-rated tour, so you can find the perfect match for your trip.
1. 6-Hour Guided City and Cruise Tour of Los Cabos with Lunch
This tour hits a sweet spot for visitors wanting a well-rounded day. It starts with a boat ride to the Arch of Cabo San Lucas, where you’ll see sea lions and enjoy the stunning scenery (more details here). Then, it combines a guided drive along the coast to San Jose del Cabo, with visits to a glass factory and a chocolate shop. The highlight is a Mexican lunch with handmade tortillas and tequila tasting, including vegetarian options. Even with a maximum of 12 people, the tour feels intimate and flexible, perfect for travelers who want variety without rushing.
Guests praise the guide’s politeness and knowledge, and the balanced mix of activities makes this tour a top pick for first-timers.
Bottom line: Excellent for those seeking a comprehensive introduction to Los Cabos, with great local flavor and a small-group vibe.
2. Cabo Encounter with Optional Clear Boat and Lunch
This 7-hour tour is ideal for travelers wanting scenic views, wildlife, and culture. Starting from Marina Cabo San Lucas, it offers the chance to ride a clear boat (at an extra cost) for stunning views of El Arco and the sea lion colony. The tour continues with free time in San Jose del Cabo, where you can explore the historic center, visit a glass factory, and enjoy a delicious Mexican lunch. The day ends with a tequila, candy, and chocolate tasting—a sweet finish.
Guests appreciate the small group setting and Dennis’ knowledgeable guidance. The optional clear boat ride is a real crowd-pleaser, giving a clear view of Mt. Solmar and Pelican Rock.
Bottom line: Great for those who want flexibility and a mix of adventure and culture in one day, with options to customize.
3. Boat Ride to the Arch and Beach Camel Ride in Cabo San Lucas
For a half-day adventure combining boat rides and beach activities, this tour is perfect. It takes you by fast boat to explore Land’s End, the Sea Lion colony, and Playa Amor. Then, you’ll head to a private ranch where you can ride camels along the beach—a unique experience not many tours offer. The day includes a Mexican buffet lunch, making it a fun, family-friendly outing.
The guides are praised for their friendliness, and the camel ride gives a memorable twist, especially for animal lovers. The boat tour is lively, and the scenery of scenic coastlines is spectacular.
Bottom line: Excellent choice for families or couples looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation with a fun, unusual activity.
4. Dinner Cruise Tour in Cabo San Lucas with Tequila Tasting
This 7-hour tour combines shopping, tequila tasting, and a sunset dinner cruise. It begins in downtown Cabo with a tequila tasting and exploring the shops, then transitions to a dinner cruise where you can watch the sun set behind the iconic Arch. Onboard, you’ll enjoy a buffet dinner with live entertainment and an open bar.
Guests love the relaxed, festive atmosphere and high-quality food and drinks. The cruise’s scenic views at sunset are particularly memorable, making it a favorite for romantic evenings or special celebrations.
Bottom line: Perfect for couples or those wanting a luxurious, relaxed evening with great food, drinks, and views.
5. Private Luxury Sailing Cruise in Los Cabos with Lunch and Open Bar
This private boat option is for groups up to 16, offering a luxurious experience on a French sailboat. It’s perfect if you want a tailored day, sailing past Lover’s Beach and the Arch. During the voyage, you can snorkel in secluded bays, relax on deck, and enjoy gourmet lunch and drinks from the open bar.
Reviewers highlight the professional crew and the personalized service. The private setting makes it ideal for celebrations or just a quiet day away from crowds.
Bottom line: Best suited for groups seeking exclusivity and comfort, willing to pay for a top-tier experience.
6. Snorkel & Explore Pelican Rock by Glass Boat + Photos
This 5-hour tour is great for snorkelers wanting underwater photos and easy access to prime snorkeling spots. Board a glass-bottom boat to cruise around Land’s End, stopping at Pelican Rock for guided snorkeling. A souvenir underwater photo CD and a beachside lunch round out the experience.
The guides are known for their friendliness and expert tips, making it an enjoyable, hassle-free day. Many reviewers mention how impressive the fish sightings were and appreciate the included photos.
Bottom line: Ideal for families or first-timers who want snorkeling with underwater memories and a gentle boat ride.
7. Experience the Clear Boat adventure & Cabo San Lucas City Tour
This tour combines the fascination of a transparent boat with a cultural exploration of Cabo San Lucas. You’ll glide over the Arch, Pelican Rock, and Lovers Beach, then visit a glass factory and explore the main square and museum. The boat’s clear bottom offers unobstructed views of marine life beneath, making it a favorite for families.
Guests rave about the informative guides and the spectacular views. It’s a well-balanced tour that suits travelers interested in both nature and local culture.
Bottom line: Great for families or couples who want a fun boat ride combined with cultural insights at a reasonable price.
8. Private Yacht, Snorkeling or Sunset in Cabo San Lucas
This luxury private yacht experience offers a 3-hour cruise for up to 6 people. You can choose snorkeling or a romantic sunset cruise along the coast. The yacht is equipped with snorkel gear, drinks, and snacks, making it perfect for small groups celebrating special occasions or simply seeking privacy.
The seasonal whale-watching can be added during the right months. The personalized itinerary and exclusive feel make this a memorable splurge.
Bottom line: Best for small groups or couples wanting privacy and tailored experiences on the water.
9. Snorkel Tour and Glass-Bottom Boat Ride in Cabo San Lucas
This half-day cruise combines glass-bottom boat touring with snorkeling at Pelican Rock. You’ll pass by Land’s End, the Arch, and Sea Lion colony, with options for morning or afternoon departures. The snorkel gear and lunch are included, with hotel pickup and drop-off making logistics simple.
Reviewers highlight fish sightings and the guide’s friendliness. It’s a popular choice for families and first-timers.
Bottom line: Suitable for those wanting a relaxed, comprehensive water experience with easy logistics.
10. Whale Watching in Cabo San Lucas: Sightseeing Cruise and Shopping
This 4-hour whale-watching tour during the migration season (December-April) is a must-do. It includes a 2-hour cruise to see gray whales and humpbacks, followed by beach visits and shopping in Los Cabos. The boat’s small group size and personalized approach create a relaxed, intimate experience.
Reviews mention close whale encounters and the fun atmosphere onboard. It’s perfect for wildlife lovers and those eager to combine wildlife watching with local shopping.
Bottom line: Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and those wanting a relaxed, multi-activity day.
11. Private Sunset Boat Tour in San Jose del Cabo
For a romantic escape, this private 2-hour sunset cruise offers stunning views of El Picacho and the coast. You customize your itinerary, and the captain provides drinks and snacks. It’s perfect for couples celebrating special occasions or just those who want a quiet moment away from the crowds.
Many reviewers mention how personalized and peaceful the experience was, with great views and friendly service.
Bottom line: Best suited for couples or small groups seeking a personalized, tranquil experience.
12. Sunset Dinner Show Cruise in Cabo San Lucas
This 6.5-hour experience combines shopping, tequila tasting, and a dinner cruise at sunset. You begin with a downtown tour and tequila tasting, then enjoy a dinner cruise with live entertainment and spectacular views of the Arch as the sun dips low.
Guests love the cultural vibe, great food, and entertaining show onboard. It’s an excellent way to combine dining, sightseeing, and entertainment.
Bottom line: Perfect for romantic evenings or group celebrations seeking a full sensory experience.
13. All-Inclusive catamaran Espiritu Santo Island Tour from Los Cabos
This full-day cruise takes you to Espiritu Santo Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It includes snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and water toys aboard a spacious catamaran. The trip offers breakfast, a chef-made lunch, open bar, and private bathrooms. Marine life such as sea lions, turtles, and dolphins are often seen.
Guests rave about the quality of food and service, and many say it’s worth the price for a full, hassle-free day exploring remote beaches.
Bottom line: Best for adventure lovers and those wanting a complete, all-inclusive day on the water.
14. Cabo San Lucas Arch Cruise and Shopping Tour
This 6-hour tour combines water and land experiences. It begins with a fast boat ride to see the Arch and Lover’s Beach, then visits a glass-blowing factory. The afternoon includes exploring downtown Cabo with shopping and tequila tasting.
Reviews praise the variety and friendly guides. It’s a good way to see the iconic sights and get a sense of the town.
Bottom line: Suitable for first-timers wanting a full overview in one day.
15. Wine Tasting Sunset Cruise Tour in San Jose del Cabo
This private 2-hour cruise offers a bespoke wine and tapas experience at sunset. You can customize your playlist and enjoy the beautiful scenery of El Picacho while sampling local wines and delicious bites. Photos and videos are included, making it a memorable evening.
The personalized service and quality wines make this ideal for celebrations or romantic nights.
Bottom line: Perfect for small groups or couples seeking a luxurious, intimate experience.
16. Cabo San Lucas Boat Tour
This shorter, flexible boat tour offers a 45-minute overview of the coast, including Lands End, the Arch, and the Sea Lions. It’s a budget-friendly option that also includes shopping and tequila tasting. The return shuttles are flexible, making it easy to fit into your day.
Reviewers note how informative and fun the ride is and appreciate the easy logistics.
Bottom line: Ideal for those on a budget who want a quick, enjoyable overview of Cabo’s highlights.
How to Choose the Perfect Boat Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and time constraints. For a full-day adventure with snorkeling, whale watching, and beach time, the Espiritu Santo Island Tour offers incredible value. If you’re looking for romance or celebration, the private yacht or sunset cruises (Private Yacht and Private Sunset Boat) deliver exclusivity. Budget travelers might prefer the Cabo San Lucas Boat Tour or the shorter boat rides.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak whale watching season or holiday periods. Also, think about activity level—snorkeling and camel rides require some physical readiness, while scenic cruises are more relaxed.
Final Thoughts
San Jose Del Cabo offers a wide array of boat tours and cruises to match every taste—whether you’re after an adventure with underwater photos, a luxury sailing experience, or a family-friendly whale-watching trip. Two standout options are the 6-Hour Guided City and Cruise Tour for a well-rounded introduction, and the Espiritu Santo Island Tour for a full-day of exploration and marine life.
No matter your style, these tours promise memorable water-based adventures in one of Mexico’s most beautiful regions. Be sure to book early so you don’t miss out on the best days on the water!