2 Tank Dive – Certified Divers (Santa Maria Bay & Chileno Bay)

Introduction

If you’re a certified diver planning a trip to Los Cabos, you might have come across the 2 Tank Dive tour offered by Dive Cabo. This experience promises a chance to explore some of the most beautiful underwater spots in the area, and it’s highly rated for a reason. It’s a straightforward, well-organized option that appeals to those who want to see a variety of marine life without fuss.

What really caught our attention are two things: first, the expert guidance from knowledgeable, professional guides who prioritize safety and education, and second, the chance to visit two different dive sites in one trip—Santa Maria Bay and Chileno Bay—both renowned for their clear waters and abundant sea life.

One thing worth considering is the price, which at $140 per person, isn’t the cheapest option out there. However, given the inclusions—guided dives, photos, snacks, and beverages—the value can be quite good, especially if you’re serious about enjoying quality marine encounters.

This tour is best suited for certified divers who want a reliable, hassle-free way to explore Los Cabos’ underwater world with a small group. If you’re looking for a memorable, safe, and professionally guided experience, this one is worth considering.

Key Points

• Expert Guided Experience: Guides are knowledgeable and prioritize safety, making it ideal for certified divers.
• Two Different Dive Sites: Santa Maria Bay and Chileno Bay offer varied marine landscapes and marine life.
• All-Inclusive: Photos, snacks, and beverages are included, providing good value.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 18 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Flexible & Reliable: Most bookings are made at least 28 days in advance, and the tour offers free cancellation if needed.
• Great for Certified Divers: Evidence of certification is required, making it unsuitable for beginners.

The Experience in Detail

How the Day Unfolds

The tour starts early, with a meeting at the Two for the Road Cabo JAZZ Spot, situated at Hotel Tesoro in Cabo San Lucas. The ride to Santa Maria Bay and Chileno Bay takes about 40 minutes by boat, offering a scenic prelude to your underwater adventure. Expect to set off at around 8:00 a.m., giving you plenty of daylight to enjoy the experience.

Once at the dive sites, you’ll be guided by experienced professionals who know these waters inside and out. The guides’ knowledge is frequently praised in reviews, with one diver mentioning that the team “was very nice, professional, and knowledgeable of the area.” They will help you navigate the underwater terrain and point out marine creatures you might not notice on your own.

What Makes Santa Maria Bay and Chileno Bay Special?

Both sites are renowned for their crystal-clear water and vibrant reef life. Santa Maria Bay is a favorite for its colorful reef tops and the chance to see eagle rays, especially around Whales Head—an iconic spot where ray sightings are common. Chileno Bay, on the other hand, is known for its schools of jacks and tunas, making the underwater panorama lively and dynamic.

Other highlights include the underwater pinnacles at the Blow Hole and the reefs at Gavilanes. Each site offers a different perspective of the region’s marine biodiversity, so you’ll get diverse sights on your two dives.

Marine Life Encounters

Expect to see a wide variety of marine species, from mobula rays and sharks to moray eels and nudibranchs. The water teems with life, and guides often point out these creatures, enriching your experience. One reviewer mentioned seeing plenty of schools of fish, and the opportunity to dive above reef tops covered in vibrant colors adds to the visual appeal.

While most divers report positive, safe experiences, it’s worth noting that the site conditions can vary based on weather, visibility, and water currents. The guides are adept at adjusting plans according to these factors, which is reassuring.

Photos and Snacks

A big bonus is the free photos provided after the dives. Bring a USB or memory card to store your shots—they’re a nice souvenir and add extra value to the tour. You’ll also enjoy snacks and beverages, keeping you energized between dives.

Group Size and Flexibility

With a maximum of 18 travelers, this tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, so you won’t feel lost in a crowd. If you’re the only diver booked for the day, you might even get a private tour, which some reviews appreciated. The small group setting also facilitates personalized guidance, especially helpful for those who want to learn more about the marine environment.

Pricing and Overall Value

For $140, you get two guided dives, photos, snacks, and beverages. While this isn’t the cheapest diving option out there, the quality of instruction and the variety of sites justify the cost for many. It’s a straightforward, well-reviewed experience that emphasizes safety and knowledge.

What Could Be Improved?

The main consideration is transportation—the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point. Also, equipment use is not included, so if you don’t have your own gear, you’ll need to rent somewhere else.

A review also pointed out a miscommunication about the dive location, but the company clarified that they adjust sites based on conditions and that the requested site, Chileno Bay, is part of the itinerary. It’s worth confirming your dive site preferences ahead of time.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits certified divers who want a professionally guided experience with reliable operators. It’s perfect if you’re interested in seeing multiple marine environments in one trip, and if you enjoy the added perk of free photos and snacks. Its small group size makes it ideal for those who prefer a more personal touch, and the variety of dive sites ensures you won’t get bored or see the same scenery twice.

Final Thoughts

For anyone with a diving certification seeking a balance of adventure, guidance, and marine diversity, this tour hits the right notes. The guides’ expertise shines through, helping you get the most out of your time underwater. The two different sites allow for a broader experience of the region’s underwater life, from rays to schools of fish.

While the price is a bit higher than some might like, the overall value—guided experience, photos, snacks, and small group size—makes it a solid choice. It’s a dependable, safe, and enjoyable option for those ready to explore Los Cabos’ underwater treasures.

If you’re comfortable with the logistics and want to maximize your diving in a short time, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Do I need to be a certified diver to take this tour?
Yes, evidence of your dive certification is required. This tour is designed for certified divers, not beginners.

What’s included in the price?
You get two guided boat dives, all taxes and fees, free photos, snacks, and beverages. Equipment use is not included.

Where does the tour meet?
The meeting point is at Two for the Road Cabo JAZZ Spot, Hotel Tesoro, in Cabo San Lucas. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to this location.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, starting around 8:00 a.m. The boat ride to the dive sites takes about 40 minutes.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity, with a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for non-divers?
No, since the activity involves guided dives, only certified divers can participate.

What marine life can I expect to see?
Common sightings include mobula rays, sharks, moray eels, nudibranchs, sting rays, and schools of fish.

Are the dive sites suitable for all skill levels?
As long as you’re certified, the sites are suitable, but conditions can vary, and guides will tailor the experience accordingly.

Will I get underwater pictures?
Yes, free photos are included, so don’t forget to bring a USB or SD card to save your images.

If you’re looking for a reliable and engaging diving experience in Los Cabos with experienced guides and varied sites, this tour offers a good mix of adventure and comfort. Just remember to plan your logistics accordingly, and you’ll be well on your way to some memorable underwater moments.