Private Snorkel Cruise in Cabo San Lucas

Exploring the Private Snorkel Cruise in Cabo San Lucas: A Practical Review for Travelers

If you’re considering a snorkel tour in Cabo San Lucas, you’ll find there’s no shortage of options. One offering that catches your eye is a private snorkel cruise costing around $1,000 per group — up to 15 people — for a roughly three-hour adventure along some of Cabo’s most famous coastline spots. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, traveling with friends, or just want a memorable day on the water, this tour promises a mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and socializing.

What makes this experience appealing? First, it includes all snorkel gear, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own or renting from elsewhere. Second, the unlimited open bar offers a laid-back vibe, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the scenery. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or transportation, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the marina.

This tour is best suited for those who love a combination of light adventure and social fun — it’s not a hardcore snorkel expedition, but more of a relaxed, party-style outing with a splash of sightseeing. If you’re not keen on loud music and lively crowds, this might feel a bit too spirited. But if you’re after an enjoyable day with friends or a lively group, it could be just right.

Key Points

• Private experience: Only your group participates, making it more personalized.
• Includes snorkel gear: No need to rent independently.
• Open bar: Unlimited drinks add a fun, social element.
• Multiple scenic stops: Lover’s Beach, the Arch, Santa Maria Bay, and sea lion colonies.
• No hotel pickup: Self-arranged transportation required.
• Duration: About three hours, a quick but comprehensive outing.

What to Expect from the Cabo Snorkel Cruise

This tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing and snorkel time with a focus on enjoying Cabo’s iconic coastlines. The journey kicks off at the Cabo San Lucas marina, a central, accessible starting point. Once on board, you’ll immediately notice the friendly, laid-back atmosphere, especially with the included open bar — perfect for raising a glass as you cruise along.

The Itinerary and Highlights

The boat will take you to several renowned spots, starting with Lover’s Beach, a favorite for its stunning views and calm waters. You’ll also see Pelican Rock, a popular snorkeling site just off the coast, where the waters tend to be teeming with fish and marine life. The Arch of Cabo San Lucas is a must-see natural marvel, with striking rock formations that make for fantastic photos. Nearby, you’ll find the sea lion colony—a lively group that often steals the show with their playful antics.

Another key stop is Santa Maria Bay, known for its clear waters and lively marine life. Here, you’ll have time to snorkel with your included gear, exploring underwater scenes that many describe as fun and rewarding. One reviewer highlighted that they “saw loads of fish,” which suggests that the snorkeling can be quite lively and picturesque if conditions cooperate.

Water, Snacks, and Drinks

Throughout the trip, bottled water and snacks keep you refreshed. The unlimited drinks — which include beer, cocktails, and water — add a party atmosphere and make the cruise feel more like a social event than just a snorkel outing. Reviewers have consistently noted the attentive crew and the ease of requesting drinks, which is a definite highlight for those wanting a relaxed, festive vibe.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

Travelers frequently praise the welcoming crew and the ease of location, with many mentioning how straightforward it was to find the marina and hop on the boat. One reviewer from 2019 called it a “blast,” emphasizing the good drinks, music, and the chance to see the arch and snorkel among loads of fish.

However, not everyone raves about the experience. One review pointed out that the tour felt more like a party boat than a dedicated snorkel excursion. The gear provided included masks, snorkels, and orange life jackets — but no fins or specific instruction, which might be a downside for those who prefer a more structured snorkeling experience. The focus on drinking and lively music can also turn off travelers expecting a quieter, more educational outing.

Another critical note: the tour is non-refundable, and if weather conditions are poor, it may be canceled or rescheduled. So, if you’re traveling during unpredictable weather seasons, keep that in mind.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $1,000 for up to 15 people, you’re paying roughly $67 per person — a rate that seems fair given the combination of boat, gear, snacks, drinks, and sightseeing. For groups wanting a lively, social experience with a splash of snorkeling, it offers good value. It’s important to remember that hotel pickup and transportation are not included, so consider how far your accommodations are from the marina.

While it’s not a comprehensive snorkeling tour focused solely on marine exploration, the inclusive environment and scenic stops make it a fun, hassle-free choice for those not seeking a serious diving adventure. If you’re after a relaxed, social trip with friends or a lively group, this cruise could be just what you need.

What’s the Experience Like on the Water?

Picture yourself on a boat, sun shining, music playing, drinks flowing, and the iconic Cabo scenery passing by. The stops are short enough to keep the energy lively but long enough to snap some photos or dip into the water for a swim. The crew’s attention to making sure everyone is comfortable and having fun adds to the laid-back vibe.

Many reviews mention how easy it is to find the boat and how friendly the staff is. The snorkeling gear is ready to go when you are, and the free snacks and drinks help to keep the mood light and festive. Plus, seeing the natural landmarks like the Arch and the sea lions from the water provides an unbeatable perspective.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This snorkel cruise is perfect for groups that want more than just underwater exploration — it’s about the experience, the scenery, the social aspect, and having a good time. If you enjoy lively atmospheres, music, and drinks while sightseeing, you’ll likely feel right at home.

Travelers who prefer a quiet, educational snorkeling experience might find this more party-oriented. It’s better suited for those who are comfortable with a bit of noise and activity and are ready to mingle with fellow travelers.

This tour could also appeal to those looking for a convenient, all-in-one day out, since it combines sightseeing, snorkeling, food, and drinks into a compact package. But remember, you’ll need to sort out your own transportation to and from the marina.

Final Thoughts

This private snorkel cruise in Cabo San Lucas offers a lively, social way to see the coast, with some of the best-known sights in the area. It’s a good pick if you’re in the mood for a fun, relaxed day on the water with plenty of drinks and a bit of snorkeling thrown in. The included gear, snacks, and the scenic stops make it a convenient option, especially for groups or travelers who enjoy a party atmosphere.

However, if your main goal is serious underwater exploration or a quieter experience, you might want to look elsewhere. The tour’s focus on drinks and socializing means it’s less about the snorkeling itself and more about enjoying the vibe.

In all, it’s a solid choice for those wanting to combine sightseeing with a relaxed, festive environment. Just be sure to plan your transportation and set expectations accordingly, especially regarding the lively atmosphere.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You will need to arrange your own transportation to the marina.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about three hours, giving enough time for sightseeing, snorkeling, and socializing without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
All snorkel gear, bottled water, snacks, and unlimited drinks from the open bar are included.

Can I bring my own drinks or food?
No, outside food and drinks are not permitted, as the tour provides an open bar and snacks.

Is the snorkeling suitable for beginners?
While gear is provided, there are no specific instructions or fins, so beginners should be comfortable in the water and ready for a relaxed snorkeling experience.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, the minimum age to participate is 18 years.

What scenery will I see?
You’ll see Lover’s Beach, Pelican Rock, the Arch of Cabo, and the sea lion colony, along with marine life at Santa Maria Bay.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour good for groups?
Absolutely, it’s designed as a private experience for groups up to 15, making it ideal for friends or small parties.

What’s the typical vibe on this cruise?
Most reviews describe it as lively, with music, an open bar, and a party atmosphere, though some travelers might find it a bit too boisterous if they prefer quiet.

This review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from the private Cabo San Lucas snorkel cruise. Whether you love the idea of a fun, social day on the water or need a straightforward scenic tour, this experience could be a good fit — just plan ahead for transportation and manage expectations about the party vibe.