Cabo Escape Snorkel Fun Cruise

Introduction

If you’re heading to Cabo San Lucas and considering a half-day boat trip, the Cabo Escape Snorkel Fun Cruise is one you might want to look into. It’s designed for travelers who want a taste of the Sea of Cortez’s natural beauty, with some snorkeling, sightseeing, and plenty of good vibes.

What we like about this tour is how it offers a straightforward way to see some iconic landmarks like The Arch and Lovers Beach from the water, along with the chance to snorkel in Chileno Bay. Plus, the included grilled lunch and open bar mean you can relax and enjoy without worrying about extra costs.

That said, there are a few things to keep in mind—like the limited snorkeling time and some reviews pointing out organizational hiccups. So, if you’re someone who loves a smooth, well-organized trip with varied snorkeling spots, this might not be your top choice. But if you’re after a laid-back cruise with decent scenery and good company, it could be a solid pick.

This tour tends to suit travelers who are happy with a shorter, more relaxed experience rather than a full-day adventure. It’s also good for first-timers wanting a simple, fun introduction to the Sea of Cortez.

Key Points

• Great for first-timers wanting an easy intro to Cabo’s coastline and marine life
• Includes a hearty grilled lunch and open bar, making it a good value for the price
• Short, around 3.5 hours, so perfect for those with limited time
• Snorkeling is in Chileno Bay, but some reviews mention limited sea life sightings
• Some organizational issues noted, so be prepared for possible lines or delays
• Ideal for travelers who enjoy a casual, social atmosphere but less so for wildlife seekers or those after multiple snorkeling stops

What to Expect on the Cabo Escape Snorkel Fun Cruise

Getting started is pretty straightforward. You’ll check in at Cabo Escape Tours’ meeting point, Muelle del Cabo, around 12:30 pm, and then you’ll hop onto a boat that begins its journey toward Land’s End. From the deck, you’ll get an up-close look at Cabo’s most famous landmarks—notably The Arch, Pelican Rock, and Lovers Beach—offering fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to see these icons from the water.

The main draw here is the snorkeling at Chileno Bay. The vessel will stop there, giving you the opportunity to explore the underwater world with provided equipment. This spot is renowned for its clear waters and marine life, but some reviews suggest sightings can be limited, with some travelers only seeing a handful of fish and no turtles or sea lions during their visit. It’s a bit of a gamble depending on marine activity, but the scenery underwater tends to be lovely regardless.

After snorkeling, you’ll return to the boat’s deck for a delicious grilled lunch. The menu typically features tacos, which guests generally find satisfying, and some mention that the food is “okay” but not extraordinary. The open bar is definitely a highlight—beer, tequila, vodka, and sodas are all available, making for a fun, social atmosphere on board.

The cruise lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes, making it a manageable option if you’re short on time or prefer a lighter experience. While the itinerary covers the main sights, some guests have expressed that the snorkeling stop is brief and that the trip might feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re hoping for multiple snorkeling locations or more wildlife encounters.

The Snorkeling Experience

For many, snorkeling is the highlight, offering an opportunity to see the vibrant marine life that thrives in the Sea of Cortez. However, reviews vary—some travelers are thrilled with the visibility and the chance to swim in a natural “aquarium,” while others find the experience underwhelming.

One review mentions that everyone is required to wear lifejackets, which can feel somewhat restrictive but is standard safety protocol. Others note that the snorkeling stop is quite brief—about 20 to 30 minutes—and that the water doesn’t always teem with abundant sea life.

If you’re hoping to spot sea lions, turtles, or an abundance of fish, be aware that wildlife sightings are unpredictable and cannot be guaranteed. That said, the scenery alone, with the towering cliffs and clear waters, makes the snorkeling worthwhile even if the marine creatures aren’t abundant.

The Food and Drinks

The lunch is included in the tour price and generally involves grilled tacos, which are described as “okay” by some guests. It’s not a gourmet meal, but it’s satisfying enough after a few hours on the water. Most reviews mention that it’s a simple, decent offering, especially considering the overall cost.

The open bar is a big plus. Guests can enjoy beer, tequila, vodka, and sodas during the cruise, creating a lively, relaxed vibe. For some, this is the main appeal, as it turns the trip into a fun social event rather than just sightseeing.

A few reviews note that the food could be improved with added options like chips and salsa, but overall, the drinks and the casual nature of the onboard hospitality are appreciated.

The Group Size and Organization

The tour can host up to 200 travelers, which makes for a lively, bustling atmosphere. Some guests have expressed frustration about lines or delays, especially if arriving early or with a large group. There are reports of long waits and organizational hiccups, so arriving prepared for a bit of waiting is wise.

The tour operates with a multi-lingual guide, which helps in communicating the sights and safety instructions clearly. The group size and lively environment can make for a fun, social experience, but if you prefer a more intimate, quieter outing, this might not be the best choice.

Cost and Value

At $89 per person, the tour is reasonably priced considering it includes transportation, a boat cruise, snorkeling gear, lunch, and drinks. However, there’s an additional $5 fee for dock and protected areas, which is a minor extra.

Some travelers feel the experience offers good value for the money, especially if you’re after a relaxed cruise with good food and drinks. Others, however, find the snorkeling underwhelming and wish for more stops or wildlife encounters.

Given the mixed reviews, it’s fair to say that this tour is best suited for casual, social travelers who prioritize good company, scenery, and a laid-back vibe over wildlife viewing or extensive snorkeling.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise works well for first-time visitors wanting a quick overview of Cabo’s coastline, especially if you enjoy a social, festive atmosphere. It’s suitable for those comfortable with a lively group and who enjoy casual, uncomplicated experiences.

If you’re after an in-depth snorkeling adventure with multiple stops or specific wildlife sightings, you might want to look at other options. Also, if organizational efficiency is a priority, prepare for potential lines or delays based on reviews.

For travelers who love good food and drinks in a relaxed setting, the included lunch and open bar really enhance the experience.

The Sum Up

The Cabo Escape Snorkel Fun Cruise offers a straightforward, social way to see some of Cabo’s most famous sights from the water. Its highlights are the impressive scenery of Land’s End, Pelican Rock, and Lovers Beach, plus the laid-back vibe with lunch and drinks included. The snorkeling adds a splash of underwater adventure, although wildlife sightings can be hit or miss.

This tour is best suited for those looking for a casual, fun-filled afternoon rather than a wildlife or snorkeling-focused expedition. The experience’s value depends largely on your expectations—if you’re happy with a lively group, simple food, and scenic views, it delivers well enough. However, if you’re after a more organized, wildlife-rich snorkeling trip, you might find this a bit limited.

Overall, it’s a decent choice for travelers wanting to enjoy Cabo’s coast in a relaxed, social environment, with some beautiful vistas and a chance to unwind with good company and a cold drink in hand.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children? The tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, and some reviews mention organizational issues with kids. While it’s not explicitly designed for children, families comfortable with group settings and boat trips may still enjoy it.

How long is the cruise? The total duration is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, making it a half-day activity that fits well into a busy sightseeing schedule.

What sights will I see during the cruise? You’ll see Land’s End, The Arch, Pelican Rock, and Lovers Beach—all from the water, offering great photo ops without stepping ashore.

Is snorkeling included? Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and the stop at Chileno Bay allows for underwater exploration. Keep in mind that sightings of sea lions or turtles are not guaranteed.

How much does extra cost? There’s a $5 fee for dock and protected areas, payable per person.

What’s the food like? The included lunch features grilled tacos, which are considered “okay” by many. The focus is more on the drinks and social atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Last-minute cancellations aren’t refunded.

Is transportation included? Transportation to and from the activity isn’t included or offered in this package. You’ll need to arrive at the meeting point yourself.

What languages are guides available in? The tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide, helping ensure clear communication.

Would I recommend this tour? If you’re after a relaxing, social cruise with decent scenery, good food, and drinks, it’s worth considering. For more wildlife or multiple snorkeling stops, look elsewhere.