Cabo San Lucas Whale Watching Tour with Photos Included

If you’re dreaming of seeing whales in their natural habitat, this Cabo San Lucas tour is often recommended by visitors and seems to deliver a genuine, memorable experience. While we haven’t done it ourselves, we’ve gathered plenty of details to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your trip.

What really draws us to this tour are the small group size—max 10 people—which promises a more personal experience—and the knowledgeable guides who aren’t just there to point out whales but also share interesting facts about the marine life. Plus, the included professional photos are a big perk, especially when you’re trying to capture those moments without fumbling with your phone.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is the weather dependence—if the sea gets choppy or weather conditions aren’t suitable, your trip could be canceled or postponed. It’s worth factoring in that this tour might not be ideal if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer a more relaxed, covered boat experience.

All in all, this whale watching tour seems best suited for travelers who want a more intimate, well-guided outing with plenty of opportunities to see whales up close — perfect for small groups, couples, families with older children, or anyone eager to learn from marine biologists.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: Max 10 people, ensuring comfort and personal attention.
• Expert guides: Marine biologists lead the tours, sharing insightful information about whales and marine life.
• Photos included: Professional shots of your trip, with a second tour free if whales are elusive.
• Iconic stop at El Arco: A quick photo op at Cabo’s famous landmark.
• Weather-dependent: Canceled or rescheduled if conditions aren’t safe or suitable.
• Accessible: Most travelers can participate, but not suitable for children under five or those with certain health issues.

What to Expect from This Whale Watching Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour is structured to give you a balanced, enjoyable 2-hour outing. It begins at the meeting point near Breathless Cabo San Lucas Resort and Spa, a convenient location that’s close to public transportation. From there, you’ll board a cozy boat designed for small groups, which is a real advantage—more space, less noise, and better chances to see wildlife without the crowds.

The highlight of the trip is the chance to spot humpback whales—and with the guides being marine biologists, you’ll get much more than just a glimpse. Expect to learn about whale behaviors, listen to whale songs with a hydrophone, and maybe even see some calves. Several reviews mention impressive sightings, including breaching whales, whales with calves, and close-up encounters.

The First Stop: El Arco

Within the first 20 minutes, your boat will stop at El Arco de Cabo San Lucas — the iconic rock formation that everyone pictures when they think of Cabo. It’s a brief stop, but a perfect photo opportunity. Many guests appreciated this part, noting that the included photos captured this stunning scenery well.

Marine Life and Other Sightings

Beyond whales, the boat often encounters other marine creatures like dolphins, sea lions, sharks, and pelicans. A review mentioned seeing sea lions, pelicans, and a variety of whales, emphasizing the diversity of marine life around Cabo. Guides are praised for their knowledgeability, making it easier to identify different species and learn about their behaviors.

The Experience of Hearing Whale Songs

One of the special features is the use of a hydrophone—a device that lets you listen to whale songs live. This adds an enchanting layer to the experience, giving you a real sense of the animals’ communication. Several reviews highlight the excitement of hearing whales sing, which is quite a memorable moment.

Professional Photos and Second Tour Guarantee

A standout aspect is the photos included with your booking. Some guests noted that they received professional pictures taken during the trip, which they appreciated far more than relying on blurry phone shots. Plus, if you don’t see whales on your first outing, the tour offers a second trip for free, which adds a nice layer of reassurance.

The Group Size and Comfort

The boat size is about 25 feet long, accommodating a maximum of 34 travelers, but most reviews indicate smaller groups—around 8 to 10—making the experience feel more intimate. This small size means fewer people to compete for viewing spots and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Guests also mentioned that the boat isn’t very fancy but comfortable enough for the two-hour trip. Be aware that there’s no bathroom or cover, so wear sunscreen and dress appropriately, especially if you tend to get seasick or want to avoid sunburn.

Guides and Crew

Reviews consistently praise the knowledge of the guides, often mentioning their friendly demeanor and ability to share interesting facts about whales and marine animals. For example, one review highlighted Aurora as very knowledgeable and another appreciated how guides like Nina sent photos and explained how to identify whales during the trip.

The captain is also noted for being professional and careful, ensuring a safe and smooth ride, which is particularly important if the weather isn’t perfect.

Pricing and Value

At around $94 per person, this tour strikes a good balance between affordability and quality, considering the small group size, guided experience, and included photos. Many reviews emphasize that the guides and crew go beyond just showing whales—they educate and make the trip more meaningful.

Compared to larger, more commercial tours, this offering seems to prioritize quality over quantity. Plus, the whale warranty—the guarantee of a second tour if no whales are spotted—adds peace of mind and increases the overall value.

Is This Tour Suitable for Everyone?

While most travelers can participate, it’s important to note that children under five are not allowed, and the tour may not be ideal for those with neck problems or mobility issues, given the boat’s open design and the need to stand or move around.

It’s also worth mentioning that the tour is not covered, and you’ll need to pay a $2 dock fee. But overall, it’s a good option for anyone wanting a calmer, smaller-group experience** with a focus on wildlife and learning.

Final Thoughts

This whale watching tour in Cabo appears to deliver on its promise of an up-close, educational, and enjoyable marine adventure. We love how guides are not just spotters but true experts, enhancing the experience with their knowledge and enthusiasm. The inclusion of professional photos and the second tour guarantee make it stand out from more generic options.

The small boat size, combined with the opportunity to listen to whales singing and see diverse marine life, makes this a compelling choice for those who prioritize quality and a personal touch. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a more relaxed, informative trip without the crowds.

If you’re visiting Cabo and eager to see whales in action, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to pack sunscreen, a hat, and a sense of adventure — and be prepared for a boat ride that might get a little bumpy if the weather isn’t ideal.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, giving enough time to spot whales and enjoy other marine life without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Breathless Cabo San Lucas Resort and Spa near P.º de La Marina, a convenient location close to public transportation options.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the use of a hydrophone to listen to whales, professional photos of your trip, bottled water, and the whale warranty (second trip free if no whales are seen).

Is there a dock fee?
Yes, there’s a small fee of $2 per person payable at the dock.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to weather, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under five aren’t allowed, and the tour may not be suitable for those with neck problems or mobility issues due to the boat’s design.

How many people are typically on the boat?
Most reviews mention about 8 to 10 people, making it a very intimate experience compared to larger tours.

What kind of marine animals might I see?
Expect to see whales, especially humpbacks, along with dolphins, sea lions, sharks, and pelicans, based on previous sightings.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Reviews highlight guides like Aurora and Nina for their friendliness and expertise about whales and marine life.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and perhaps a light jacket in case it gets cool. Remember, there’s no cover, so protection from sun and wind is key.

Overall, if you’re after a personalized, educational, and visually stunning whale watching experience in Cabo, this tour offers solid value and memorable moments.