Tour to the Arch of Cabo San Lucas in a transparent glass boat

Exploring Cabo’s Iconic Arch from a Glass Boat: An Honest Review

If you’re dreaming of cruising around Cabo San Lucas and getting up close with its spectacular scenery, a glass boat tour to the famous Arch is often on many travelers’ lists. We’ve looked into this experience, offered by Novo Tours, and while it’s a solid choice, it’s worth knowing what you’re signing up for before booking.

What caught our attention? First, the crystal-clear views that allow you to see marine life beneath the surface—think colorful fish, playful sea lions, and even manta rays. Second, the compact 2-hour timeframe makes it a manageable, enjoyable trip without overcommitting your day.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is transportation logistics—some guests have mentioned challenges with pickup arrangements, so planning ahead is a good idea.

This tour appeals most to those who want a quick, scenic trip with the chance to see Cabo’s natural beauty from a unique perspective. Perfect for travelers seeking an accessible, family-friendly outing or anyone fascinated by marine wildlife and rock formations.

Key Points

• Stunning Marine Views: The transparent boat offers a rare opportunity to see fish and sea creatures beneath your feet.
• Short & Sweet: At just around two hours, it fits easily into a busy sightseeing day.
• Educational & Fun: Guides share insights about the Sea of Cortez and local wildlife, making it engaging.
• Additional Activities: Includes shopping time in Cabo’s downtown and a tasting of local tequilas.
• Variable Experiences: Reviews highlight that the boat experience itself is wonderful, but transportation can sometimes be tricky.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (max 12 travelers) ensure a more personal experience.

The Journey to the Arch in a Glass Boat

When you think of Cabo San Lucas, the Arch immediately springs to mind—this iconic rock formation marks the tip of the Baja Peninsula and the meeting point of the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean. Seeing it from the water is truly special, and this tour offers a front-row seat from a transparent glass boat.

The first thing you’ll notice is how the boat’s glass bottom transforms the experience. Instead of just looking around, you’re gazing directly into the ocean, spotting schools of fish darting below, and if you’re lucky, catching a glimpse of sea lions basking on rocks or manta rays gliding by.

The trip begins with a cruise through the bay, where knowledgeable guides point out interesting rock formations and tell stories about the area’s history and wildlife. Guests have consistently praised the boat staff for their friendliness and knowledge, including a review mentioning that Nacho and the captain were “fantastic and very knowledgeable,” making the ride both fun and educational.

What to Expect During the Tour

The Glass Boat Ride

The core of the experience is the crystal-clear boat ride to the Arch. As you cruise along, the transparent bottom really shines—it’s like walking on water, but you’re actually floating above it. You’ll love the views of vibrant fish swimming underneath and the chance to see sea lions in their natural habitat.

One reviewer mentioned, “It was cool that you can see the fish right under the boat!” This is a key highlight for nature lovers and those keen on marine life. The ride isn’t just about the views, but also the atmosphere—relaxed, scenic, and perfect for snapping photos.

Wildlife Spotting & Rock Formations

The bay is dotted with impressive rock formations, and the sea lion colony is an added bonus. These creatures often lounge on rocks, providing great photo opportunities. The guides typically share interesting facts about their behavior, which adds an educational layer to the fun.

Shopping & Local Culture

Post-boat, you’ll have about an hour or so to explore Cabo San Lucas’ downtown area. This is an opportunity to visit craft markets, buy souvenirs, or just stroll and soak in the local vibe. It’s a good way to stretch your legs after the boat ride and pick up some authentic Mexican crafts.

Tequila Tasting

The tour wraps up with a visit to Hacienda Tequila, where you can taste several types of tequila and learn about the distillation process. The tequila tasting is a popular feature, giving you a taste of Mexico’s spirited craft. It’s a relaxed way to end the experience, especially if you’re a fan of spirits.

The Practical Side: Logistics & Value

The tour is priced at $44 per person, which we find to be reasonable considering the experience. The inclusion of pickup (though some reviews suggest this can sometimes be a bit disorganized) and a mobile ticket makes things easier for travelers who want hassle-free booking.

The tour’s duration of approximately two hours means it’s a perfect fit between other sightseeing activities or beach downtime. Small groups (up to 12 people) ensure you’re not lost in a crowd, and guides tend to provide personalized attention.

However, one review noted that the transportation aspect could be improved, with some difficulty in finding the driver. So, if you’re relying on the pickup service, it’s wise to confirm your arrangements beforehand or plan for a backup.

The Real Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

Many guests have enjoyed the experience, especially the stunning views of the marine life and rock formations. For example, one rated it a 4 out of 5, mentioning that it was a “great time” and appreciating the opportunity to see fish right under the boat. Another enthusiast called it an “amazing outing,” highlighting the guide’s knowledge and the fun atmosphere.

Less positive feedback focused on transportation issues, with at least one guest describing the pickup as “awful” and confusing. While this isn’t uncommon in busy tourist spots, it’s a reminder to stay communicative with your tour operator.

Most reviews agree that the main highlight—the boat ride—is memorable. The transparency of the boat makes it especially appealing for photography and for those who love seeing marine life up close.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

If you’re someone who appreciates quick, scenic trips with a good mix of wildlife, scenery, and local culture, this tour hits many marks. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for something relaxed but visually engaging.

It’s also a good choice if you’re eager to see the iconic Cabo Arch without spending several hours on a boat or a more intense excursion. The added bonus of a tequila tasting means you can enjoy a taste of local tradition without leaving the city.

Final Thoughts

This glass boat tour offers a unique perspective on Cabo’s natural beauty, with excellent views of the marine world beneath you and the iconic Arch in front. While the transportation logistics might require some patience, the experience itself tends to deliver memorable moments, especially for those who love wildlife and stunning rock formations.

In terms of value, it’s a reasonably priced way to combine scenic cruising and local culture into a manageable two-hour window. Plus, the small group size makes it more intimate and less rushed, which we always appreciate.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, picture-worthy activity that combines nature, culture, and a bit of fun, this tour could be just what you need on your Cabo trip.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, but some reviews mention that arranging or finding the driver can sometimes be a challenge. Confirm your pickup details in advance to avoid surprises.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 2 hours, making it easy to add into your day without feeling overwhelmed.

What can I see from the glass boat?
You’ll have great views of colorful fish, sea lions, manta rays, and impressive rock formations around the bay. The transparent bottom makes it feel like you’re part of the underwater world.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, the tour mentions that photos taken during the trip are not included in the price, so you might want to budget for that if you want souvenir pictures.

Is this experience suitable for kids?
The tour is generally accessible for most travelers, but specific considerations for children aren’t detailed. It’s a calm, scenic ride, so likely suitable for kids who enjoy boats and marine life.

Can I walk around during the tour?
The boat is designed for sightseeing with a focus on the transparent bottom, so walking around is limited to the boat’s interior. It’s mostly a seated experience.

What’s the best time of day for this tour?
While the data doesn’t specify, most water tours are popular in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy better lighting for photos.

Is there a dress code?
Casual wear is perfect—think lightweight, comfortable clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Bring a hat if you’re sensitive to the sun.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re heading to Cabo San Lucas and want a relaxed way to see the famous Arch and enjoy marine views, this transparent boat tour offers a memorable, family-friendly outing that’s worth considering. Just remember to clarify your pickup details and maybe bring a camera for the spectacular scenery.