From La Crucecita: Private Huatulco 7 or 5 Bays Boat Trip

Planning a trip to Huatulco and looking for a way to really soak in the beautiful coastline? This private boat tour offers a personalized way to explore some of the most scenic beaches and bays along the coast, with the chance to swim, snorkel, and enjoy the water at your own pace. It’s a flexible experience that’s ideal for travelers wanting more than just a group tour and who appreciate a bit of independence in their day on the water.

What I really like about this trip is how it combines the comfort of private transportation—so you won’t be sharing your boat with strangers—and the freedom to choose how long you spend at each stop. Plus, you get to keep an eye out for dolphins and sea turtles, which makes the whole experience feel more lively and connected to nature. However, keep in mind that this isn’t the cheapest option out there, and some reviews mention minor hiccups with logistics or crew friendliness.

This tour is perfect for travelers who value comfort and flexibility, want to see multiple bays without rushing, and enjoy snorkeling or simply relaxing by the water. If you’re traveling with friends or family, it could be a highlight of your trip, especially since you can customize the itinerary to suit your mood and interests.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Enjoy an exclusive boat cruise with your group, avoiding crowded tours.
• Customizable Duration: Decide how long to stay at each beach or bay, making your day tailored to your preferences.
• Wildlife & Scenic Views: Keep an eye out for dolphins, turtles, and stunning coastal scenery.
• Includes Drinks: Water and soft drinks are on board, making it easy to stay refreshed.
• Additional Costs: Park entrance fees and snorkeling gear cost extra, so budget accordingly.
• Not Wheelchair Friendly: Due to the nature of the activity, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Trip

When considering a tour like this, it’s helpful to understand how the day typically unfolds. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Huatulco and driven to the port, where your private boat awaits. The experience starts with a gentle cruise along the coast, giving you a chance to admire the coastline’s white sands and crystal-clear waters. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins—they’re often seen gracefully swimming alongside the boat, adding a magical touch to your trip.

The main draw here is the ability to explore either 5 or 7 bays, depending on your choice. For the longer, 7-bay option, your trip will include a visit to “La India” and possibly more remote beaches, while the 5-bay option takes you to Cacaluta Bay, one of the most photographed spots in the area. The flexibility means you can linger at your favorite spots, whether it’s swimming in calm waters, sunbathing on the sands, or snorkeling among colorful fish and coral reefs.

Each stop offers a different vibe—some beaches are perfect for relaxing with a cold drink and soaking up the sun, while others are more suited for a quick swim or underwater exploration. The boat is well-equipped with water and soft drinks, which is a nice touch, especially on warm days. The tour usually lasts between 5.5 to 7 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy multiple locations without feeling rushed.

The Highlights: Nature, Beaches, and Snorkeling

One of the standout features of this tour is how close you can get to local wildlife. Several reviews mention sightings of sea turtles and playful fish, with some travelers even bringing their snorkeling gear to get a closer look. The guide or captain—who is bilingual in Spanish and English—are generally praised for their knowledge and friendliness, though a few reviews note inconsistent attitudes from crew members.

Snorkeling is an optional activity but highly recommended if you want to see the underwater beauty of Huatulco. Equipment can be rented for about $15 if you don’t have your own, but keep in mind that the tour doesn’t include park entrance fees or snorkeling gear in the price, so bring cash or plan ahead.

The scenery along the coastline is striking—white sands, lush green hills, and turquoise waters—which makes every stop a photo-worthy moment. The ability to stop whenever you like means you can take your time at each beach, whether for a quick swim or a long sunbathe. Many travelers appreciate the fact that this flexibility allows for a more relaxed experience overall.

Logistics & Practicalities

The tour is priced at $223 per group, accommodating up to 10 people, which makes it quite a good value if you’re traveling with friends or family. The cost includes private transportation from your hotel, the boat, a captain/guide, water, and soft drinks. However, additional costs like park entrance fees ($4 USD per person) and snorkeling gear ($15 USD) are extra.

The pickup is straightforward—just be ready in your hotel lobby about 15 minutes before your scheduled start. The guide will be wearing a blue shirt with the Paraiso Huatulco logo, making it easy to spot. The duration can vary a bit, so check availability to find a start time that works for you.

Some reviews highlight minor inconveniences, like waiting for transportation at the end of the day or unhelpful crew members, but overall, the experience tends to be positive. The ability to customize how long you stay at each bay is a big plus, giving you control over your day and a break from rigid tour schedules.

The Value for Your Money

At roughly $223 for a private group, the experience offers good value, especially considering the flexibility, personalized service, and the chance to see multiple bays and wildlife. The inclusion of drinks on board is a nice touch, and the private setting makes for a more intimate, relaxed outing compared to larger group tours.

Keep in mind, if snorkeling or park tickets are essential parts of your trip, you’ll want to budget extra for those extras. Still, for many travelers, the ability to customize the day and enjoy the scenery at your own pace justifies the price.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private boat trip suits travelers who enjoy a more relaxed, flexible day on the water. If you’re traveling with friends or family and want to avoid large crowds, this experience offers exclusivity and the chance to tailor your stops. It’s also ideal if you’re keen on spotting wildlife like dolphins and turtles or just want a scenic cruise with options to swim or snorkel.

It’s not designed for those with mobility issues or in wheelchairs, given the boat’s nature and the activity’s demands. Also, if you’re on a tight budget, the extra costs for park entries and gear might add up, so plan accordingly.

If you’re looking for a more guided, structured tour, this might feel a little too flexible, but if you prefer to set your own pace and explore at leisure, it could be just right.

FAQs

Can I choose how long I stay at each bay?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, you can decide how much time to spend at each beach or bay, making it highly customizable.

Are water and drinks included?
Yes, water bottles and soft drinks are provided on board, keeping you hydrated during your day out.

How much does snorkeling gear cost?
Snorkeling gear is available for about $15 USD if you want to explore underwater, but it’s optional.

Do I need to buy park tickets?
Yes, there is a $4 USD fee per person for Huatulco National Park, which is not included in the tour price.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While suitable for families with older children, it’s worth noting that the tour requires some mobility and comfort on a boat. It’s not recommended for wheelchair users.

What is the duration of the tour?
The trip lasts roughly between 5.5 to 7 hours, depending on the number of bays you visit and how long you spend at each spot.

In The Sum Up:
This private boat tour in Huatulco offers an excellent mix of personalized flexibility, scenic beauty, and wildlife encounters. It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore the coastline at their own pace—whether that’s relaxing on the beach, snorkeling in clear waters, or simply soaking up the views. With knowledgeable guides, the chance to see dolphins and turtles, and the chance to customize your day, it’s a solid choice for those seeking a more intimate and tailored experience.

While it’s not the cheapest option, the private setting and customizability make it worth considering. Just be prepared for some additional costs, and remember that the experience is as much about your own pace as the scenery itself. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, this tour could be a highlight of your Huatulco trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: