Huatulco: Tour of the Bays by Boat

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Huatulco, this Tour of the Bays by Boat offers a relaxed way to see some of the most beautiful spots in the region. For $44 per person, you’re getting a full seven hours of cruising, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun. It’s a straightforward experience that appeals if you love scenic views, marine life, and don’t mind a laid-back pace.

What really makes this tour stand out is the knowledgeable Spanish-speaking guide who keeps things interesting and the chance to see some iconic sights like “La Bufadora” and the turtle-shaped island. We also like the two-hour stop at Maguey Bay for swimming and lunch—perfect for those who want a relaxed beach break without the hassle of planning every detail.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour includes water and beverages but no food, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to purchase at Maguey Bay. Also, snorkeling gear isn’t included, so if you want to explore underwater, you might consider renting gear. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, appreciate a guided experience, and want a manageable way to see multiple bays without overdoing it.

Key Points

• Affordable price for a full 7-hour boat tour
• Includes transportation and water/beverages to keep you refreshed
• Stops at Chachacual Bay and Maguey Bay for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing
• Knowledgeable guide adds local insights and enhances the experience
• Variety of sights, including “La Bufadora” and turtle-shaped island
• No included food or snorkel gear, so plan accordingly

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Huatulco Bays Tour

This boat trip offers a nice balance between sightseeing, relaxing, and a bit of adventure. Starting from your hotel or accommodation, you’ll be transported to Santa Cruz dock where the adventure begins. The boat itself is a comfortable vessel suited for a day on the water, with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the views.

The first major stop is Chachacual Bay, where you’ll have about an hour to swim and snorkel in its pristine waters. The clarity of the water is often praised, and it’s a prime spot to see vibrant coral reefs and marine life. We’ve seen reviews noting that the guide is knowledgeable about the area, enhancing the experience with interesting facts about the underwater environment.

After this underwater exploration, the boat heads to Maguey Bay, where you’ll spend approximately two hours. This is the main highlight for many—swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a relaxed lunch at nearby restaurants. This stop feels like the perfect break, giving you time to unwind and soak in the scenery at your own pace.

On the way back, you’ll pass by iconic landmarks like “La Bufadora”, the famous blowhole, and “La Cara de Piedra” (The Stone Face), both offering fantastic photo opportunities. The turtle-shaped island is another fun sight that adds a quirky touch to the voyage.

Navigating the Itinerary: What Each Stop Offers

Chachacual Bay: Expect crystal-clear waters, excellent for snorkeling. The marine life and coral reefs are highlights, and the one-hour stop is enough to get a good feel for this natural spot. Reviewers mention the guide’s insights make the experience more engaging, with one noting, “We loved the way the guide explained the marine environment.”

Maguey Bay: The two-hour stop here is largely for relaxing and eating. Many travelers enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, swimming in the calm waters, and having lunch at local spots. The pace is leisurely, making it suitable for those wanting a break from busy sightseeing.

Landmarks & Scenic Views: The boat tour also passes by natural and cultural sights like “La Bufadora” and the turtle-shaped island. These are brief stops but perfect for photos and appreciating the region’s unique coastline.

The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

Many reviews highlight that the guide is a key part of the experience—knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share local insights. One reviewer said, “The guide made the trip special with his stories and explanations,” which elevates a simple boat ride into something more memorable.

Others mention the stunning views of the bays, with comments such as, “You can’t beat the scenery from the boat,” and “The water is so clear; you can see everything underwater.” These are the moments that justify the trip, especially for lovers of natural beauty.

On the downside, some note that snorkel gear is not included and costs MXN $200 per person if you want to explore underwater. Also, since food isn’t included, you should bring your own snacks or plan to buy at Maguey Bay, which can be inconvenient if you’re expecting a full meal.

The price of $44 is quite reasonable considering the length and scope of the tour. It offers good value if you’re interested in seeing multiple bays without having to organize separate boat trips or transportation.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

The tour lasts about 7 hours, so it’s a full-day activity. You’ll need to bring swimwear, a charged smartphone for photos, and biodegradable insect repellent in case you venture ashore or linger near natural areas. The tour includes transportation to the dock and water/beverages, but not meals or snorkel gear.

It’s run in Spanish, so if you don’t speak the language, a little preparation or a translation app might help you follow along. The tour operates with flexible booking options—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds a layer of security if your plans change.

Group size tends to be moderate, making it a more intimate experience compared to large group cruises. If you’re traveling with friends or a small family, this format works well.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic experience and don’t mind a guided trip in Spanish. It’s ideal for those interested in snorkeling (with gear rental) and enjoying the natural beauty of Huatulco’s bays without complicated logistics. If you’re on a budget and looking for value for money, this is a solid choice.

It’s also perfect for anyone who appreciates informative guides and stunning coastal views, especially if you prefer a slower pace with plenty of time to enjoy the water.

However, if you’re after a luxury experience or want meals included, you might want to explore additional options or customize your day.

The Sum Up

Overall, the Huatulco Bay Boat Tour offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to explore the region’s most scenic spots. It balances a good amount of sightseeing with enough time to relax at the beaches, making it suitable for those who want to see several bays without a hectic schedule.

The experience is enhanced by knowledgeable guides who make the whole trip more engaging, and the breathtaking scenery leaves many travelers eager to return. The price point is fair for a full day of activity, especially if you’re comfortable bringing your own snacks and snorkeling gear.

This tour is especially worthwhile for travelers who appreciate natural beauty, love being on the water, and are looking for a low-stress, well-organized day out in Huatulco’s stunning coastline.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally a relaxed boat trip, but since it’s in Spanish and involves swimming and snorkeling, it’s best suited for older children or teenagers comfortable with water activities.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring beachwear, a charged smartphone for photos, biodegradable insect repellent, and possibly snacks or water if you prefer not to buy at Maguey Bay. Snorkel gear can be rented for MXN $200 if you wish to explore underwater.

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals are not included. You should plan to bring your own snacks or purchase food at Maguey Bay’s restaurants during the two-hour stop.

How long is the boat ride?
The entire tour lasts around 7 hours, including transportation, stops, and return.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll see “La Bufadora,” the turtle-shaped island, “La Cara de Piedra,” and the natural bays of Huatulco, with plenty of photo opportunities.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

If you’re yearning for a scenic, laid-back day on the water in Huatulco with some snorkeling and natural wonders, this tour delivers good value and memorable sights. Just remember to come prepared, and you’ll have a relaxing adventure that captures the essence of this beautiful region.

You can check availability for your dates here: