Exploring the Cabo San Lucas Tour & Glass Bottom Boat to the Arch

If you’re planning a trip to San Jose del Cabo or Cabo San Lucas, chances are you’ll want a solid overview of the area’s highlights without it eating up your entire day. This particular tour offers a bit of everything — from a boat ride to the famous Arch to a quick city tour that includes tequila tasting and a glass-bottom boat experience.
We like that this tour combines a laid-back boat adventure with cultural stops, so you get a taste of the natural beauty and the lively atmosphere of Cabo. Plus, the hotel pickup and drop-off make things easier, especially if you’re staying in the area.
That said, the experience isn’t without its quirks. Some reviews point out that certain parts feel a bit rushed or less organized, particularly if you’re expecting a full guided tour. Still, if you’re after a flexible, approachable outing with good value, this could be a good pick. It’s especially suited to travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and casual fun without a hefty price tag.
Key Points
- Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics
- Includes a glass-bottom boat ride for unique views of the Arch
- Offers tequila tasting and city sightseeing in one package
- Limited group size (max 12) fosters a more personal experience
- Hassle-free booking with mobile tickets and free cancellation up to 24 hours
- Price point of $65 provides decent value for a half-day outing
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in San Jose del Cabo
An Honest Look at the Itinerary

This tour kicks off with a quick land-based introduction to Cabo San Lucas. You’ll get a peek at major spots like Medano Beach and Neptune’s Finger, famous photo ops that set the scene for the area’s lively vibe. The boat ride that follows is one of the main highlights, especially with the glass-bottom boat that takes you directly under the iconic Arch — a must-see for anyone visiting Cabo. The views of Pelican’s Rock and Lover’s Beach from the water are spectacular and give you a fresh perspective on the coastline.
The boat ride itself is generally well-reviewed — the guide and boat crew are noted to be friendly and knowledgeable. One reviewer mentioned, “The boat ride and the guide were great! We were the only ones on the boat, 2 people.” That kind of personalized attention can really elevate the experience, making it feel more special rather than rushed.
Next, the tour includes a visit to Neptune’s Finger, a prominent landmark in the area. While the scenery here is stunning, some travelers felt that the commentary was lacking, describing it as simply “driving us around the harbor.” If you’re expecting a deep dive into the area’s history or legends, this might fall a bit short. Still, the sights are impressive, and it’s a solid photo opportunity.
Experiencing the City and Cultural Touches

After the boat ride, you’ll head to the marina for some shopping time. This is a nice chance to browse local shops, pick up souvenirs, or just soak in the lively marina atmosphere. The included tequila tasting is a highlight for many, especially if you appreciate discovering different Mexican spirits. The reviews highlight that the staff makes the tasting fun and engaging, with Earl B mentioning, “the staff was awesome and we met new friends and had a blast!”
However, one review pointed out that the tequila tasting was free for anyone passing by, so the actual experience may feel a bit casual or rushed if you’re expecting a detailed tasting session. Still, the inclusion of alcohol tastings and some local wine adds a flavor of authenticity and fun.
The Glass Bottom Boat & the Arch
The star of the experience is undoubtedly the glass-bottom boat trip that gets you close to the famous Arch of Cabo. You’ll be able to see the stunning rock formations from a unique perspective, which is something we’d say is worth doing if you’re short on time but want a memorable photo opportunity.
The boat ride is also praised for its peaceful ambiance and the chance to appreciate Cabo’s rugged coastlines. Since some reviews mention that you might find the boat ride to be the most enjoyable part, it’s worth considering if you’re into scenic water excursions.
Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited to travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, casual cultural experiences, and boat adventures all in one. It’s perfect for those who value the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, and who are okay with a somewhat relaxed, informal tour structure.
It’s also a good fit if you’re traveling as a small group or couple, given the maximum of 12 participants, allowing for more personalized attention. Families with older children who enjoy boat rides and simple sightseeing might also find it enjoyable, but if you’re expecting a rigorous guided tour, you might be a little disappointed.
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A Closer Look at the Price and What You Get

At $65 per person, this tour strikes a fair balance between affordability and fun. You’re getting a roughly 2.5-hour experience, which includes the boat trip, city tour, tequila tasting, and shopping time. The fact that lunch isn’t included might be a downside for some — but the tour’s focus is more on the water and sights rather than a full dining experience.
The dock fee of $5 payable on site is a small additional cost, but one worth factoring in when budgeting for your trip. The ability to cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance is helpful, especially if you’re uncertain about the weather or your plans.
Final Thoughts

This tour offers a decent snapshot of Cabo San Lucas with enough variety to keep most travelers engaged. The glass-bottom boat ride to the Arch is an undeniable highlight, offering a memorable view of Cabo’s famous rock formations. The city sightseeing and tequila tasting add cultural flavor, even if some parts are a bit superficial.
It’s a value-packed choice for couples or small groups who want a flexible, relaxed itinerary without the fuss of large crowds or overly structured guides. Just keep your expectations in check — it’s more of a fun, breezy outing than an in-depth exploration.
If you’re after a manageable, well-rounded tour with friendly guides, scenic boat rides, and some authentic touches, this experience could be just right.
Cabo San Lucas Tour & Glass Bottom Boat to the Arch
“The boat ride and the guide were great! We were the only ones on the boat, 2 people. The tour of the city and tequila tasting was horrible. No tour…”
FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start and end your day without extra hassle.
How long is the tour? The whole experience lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, covering boat rides, sightseeing, and some free time for shopping.
What’s included in the price? Your ticket covers the professional guide, hotel transportation, bottled water, tequila tasting, shopping time, the boat ride to the Arch, and a city tour.
Are the boat rides suitable for everyone? The boat rides are generally smooth, but keep in mind that some reviews mention that the boat was quiet and peaceful. It’s best suited for those comfortable on the water, but not necessarily for very young children or those with motion sensitivities.
What should I expect at the tequila tasting? The tasting is included in the tour, and staff reportedly make it fun. However, some mention that it’s casual and that the tasting is free for passersby, so don’t expect a formal, detailed session.
Is this tour family-friendly? While not specifically marketed as a family tour, older kids who enjoy boat rides and sightseeing may find it enjoyable. As always, consider your family’s preferences and comfort with water excursions.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, fun-packed way to see Cabo’s highlights, this tour strikes a reasonable balance of scenery, culture, and convenience. It’s not perfect, but it’s a solid option that offers good value for a memorable half-day out.
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