Arch Boat Tour and Snorkeling at Pelican Rock

If you’re planning a trip to Cabo San Lucas and considering a boat tour that combines sightseeing with snorkeling, you’ll want to hear what this experience has to offer. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve gone through reviews, itinerary details, and what travelers generally think. This tour promises a trip to famous landmarks like El Arco at Lands End and a chance to snorkel at Pelican Rock, one of Baja’s top spots.

What I like about this experience is its combination of scenic boat rides and snorkeling, giving you a bit of everything—great views, marine life, and the convenience of equipment rental included. Another plus is the small group size, which tends to make the experience more personal and less crowded.

However, there are some considerations. The tour’s duration is about 2 hours, but some reviews suggest that’s a bit optimistic, with actual time in the water or at stops often shorter. Plus, the boat quality and the organization may vary, especially since some guests noted issues with older boats and communication.

This tour probably suits travelers who want a quick but scenic adventure—ideal if you’re short on time but want to tick off the major sights and get a taste of Baja’s underwater world. It’s also a good fit for those comfortable on boats and looking for a budget-friendly option.

Key Points

• Highlights include visits to El Arco, Lover’s Beach, Divorce Beach, and Pelican Rock.
• Snorkeling gear is provided, making it easy to jump straight in without extra hassle.
• Small group size (max 10 travelers) tends to make the trip more intimate.
• Price point ($89 per person) offers a decent value considering the stops and included equipment.
• Some reviews mention the boat’s age and timing being shorter than expected.
• Weather and water conditions can impact snorkeling and overall experience.

What You Can Expect from the Itinerary

Divorce Beach

This stunning stretch of white sand on the Pacific side is a quick stop. Known for its clear waters and dramatic views, it’s a perfect spot for a quick photo and to enjoy some fresh sea air. Some visitors note that it’s not really a lounging beach—more for sightseeing and walking. One reviewer mentioned, “Come prepared to sit on rocks when not in the water,” so packing a towel or a mat might be smart if you want to sit comfortably.

El Arco at Lands End

No trip to Cabo is complete without seeing El Arco, the iconic limestone arch. The tour stops here for around 10 minutes, giving you enough time to snap photos of this natural wonder that dominates the skyline. It’s a great photo op, and the boat ride itself offers panoramic views of the coastline. Many reviews praise the spectacular scenery, and some note that the boat ride to this point is smooth and informative.

Lover’s Beach & Divorce Beach

Adjacent to each other, they’re separated by the distinctive rock formations. The tour typically spends around 30 minutes here, which is enough time to walk along the shore, take photos, and soak in the views. It’s a popular spot for couples and travelers who want to see the dramatic geology of Cabo’s coastline.

Pelican Rock

The highlight for many is the snorkeling stop at Pelican Rock. Known as one of Baja’s top snorkeling spots, it offers lively marine life and clear water. The tour includes snorkel gear and safety equipment, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own. Some reviews mention that the tide can be rough, and the rocks can be uncomfortable to sit on when not in the water, so packing a small cushion or extra footwear might help.

Additional Notes from Reviews

• Several guests commented on the quality of the boat; some found it a bit old and less plush than pictures suggest. It’s functional but not luxurious.
• The timing can be a little tight—the actual snorkel experience often lasts less than the full two hours, with some guests saying they finished in about 45 minutes of water time.
• Crew members are praised for being friendly and helpful, with some reviews highlighting excellent guides who customized experiences and provided good commentary.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What You Should Consider

What’s Included

• A boat tour covering Cabo’s main sights: the Arch, Lover’s & Divorce Beach, and the Sea Lion Colony.
• Snorkeling at Pelican Rock with all necessary equipment.
• The convenience of safety gear and snorkel equipment rental included in the price.

What’s Not Included

• Round-trip transportation is available but costs an extra $20 per person.
• You’re encouraged to bring your own food and drinks; a cooler and ice are provided, but there’s a dock fee of $1 per person.
• The tour duration doesn’t include transit time, so if you’re tight on time, plan accordingly.

Group Size and Booking

This experience is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, which tends to make the trip feel more personalized. It’s booked about 36 days in advance on average, so if you’re planning ahead, you should be able to secure your spot without trouble.

The Value and Who It’s Perfect For

At $89 per person, this tour strikes a reasonable balance between affordability and experience. It’s not a luxury cruise, but it covers the essentials—landmarks, marine life, and a chance to snorkel. Some reviews have pointed out that the boats are older and that the actual water time can be brief, so if you’re looking for a more extensive snorkel or a high-end vessel, this may not be the right fit.

That said, for those wanting a scenic overview of Cabo’s coastline combined with a quick dip into the Sea of Cortez, this is a solid choice. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy boat rides and are okay with basic amenities will find this tour satisfying. Be prepared for rocky waters, especially at Pelican Rock, and manage expectations about the boat’s comfort level.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation can be added after booking for $20 per person, but the tour itself starts at the marina in Cabo San Lucas.

How long is the snorkeling experience?
The snorkeling at Pelican Rock typically lasts less than 45 minutes, with some guests mentioning they finished in about half an hour.

What should I bring?
While snorkel gear is provided, bringing your own water, snacks, and a towel might be helpful. A small cushion or shoes for rocky areas could make waiting on land more comfortable.

How many people are on the tour?
The tour caps at 10 travelers, making it a more intimate experience compared to large group excursions.

Is this tour suitable for kids or families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-specific, the short duration and calm waters in protected areas make it manageable for older children, especially if they’re comfortable on boats and snorkeling.

What about weather?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

Wrapping It Up

This Cabo San Lucas boat tour offers a straightforward, scenic experience that hits the key highlights—El Arco, Lover’s Beach, and Pelican Rock. Its moderate price point, small group size, and inclusive snorkeling gear make it appealing for those who want a quick taste of Baja’s beauty without fuss.

While the boat quality and timing might not satisfy everyone, the crew’s helpful attitude and the spectacular views tend to make up for it. If you’re looking for a relaxed, budget-friendly tour that allows you to see the iconic landmarks and dip into the Sea of Cortez, this one will serve you well. Just keep in mind the potential for rough waters and limited snorkeling time—being prepared will ensure a more enjoyable outing.

For travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and snorkeling with a friendly crew and decent value, this tour is worth considering. If luxury or extensive snorkeling are your priorities, you might want to explore other options, but for most visitors, this experience offers a good intro to Cabo’s stunning coastline.