Bays of Huatulco Boat Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Huatulco, Mexico, and looking for a way to enjoy its beautiful coastline without too much fuss, the Bays of Huatulco Boat Tour might catch your eye. We’ve looked into this experience to give you a clear picture of what it offers, so you can decide if it fits your travel style. It’s a fairly straightforward trip—seven hours of cruising, with stops at some lovely beaches and bays along the Pacific coast.

What we really like about this tour is the chance to be out on the water, soaking up the sun and enjoying the scenery. Plus, the inclusion of soft drinks and water keeps you refreshed without extra charges. On the downside, some reviews mention that the boat feels a bit old, and that costs for extras like snorkel gear or food can add up. It’s not a luxury experience, but if you’re after a relaxing day exploring Huatulco’s coast, this could be a good option.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a casual, scenic outing rather than a high-energy adventure. If you enjoy being on the water, taking in views, and spending time at beaches, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. Just keep in mind that it might not be the best choice if you’re looking for a more upscale or detailed snorkeling experience.

Key Points

• Relaxed cruise experience with stops at multiple beaches and bays
• Includes transportation, guide, and drinks for a straightforward day out
• Snorkeling at Chachacual offers a chance to see marine life and coral reefs
• Some reviews mention older boats and additional costs for gear or food
• Good for those seeking a chill day on the water with scenic views
• Limited meal options onboard, with food at your own expense

A Closer Look at the Bays of Huatulco Boat Tour

Planning a day to explore Huatulco from the water? This tour is a decent way to see some of the region’s most picturesque spots without committing to a full-day, high-end cruise. It’s especially appealing if you’re in the mood to relax, take in sea views, and enjoy some snorkeling without too much hassle.

The Overall Experience

For $47 per person, you get roughly seven hours of boat time, including stops at several beaches and bays. The tour begins early, with pickup and drop-off included, making logistics easier. The boat ride itself is described as “nice” by past travelers, with a good guide providing commentary in both English and Spanish. The soft drinks and water are a nice touch, helping you stay hydrated in the sun.

While the tour is simple, it offers a variety of stops. The first is Santa Cruz, the main bay, where you get your first glimpse of Huatulco’s coastline. From there, you’ll visit Playa La Entrega and Playa Organo—both known for their scenic beauty. The highlight, perhaps, is Chachacual, a protected bay and part of the National Park of Huatulco, where snorkel gear can be rented for exploring the coral reefs and sea life.

After snorkeling, the tour moves to Maguey Bay, where you have time to swim and enjoy a seafood meal at your own expense. The two-hour window gives plenty of freedom to relax, swim, or just soak up the views. Some travelers have mentioned that the boat feels a bit old, and that the ride can be quite fast, which might make some people uncomfortable if they prefer calmer waters.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned bus, which is a big plus for comfort. The guide’s commentary adds context, especially if you’re new to Huatulco or Mexico’s coastline. Soft drinks and water are provided during the boat ride, which is appreciated, but meals and extra beverages at the restaurants are not included. You’ll need to pay for snorkeling equipment if you want to explore underwater, which adds about MX$180 per person.

Additional costs like dock taxes (MX$5.50 at Chachacual) and optional tips are not included in the base price. Many travelers found the drinks included on the boat to be a good value, but some noted that costs for snacks, drinks, or umbrellas on land can add up—so budget accordingly.

The Stops and What to Expect

Santa Cruz Huatulco Bay: This is the starting point where your boat adventure begins. Expect lovely views and a chance to get a first impression of the region’s coastline.

Playa La Entrega: A quick stop to admire the views. It’s a nice photo opportunity, though not much time is allotted here.

Playa Organo: Another scenic bay with the usual calm waters and natural beauty. It’s perfect for a quick look and some relaxation.

Chachacual: The star of the tour for many, this bay is part of the national park and offers snorkeling. The reef is home to sea urchins, clownfish, and other marine life. Past reviews highlight the reef as a main highlight, but some also mention the boat feeling old and the ride being quite swift.

Bahia Maguey and the Organo: The final stop offers time to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy a seafood meal—though the food isn’t included in the ticket price. The two hours here give enough time to unwind before heading back.

Real Traveler Experiences

One reviewer called it a “nice experience boating to two beaches,” praising the guide and crew for their pleasant attitude. Conversely, another mentioned that the boat is “a little old,” and the feeling of strong current at high speed was less enjoyable for some. Food costs were another point made; everything on land is “separate and quite expensive.” A third review from Italy pointed out that the guide was quite loud and not very polished in their presentation, which might bother travelers seeking a more refined experience.

Practical Tips

• Bring sunscreen and a hat: The sun can be intense, especially on boat decks.
• Snorkel gear costs MX$180, so decide ahead whether you want to rent it.
• Stay hydrated—the included drinks help, but consider bringing extra water if you tend to get dry in the sun.
• Budget for extras: Food, drinks on land, and tips aren’t part of the base price.
• Consider your comfort with boat rides: The boat is described as feeling “a little old” and fast, so if you’re prone to sea sickness or prefer calm waters, pack accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is well-suited for travelers who want a laid-back day on the water, with scenic stops and some snorkeling. If you’re after a straightforward, affordable way to see parts of Huatulco’s coastline without lots of frills, you’ll probably enjoy it. It’s especially good if you’re content with a basic boat and are okay with spending extra on food or snorkeling gear.

However, it’s probably not ideal if you’re seeking luxury, a highly organized snorkeling experience, or a boat that feels modern and comfortable. The reviews suggest it’s a bit of a mixed bag on boat quality and overall comfort, so that’s worth considering.

Final Thoughts

The Bays of Huatulco Boat Tour offers a decent way to enjoy the region’s coastline without breaking the bank. It combines scenic views, the possibility of snorkeling, and a relaxed pace perfect for unwinding. The guided commentary and included drinks add value, but keep in mind the boat’s age and the extra costs for gear and food on land.

If you’re someone who appreciates a casual, scenic outing and doesn’t mind a bit of boat speed, this could be a good fit. Just pack your essentials, keep realistic expectations about the boat condition, and enjoy your day on the water exploring Huatulco’s beautiful bays.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned bus from your hotel is included.

What’s the duration of the tour? The whole experience lasts about 7 hours, starting at 8:50am with pickup and drop-off.

Are drinks included? Yes, soft drinks and water are provided during the boat ride.

Can I snorkel during the tour? Yes, snorkeling is available at Chachacual, with equipment costing MX$180 per person.

What stops are included? The tour makes stops at Santa Cruz Bay, Playa La Entrega, Playa Organo, Chachacual, and Bahia Maguey.

Is food provided? No, meals are not included; you’ll need to buy food at Bahia Maguey if you wish to eat.

Is there an age limit or family suitability? The tour is described as suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness. No specific mention of children, but the relaxed pace might suit families.

Can I cancel? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring? Sunscreen, a hat, possibly snorkel gear, camera, and some cash for extras.

Is the boat modern and comfortable? Some reviews mention the boat feels a bit old, and the ride can be quite swift, so prepare accordingly.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day exploring Huatulco’s bays, this tour offers a straightforward, budget-friendly way to do it. Just keep expectations in check regarding boat comfort and plan for some extra costs on land. It’s all about enjoying the views, the sun, and a little marine adventure—perfect for laid-back travelers.