Cabo Encounter with Optional Clear Boat and Lunch

Exploring Los Cabos: A Deep Dive into the Cabo Encounter Tour

If you’re eyeing a way to see the highlights of Los Cabos without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, the Cabo Encounter with Optional Clear Boat and Lunch might be just what you’re looking for. This well-rated, small-group experience offers a blend of scenic views, cultural insights, and tasty treats, all wrapped up in a manageable 7-hour package. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone wanting a relaxed day with lots of local flavor, this tour aims to give you a well-rounded snapshot of what Los Cabos has to offer.

What really makes this experience shine are two things: the boat trip to El Arco, which is a must-see landmark, and the delicious Mexican lunch that gives you a taste of local cuisine. Plus, the addition of tastings—tequila, chocolate, and candies—adds a fun, flavorful dimension. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that the optional boat ride costs extra, and if the harbor is closed, you’d miss out on that highlight. Still, the land-based part of the tour provides plenty of engaging sights and experiences. This tour suits travelers who want an organized, diverse taste of Los Cabos without a full day of strenuous activity.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery and wildlife views during the optional boat trip to El Arco.
• Small-group setting ensures more personalized attention and flow.
• Includes a local Mexican lunch plus tastings of tequila, chocolate, and candies.
• Visit both Los Cabos and San Jose del Cabo, offering a broader perspective.
• Comfortable luxury transportation from your hotel or cruise port.
• Knowledgeable guides who add context and keep the experience engaging.

A Full Breakdown of the Tour

Starting Point: Marina Cabo San Lucas

The adventure kicks off at Marina Cabo San Lucas early in the morning. This is where you’ll board the luxury van that will whisk you around for the day. The size of the group is limited to 13 travelers, which means you’ll get more personalized attention from your guide. The tour begins at 8:00 am, giving plenty of time to see a lot without feeling rushed.

The Optional Clear Boat Ride

While this part is extra, many find it the highlight of the day. For $39 USD, you get to hop onto a boat with a fully transparent bottom—yes, the entire boat is clear—making it a fantastic way to view the iconic El Arco and the wildlife around it. You’ll glide over the waters of Cabo San Lucas Bay, catching sight of famous landmarks like Pelican Rock, Neptune’s Finger, Playa del Amor, and Lovers’ Beach.

Travelers who’ve done this boat ride rave about the experience. One reviewer shared, “Getting to go to the other parts of Cabo was so nice, and the glass factory was absolutely breathtaking.” The boat offers a unique perspective, letting you see the vibrant underwater life and striking rock formations. It’s a bit more expensive, but many say it’s worth it for the views and photo ops.

Scenic Pass-By Stops

Whether or not you do the boat ride, you’ll pass by several famous spots like Pedregal de Cabo San Lucas, an exclusive real estate enclave, and Medano Beach, known for its lively atmosphere and resorts. These drives give you a sense of both the natural beauty and the upscale local lifestyle.

Your guide will also point out Mt. Solmar and Pelican Rock, with breathtaking views from the boat or land, depending on the day’s weather and your choice.

Exploring San Jose del Cabo

After the boat, the tour heads to San Jose del Cabo, a small but charming town full of character. You’ll get about 10 minutes at Plaza Mijares, the main square, where a gazebo and the historic parroquia San Jose stand as reminders of the town’s colonial roots. It’s a great spot to soak in local life and snap some photos.

Next, you’ll visit the Mision San Jose del Cabo, which adds a touch of history and culture to your day. There’s only a brief stop, but enough to appreciate the architecture and the serene atmosphere.

Cultural and Artistic Highlights

A visit to the Glass Blowing Factory is included, and this is truly a highlight if you enjoy craftsmanship or unique souvenirs. Travelers often mention how breath-taking the displays are, and many take the opportunity to pick up a carefully crafted piece.

The town itself is dotted with local art and crafts, making the art district a pleasant place to browse. The guided commentary during the drive offers context about the area’s history, environment, and culture, making the stops more meaningful.

Food, Drinks, and Tastings

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the lunch—a true Mexican meal that many describe as delicious. It’s a welcome break in the middle of the day, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy regional flavors.

The tastings are a fun addition. You’ll sample tequila, chocolates, and candies—a sweet and spirited way to experience local treats. Reviewers mention that the tequila tasting, although at a convenience store, was still enjoyable and informative. Be aware, the tequila tasting is not at a factory because, as one reviewer pointed out, no tequila is produced in Los Cabos; it’s a tasting experience rather than a factory visit.

Additional Stops and Scenic Drive

The return journey takes you past some of Los Cabos’ other famous beaches—Santa Maria, Chileno Bay, Playa Palmilla—and scenic mountain ranges like Sierra La Laguna. While brief, these stops give a broader view of the area’s geography and development.

The guide’s commentary often includes interesting facts, such as that Sierra La Laguna is a key source of potable water for the region, adding a touch of local insight.

What Travelers Love Most

According to reviews, the guides are a standout, especially Dennis, who many describe as knowledgeable and friendly. His storytelling and attention to detail enhance the experience, making even the longer stretches on the road enjoyable.

Many reviewers also highlight the delicious food and the fun of the tastings, especially the tequila and chocolates. The boat ride, in particular, gets rave reviews for its spectacular views and photo opportunities.

One guest called it “a bucket list item,” and several noted they would return just to do the boat ride again, underscoring how memorable that part is.

The Potential Drawbacks

While the tour offers a lot, there are a few caveats. The optional boat trip costs extra, so budget accordingly if you want that experience. During busy times or bad weather, the harbor might close the boat, in which case you’ll miss out on that highlight. The tour does include a land-only option if needed, but you’ll miss the water views.

Another point to consider is the tequila tasting at a convenience store. Some travelers might expect a factory visit, but as the tour clarifies, no tequila is produced in Los Cabos. Still, the tasting is generally well-received and adds to the fun.

The tour’s duration of approximately 7 hours** is manageable for most, but you should be ready for a full day of activity, especially if you plan to do the boat ride and explore San Jose del Cabo.

Is It Worth The Price?

At $69 per person, this tour offers a solid value. It combines sightseeing, cultural experiences, a meal, and tastings—all with door-to-door transport. Many reviews praise the quality of the guide, the variety of sights, and the delicious lunch. When compared to other tours with similar highlights, this one stands out for the personalized touch and balanced itinerary.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see a mix of natural beauty, local culture, and fun activities without spending their entire day on separate excursions. It’s suited for those who appreciate a small-group vibe, engaging guides, and a good mix of scenic views and cultural insights. It’s also a great choice if you like the idea of combining a boat ride with land exploration and tastings.

If you’re someone who values authentic experiences like the glass factory visit and local cuisine, you’ll find this tour offers a satisfying taste of Los Cabos. However, if visiting a tequila factory is your priority, you might want to look elsewhere, as this tour focuses more on tasting and scenery than production.

FAQs

Is the boat ride included in the price?
No, the clear boat ride is an additional cost of $39 USD per person. Many guests find it worthwhile for the views of El Arco and marine wildlife.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended since you’ll be on the boat and walking around. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses for protection from the sun.

Can I bring children?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour is limited to a maximum of 13 people, making it intimate and manageable. The boat ride requires wearing a life jacket, which is mandatory.

What’s the meal like?
The lunch is described as delicious Mexican cuisine, providing a nice break during the day. You can buy drinks at the restaurant if you wish.

Are there any hidden costs?
The tour price covers most experiences, but you’ll need cash or card for the optional boat, lunch, and personal expenses.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 8:00 am, with the bulk of the time spent on sightseeing, the boat ride, and the stops in San Jose del Cabo.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, it’s in a luxury A/C van, and pickup and drop-off from most hotels or cruise ship terminals are included.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-rounded day exploring both the natural and cultural sides of Los Cabos, this tour delivers. The combination of scenic boat views, charming San Jose del Cabo, and tasty local bites makes it a popular choice—evidenced by its high ratings and glowing reviews. The small-group format enhances the experience, making it more personal and less rushed.

While the extra cost for the boat ride might be a consideration, many say it’s a highlight that justifies the price. The guide’s knowledge, the delicious food, and the fun tastings make this a memorable, value-packed day. Perfect for travelers who want a taste of everything—nature, culture, and cuisine—without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Whether it’s your first trip to Los Cabos or a return visit, this tour offers a balanced, engaging way to see some of the best sights and flavors the region has to offer.