Cabo San Lucas Sunset Dinner Cruise with Open Bar

Thinking about adding a sunset cruise to your Cabo itinerary? If so, this Cabo San Lucas Sunset Dinner Cruise with Open Bar might catch your eye. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting to enjoy those iconic views of Lands End and the Arch while indulging in Mexican food and drinks. We’ve gone through the details, reviews, and what this experience really offers, so you can decide if it’s right for you.

What we like about this cruise? First, the stunning views of the Arch and the coastline are truly unbeatable. Watching the sunset dip into the ocean from the water creates a magical vibe. Second, the all-you-can-drink open bar and buffet of Mexican favorites give a good sense of value—especially if you’re craving a lively, social atmosphere.

However, there are some things to keep in mind. It’s definitely a party boat, not a peaceful, romantic cruise for quiet reflection. The environment can be loud and crowded, which isn’t suited to everyone. For families or those seeking a tranquil experience, this might feel a bit overwhelming. Still, if you’re after fun, dancing, and a vibrant social scene, this cruise could be a hit.

This tour tends to attract those who love a lively, energetic outing. It’s perfect for groups of friends, couples looking for a fun evening, or anyone wanting to combine great food, drinks, and scenery in one package.

Key Points

• Unbeatable sunset views of Cabo’s landmarks, especially the Arch.
• Lively party atmosphere with music, dancing, and a DJ.
• Buffet dinner featuring Mexican favorites like fajitas, beans, rice, and salads.
• Unlimited local beer and mixed drinks included in the open bar.
• Two-hour duration makes it a manageable yet memorable experience.
• No private or peaceful setting—this is a social, party-style cruise.

An Honest Look at the Cabo Sunset Dinner Cruise

If you’re visiting Cabo, a sunset cruise is almost a must-do. It captures the essence of the place—beautiful, breezy, and lively. This particular cruise, run by Cabo Paradise Tours, promises a fun, party vibe with plenty of scenery and eats. Here’s what you can expect when you hop aboard.

The Itinerary and Key Stops

The main highlight of this cruise is the ride out to see El Arco de Cabo San Lucas, the iconic natural rock formation that marks the entrance to the Pacific and Sea of Cortez. As the boat approaches, you’ll get up close to this stunning landmark, which makes for fantastic photos. Many reviews mention that seeing the Arch during sunset is a definite plus. One reviewer called it “spectacular” and “majestic,” which is exactly what you want in that moment.

The cruise doesn’t just stop at the Arch; it offers a full 2-hour experience on the water, cruising past other notable landmarks like Lands End. While the main focus is on enjoying the scenery, the journey itself becomes part of the fun—especially with music, dancing, and a lively crowd.

Food and Drinks: What’s on Offer

The buffet includes Mexican favorites—chicken and steak fajitas, beans, rice, salad, and tortillas. Many reviews praise the food, with some calling it “delicious” and “good value for money.” Keep in mind, this isn’t a haute cuisine experience, but it’s satisfying and fits the festive mood of the cruise. The kitchen stays open for a set window, so plan to arrive hungry.

The open bar offers unlimited national beers and mixed drinks like tequila, rum, and vodka. Premium beverages are available for purchase if you want better tequila or wine, but most guests seem satisfied with the included drinks. Several reviews mention the drinks are “watered down,” but considering the price and the party atmosphere, that’s not unexpected.

One standout is the friendly staff who keep the drinks flowing and the mood lively. Some reviewers felt the staff was attentive (“ready with an empty glass”), which adds to the overall enjoyment.

The Atmosphere and Entertainment

This is where things get interesting. The tour is clearly marketed as a party cruise—and reviews agree it’s energetic. Onboard, there’s a DJ spinning music, a dance floor, and plenty of dancing. One reviewer raved, “Victor was great at getting everyone up and dancing,” highlighting the lively environment.

Be prepared for noise levels to be high, especially on the top deck where the DJ plays. If you’re looking for a romantic, peaceful sunset, this isn’t the cruise for you. Instead, you’ll love the vibe if you’re in the mood to socialize, sing along, and dance.

Group Size and Seating

The boat can carry up to 110 travelers, so it’s often quite crowded during busy periods like spring break. Seating is first come, first served, meaning you may need to arrive early for a better spot. Some reviews mention squeezing into seats or having limited space, so if you prefer plenty of room, consider arriving as early as possible.

Duration and Timing

The cruise departs at 6:00 pm from Dock Zero in front of the Breathless Hotel, with check-in starting at 5:15 pm. The experience lasts about 2 hours, ending back at the marina around 8 pm. This timing allows you to catch the sunset and enjoy the evening without it dragging on too long.

Since there’s no transportation included, you’ll need to reach the meeting point on your own. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but be prepared for the lively atmosphere and possibly chilly evenings—consider bringing a jacket for the sunset.

Real Traveler Insights: Weighing the Pros and Cons

Many reviews echo the positive aspects: the beautiful scenery, great value considering the buffet and drinks, and the fun, party vibe. One guest mentioned, “The view was perfect, the service was great, and the food was very good.” Another said it’s the “best tour in Cabo,” especially if you enjoy dancing and socializing.

But, it’s not all perfect. A few guests noted the overcrowding, loud music, and mixed experiences with the drinks. Some found the drinks watered down, and others felt the food was just okay. A couple of reviews even mentioned rude staff or issues with tips and photographers, though responses from the tour providers suggest these are isolated incidents.

If you’re seeking a relaxing, quiet dinner with panoramic views, this cruise might not meet expectations. However, if you’re after a lively, social experience where you can enjoy Cabo’s stunning sunsets, dance, and drink to your heart’s content, it’s worth considering.

Is it worth the price?

At $99 per person, including buffet, unlimited national drinks, and entertainment, many see it as good value—especially when compared to private tours or more upscale experiences. The reviews suggest that most guests feel they got their money’s worth, though some mention feeling the drinks could be stronger or that the environment is very crowded.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

This tour is best suited for travelers looking for fun and energy. If you enjoy lively atmospheres, dancing, and socializing with other travelers, you’ll love it. It’s also an option if you want to combine sightseeing with a party and a good meal in one evening.

However, if you prefer a more peaceful, romantic, or family-friendly experience, this cruise might not be your best fit. It’s loud, crowded, and decidedly festive—so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

The Cabo San Lucas Sunset Dinner Cruise with Open Bar offers a pretty solid value for those wanting a lively, scenic, and social evening on the water. The highlights—stunning views of the Arch, a buffet of Mexican favorites, and unlimited local drinks—are definitely attractive features. The energy onboard, with music and dancing, makes it stand out from more sedate sunset cruises.

But it’s not for everyone. If you’re after serenity or a more intimate experience, you might find this cruise too chaotic or loud. For those who love to party, sing, and enjoy Cabo’s vibrant nightlife, this could be an easy choice.

Make sure to arrive early for the best seats and be prepared for the lively atmosphere. It’s a fun, energetic way to cap your day in Cabo, and many travelers come away feeling they had a worthwhile experience.

FAQs

Is this a private cruise?
No, this is a group experience with up to 110 travelers. It’s a lively party boat rather than a private or intimate cruise.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the boat cruise, buffet dinner with fajitas, unlimited national beer and mixed drinks, water, and snacks. Premium drinks are available for purchase.

Does the tour provide transportation?
No, transportation isn’t included, but you can arrange it separately or ask about add-ons for an extra fee.

What time should I arrive?
Check-in begins at 5:15 pm at Dock Zero, with the boat departing promptly at 6 pm. Arriving early helps you get a good spot.

Can I get gluten-free or vegetarian options?
The menu details focus on Mexican favorites like fajitas, beans, rice, and salad. Specific dietary options aren’t listed, so check with the provider if you have special needs.

Are kids allowed on this cruise?
While many reviews focus on adult enjoyment, this is a party boat with loud music and alcohol. It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, so consider your kids’ tolerance for noise and crowds.

Are tips included?
No, crew tips are not included but are appreciated if you’re pleased with the service.

Is there a dress code?
No formal dress code, but casual, comfortable clothing is recommended. Bring a jacket for the evening chill.

How crowded does it get?
Very crowded during spring break and peak seasons. Seating is first come, first served, so early check-in is advised for better spots.

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

In the end, whether this cruise is worth it depends on what you’re after. If you want a festive, scenic, and social night out with good food and drinks, it’s a solid choice. For a quieter, more relaxed experience, you might want to look elsewhere. Either way, Cabo’s stunning sunset views are sure to leave an impression.