Shared ride to the arch of Cabo San Lucas

If you’re dreaming of seeing the famous Arch of Cabo San Lucas without the fuss of complicated tours or high prices, this shared boat ride might just be the perfect choice. It’s a straightforward, budget-friendly way to get up close to one of Mexico’s most recognizable landmarks, all while enjoying the water, good company, and some expert insights.

What we particularly like about this tour is its affordable price point—just under $20 per person—and the comfortable, glass-bottom boat that offers a fun way to see the underwater life and rock formations. The friendly guides clearly know their stuff, making the whole experience both informative and relaxed. Plus, there’s a chance to be dropped off at a nearby beach on the way back, which is a nice extra for those wanting to extend their time in the water.

On the flip side, one thing to consider is that this is a shared ride with a small group—max 16 travelers—which is generally a plus, but sometimes the experience can start with some hiccups, such as boats having technical issues or difficulty finding the meeting point. It’s also worth noting that the boat isn’t a private charter, so if you’re after exclusivity, this might not be it.

This tour suits travelers who want an easy, scenic, and affordable way to see the iconic landmarks around Cabo San Lucas. It’s ideal for those who value informative guides, relaxed pacing, and good value—perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers eager to tick a major highlight off their list.

Key Points

• Affordable price: At around $19.20 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a scenic boat trip.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides are friendly, informative, and engaging, making the experience more enriching.
• Comfortable boat: The 30-foot glass-bottom boat provides plenty of space, with music and onboard amenities like restrooms.
• Close-up views: You’ll get a good look at Pelican Beach, Love Beach, the sea lion colony, and the famous Arch.
• Flexible options: An optional drop-off at a beach allows for extending your water time.
• Mixed reviews: Mostly positive, with some reports of initial boat trouble or meeting point confusion, but these are usually resolved quickly.

The Experience in Detail

Departure and Check-in

The tour begins at D Dock, Marina, in Cabo San Lucas. Many reviews mention that the meeting point is straightforward to find, especially since it’s near public transportation. However, a few travelers pointed out some initial confusion about where to locate the vendor, so arriving a little early and double-checking your reservation helps avoid last-minute rushes.

Once onboard, you’ll notice the boat is large and comfortable, with a glass-bottom feature that’s great for spotting fish and underwater structures without getting wet. It’s equipped with restrooms, bottled water, life vests, and music, making for a relaxed ride.

The Ride Out to the Landmarks

The main route takes you from the marina out to El Arco (The Arch), Cabo’s iconic rock formation. The trip typically lasts about an hour, which is enough time to enjoy the views and learn about the sights from your guide.

Travelers have praised the guides for their friendly demeanor and in-depth knowledge. As one reviewer said, “Raul was our tour guide, made us laugh and we had a good time! He was very informative.” Expect to hear stories about the local beaches, the sea lion colony, and how Land’s End was formed.

Highlights Along the Way

• Pelican Beach: Home to tropical fish, where feeding tortillas to the fish becomes a highlight. It’s a chance to see underwater activity without diving in.
• Love Beach & Divorce Beach: Known as lovers’ and couples’ beaches, these spots are remarkable for their contrasting surroundings—one calm and inviting, the other more rugged.
• Sea Lion Colony: Watching sea lions lazily sunbathe and interact is a fun, authentic experience.
• Lands End & the Arch: The star of the show, this impressive natural arch draws endless photos. Guides often take pictures at this spot, making it easy to capture memories.
• Other Rock Formations: The boat tour offers plenty of chances to marvel at the unusual shapes and natural sculptures that make this coastline so unique.

The Drop-off Option

A feature that many travelers appreciate is the option to be dropped off at a beach on the way back. This allows you to extend your time in the water or relax on the sand before heading back to the marina. Not everyone takes advantage of this, but it’s a nice flexibility that adds value.

The Overall Vibe

The overall feel of the experience is relaxed and friendly. Many reviews highlight how the guides keep the mood light and fun, with some even engaging children by allowing them to “help” captain the boat (as one review mentioned). The boat’s size and amenities make it suitable for most travelers, and the music onboard helps set a casual, enjoyable atmosphere.

What People Love Most

Readers seem to love the stunning scenery—rock formations, clear waters, and wildlife—and the informative guides who make sure everyone understands what they’re seeing. Several reviews mention how close-up and personal the experience feels, especially when the boat is less crowded, making it feel more intimate.

Some Constructive Feedback

While most reviews are glowing, a few people experienced initial technical issues with the boat or had difficulty finding the meeting point. One reviewer noted, “The boat would not start,” which underscores the importance of being flexible and patient. Also, some mention that the boat isn’t always a “glass-bottom” in the literal sense, but it still provides excellent views.

The Value Proposition

At just under $20, this tour offers excellent value. For a one-hour boat ride that includes all taxes, insurance, and a bilingual guide, the price is very reasonable. You get more than just a boat ride—you gain insights into the local geography, wildlife, and landmarks. Plus, the comfort and amenities onboard make it feel like a well-organized outing rather than a rushed or cramped experience.

When compared to private tours or larger boat excursions that can cost significantly more, this shared ride is a wise option for those on a budget or travelers who prefer not to have exclusivity but still want an enjoyable, scenic trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is well-suited for those who value relaxing, scenic outings without breaking the bank. It’s a good pick for couples, solo travelers, or friends looking to tick the Cabo Arch off their bucket list with minimal fuss. It also works for travelers who want a family-friendly activity, as the boat is stable and safe, and guides are attentive.

If you’re after a private, exclusive experience, or if you prefer a tour with more adventure or activities, you might want to explore other options. However, for the average visitor wanting a balanced, enjoyable introduction to Cabo’s coastline, this boat trip hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour appropriate for children?
Yes, the boat is stable, and many reviews mention children enjoying the sights. Be aware that some parts can be a bit rough if the water is choppy, so use your judgment based on your child’s comfort.

How long is the boat ride?
The trip lasts approximately one hour, giving enough time to see the landmarks and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
Bottled water, a restroom on board, life vests, a bilingual guide, and all taxes and fees are included. It’s a good value considering these amenities.

Can I be dropped off at a beach?
Yes, there’s an option to be dropped off at a beach on the way back, which many travelers find adds to the experience.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection. A camera or phone for photos is a must. Towels are optional if you want to stay longer at the beach after the tour.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This shared boat ride to Cabo’s Arch offers a friendly, affordable way to experience some of the most iconic sights of the region. The combination of stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and comfortable boats makes it a solid pick for travelers wanting a laid-back, scenic outing. While it’s not a private charter, the small group size and flexible options help keep the experience intimate and enjoyable.

The many positive reviews, especially about the guides and scenery, suggest that most people leave happy—and often with great photos and memorable stories. If you’re looking for a low-key, value-packed adventure that hits the major highlights around Cabo San Lucas, this tour is definitely worth considering.

Remember: Always confirm your meeting point, arrive early, and be prepared for a relaxing, scenic ride that captures the essence of Cabo’s stunning coastline. Happy sailing!