Snorkel Cruise in Los Cabos

If you’re eyeing a fun, relaxed way to explore Los Cabos’ marine life and coastline, a snorkel cruise might just be what you need. Particularly, the Pez Gato snorkeling cruise offers a well-rounded package: beautiful boat rides, snorkeling at prime spots like Santa Maria Bay, lively onboard atmosphere, and the convenience of hotel pickups. While it’s not a perfect, all-encompassing experience, it’s definitely a solid choice for those wanting a taste of the Sea of Cortez with plenty of comforts along the way.

What really caught our attention are the enthusiastic crew and spectacular views—both of which reviewers rave about. Plus, the unlimited drinks and good food make this a leisurely day out. That said, it’s worth mentioning that the snorkeling conditions can vary, and the trip isn’t tailored for those seeking intense underwater exploration. Still, if you’re after a laid-back, social ocean adventure, this cruise fits the bill for many travelers.

This tour is especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, light snorkeling, and socializing in a friendly, fun environment. It tends to appeal to a wide age range, including families and groups of friends — as long as everyone’s comfortable with a boat ride and some moderate activity. If you’re picky about underwater visibility or expecting a highly exclusive experience, you might want to consider other options or be prepared for some variability.

Key Points

• Comfort and convenience: Round-trip hotel transfer (when booked in advance) makes it easy to relax without worrying about parking or logistics.
• Relaxed atmosphere: An open bar and buffet lunch add a laid-back, social vibe perfect for unwinding.
• Snorkeling at Santa Maria Bay: A prime spot with clear waters, lots of fish, and a chance to see marine life up close.
• Beautiful coastline views: Pass by famous landmarks like Lover’s Beach and the Arch of Cabo San Lucas.
• Family-friendly: The tour is suitable for a wide age range, including kids who are comfortable with snorkeling.
• Variable underwater visibility: As noted by some guests, the water clarity can limit underwater viewing, so don’t expect endless fish if conditions aren’t ideal.

The Experience in Detail: What to Expect

Meeting and Boarding

You’ll start your day by heading to the marina in Cabo San Lucas, with many options for pickup if you plan ahead. The meeting point is at Blvd. Paseo de la Marina 7D, right in the heart of the marina area. The boat, Pez Gato, is known for its spacious, comfortable layout—plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the ride.

Setting Sail

Once aboard, the crew will set sail across the Sea of Cortez. This stretch of water is famous for its abundant marine life and stunning coastline scenery. As you glide past landmarks like Lover’s Beach and the Arch, you’ll get fantastic photo-ops and a chance to soak in the scenery from the deck.

Snorkeling at Santa Maria Bay

The highlight for many is the snorkeling stop at Santa Maria Bay. This protected cove offers calmer, clearer waters that are ideal for spotting colorful fish and marine creatures. Several guests mention that snorkeling here exceeds expectations: “all kinds of fish around you,” as one reviewer put it. You’ll have around 45 to 60 minutes in the water, which is enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

Onboard Relaxation and Sightseeing

While some guests are eager to jump into the water, others prefer simply lounging on the deck, sipping drinks, and enjoying the warm sun. The open bar features unlimited drinks, including options like margaritas and beers, which enhance the relaxed vibe. The crew often plays music, and several reviewers mention the energetic DJ spinning tunes that keep the atmosphere lively.

Lunch and Return

The crew serves a buffet lunch on the way back—simple but satisfying, with baguette sandwiches, fruit baskets, chips, and cookies. Many guests found this to be the perfect light meal to fuel the rest of their afternoon. After a few hours of fun, sightseeing, and snorkeling, the cruise concludes back at the marina pier.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The Crew and Atmosphere

Many reviews highlight the friendly and helpful crew. They’re attentive, engaging, and make everyone feel comfortable — whether you’re snorkeling or just relaxing. Comments like “the crew was outstanding” and “kept us safe the entire time” show that safety and service are priorities.

Sightseeing and Marine Life

From passing by Los Arcos to spotting whales in season, your boat ride offers more than just snorkeling. Passengers appreciate the chance to see sea lions, migrating whales (seasonal), and the stunning coastline. The boat ride itself is described as “beautiful” and “relaxing,” making it a nice, scenic voyage.

Photography and Memory-Making

Jesus, mentioned in reviews, took professional photos during the trip, allowing travelers to capture their moments underwater and on deck. Some guests bought these photos afterward, which turned out to be a nice keepsake.

Food and Drinks

The buffet lunch might be simple, but several guests say it’s “perfect for the day,” especially after some time in the water. The unlimited drinks from the open bar keep the mood cheerful and relaxed.

Considering the Price and Value

At around $98.40 per person, this cruise offers a good balance of value and experience. The inclusions—snorkeling, sightseeing, lunch, drinks, and hotel transfers—are all factored into the cost, making it an easy choice for many travelers wanting a well-rounded water day. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, many reviewers feel it’s worth the money for the quality of service, scenery, and fun atmosphere.

Some guests pointed out that the experience is “almost five stars,” with minor issues like limited underwater visibility or loud music. The consensus is that the tour delivers a lot for the price, especially if you’re after a lively, social boat ride with snorkeling and sightseeing.

The Group Size and Duration

This tour is designed for about 45 travelers, making it lively but not crowded. The trip lasts roughly 4 hours, which includes the time to sail, snorkel, eat, and relax. The moderate length makes it suitable for most people, avoiding the fatigue that can come with longer boat trips.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Arrive early and be at the dock 20 minutes before departure to ensure smooth boarding.
• Book in advance if you want hotel pickup, as it’s only available when reserved beforehand.
• Bring sunglasses and a towel to dry off and enjoy the sun comfortably.
• Bring a camera or smartphone for photos — there are professional photos taken during the trip.
• Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult and meet the physical activity level required.
• The minimum drinking age is 18, so plan accordingly if traveling with younger guests.
• Be prepared for variable underwater visibility; don’t expect endless fish if conditions aren’t perfect.

Final Verdict: Who Will Love This Tour?

This snorkel cruise is best for travelers seeking a laid-back, fun-filled day on the water, with plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and socializing. It’s ideal if you enjoy moderate activity with comfort—like lounging on deck, savoring unlimited drinks, and snapping photos of whales and sea lions. The friendly crew and scenic route add a lot to the experience, making it a good pick for first-timers or those who want a hassle-free adventure.

The tour isn’t perfect for underwater explorers wanting crystal-clear waters or exclusive diving experiences. If visibility is a concern, or if you prefer a more solitary snorkeling experience, you might prefer other options. However, for most visitors wanting a fun, memorable, and well-organized cruise, this tour hits the sweet spot.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included when you reserve the service in advance, making logistics easier.

How long is the snorkeling?
Expect about 45 to 60 minutes in the water, depending on conditions. This is enough to see a good variety of fish but not an all-day dive.

What is the boat like?
The Pez Gato is described as a nice, spacious catamaran with plenty of room to relax, and it offers shade for those who prefer it.

Can I just relax on the boat?
Absolutely. Many guests enjoy lounging on deck, listening to music, and sipping drinks without snorkeling.

What’s included in the lunch?
A simple buffet of baguette sandwiches, fruit, chips, and cookies, served on the return trip.

Are there age restrictions?
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The minimum drinking age is 18.

How is the crew?
Guests consistently praise the crew for being friendly, attentive, and professional. Some even mention they swam with your to help spot fish.

Is whale watching guaranteed?
Whale sightings happen in season, and many reviews mention seeing whales, but it’s not guaranteed due to natural migration patterns.

What about underwater visibility?
Visibility can vary; some reviews note limited underwater clarity, so don’t rely solely on seeing a lot of fish.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations inside 24 hours are not refunded.

This snorkeling cruise from Los Cabos offers a balanced mix of scenic views, marine life, social fun, and comfort. If you’re after a lively day on the water with a friendly crew and beautiful sights, it’s worth considering. Just keep expectations realistic about underwater visibility and don’t expect an exclusive or highly intense underwater experience — it’s more about having fun, enjoying the scenery, and making memories.