Snorkeling Catamaran Tour at Santa Maria Bay

If you’re considering a boat trip in Cabo San Lucas, a snorkeling cruise to Santa Maria Bay might catch your eye. We haven’t personally been on this exact tour, but based on plenty of reviews and info, it’s a solid choice for those wanting a mix of scenic vistas, marine life, and laid-back fun. It sounds especially appealing if you enjoy social atmospheres, good food, and straightforward adventures.

What we really like is how this trip offers stunning views of Cabo’s iconic landmarks from the water and a chance to see bright coral reefs teeming with tropical fish. Plus, the inclusion of lunch and open bar makes it feel like a proper mini getaway. On the downside, some travelers mention that the food options could be a bit more generous, and the water conditions can sometimes be choppy—something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to rough seas or traveling with kiddos.

This tour seems best suited for adventurers who enjoy social boat outings and don’t mind a lively, party-like atmosphere. It’s also great for couples, groups of friends, or anyone looking to combine sightseeing with some underwater exploration. Families with small children should weigh the choppy water factor and the tour’s physical expectations, but older kids and teenagers who enjoy marine life and boat rides will probably find this experience quite enjoyable.

Key Points

• Scenic coastal views and top landmarks from the water, including the Arch and Pelican Rock
• Snorkeling over coral reefs with tropical fish and marine wildlife
• Relaxed social vibe with an open bar and light lunch included
• Good value at $69 per person for a 3-hour experience with gear and guidance
• Potential for choppy water and variable weather conditions that could affect the trip
• Limited lunch options that might leave some travelers wanting more than just snacks

What to Expect from the Tour

When you book this snorkeling adventure, your day begins at the Cabo San Lucas Marina around 1:00 pm, where you’ll hop aboard a spacious catamaran. The boat itself is described as not overcrowded, typically accommodating about 15 to 40 people, which is a comfortable size for socializing without feeling cramped. This is a plus for those who prefer a more intimate setting rather than a packed vessel.

The Coastal Journey and Landmarks

The first part of the trip involves cruising out of Cabo San Lucas Bay. You’ll get to see some of the area’s famous sights, such as the Arch, Pelican Rock, and Lovers Beach. The boat stops here for some classic photo ops against the striking rocky formations, which are among Cabo’s most famous symbols. As the boat glides past, you’re likely to hear lively commentary from the crew, sharing fun facts and pointing out marine highlights.

A common highlight for many travelers is catching sight of sea lions lounging on rocks or barking as the boat passes. Several reviews mention how engaging and friendly the crew is, always ready to share stories and help you capture memories.

Snorkeling at Santa Maria Bay

Once you arrive at Santa Maria Bay—widely regarded as one of the best reefs in the area—the real adventure begins. The crew provides snorkeling gear, and if you’re new to snorkeling, they’re happy to offer basic instruction on safety and technique. This is a thoughtful touch, especially for beginners or those a little unsure in the water.

The reef is a vibrant playground, filled with coral and tropical fish. Some reviews describe the snorkeling as “teeming with colorful fish,” and others mention how “the water was so clear you could see the fish swimming around.” However, a few travelers note that the water can sometimes be a little choppy or cloudy, which might impact visibility. That said, the overall consensus is that it’s still a worthwhile spot for marine life.

The Food and Drinks

After your swim, it’s time to relax with a light lunch. The menu typically includes guacamole, salsa, and chips, and some find these offerings tasty and fresh. Be aware, though, that some reviews mention the lunch being somewhat limited—mainly tuna sandwiches and snacks—which may not satisfy those expecting a hearty meal. The open bar is a popular part of the experience, offering beer, margaritas, and soft drinks, with many reviewers remarking on how generous and well-maintained the drinks are.

A standout from reviews is how the crew keeps the drinks flowing—some mention staff “feeding us shots” and making the experience lively and fun. This aspect makes the trip particularly appealing if you’re looking to unwind and socialize.

The Return and Overall Atmosphere

The cruise generally wraps up back at Cabo San Lucas Marina after about three hours. The entire experience is described as relaxed, friendly, and lively, perfect for those wanting a casual, social day on the water. The boat’s crew is consistently praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, adding to the enjoyable vibe.

Critical Details and Considerations

Pricing: At $69 per person, this tour offers good value for a half-day of sailing, snorkeling, and socializing. With all gear, a light lunch, and drinks included, it’s a straightforward package. Some reviews suggest the lunch could be more substantial, but overall, the value is fair.

Duration: Just about three hours, which is enough time to enjoy the sights and snorkeling without feeling rushed or overly tired.

Group Size: The maximum of around 40 travelers keeps the experience feeling social but not overwhelming. Smaller groups tend to get more personalized attention from the crew.

Weather and Water Conditions: As with any ocean-based trip, the weather can impact the experience. There are reports of trips being canceled due to choppy seas or weather issues, with full refunds offered. If the weather isn’t cooperative, you might not get to snorkel, but the crew will inform you beforehand.

Booking and Cancellation: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility is helpful if weather looks uncertain.

How This Tour Stacks Up

Based on reviews, most people find this tour to be a “great trip” with friendly staff, beautiful fish, and a comfortable boat. It’s especially appreciated by those looking for a fun, social atmosphere with good views and decent snorkeling. Some found the snorkeling to be underwhelming due to water conditions, but others loved the lively vibe and the chance to relax with drinks and snacks.

On the downside, a few reviews mention less-than-ideal food options and a limited lunch, which might matter if you’re hungry or expecting a full meal. Also, there are occasional complaints about cancellations due to weather or technical issues leading to no-shows or delayed trips.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This snorkeling catamaran tour is ideal if you’re after a fun social outing with scenic views, marine wildlife, and easy-going vibes. It’s perfect for couples, groups of friends, or anyone who enjoys boat trips with a party atmosphere. If you’re a foodie seeking a hearty meal, or travel with small children sensitive to choppy water, you might want to explore other options.

Travelers who prioritize wildlife spotting, relaxed cruising, and a lively environment will find this tour hits the mark. It’s a good choice for those who want to combine sightseeing with light adventure and socializing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the crew offers instruction if needed, making it accessible for first-time snorkelers.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes snorkel gear, a light lunch (guacamole, salsa, chips), unlimited drinks from the open bar, and live commentary.

Are drinks really unlimited?
Yes, the open bar features beer, margaritas, and soft drinks, and many reviewers say the drinks kept coming.

What if the water is too rough?
Sometimes weather or sea conditions lead to cancellations or partial trips. The crew will inform you beforehand; refunds are available if the trip is canceled.

Can I bring my own towels or gear?
While gear is provided, bringing your own towel is recommended for drying off quickly, as advised by some travelers.

Is there a bathroom on board?
Yes, there is a restroom, but some reviews mention it’s small.

How long is the boat ride to the snorkeling spot?
The boat trip out can be a bit long, and water conditions can be choppy, which might affect comfort.

Can children join the tour?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, but the experience suits older kids and teenagers more than very young children, especially considering water and weather conditions.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the trip are non-refundable.

Final Thoughts

This snorkeling catamaran trip at Santa Maria Bay offers a fairly straightforward, engaging way to enjoy Cabo San Lucas’ coastal scenery and marine life. The combination of scenic landmarks, snorkeling over lively reefs, and a lively social atmosphere makes it a compelling option. The prices are reasonable, especially considering the drinks, snacks, and gear included.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a casual, fun cruise with plenty of opportunities to relax, take photos, and share a drink or two. If water conditions are good, you’ll likely leave feeling refreshed by the stunning views and underwater encounters. Just keep in mind the potential for choppy seas and the somewhat modest lunch—if those are deal-breakers, explore other options.

This tour can be a highlight of your Cabo trip, especially if you’re looking to combine sightseeing, marine exploration, and sociable fun in one affordable package.