Cabo Blue Snorkeling Cruise, Open Bar and Lunch in Cabo San Lucas

Start with Cabo’s best views from the water. This 3.5-hour Cabo Blue cruise packs Land’s End, Lovers Beach, the famous Arch, whale watching in season, and snorkeling at Santa Maria Bay into one easy afternoon. I like the way it combines sightseeing with time in the water, and I like that lunch, drinks, gear, paddleboards, and a floating mat are included.

The main consideration is the atmosphere. This is not a quiet sailing trip. Music plays, drinks flow, and some departures feel like a friendly party boat. Snorkeling conditions can also vary, and a few people wish they had more time at the Arch or in the water.

The tour costs $79.80 per person, which is a fair price if you plan to use the open bar, eat lunch aboard, and take part in the water activities. Cabo Blue receives a 4.8 rating from 686 ratings, with 96 percent of customers recommending it. That lines up with the strongest parts of the experience: attentive crew members, good food, clean boats, fun music, and excellent views.

Key Points to Know Before You Book

• Whale watching can be a major bonus: From mid-December through mid-April, the crew may stop for humpback whales. Sightings are not guaranteed, but several winter trips have included breaches, fin slaps, and multiple pods.
• The Arch and Land’s End are built-in photo stops: You get time to photograph El Arco, Lovers Beach, and Pelican Rock from the boat.
• Santa Maria Bay provides about 45 to 50 minutes in the water: Snorkeling gear, lifejackets, paddleboards, and a floating mat are included.
• The mood is lively rather than peaceful: Expect a Bluetooth sound system, current music, an open bar, and attentive drink service.
• Lunch is more than a token snack: The crew serves baguettes, guacamole, salsa, tuna salad, chips, fruit, and vegetables after the water activities.
• Check-in takes planning: Be at Cabo Blue Boat in the main marina by 12:40 p.m. for the 1 p.m. departure.

Setting Out From Cabo San Lucas Marina

Cabo Blue departs from Cabo Blue Boat at the main marina, Muelle Principal, Marina del Rey, in Cabo San Lucas. The boat leaves at 1 p.m., but you need to arrive by 12:40 p.m. so the crew can check you in and begin boarding.

The marina is large, and this is the one practical detail I would take seriously. One person had trouble after being dropped at the wrong side of the port. Ask your taxi or driver to take you to the correct marina area, and give yourself extra time to walk to the boat. A parking lot is located around the corner from check-in, and the company can provide a Google Maps location upon request.

Once aboard, drinks are available right away. The crew serves alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages throughout the cruise, so you do not need to wait until lunch or the snorkeling stop. Water is also offered, which matters on a sunny afternoon when the heat can sneak up on you.

The boat holds a maximum of 40 people. That is not a tiny private charter, but it is more manageable than a large excursion vessel. Some departures have carried around 25 people, leaving plenty of room to move about and enjoy the day without feeling packed in.

Pelican Rock and the First Cabo Views

Pelican Rock is one of the first scenic stops. Here, the boat pauses so you can photograph the dramatic rock formations around the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula.

You may simply stay aboard, take pictures, and enjoy the view. The stop works well because it gives you an early look at the Sea of Cortez before the cruise turns toward the other famous formations at Land’s End.

If you sit at the front of the boat, be ready for spray. The forward seats offer a lively ride and a closer feel for the water, but you may get splashed. I would choose those seats only if you are comfortable getting wet and have protected your phone and camera.

Lovers Beach and Land’s End by Boat

Lovers Beach, or Playa del Amor, is famous for its unusual position at Land’s End. One side faces the Pacific Ocean, while the other faces the Sea of Cortez. You do not swim ashore on this tour, but viewing the beach from the boat gives you a clear sense of how quickly the two bodies of water meet at Cabo’s southern tip.

This is one of the best places to have the crew help with photos. The rock formations are difficult to frame from a moving boat, and a crew member can often help capture the whole group with the beach and cliffs behind you.

The tour does not treat this as a long beach stop. Think of it as a scenic pass with time for photographs rather than a chance to walk on the sand. That keeps the afternoon moving, but it also means you should not book this cruise if your main goal is spending time on Lovers Beach itself.

The Arch: Cabo’s Essential Photo Stop

El Arco is the signature sight of Cabo San Lucas, a natural stone arch at the very end of the peninsula. Cabo Blue stops here and allows time for photographs, though the exact amount of time can feel limited on a busy afternoon.

The Arch is best seen from the water. You get the full shape of the rock, the sea around Land’s End, and the steep formations that make this part of Cabo so recognizable. It is a good idea to keep your phone ready before arriving, since the boat may reposition for different angles.

The crew can assist with taking photos, a small service that makes a difference for couples and families who want everyone in the picture. One family enjoyed the whole outing but wished for more time at the Arch. If you want a slow, extended photography session, a dedicated Land’s End boat trip may suit you better.

Santa Maria Bay and the Main Water Activity

The cruise continues to Santa Maria Bay, one of the leading snorkeling areas in Los Cabos. After Cabo Blue anchors, the crew helps you with masks, tubes, fins, and lifejackets.

The water portion usually lasts around 45 minutes, sometimes closer to 50. That is enough time for a satisfying swim, especially if you are also interested in the sightseeing and whale watching. Still, a few people would prefer a longer snorkeling session.

The bay can be excellent, with fish close to the boat and clear water on a good day. Conditions are not fixed, though. One afternoon had cloudy water but still offered fish sightings, while other outings produced the feeling of swimming in an aquarium. The quality depends on water and weather conditions, so I would keep expectations reasonable.

You are not permitted to swim to shore or the beach area. This is a boat-based snorkeling stop, not a beach excursion.

The crew can also bring out two paddleboards and a floating water mat when ocean conditions are suitable. These are included in the ticket, but they are not guaranteed for every departure. Good conditions are required, and the paddleboards are limited to two, so you may need to take turns.

A rinse-off hose is available after swimming. That helps remove saltwater before lunch and makes the transition back to the boat more comfortable.

Lunch, Snacks, and the Open Bar

Lunch is served after snorkeling. The main item is a freshly prepared baguette with turkey, cheese, and vegetables. The crew also provides guacamole, Mexican salsa, tuna salad, chips, and fruit.

I would describe it as a solid boat lunch rather than a restaurant meal. It is simple, fresh, and filling enough for the afternoon. The guacamole, salsa, fruit, and chips make it feel more generous than a basic sandwich box. Several outings also featured lunch prepared while people were in the water, so the food was ready when the group returned aboard.

The open bar includes alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks. Service is one of the most praised parts of the outing, with crew members regularly offering beverages and water rather than leaving you to track someone down.

This matters when you compare the price with other Cabo boat tours. At $79.80, you are paying for more than the boat ride and snorkeling. You are also getting lunch, drinks, equipment, scenic stops, and the chance to see whales during the winter season. If you do not drink alcohol, the value is still reasonable because the food and activities are included, but the price will feel strongest for people who want a relaxed all-inclusive afternoon.

A Fun Boat, Not a Quiet Sail

The Cabo Blue boat is a trimaran, and several people describe it as comfortable and clean. It has a Bluetooth sound system, and the music is part of the experience from start to finish.

Here is the honest version: some departures feel like a party boat. The playlist may include current music, the volume can be lively, and the open bar encourages a social mood. Other outings feel more balanced, with fun energy but no wild behavior.

I would choose this cruise if you like music, conversation, friendly service, and a little movement on the water. I would choose a quieter catamaran or private charter if you want soft sailing, long periods of silence, or a nature-focused trip with no party feel.

The crew is a major strength. Specific crew members praised by name include Captain Kiko Mariscal, Ricardo, Ismael, Lalo, and Brian, though the team may change by departure. Their work includes serving drinks, helping with photos, setting up snorkeling gear, keeping an eye on swimmers, and looking for whales.

One particularly useful detail is that the crew has made less confident swimmers feel safe. Lifejackets are available, and staff members help people get set up in the water. You still need to be comfortable entering the sea, but you do not need to be an expert swimmer to take part.

Whale Watching From December Through April

Whales are the great seasonal bonus. Cabo Blue advertises whale watching from mid-December to mid-April, when humpback whales pass through the region.

Sightings are never guaranteed, but the winter trips described here included impressive encounters. People have seen whales before snorkeling, after snorkeling, and on the return to port. Some outings included several breaches, fin slaps, and multiple pods. Sea lions and a turtle have also appeared during some cruises.

The captain may slow or stop the boat when whales are nearby, giving you time to watch and take photographs. This can reshape the whole afternoon. A trip booked mainly for snorkeling may become a whale-watching excursion with snorkeling included.

Even outside the official season, sightings can happen, but you should not plan your budget or schedule around an unexpected whale encounter. Think of it as an added reward in winter, not a promise.

Timing, Group Size, and Who Will Enjoy It

The tour lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes and starts at 1 p.m. That makes it useful for a short Cabo visit, a free afternoon, or anyone who wants a water activity without giving up an entire day.

The minimum age is five. Most people can participate, and the tour is suitable for families, couples, and groups of friends. Families will appreciate the mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, food, music, and floating equipment. Couples can enjoy the Arch, whale watching, and open bar without committing to a full-day cruise.

The cruise also works well for friends who want a social afternoon. The music and drink service create an easygoing group atmosphere, while the 40-person maximum keeps it from becoming an enormous outing.

I would be more cautious if you have limited mobility or are not comfortable boarding a boat and getting into the water. The supplied information says most people can participate, but it does not provide detailed accessibility information. Ask Cabo Blue directly if you need specific boarding assistance.

What to Bring and What to Watch For

Bring reef-friendly sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a shirt that covers your shoulders. The sun can be intense, and one outing felt especially hot. A cover for your phone is also sensible if you plan to sit near the front or take photographs around the boat.

Bring cash for the $1 port tax, or 20 pesos per person. Cash is required. You should also bring cash for gratuity, which is not included.

Check the marina directions before departure day. The large port can be confusing, especially if a taxi leaves you at the wrong entrance. The company can provide a map upon request, and arriving by 12:40 p.m. gives you breathing room.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside 24 hours, you receive no refund and changes are not accepted. The cruise requires good weather. If poor conditions cancel the trip, Cabo Blue offers another date or a full refund.

Should You Book Cabo Blue?

I would book Cabo Blue if you want a compact Cabo highlights cruise with snorkeling, lunch, drinks, music, and a chance at winter whale watching. The crew service, food, clean trimaran, and scenic route make the $79.80 price easy to justify for an active afternoon.

I would skip it if you want a silent sailing trip, a long snorkeling session, or guaranteed time on the beach. The Arch stop can feel brief, snorkeling conditions can be cloudy, and the music may be louder than some people expect.

For most families, couples, and friends, this is a strong all-around choice. Arrive early, bring sun protection and cash, and book in winter if whales are high on your list. The best reason to choose it is the combination: you get Cabo’s famous rocks, a real swim, a fresh lunch, open drinks, and a lively crew without spending a full day at sea.

FAQ

How much does the Cabo Blue snorkeling cruise cost?

The price is $79.80 per person.

How long does the cruise last?

The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

What time does the boat leave?

The boat departs at 1 p.m. You must check in by 12:40 p.m. to begin boarding.

Where does the tour start and end?

The tour starts at Cabo Blue Boat, Muelle Principal, Marina del Rey, 23450 Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico. It ends back at the same meeting point.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch includes freshly prepared turkey, cheese, and vegetable baguettes, along with guacamole, Mexican salsa, tuna salad, chips, and fruit.

Are drinks included?

Yes. An open bar with alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages is included.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Masks, tubes, fins, and lifejackets are included.

Are paddleboards and a floating mat available?

Yes, two paddleboards and a floating water mat are available when ocean conditions are suitable. They are included in the ticket price.

Can I swim to Santa Maria Beach?

No. Swimming to shore or the beach area is not permitted.

Can I see whales on this cruise?

Whale sightings are possible from mid-December through mid-April. The crew may stop to watch whales, but sightings are not guaranteed.

What is the minimum age?

The minimum age is five years old.

Is the port tax included?

No. A $1 port tax, or 20 pesos per person, must be paid in cash.

Is gratuity included?

No. Gratuity is not included, so bring cash if you wish to tip the crew.

Can I cancel for a refund?

You can cancel at least 24 hours before the experience for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, and changes within that period are not accepted.