Glass Bottom Boat Sightseeing Tour in Cabo San Lucas

If you’re considering a quick, scenic cruise around Cabo San Lucas, a glass-bottom boat tour might catch your eye. Promising close-up views of the iconic Arch, Lover’s Beach, and a chance to observe local wildlife, this experience offers a relaxed way to see some of the area’s best sights without breaking the bank. While it’s not the longest or most elaborate tour, it can be a good choice if you’re short on time or seeking a family-friendly activity.

Two things we really like about this tour are the easy access to landmarks like El Arco and Lover’s Beach and the opportunity to explore Divorce Beach on your own. Having a small group can also make the experience feel more personal and engaging. However, some travelers have pointed out that the view inside the glass bottom isn’t as spectacular as they’d hoped, and that logistical hiccups can happen, like last-minute cancellations or delays.

This tour is especially suited for those who want a quick overview of Cabo’s stunning coastline without a lot of fuss, or families wanting an easy, light activity. If you’re after a more in-depth wildlife experience or detailed commentary, you might find this tour a bit limited. But if your goal is to get close to the iconic sights with minimal hassle, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Affordable price point at just $25 per person.
• Short duration of around 45 minutes, ideal for a quick sightseeing break.
• Small group size (max 15), offering more personalized attention.
• Includes lifejackets and a guided cruise for safety and insight.
• Stops at key landmarks like El Arco and Lovers Beach.
• Free time at Divorce Beach for independent exploration.
• Reviewers’ experience varies from highly positive to somewhat disappointed, mostly due to expectations about wildlife and information.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

Starting Point and Overall Experience

The tour begins at the A Dock in the Marina, a location that’s easily accessible, especially if you’re staying nearby or using public transportation. The boat itself is a small, guided vessel accommodating up to 15 travelers, which ensures you’ll get a somewhat intimate experience, unlike large tour boats that can feel crowded.

Onboard, a guide provides commentary, but reviews suggest the amount of information can be limited. One reviewer mentioned, “No much information,” hinting that this isn’t a detailed educational cruise, but more of a scenic ride with some highlights pointed out.

The Landmarks: El Arco, Lover’s Beach, Seal Lion Colony, and Pelican’s Rock

The centerpiece of the tour is El Arco, or the “Arch,” perhaps Cabo’s most famous natural feature. We loved the way the boat gets you close enough to admire the geological formation and take photos. The Sea Lions Colony—a noisy, lively group of seals lounging on rocks—can be observed from the boat, adding a touch of local wildlife to the experience.

Lover’s Beach is also a highlight, accessible only by water, offering a chance to see this iconic stretch of sand from the sea. While the boat doesn’t allow you to land here, it’s fun to get a good look at it from the water. Pelican’s Rock, near the arch, adds to the scenic backdrop and offers opportunities for photos.

Stop at Divorce Beach

The tour includes a stoppage at Divorce Beach, on the Pacific Ocean side. Here, you can explore on your own for as long as you like, which is a nice touch for those who want a quick dip or walk along the sands. Reviewers appreciated this flexibility: “Head out to Divorce Beach and enjoy for as long as you wish,” one review states. Remember, you’ll need to catch the last boat back, so plan your time accordingly.

Wildlife and Underwater Views

While the boat boasts a glass bottom, some reviews suggest the viewing quality inside isn’t spectacular. One traveler noted, “Not much to see in the glass bottom,” which might disappoint those expecting to see a lot beneath the surface. However, you will see fish and rays from the boat, and the chance to observe wildlife in their natural environment adds a bit of authenticity to the experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: El Arco de Cabo San Lucas

This is the main attraction, where the boat approaches the famous Arch. Expect approximately 30 minutes at this stop, which is enough time to snap photos and take in the scenery. The admission is free, as it’s part of the natural landscape, making it a great value.

The several landmarks clustered around Land’s End—Lover’s Beach, Pelican’s Rock, and the Sea Lion Colony—are visible from the boat. The guides often share stories and facts, which you might find interesting but not overly detailed.

Stop 2: Divorce Beach

After touring Land’s End, the boat heads to the Pacific side for about 15 minutes at Divorce Beach. Here, you can step ashore, walk along the shoreline, or simply relax. The reviews highlight this stop as a highlight for independent exploration. Just keep in mind, the last boat back is an important detail—you don’t want to miss it.

Included and Not Included

Your ticket includes lifejackets and a guided cruise, offering basic safety and commentary. The $1 dock fee per passenger is a minor extra but worth noting. The tour is designed to be straightforward and hassle-free.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early: Some reviews mention last-minute cancellations or delays, so arriving 30 minutes before departure is prudent.
• Timing matters: Choose your tour time based on your schedule—several options are available to fit your day.
• Bring sunscreen and water: The cruise is short but being protected from the sun and staying hydrated is always wise.
• Manage expectations about the glass bottom: Don’t expect a detailed underwater spectacle—views are limited, and it’s more about the scenery.
• Plan for wildlife viewing: You might see fish, rays, and sea lions, but don’t expect a full wildlife safari.
• Remember the last boat back from Divorce Beach to avoid being stranded.

The Value of the Experience

At $25 per person, this tour offers a budget-friendly way to see Cabo’s highlights. It’s not a comprehensive wildlife or snorkeling adventure but provides enough scenery, landmarks, and a touch of local wildlife to satisfy most casual travelers. The small group size adds a sense of intimacy, and the flexible stop at Divorce Beach enhances its appeal for those wanting a quick beach visit.

While some travelers found the view inside the glass bottom underwhelming, most appreciated the guides’ friendliness and local knowledge. The short duration makes it ideal for those with tight schedules or who prefer a relaxed, easygoing boat ride.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best for first-time visitors wanting a quick snapshot of Cabo’s coastline without too much fuss. It suits families with children, thanks to the easy pace and safety features, and those who enjoy scenic boat rides rather than intense wildlife or snorkeling excursions. If you’re looking for an authentic, in-depth wildlife experience or a longer tour, you might want to explore other options.

People who value personalized attention in a small group will appreciate this tour’s intimate setting. However, travelers expecting a fascinating underwater view or detailed commentary may find it somewhat limited. It’s more about the scenery and iconic landmarks than immersive education.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 45 minutes, making it a quick but scenic experience.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at A Dock, Marina in Cabo San Lucas, an accessible location close to public transportation.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes a guided cruise and lifejackets. There’s also a dock fee of $1 per passenger.

Can I explore Divorce Beach on my own?
Yes, the tour includes a stop at Divorce Beach where you can stay and explore as long as you like.

Is wildlife viewing good on this tour?
While you can see fish, rays, and sea lions, reviews suggest the view inside the glass bottom isn’t very impressive, and wildlife sightings are somewhat limited.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, water, and a sense of adventure. The boat is small, so dress comfortably and be prepared for some sun exposure.

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

Final Thoughts

This Glass Bottom Boat Sightseeing Tour in Cabo San Lucas offers a budget-friendly, scenic overview of some of the area’s most recognizable sights. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, intimate experience with iconic landmarks like El Arco and a chance to check out Lover’s Beach and Divorce Beach. While it might not satisfy those craving spectacular underwater views or detailed wildlife commentary, it’s certainly a solid choice for a short, enjoyable cruise.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides add a touch of personal service that can make the experience more memorable. Just be aware of the limitations in views and information, and plan accordingly. If you’re seeking a light, scenic adventure that fits into a busy itinerary or is perfect for family fun, this tour is worth considering.

Overall, it’s a great way to see the highlights of Cabo from the water without a hefty price tag or lots of time commitment—perfect for a quick introduction to this stunning coastline.