Pirate Ship Snorkel and Lunch Cruise in Los Cabos

This review explores the Pirate Ship Snorkel and Lunch Cruise in Los Cabos, a lively, family-friendly adventure that promises sun, sea, and a dash of pirate fun. While we haven’t personally set sail aboard the Buccaneer Queen, the glowing reviews, balanced details, and overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 give us a solid picture of what travelers can expect.

What we really like about this tour is its combination of stunning coastal scenery—with photos of the iconic Arch—and the opportunity to snorkel in Baja’s clear waters. The lively onboard atmosphere, with live entertainment and games, makes it more than just a boat ride; it’s a floating party with a splash of adventure.

A potential consideration is that snorkeling might be challenging for young kids or less confident swimmers, according to some reviews. Also, the “pirate show” isn’t quite what you might imagine from the name; instead, it’s more of a party ambiance with fun games and music. That said, this cruise is best suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed, social vibe paired with scenic views and a tasty meal.

If you’re after a family-friendly afternoon, a chance to meet other travelers, or simply want to enjoy Baja’s coast from a different perspective, this trip could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

Beautiful scenery and the iconic Arch of Cabo San Lucas provide stunning photo opportunities.
Live entertainment and games onboard create a lively, social atmosphere.
Snorkeling gear and paddleboards add an active element, though snorkeling may be tricky for some.
A substantial lunch and open bar offer good value, especially for the price of $89.
Group size is capped at 90, maintaining a lively but manageable environment.
Cancellations are flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Setting Sail from Cabo San Lucas Marina

Your adventure begins at La Terminal de CaboSan Lucas, right at the marina, a convenient spot in El Medano. The start time of 12:30 pm means you can enjoy a midday escape—perfect for those who want to avoid early morning crowds or late afternoon heat. The mobile ticket system streamlines the check-in process, so no fuss before you get on board the Buccaneer Queen, a ship built in 1968 that adds a nostalgic, authentic touch to the trip.

The Iconic Arch and Coastal Views

Once aboard, the cruise heads toward the Arch of Cabo San Lucas, a natural rock formation that’s practically the postcard of Baja California. This spot offers fantastic photo opportunities, and travelers frequently mention how memorable the views are. Expect to see the coast’s rugged beauty, with a chance to snap some iconic pictures before heading toward Chileno Bay.

Live Entertainment and Onboard Games

One of the most praised features, according to reviews, is the live entertainment and games onboard. While some reviews note that there isn’t a traditional “pirate show,” there is enough activity to lift spirits and encourage camaraderie. You might find yourself participating in fun competitions or just enjoying the music—an energetic way to break the ice with fellow travelers.

Snorkeling in Chileno Bay

Reaching Chileno Bay marks the highlight for many adventure seekers—snorkeling in Baja’s clear, vibrant waters. The provided gear—mask, fins, and snorkel—makes it accessible, but some travelers, especially those with kids or less confident swimmers, find it a bit challenging. One reviewer mentioned that snorkeling “was a bit tough for kids,” but noted their guide, Joseph, who swam alongside and helped.

Paddleboards are also available, adding a fun alternative to snorkeling, or a way to relax on the water. For some, the rope jump into the sea becomes a favorite activity, while others prefer to stay on the boat and enjoy the view.

The Food and Drink

Back on the boat, a substantial lunch awaits—chips, salsa, guacamole, along with refreshing sodas and a well-stocked open bar featuring beer, tequila, vodka, and sodas. Several reviews highlight the quality of the food, calling it “good” and “delicious,” which balances the cost and effort of the tour nicely.

The value here is notable—lunch and drinks are included in the $89 price, making this a more economical option compared to other coastal excursions that might add on costly extras.

Final Leg and Return to Marina

As the cruise winds down, you’ll enjoy more relaxed views of the coast and perhaps some last photos of the famous Cabo scenery before returning to the marina. The tour ends where it started, leaving plenty of time to explore nearby shops or enjoy other activities in Cabo San Lucas.

What the Reviews Say

Travelers’ feedback paints a mostly positive picture. Many praise the friendly staff and guides, emphasizing how they make the experience special. “We were treated really well,” one reviewer noted, adding, “We saw a bunch of whales,” which hints at the possibility of whale sightings during certain seasons.

Some, however, pointed out minor frustrations, such as crowding during jumping activities or the absence of a traditional “pirate show,” which might disappoint those expecting a theatrical performance. One reviewer said, “There were no pirates on board…it was one big party pirate ship,” suggesting the theme is more about fun and socializing than a scripted pirate act.

Despite these minor hiccups, most felt that the value for money and the scenic, lively atmosphere made this tour a worthwhile addition to their Los Cabos itinerary.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: About 3 hours and 30 minutes—perfect for a half-day adventure.
• Group Size: Up to 90 travelers, so it’s lively but not overwhelming.
• Price: $89 per person, including lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and entertainment.
• Booking: Most travelers book about 23 days in advance, so plan ahead.
• Meeting Point: La Terminal de CaboSan Lucas, directly at the marina.
• Weather Dependence: The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or alternate date is offered.
• Additional Fees: There’s a $5 fee for dock and protected areas.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers who want a fun, social day on the water with plenty of opportunities to see Baja’s coast from a different angle. It’s ideal for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a lively, inclusive atmosphere. If you enjoy good food, drinks, and a relaxed snorkeling experience, this tour delivers on all fronts.

However, if you’re looking for a tranquil, subdued trip or a detailed pirate show, you might want to consider different options. It’s also best for those comfortable with snorkeling and physical activity since it’s part of the adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at La Terminal de CaboSan Lucas marina, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What is the best time to join?
The tour starts at 12:30 pm, making it perfect for a midday escape when the weather is usually warm and sunny.

How experienced do I need to be for snorkeling?
Snorkeling gear is provided, but some reviews suggest it can be challenging for less confident swimmers or kids. Guides are helpful, but consider your comfort level.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel. Since drinks are included, you might want to pace yourself if you plan on drinking alcohol.

Can I participate if I don’t want to snorkel?
Absolutely. You can stay on the boat, enjoy the views, participate in games, or relax during the water activities.

Are there any extra fees?
Yes, there is a $5 fee for dock and protected areas, payable on site.

Final Thoughts

The Pirate Ship Snorkel and Lunch Cruise in Los Cabos offers a well-rounded, engaging way to enjoy the coastline, marine life, and a lively atmosphere—at a reasonable price. It’s more about fun and socializing than a traditional pirate adventure, but that’s part of its charm. The scenic views, good food, and friendly guides make it a solid choice for those wanting a memorable Baja experience with a touch of pirate flair.

Ideal for travelers wanting a lively, inclusive cruise with plenty of opportunities to relax, explore, and enjoy Cabo’s stunning waters. Just remember that snorkeling may have its challenges, but the overall vibe and scenery will leave most with a smile and some great photos.