Snorkel and Whale Platinum Tour (Dec 15- Apr 15)

Discover the Snorkel and Whale Platinum Tour: A Balanced Look at Cabo’s Marine Magic

If you’re eyeing a Cabo San Lucas adventure that combines wildlife encounters, stunning scenery, and relaxed comfort, the Snorkel and Whale Platinum Tour may just fit the bill. Promising roughly four hours of sea-filled fun, this tour is designed to deliver whale sightings during the migration season, while also giving you a chance to snorkel in protected marine parks, all with the added bonus of a delicious lunch and open bar.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the small-group setup—just up to 16 passengers—which means you’ll likely enjoy a more personal experience than some of the larger boats clogging the coast. Second, the combination of whale watching and snorkeling makes it an efficient way to see the best of Cabo’s marine life in one go. However, a potential consideration is that the tour runs only from December 15 to April 15, aligning with whale migration season, so if you’re visiting outside these months, this option won’t be available. This tour seems ideal for travelers craving a blend of wildlife, scenery, and relaxation in a setting that’s both comfortable and intimate.

Key Points

• Seasonal Experience: Whale watching from December to April, aligning with migration season.
• Small Group: Up to 16 people for a more personalized, less crowded experience.
• All-Inclusive: Lunch, open bar, snorkeling gear, and hotel pickup included.
• Beautiful Locations: Snorkel at Santa Maria or Chileno Bay, recognized for their Blue Flag status.
• High-Value: Clear pricing with included amenities, making it a strong value for what’s offered.
• Authentic Experience: Friendly crew and well-maintained boat contribute to a seamless day on the water.

Setting Sail from Cabo: What to Expect

The tour begins early, with a pickup from your hotel, making the day hassle-free. Once you arrive at the marina, a basket is provided to stash your shoes—an appreciated detail that keeps the boat clean and your footwear organized. The crew, described as friendly and knowledgeable, will give a safety briefing and explain the boat’s amenities before you step aboard a modern, comfortably sized catamaran.

The vessel, capable of holding just 16 passengers, feels more like sailing on a private yacht than a crowded tour. This intimate size isn’t just a comfort perk—it allows the captain to position the boat precisely for whale watching and snorkeling, optimizing your chances at sightings and photo opportunities. Reviewers often mention the impeccably clean boat and the professional, attentive crew as highlights, with some noting that the crew even makes to-order cocktails, adding a touch of personalized service.

Cruising to Santa Maria or Chileno Beach

The boat departs the marina and heads toward either Santa Maria or Chileno Bay—two of the few beaches in Los Cabos with Blue Flag recognition, meaning they’re protected, clean, and excellent for swimming and snorkeling. Both spots are known for their natural marine parks, offering a safe, protected environment to observe marine life.

During the cruise, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the coast, with some reviews emphasizing how peaceful and scenic the ride is. It’s a chance to relax, take photos, and enjoy the sea breeze. Expect to arrive at the snorkeling spots with plenty of time to gear up.

Snorkeling and Marine Encounters

Once at the designated snorkeling site, the crew provides snorkeling gear—something you’ll appreciate if you want the best equipment without renting off-site. The protected area ensures good visibility and a safe environment to observe underwater life.

From reviews, it’s clear that the snorkeling experience is a highlight: “Wonderful experience! I swam around the boat while my husband went snorkeling. We saw several whales,” one traveler mentions. The combination of whale sightings and snorkeling means you’ll get to witness these gentle giants during their seasonal migration, making the experience truly memorable.

Food, Drinks, and Relaxation

After snorkeling, it’s time to unwind. The lunch is described as delicious, with one review praising the chef’s fresh guacamole and fish tacos. The open bar features margaritas and Mezcal cocktails, and most reviews mention the drinks are served generously and tastefully. This is a great way to toast your marine adventures while soaking up the sun.

The Whale Watching Bonus

From December to April, whales are part of the scenery. Many travelers describe sightings as “incredible” and “exceeding expectations,” with some mentioning they saw whales twice during their trip. The captain and crew are praised for their ability to position the boat for optimal viewing, making whale encounters a key highlight—truly the cherry on top of this adventure.

Returning to Land

After a few hours of marine exploration, the boat heads back to the marina. The trip concludes with the crew ensuring everyone disembarks safely and comfortably, leaving many reviewers with a strong desire to repeat the experience.

The Practical Side: Cost, Comfort, and Value

At $239 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that combines wildlife, snorkeling, and scenic cruising, all with hotel pickup and lunch included. When you consider the price includes alcoholic beverages, snorkeling equipment, and the small-group intimacy, the value becomes clearer.

Most travelers feel this price is fair for what they get—top-notch service, excellent scenery, and a chance to see whales and marine life up close. The all-inclusive nature means fewer worries about extra costs on the day, making it easier to relax and enjoy.

However, there’s a small additional fee of $5 per person for dock fees, which is standard for marine parks and protected areas. And note that most travelers book about 20 days in advance, so planning ahead is recommended.

Additional Details That Matter

The tour operates from December 15 to April 15, in line with whale migration season. The start time is 10:00 am, giving you a leisurely morning to enjoy Cabo’s vibe beforehand. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues might find the boat’s size a bit limiting, as noted in reviews.

Weather can affect the experience, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund. The maximum group size of 16 makes for an intimate and less hectic experience—an aspect many reviews praise.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This Snorkel and Whale Platinum Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Cabo’s marine environment, combining whale watching, snorkeling in protected waters, and a relaxing cruise with excellent food and drinks. Its small group size, professional crew, and high-quality amenities make it suited for travelers who enjoy personalized service and authentic experiences.

If you’re looking to combine wildlife viewing with water-based fun, and value comfort and good food, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially perfect if you’re visiting during whale season and want a hassle-free way to see the whales, snorkel in clear waters, and enjoy a laid-back day at sea.

FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, starting at 10:00 am.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package, making the experience more convenient.

Are meals and drinks included?
Yes, a delicious lunch and an open bar with margaritas and Mezcal cocktails are included, with alcohol only for guests 18 and over.

What beaches are visited for snorkeling?
You’ll snorkel at Santa Maria or Chileno Bay, both recognized for their Blue Flag status and natural beauty.

Can I see whales on this tour?
Yes, whale sightings are common during the season from December 15 to April 15, with many reviews mentioning sightings of multiple whales.

How many people are on the boat?
The boat accommodates up to 16 passengers, ensuring a more personal and less crowded experience.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer.

What if the weather is poor?
If bad weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

Are there any additional fees?
There’s a $5 per person dock fee for marine park access, payable on-site.

In essence, this tour offers an excellent mix of wildlife, scenic cruising, and comfort, ideal for travelers who want a no-hassle, memorable day on the water. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Cabo, it delivers a balanced experience that puts you close to nature without feeling rushed or overcrowded.