Cabo San Lucas: Snorkeling Cruise with Lunch and Open Bar

If you’re planning a trip to Cabo San Lucas and want a leisurely way to enjoy the sea, this snorkeling cruise with lunch and an open bar offers a fantastic mix of underwater exploration and laid-back fun. It’s a popular option for those who want to see the vibrant marine life of Chileno Bay while indulging in good food and drinks, all wrapped into a relaxed three-hour experience. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or simply looking to enjoy some time on the water, this tour combines natural beauty with a touch of luxury.

Two things we genuinely appreciate about this outing are the quality of the snorkeling at Chileno Bay, known for its clear waters and abundant sea life, and the delicious, well-rounded lunch that includes a sushi bar and various beverages. The open bar is a real highlight, letting you unwind as you cruise along the impressive Baja coastline. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the tour’s duration is relatively short, which might leave some craving more time in the water or on deck. Still, it’s an experience that’s suitable for travelers who want a taste of both adventure and relaxation without overextending.

This tour is particularly well-suited for those who enjoy easy-paced activities, crave lovely scenery, and appreciate good food with a view. If you’re not a strong swimmer or prone to seasickness, it’s worth noting that the tour involves some time on the water and snorkeling, which may require a bit of comfort with being in the sea. Overall, it’s a balanced experience that’s easy to fit into a busy Cabo itinerary.

Key Points

• Stunning Marine Environment: Snorkel in Chileno Bay, known for its clear waters and vibrant sea life.
• All-Inclusive Refreshments: Enjoy a national open bar with a variety of drinks, perfect for relaxing after snorkeling.
• Tasty Lunch Options: Savor a diverse menu that includes teriyaki chicken, spring rice, buttered vegetables, fruit, cookies, coffee, and sushi.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Book now and pay later with full refunds available up to 24 hours before the tour.
• Family-Friendly & Social: Suitable for groups who want a casual, fun outing with music and games onboard.
• Convenient Location: Departure from Cabo San Lucas Marina makes for an easy start to your day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The adventure begins at the Cabo San Lucas marina, where check-in opens an hour before departure. This gives you time to settle, perhaps grab a quick snack or souvenir before boarding. The boat itself is designed for comfort and socializing, with plenty of space to relax, listen to music, or play games as you cruise along the coast.

The cruise heads towards Chileno Bay, a roughly 45-minute journey that’s part scenic drive, part anticipation-building. You’ll enjoy views of the Baja coastline, with the chance to snap photos and soak in the fresh sea breeze. Once you arrive at Chileno Bay, the focus shifts to snorkeling. The waters here are renowned for their clarity and lively marine ecosystem, featuring natural reefs that are teeming with fish and other sea creatures.

Snorkel gear is provided, so all you need to do is slip into the water and explore. The underwater world is described as a “live natural reef,” which hints at the vibrant ecosystems you’ll encounter. Reviewers mention that guides are knowledgeable and helpful, making sure everyone feels comfortable and safe in the water.

After your underwater adventure, you’ll return to the boat for a well-deserved lunch. The menu is generous, with options like teriyaki chicken and spring rice, complemented by fresh fruit and cookies. The sushi bar adds a touch of elegance to the meal, appealing to those craving lighter, flavorful bites. During and after lunch, the open bar kicks in, featuring a variety of drinks to enjoy while you relax and swap stories of your underwater discoveries.

Throughout the cruise, music and games create a lively, friendly atmosphere. It’s a social experience that encourages mingling, making it ideal for groups or travelers looking for a casual, fun vibe. Reviewers note that the boat crew is attentive and friendly, enhancing the overall enjoyment.

Experience Quality and Value

While the three-hour duration might seem brief, the experience packs a lot into a compact timeframe. The proximity of Chileno Bay means that travel time is minimal, maximizing your water time and relaxation. The price point, especially considering the lunch, drinks, and snorkeling gear included, offers good value for a semi-private, guided boat trip.

Many reviewers mention the professionalism of the guides—they’re knowledgeable about the marine life and eager to share interesting facts, which elevates the snorkeling experience. The availability of a live guide speaking both English and Spanish ensures everyone feels comfortable, regardless of language preference.

The food quality is another highlight. The lunch is described as “delicious,” with some reviewers praising the sushi bar as a nice touch. The open bar, which only opens after snorkeling, is appreciated as a way to unwind and enjoy the scenery post-activity. The overall vibe is casual, friendly, and geared toward fun rather than formal luxury.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring a change of clothes and a towel—after snorkeling, you’ll want to dry off and change before enjoying lunch.
• A camera or waterproof phone case is essential if you want to capture the underwater world or coastal views.
• Biodegradable sunscreen is recommended to protect aquatic life without harming the reef.
• Cash is needed for the $2 USD dock fee, paid at the gate, so bring some small bills.
• Arrive early: Check-in begins an hour before departure, giving you time to settle in and avoid last-minute stress.
• Not suitable for those prone to seasickness or non-swimmers, as the tour involves some time on the water and snorkeling.

What We Like (and What to Consider)

Some of the most praised aspects include stunning scenery, friendly and knowledgeable guides, and delicious food—all of which make this tour feel worth the price. The open bar is a significant bonus, especially for those looking to relax with a drink amid beautiful surroundings.

However, the short duration might not satisfy travelers seeking a full day of water-based activities, and the boat tour’s quick pace may feel rushed if you’re eager to spend more time in the water or ashore. Also, since it’s a group activity, expect a social, lively environment rather than a quiet retreat.

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Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a straightforward, enjoyable day on the water without a lot of fuss. It’s ideal for those who like a mix of light adventure, good food, and socializing in a scenic setting. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a relaxed outing.

It’s also a good choice for first-time visitors to Cabo, offering a glimpse of the marine environment and coastline, with the added bonus of a comfortable, all-inclusive meal and drinks. If you’re not a swimmer or prone to seasickness, or if you prefer a longer day on the water, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For a short but sweet taste of Baja’s underwater beauty combined with good food and a lively atmosphere, this snorkeling cruise hits the spot. It offers a hassle-free way to see Chileno Bay, one of Cabo’s top snorkeling spots, without the need for complicated planning or long hours at sea.

The combination of friendly guides, stunning marine scenery, and a satisfying meal makes this a worthwhile choice for many travelers. It’s especially suited for those who want a relaxed, social experience that balances adventure with comfort. If you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and tasty outing in Cabo San Lucas, this tour delivers.

While it may not satisfy those craving a full-day marine adventure, it’s a solid pick for a half-day escape that provides a refreshing perspective on Baja’s natural beauty—perfect for dipping your toes into the Sea of Cortez.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
It’s not ideal for non-swimmers since it involves snorkeling, which requires some comfort in the water.

How long is the snorkeling time?
Snorkeling is part of a roughly 3-hour tour, with the boat trip, water activity, and meal included.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes, towel, camera, biodegradable sunscreen, cash for the dock fee, and a credit card for payments.

Does the open bar include alcohol?
Yes, the national open bar includes a variety of drinks, available after the water activity.

Are the guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish to accommodate all guests.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, but non-swimmers or those sensitive to seasickness should consider their comfort.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where does the tour depart from?
All tours leave from the main cruise ship terminal at Cabo San Lucas Marina.

How much does the dock fee cost?
It’s $2 USD per person, payable in cash at the entrance.

Is there an age limit?
Specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, but younger children should be comfortable in water and with snorkeling activities.

This snorkeling cruise blends scenic beauty, lively social spirit, and good food into a compact adventure—perfect for those wanting a relaxed taste of Baja’s marine wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby