Bays of Huatulco Boat Tour

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Huatulco, the Bays of Huatulco Boat Tour offers a chance to see some of the region’s most beautiful coastline and beaches. While it isn’t a high-end luxury cruise, it’s a solid choice for travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic, and reasonably priced experience. We’ll explore what makes this tour worth considering — and where it might fall a little short.

What we like about this tour are the stunning coastal views and the chance to snorkel among coral reefs, which add an authentic touch of adventure. Plus, the bilingual guides and comfortable transportation make the experience smoother and more accessible. On the downside, some reviews mention that the boat can feel quite old and that costs at beaches—such as food and drinks—are not included, so travelers should budget accordingly.

This tour is best suited for those who want a relaxed day on the water, enjoy snorkeling and beach hopping, and are comfortable with a moderate pace and some basic boat facilities. It’s not for travelers seeking luxury, but rather those eager for a affordable, scenic outing that offers a good mix of sightseeing and swimming.

Key Points

• Authentic coastal experience with multiple stops at beautiful beaches and bays
• Includes transportation, guide, and drinks, making it convenient
• Snorkeling at Chachacual offers a glimpse into vibrant underwater life
• Limited on-site amenities; meals and beverages at beaches cost extra
• Moderate physical activity involved, suitable for most travelers with average mobility
• Pricing around $47 offers good value considering the full day of activities

An In-Depth Look at What You Can Expect

A Practical Overview of the Tour

This 7-hour boat tour departs from La Crucecita early in the morning, around 8:50 am, with hotel pick-up and drop-off included. It’s operated by Amigo Tours, a reputable provider known for organizing accessible and reasonably priced excursions. At just $47 per person, the overall value hinges on your interest in beaches, snorkeling, and coastal scenery.

The tour includes round transportation in an air-conditioned bus, which is a welcome feature after a warm morning exploring Huatulco’s lively streets or relaxing at your hotel. The professional bilingual guide provides commentary in both English and Spanish, enriching your understanding of the region and ensuring you don’t miss local highlights.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Each stop on this tour is designed to showcase different facets of Huatulco’s coast, from calm bays to snorkeling spots.

Stop 1: Santa Cruz Huatulco
Your adventure begins in what’s considered the main bay of Huatulco. Here, you’ll board the boat for the day’s cruise. This initial stop is primarily to get everyone on the water and ready for the day ahead. The spectacular beaches and bays around Santa Cruz are some of the most photographed in the region, setting a picturesque tone for the day.

Stop 2: Playa La Entrega
While only about 25 minutes long, this stop allows you to enjoy fabulous views of the bay, perfect for taking photos or just soaking in the scenery. Some travelers appreciate the brief but scenic nature of this stop, which feels like a quick taste of Huatulco’s coastline.

Stop 3: Playa Organo
Another 25-minute stop, Playa Organo offers more beach photo opportunities and a chance to relax by the water. It’s a quieter spot where you can stretch your legs and enjoy the sea breeze.

Stop 4: Chachacual
This is the highlight for many — a 1.5-hour snorkeling stop at the bay of Chachacual, part of the National Park of Huatulco. Here, you can explore the coral reef and see local marine life, including sea urchins and clownfish. One reviewer noted, “Getting to know the coral reef underwater was a highlight,” emphasizing that this part delivers on the promise of an authentic snorkeling experience.

Stop 5: Bahia Maguey y El Organo
The final and longest stop, lasting about two hours, is at Maguey Bay. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to swim, relax, and enjoy a meal of seafood (at your own expense). The beach around Maguey Bay is ideal for lounging, and it’s a chance to savor the ocean atmosphere after a day on the water.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes all transportation, a professional guide, water, and soft drinks, which adds to its value. The liability insurance and live commentary make it informative and safe.

However, all meals, additional drinks (like beers), and snorkel equipment are extra. For instance, snorkel gear costs around $180 MXN per person, and a dock tax of MX$5.50 applies at Chachacual. Be aware that the food at beaches will need to be paid for separately, so budgeting for snacks or meals is wise.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring cash for extras like snorkel gear, food, and drinks.
• Consider wearing swimwear and bringing sunscreen, hats, and waterproof cameras.
• The boat itself has received mixed reviews — some say it’s a little old, which can make the ride feel a bit bumpy at times.
• The tour operates rain or shine, but poor weather might lead to cancellations or changes, so check the forecast.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

One guest shared, “García, the bilingual tour guide, and his crew were extremely pleasant and made the experience very enjoyable,” highlighting the importance of knowledgeable guides. Conversely, some critics mentioned that the boat felt quite old, and costs at beaches could add up quickly, especially for food and drinks.

Another comment pointed out that the pace is moderate, making it suitable for most fitness levels, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at each stop.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This trip offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach relaxation, making it ideal for travelers who want to see multiple spots without the hassle of planning each detail themselves. It’s a good fit for those new to Huatulco or travelers on a budget who still want a memorable coastal experience. While it might not satisfy those seeking luxury or exclusivity, it’s perfect for families, couples, and groups wanting a fun, guided day on the water.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For $47, this tour offers a solid day of coastal exploration, with memorable snorkeling at Chachacual, lovely beach stops, and reliable transportation. The friendly guides and scenic views enhance the experience, especially if you’re eager to see more of Huatulco’s coastline without the complexity of planning.

However, travelers should be prepared for some basic amenities and extra costs at beaches, and the boat’s age might influence comfort. If you’re seeking an affordable, authentic day on the water with a good balance of activity and relaxation, this tour suits those who are moderately active and curious about marine life.

Overall, it’s a recommendable choice for those wanting to enjoy Huatulco’s bays in a straightforward, guided setting, with enough flexibility to make it a relaxing escape from the land.

FAQs About the Bays of Huatulco Boat Tour

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, starting around 8:50 am with hotel pickup and ending with drop-off.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned bus is part of the package.

What’s the cost?
It’s priced at $47 per person, which covers most of the day’s activities and drinks onboard.

Are meals included?
No, meals at beaches are not included; you’ll need to buy food separately if desired.

Can I snorkel?
Yes, snorkeling is available at Chachacual, where you can see coral reefs and local marine life.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
Snorkel gear can be rented for around $180 MXN per person, but it’s not included in the price.

Is the boat suitable for everyone?
The tour is moderate in physical activity; travelers should have a reasonable fitness level. The boat’s age has been noted, so comfort may vary.

Are there any additional charges?
Yes, a dock tax of MX$5.50 at Chachacual and optional expenses for snorkel gear and food.

What is the guide like?
Guests report that guides are friendly and bilingual, adding to the overall enjoyable experience.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, swimwear, a hat, waterproof camera, and cash for extras are recommended.

This tour offers an engaging way to experience Huatulco’s coast, especially if you’re eager for a relaxed day with a splash of adventure.