Cabo Encounter with Optional Clear Boat and Lunch

If you’re planning a trip to San Jose del Cabo or Los Cabos, you’ve likely come across this well-reviewed tour that promises a full day of scenery, culture, and tasty treats. We’ve looked into this experience to see what makes it stand out—and whether it’s worth your time and money.

What we love about this tour is how it combines multiple highlights—like the breathtaking El Arco via a clear boat, a charming visit to San Jose del Cabo, and a delicious Mexican lunch—all within a manageable seven-hour window. The small group size, capped at just 13 travelers, means you get a more personal touch and plenty of attention from your guide.

One potential consideration is the optional boat ride, which at $39 USD per person, might seem like an extra expense. Also, if you’re not keen on additional costs or prefer a more straightforward experience, some may find the extra fees a little disruptive to the value.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, local culture, and fun, making it perfect for those who enjoy small-group adventures and authentic experiences without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary that covers Los Cabos highlights and San Jose del Cabo charm
• Includes a stunning clear boat ride (optional) to see El Arco, Pelican Rock, and more
• Cultural immersion with a visit to Plaza Mijares and the historic mission church
• Tastings of tequila, chocolate, and Mexican candies enrich the experience
• Comfortable transportation in a luxury air-conditioned van with door-to-door service
• Highly rated guides who are knowledgeable, friendly, and adaptable

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Marina Cabo San Lucas

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel or cruise ship terminal—an excellent perk that saves you the hassle of arranging transport. You’ll meet your guide, who is likely to be both friendly and informed, ready to introduce you to the day’s adventures.

The Optional Clear Boat Ride

The star feature of this tour is the clear boat experience. For $39 USD, you can purchase a ticket to enjoy a boat made entirely of glass, offering panoramic, unobstructed views of the El Arco, Pelican Rock, and the surrounding bay. This is the moment to snap photos of the iconic natural rock formations, which are often the centerpiece of Los Cabos postcards.

Many reviews highlight how worthwhile this is—“the whole boat is clear, not just the bottom,” says a reviewer, emphasizing the unique perspective it offers. You’ll glide past Lover’s Beach, Neptune’s Finger, and other landmarks, with the chance to see a variety of fish and wildlife from the comfort of the boat.

However, a reminder: the boat ride is weather-dependent, and if the harbor master closes the marina, the land tour continues with no refund for the boat. Also, note that shoes or sandals are not allowed on the boat, so plan accordingly, and bring socks or go barefoot.

Passing by Cabo’s Exclusive Neighborhoods and Natural Landmarks

During the boat ride, you’ll pass by Pedregal, Cabo del Sol Golf Club, and the mountain range La Sierra La Laguna. This gives a sense of the area’s wealth and natural beauty—it’s a good way to appreciate the contrast between luxurious homes, rugged coastlines, and mountain vistas.

A Visit to San Jose del Cabo

After returning from the boat, the tour takes you to the historic San Jose del Cabo. You’ll have around 10 minutes in Plaza Mijares to soak up the lively atmosphere, check out the gazebo, and admire the parroquia San Jose, the old mission church.

The highlight here is the visit to the San Jose del Cabo Estuary and Bird Sanctuary, a peaceful spot for bird watchers and nature lovers. The quiet streets and art galleries here offer a calmer, more traditional side of Los Cabos compared to the bustling Cabo San Lucas.

Lunch and Local Culture

Following the cultural walk, you’ll enjoy a delicious Mexican lunch—a welcome break. While the details of the restaurant aren’t specified, reviews mention the food as “incredible,” so you can expect authentic flavors. Be prepared to purchase drinks and additional food if you’re hungry or want to indulge in some local specialties.

Tasting Experiences

No Los Cabos tour is complete without sampling some tequila, chocolates, and candies. The tequila tasting is at a local shop, where you’ll learn about the different varieties. The chocolate and candy tastings are brief, but reviews suggest the chocolates are “absolutely breathtaking,” and the tequila tastings are enjoyable, if not elaborate.

This element adds a fun, flavorful dimension to the day, giving you a taste of Mexico’s rich traditions. Many travelers, like Elizabeth, say, “the tequila, chocolate, and candy tasting were delightful.”

The Small Group Advantage

With a maximum of 13 participants, this tour offers intimacy and more personalized attention. Many reviews praise guides like Dennis for being knowledgeable, friendly, and flexible—they often go out of their way to adapt the itinerary to the group’s preferences, such as skipping shopping if asked.

Comfort and Convenience

All transportation is in a luxury air-conditioned van, with pickup and drop-off from your hotel or cruise terminal. This means no stress about navigating busy streets or arranging separate transport—an underrated perk in a region where driving can be hectic.

Pricing and Value

At $69 per person, including hotel transfers, multiple stops, and guided narration, this tour presents very good value. The extra cost for the clear boat is reasonable, especially considering how popular it is among travelers. The inclusion of tastings and a cultural visit enhances the experience further.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviews have criticized the tequila and chocolate tastings as being at a convenience store, which might affect expectations for some. Still, the overall value remains high, especially given the variety of sights and activities packed into a single day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive, relaxed day trip that mixes scenery, culture, and flavor. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy small-group tours with personalized guides and are willing to pay a little extra for the boat ride. Families, couples, or solo travelers who want to see both the natural wonders and historic towns of Los Cabos will find this tour hits many marks.

Final Thoughts

The Cabo Encounter with Optional Clear Boat and Lunch offers a well-rounded introduction to Los Cabos’ highlights at a reasonable price. The combination of stunning views, authentic cultural experiences, and delicious tastings makes it a memorable day for most travelers. The small-group format ensures you’ll get meaningful interaction and attention, which many reviews praise highly.

While the optional boat ride adds a highlight, it’s also the most weather-dependent part. Still, even on the land, you’re in for a scenic, informative, and flavorful experience. If you value local culture, natural beauty, and good company, this tour certainly deserves a spot on your Los Cabos itinerary.

FAQ

Is the clear boat ride included in the price?
No, the boat ride costs an additional $39 USD per person and is paid in cash on the day of the tour.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 8:00 am with pickup included.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included in the base price but is available for purchase at a local restaurant. Many travelers find the food excellent and worth the extra cost.

Can I skip shopping or certain stops?
Yes, guides often adapt the itinerary based on your preferences. For example, if you prefer more sightseeing and less shopping, just let your guide know.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and cash for optional activities and personal expenses.

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but consider physical comfort for those with mobility issues or small children.

In all, this tour offers a meaningful taste of Los Cabos’ beauty and culture—especially for those who appreciate a small-group setting, scenic boat rides, and local flavor. It’s a flexible, value-packed option that can serve as both an introduction or a highlight of your trip.