Cabo San Lucas: Glass-Bottom Boat Cruise and Tequila Tasting

Imagine cruising over the Sea of Cortez on a boat with a see-through bottom, soaking in the scenery and watching marine life glide beneath you. Now, picture ending that adventure with a tasting of Mexico’s finest tequilas. That’s essentially what this Cabo San Lucas tour offers — a mix of natural beauty, a touch of local culture, and a dash of fun.

We like that this tour combines spectacular views of iconic landmarks like the Arch of Cabo San Lucas, Lovers Beach, and Pelican Rock with a close-up of the Sea Lions Colony. Plus, the tequila tasting adds a flavorful bonus. One thing to keep in mind is the duration — at just about 3 hours, some travelers might find the boat ride itself feels a little quick, especially given the price point.

All in all, this experience suits those who enjoy a relaxed sightseeing cruise, are curious about marine life, and want a taste of local spirits in one convenient outing. It’s especially good for families or small groups seeking a shared adventure with plenty of photo opportunities. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this tour worth considering — or passing on.

Key Points

• Unique glass-bottom boat offers a clear view into the ocean, making marine life and landmarks more engaging.
• Iconic landmarks like the Arch of Cabo San Lucas and Lovers Beach are highlights, with great photo ops.
• Visit the Sea Lions Colony right next to the Arch, offering a chance to see playful marine mammals.
• Tequila tasting included, adding a cultural flavor to the experience.
• Small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures a more personalized and intimate atmosphere.
• Price of $65 per person provides decent value, but some reviews suggest the tour duration and photo policies could be better.

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A Closer Look at the Experience

What the Tour Includes and How It Works

Starting with hotel pickup, this tour makes things straightforward, especially if you’re staying in Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo. Once at the marina, you’ll board the only crystal-clear boat in the area, designed specifically to let you see into the depths of the Sea of Cortez. The transparent bottom means you can gaze down into the water while the boat glides past some of Cabo’s most famous landmarks.

The main highlights include passing beneath the Arch of Cabo San Lucas, a natural rock formation that’s practically the symbol of the area. You’ll also see Lovers Beach and Pelican Rock, both photogenic spots that really come alive from the water.

A key stop is the Sea Lions Colony, located right next to the Arch. Here, you can watch the playful sea lions just hanging out or swimming around — an authentic encounter that’s often a hit with kids and adults alike.

The Marine Life and Scenic Highlights

The boat’s see-through bottom offers a window into the marine life of the Sea of Cortez, which is famed as one of the most biologically diverse bodies of water in the world. While the reviews vary, some travelers appreciated the opportunity to spot marine animals without diving or snorkeling.

The views of the resorts on the Pacific Ocean side are quite pleasant, giving you a sense of the luxurious side of Cabo. The boat ride passing by the “end of the earth” point provides a sense of geographic perspective and a photo-worthy moment.

The Tequila Tasting and Shopping

Once the boat tour wraps up, you’ll have free time for shopping — a chance to browse local shops for souvenirs or snacks. The tequila tasting is included, and while it’s a fun addition, some reviews note that the policies around photos and the costs for purchasing images might feel a bit commercial or pushy.

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The Experience’s Duration and Group Size

With a duration of about 3 hours, this tour is relatively short but packed with sights. Be aware that some reviews mention the actual boat ride lasts only about 45 minutes, which might feel brief considering the overall time. The small group size (limited to 10 people) enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction and personalized attention, especially from guides who are bilingual in English and Spanish.

Pricing and Value for Money

Priced at $65 per person, this experience is a reasonable budget for a scenic boat cruise with extras like tequila tasting. However, some critics argue it might be slightly overpriced for the brief boat time, especially when considering that photos are sold separately or at high prices (around $100 per family, according to one review).

What You’ll Need to Bring

To get the most out of this tour, pack essentials like passport or ID, sunscreen, a sun hat, and water. Be aware that luggage or large bags are not allowed on the boat, so keep your belongings light.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Kim from the U.S. praised the guides — Nora and the boat driver — for their expertise and friendliness, which made up for the shorter duration. Conversely, Iram’s review pointed out a disappointing experience with the photo sales tactics, feeling it was a bit of a rip-off asking $100 for photos that were taken by the crew.

Erika found the experience “awesome”, especially appreciating the views, while Lilia from Mexico felt it was “expensive” for the actual boat ride, citing the short duration and restrictive photo policies.

The Overall Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Easy, hassle-free pickup and drop-off
• Unique glass-bottom boat for a different perspective
• Close-up views of iconic landmarks and wildlife
• Small group size enhances intimacy and guide interaction
• The tequila tasting adds a cultural dimension

Cons:

• The boat ride might feel short relative to the overall tour time
• Some reviews mention aggressive photo sales, which can feel commercial
• Price may seem steep considering the actual boat ride duration
• Weather conditions can affect the experience, as with any outdoor activity

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after stunning scenery and a chance to see the marine environment without getting wet, this tour is a good choice. It’s especially suitable for families, small groups, or anyone wanting a relaxed way to see Cabo’s most famous sights. People who value knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences will likely enjoy it.

However, if you’re looking for a longer or more adventure-focused outing, you might want to explore other options or consider combining this with snorkeling or other water activities.

Final Thoughts

This glass-bottom boat cruise with tequila tasting offers a relaxed, scenic glimpse of Cabo San Lucas’s most celebrated landmarks. The unique transparent boat means you’re not just looking at pictures but truly seeing beneath the surface, which can be a real treat. The small group size and friendly guides add a personal touch that many travelers appreciate.

While some feel the duration and photo policies could be better, the stunning views and marine encounters provide good value for the price. This tour is well-suited for visitors interested in photo opportunities, marine scenery, and local culture, especially if you’re in Cabo for a short stay and want a compact, memorable experience.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to start your adventure without extra hassle.

How long does the boat ride last?
The boat ride itself is approximately 45 minutes, though the total tour duration is about 3 hours including other activities and free time.

Can I take photos during the tour?
You can take photos freely, but the crew takes professional photos to sell afterward — some reviews suggest these can be quite expensive.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll see the Arch of Cabo San Lucas, Lovers Beach, Pelican Rock, and the Sea Lions Colony.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
This experience is not recommended for pregnant women or people with mobility issues, and there are weight restrictions (over 260 lbs or 118 kg may not be suitable).

What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID, sunscreen, a sun hat, and cash or cards for shopping or additional photo purchases.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, like all outdoor activities, this tour is subject to weather conditions, which could impact timing or the experience itself.

To sum it up, this tour offers a nice balance of scenic beauty, marine wildlife, and local culture in a compact package. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comfortable, guided experience with plenty of photo ops and a taste of Mexican traditions. For those seeking more time on the water or adventure, other options might be more fitting, but for a relaxed, scenic overview, this cruise delivers.

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