Cabo San Lucas Whale Watching Tour All Included

If you’re heading to Cabo San Lucas during whale season, this all-inclusive whale watching tour promises a close and informative encounter with some of the largest mammals on earth. Offered by Bellaterra Los Cabos, this two-hour excursion gets you out on the water to see humpback and gray whales in their natural habitat, combined with a comfortable boat ride, breakfast, and drinks. While it might not be the most adrenaline-fueled or intimate whale watching experience, it’s a solid choice for travelers looking for a relaxed, family-friendly outing that packs in scenic sights and wildlife viewing.

What we really like about this tour is the knowledgeable marine biologist guide who shares insights on whale behavior, making the experience educational as well as entertaining. Plus, the convenient pickup from your hotel and the included breakfast and drinks make it a hassle-free outing. However, one potential drawback is that the boats tend to be larger, which might not suit travelers desiring a more intimate or smaller-group experience. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a blend of wildlife viewing, scenic cruising, and a comfortable, all-in-one package.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Comfort: Includes breakfast, drinks, and transportation, minimizing logistics and adding value.
• Educational Experience: Marine biologist guides offer fascinating insights into whale habits.
• Flexible Boat Options: Choose between a double-deck catamaran or a pirate ship, depending on your style.
• Prime Viewing: Get as close as maritime laws allow to humpback and gray whales.
• Scenic Highlights: Additional stops at the Arch, Lover’s Beach, and Lands End.
• Seasonal Timing: Available only from December 15th through March 30th, aligning with whale migration.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Booking and Arrival Process

Booking ahead—about 37 days in advance on average—ensures you secure a spot, especially during peak whale season. The tour starts with a convenient pickup at your hotel, with the driver taking you to the Cabo San Lucas marina. This included transportation is a real plus, removing any guesswork about how to get to the departure point and saving you time and effort.

Once at the marina, you check in, and depending on availability, you’ll be assigned to either a double-deck catamaran or a pirate-themed vessel. The choice of boat impacts your experience slightly—catamarans tend to offer stable, open views with plenty of space, while pirate ships add a fun, themed adventure vibe. It’s worth noting that your preference might not always be available, but the operator aims to accommodate requests whenever possible.

Duration and Timing

The tour runs for about 2 hours, with a start time of 9:00 am, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy the rest of their day exploring Cabo or relaxing on the beach. This timing also coincides well with whale activity, which is most visible during mid-morning.

The Boat Ride and Wildlife Viewing

Once aboard, the vessel heads out into the waters where humpback and gray whales are often seen breaching, spouting, and sometimes swimming close to the boat—within the limits of maritime regulations. This proximity offers excellent photo opportunities, especially if you’re lucky enough to witness a whale breach or tail slap.

A marine biologist guide is on board, sharing engaging facts about whale habits, migration, and the local ecosystem. Having an expert to answer questions enhances the experience and provides a deeper appreciation of these giants of the sea. We loved the way the guide made the marine life come alive with stories and insights, making the adventure both fun and educational.

Additional Highlights: Scenic Stops

Along With whale watching, the tour includes a trip past some of Cabo’s most iconic sights—the Arch, Lover’s Beach, and the Lands End tip—where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortés. These spots are spectacular, especially with their dramatic rock formations and clear waters, providing a scenic backdrop to your wildlife viewing.

Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere

The included Mexican-style breakfast is served on board, giving you a chance to fuel up before or after your whale encounter. During the trip, you’ll also find an open bar offering mimosas, Bloody Marys, margaritas, and soft drinks, adding a relaxed, festive atmosphere. For many, this combination of scenic views, wildlife, and a drink in hand is a perfect way to enjoy a morning in Cabo.

Cost and Value

For $99 per person, this tour offers a good balance of activities and amenities. Considering the cost of transportation, breakfast, drinks, and expert guidance, it provides decent value, especially for travelers who prioritize comfort and convenience. However, some reviews note that the experience might lean more toward a larger, party-style cruise rather than an exclusively wildlife-focused one, which is important to keep in mind.

What Reviewers Say

While the majority of feedback is positive, a review by Adam_R from December 2023 points out that the experience might feel more like a budget-friendly party cruise with loud deck music and a quick whale sighting. He mentions, “this outfit is predicated on serving a cheap meal, followed by loud deck music,” indicating that for those seeking a quieter, more intimate whale watching experience, this might not be ideal.

On the other hand, many travelers appreciate the educational aspect and the scenic itinerary. The inclusion of breakfast and drinks helps justify the price for those looking for a full, hassle-free experience.

Practical Tips

• Book early to secure your preferred boat type and time slot.
• Expect large group sizes (up to 150 travelers), which may reduce intimacy but improve social atmosphere.
• Bring your camera, hat, and sunscreen—sun protection is vital.
• Check the weather forecast; poor weather may result in a cancellation or rescheduling.
• Remember the dock fee of $5 per person is not included, so factor that into your budget.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a comfortable, all-in-one experience with a focus on wildlife and scenic cruising. It’s a good fit for families, first-time visitors, or groups that enjoy a lively atmosphere with music and drinks. If you’re after a more intimate or specialized whale watching outing, or prefer smaller boats with fewer people, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Cabo San Lucas Whale Watching Tour All Included offers a solid value for those seeking a relaxed, scenic, and educational outing that combines wildlife sightings with comfort and convenience. The included breakfast and open bar elevate the experience from basic to enjoyable, especially if you’re looking for a fun way to start your day.

The large group size and lively atmosphere might not appeal to everyone, especially those wanting a quieter, more personal encounter with whales. However, if you’re content with a lively, well-organized tour that balances wildlife viewing with scenery and socializing, this option delivers.

This tour is best for families, first-timers, or those who enjoy a good mix of sightseeing, wildlife, and a bit of fun on the water. For travelers who value educational insights and scenic stops, the marine biologist guide and the view of Cabo’s iconic landmarks are memorable highlights.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides roundtrip transportation from your hotel to the Cabo San Lucas marina, making it easy to start your adventure without logistical worries.

What boats are available for this tour?
You can choose between a double-deck catamaran or a pirate ship. The exact vessel assigned depends on availability, but the operator tries to accommodate preferences.

How long does the tour last?
The whale watching portion lasts approximately 2 hours, starting at 9:00 am, giving you a good window for wildlife sightings and scenic views.

Are drinks and food included?
Yes, a Mexican-style breakfast is served, along with an open bar offering mimosas, Bloody Marys, margaritas, and soft drinks, all included in the price.

What sights are included besides whale watching?
The tour also passes by the Arch, Lover’s Beach, and Lands End, providing excellent photo opportunities of Cabo’s famous rock formations.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering peace of mind for flexible travelers.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic, and informative whale watching trip with plenty of amenities, this tour is a reliable choice. Just keep in mind what kind of atmosphere you prefer, and you’ll likely find it a memorable part of your Cabo adventure.