Cabo San Lucas: Whale Watching Tour with Breakfast

If you’re heading to Cabo San Lucas and love the idea of combining wildlife encounters with a luxurious boat experience, this whale watching tour might just be your perfect morning plan. With a two-hour cruise on Los Cabos’ largest three-deck, 145-foot catamaran, you get to see majestic whales—if luck is on your side—while enjoying a buffet breakfast and an open bar. It’s a well-rounded outing that offers a great mix of nature, comfort, and fun.

What we like most about this tour are the spectacular views of Cabo’s iconic rock formations—including the famous Arch—and the chance to sip on cocktails while spotting whales. But, it’s worth noting that the tour’s duration is limited to just two hours, which might feel a bit brief if you’re eager to spend more time at sea. Overall, it’s ideal for families, wildlife lovers, or anyone who wants a relaxing yet engaging morning with impressive scenery and marine mammals.

This experience suits those looking for a comfortable, well-organized tour that balances wildlife viewing with onboard amenities. Be prepared for a lively, bilingual guide, music from the DJ, and a chance to see some of the most awe-inspiring marine mammals in their natural habitat—all with a good dose of Cabo charm.

Key Points

• Comfortable, large catamaran designed for safety and enjoyment for all ages
• Two-hour whale watching adventure in the Sea of Cortez or Pacific Ocean
• Buffet breakfast and open bar including cocktails, juice, and soft drinks
• Scenic stops at iconic landmarks like the Cabo Arch, Lover’s Beach, and Land’s End
• Professional bilingual guides provide entertaining and informative commentary
• Optional purchase of photographs and additional drinks available on board

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect

This tour kicks off before the heat of the day, with a buffet breakfast that’s quite generous for a tour of this length. Think of red chilaquiles, mini hot cakes, fresh fruit, and eggs—fuel for the sea. Many reviews mention the breakfast as a highlight, with guests appreciating the variety and quality, especially considering it’s included in the price. The domestic open bar offers rum, tequila, vodka, gin, whiskey, and draft beer, with mixed drinks like Piña Coladas, Mojitos, and Margaritas available.

Once breakfast wraps up, you’ll head out from the main dock of Cabo San Lucas Marina, passing by the notable Land’s End, Pelican Rock, Lover’s Beach, and the Arch. These iconic formations make for superb photo opportunities, with about 15 minutes allotted at the Arch for photos and sightseeing. The scenic drive between stops offers fantastic views of the rugged coastline and seascape—perfect for those who enjoy a laid-back cruise with plenty of photo ops.

The main event is the two-hour whale watching segment, where the captain will search for pods of whales in either the Sea of Cortez or the Pacific Ocean, depending on the day’s conditions. With an experienced bilingual guide providing entertaining commentary, you’ll learn about the marine mammals and their behaviors, making the encounter more meaningful. If you’re fortunate, you may witness whales breaching or flipping their tails, as some guests have shared reports of close encounters that left them in awe.

The onboard DJ helps keep the atmosphere lively with music, creating a festive vibe. Many travelers note the safety features of the boat, especially if you’re traveling with children or those less comfortable on open water. The boat is described as the safest option for all ages and includes a paramedic on board, which reassures those concerned about safety.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Caborey, the tour begins with a scenic drive through the bay, giving you a taste of Cabo’s stunning coastal views. The guided tour provides entertaining insights into the landmarks you pass, setting the tone for a fun and relaxed adventure.

The scenic stops at Pelican Rock, Lover’s Beach, and Land’s End are brief but impactful. These moments allow for some memorable photos, capturing the dramatic seaside cliffs and the iconic arch. The photo stop at the Arch lasts about 15 minutes, plenty of time to snap a few shots before moving on.

After cruising past these highlights, the boat heads towards the whale-watching area, about 1.5 hours of pure marine excitement. This segment is the core of the trip, with the potential of seeing whales up close—sometimes quite close—if you’re lucky. Guests have described it as a “thrilling” experience, with some whale sightings described as “spectacular” and “breathtaking.”

Finally, the cruise concludes with a brief return sail before docking back at the marina. The entire experience usually lasts around two hours, making it a manageable morning activity that leaves the rest of your day free.

The Value: Is It Worth It?

At $103 per person, this tour offers a good value, especially considering the inclusions—buffet breakfast, open bar, scenic sightseeing, and whale watching. Compared to standalone boat trips or whale-watching excursions without amenities, the cost is reasonable. The quality of the boat, being Los Cabos’ largest catamaran, adds a layer of comfort and space, making the experience more relaxing.

Some reviews mention the “excellent wine selection,” which adds to the overall enjoyment, particularly if you appreciate pairing scenic views with a good drink. The guided commentary is also praised for its humor and insights, making the trip informative without feeling overly serious.

However, be aware that the duration is fairly short—just two hours—so don’t expect a full-day adventure. It’s perfect if you want a quick, high-quality experience rather than a lengthy tour. The dock fee of $2 USD must be paid upon boarding, and this is not included in the ticket price, so budget a small additional expense.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy comfortable, organized outings with a focus on wildlife and scenery. Families with children find it ideal due to the safety measures and the fun atmosphere created by the DJ and lively guide. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to see whales from a large, stable vessel, especially if they’re new to whale watching.

If you’re looking for a relaxing morning that combines scenic views, good food, and wildlife, this is a solid option. Conversely, if you’re after an extended or more adventurous trip, you might find the two-hour limit somewhat restrictive.

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The Sum Up

This whale watching tour in Cabo San Lucas offers a well-rounded experience—combining scenic cruising past iconic landmarks with the thrill of whale sightings, all amid a lively, comfortable setting. The buffet breakfast and open bar bring extra value, making it more than just a wildlife tour but a social, enjoyable outing. The large catamaran provides stability and space, ensuring comfort for families, couples, or solo travelers.

While the two-hour duration might seem brief, it’s enough for a solid chance at whale encounters and a good dose of Cabo’s stunning scenery. The knowledgeable guides and lively atmosphere add a personal touch that many travelers appreciate. If you’re craving a morning of wildlife, scenic beauty, and fun onboard, this tour hits the mark without breaking the bank.

For those who prioritize comfort, good food, and a high likelihood of whale sightings, this is a reliable choice. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors wanting a manageable, enjoyable introduction to Cabo’s marine life and coastline.

FAQ

Is there a specific time of day for this tour? The tour is usually available in the morning, allowing you to start your day with a scenic and wildlife-filled adventure.

How long does the whale watching last? The whale watching segment lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to spot whales and enjoy the sea.

Is the boat safe for children? Yes, the boat is described as the safest option for children and adults, with safety features and a paramedic on board.

Do I need to pay extra for photos or drinks? Photos are available for sale on board if you wish to purchase souvenirs. Additional drinks and wines are also available for sale, beyond the included open bar.

What should I bring? Pack comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), and cash for the dock fee and extras.

Are there any restrictions? You cannot bring weapons, large luggage, drones, pets (except assistance dogs), or engage in smoking, fishing, or littering on the boat.

Is wheelchair access available? Yes, wheelchair users are welcome on the first deck of the boat.

What’s included in the tour price? The price covers the buffet breakfast, open bar, bilingual guide, scenic drive, and whale-watching experience.

In short, this tour combines comfort, scenery, and wildlife into a fun, approachable package. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family, or simply eager to enjoy Cabo’s beautiful coastline with a good meal and drinks, it’s a trip that likely won’t disappoint.

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