Tour to Arch in the Clear Boat Cruise Ship Terminal Hotel PICKUP!

When it comes to visiting Cabo San Lucas, few experiences rival the charm of a glass-bottom boat tour around the famed Land’s End. This particular tour promises close-up views of the Cabo Arch, bustling marine life, and iconic beaches—all from the comfort of a fully transparent boat. As a seasoned travel observer, I’ve seen many tours, and this one hits the sweet spot for those seeking a quick, scenic, and reasonably priced adventure.

What I like most about this cruise? First, the stunning views of the natural rock formations and the ocean’s vibrant ecosystem. Second, the knowledgeable guides who keep the commentary lively and informative. Of course, it’s not all perfect—some travelers have found the photos expensive and the distance from the cruise port a bit of a walk. Still, for most visitors, this tour offers great value for a memorable look at Cabo’s highlights, ideal for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a relaxed, immersive snapshot of the area.

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy sea views, marine life, and iconic sights without a lengthy or tiresome tour. If you’re after a short, scenic, and fun activity that keeps you close to the water, you’ll likely find this tour a worthwhile addition to your Cabo itinerary.

Key Points

• Affordable price point makes this a good entry-level tour.
• Includes hotel pickup (with optional transportation upgrade).
• Full transparent boat allows unobstructed views of marine life and rock formations.
• Guided commentary enhances understanding of the landmarks.
• Short duration (about 50 minutes) fits well into a busy day.
• Photo opportunities available but at extra cost, so bring your own camera.

An In-Depth Look at the Cabo Glass-Bottom Tour

What This Tour Offers

This tour is designed to pack in the highlights of Cabo’s famous coastlines and marine environment within roughly 50 minutes. Starting from the Cabo San Lucas Marina, the boat takes you along the Sea of Cortez, with stops at the Arch, Pelican Rock, Lover’s Beach, Divorce Beach, and other notable sites.

The real attraction here is the crystal-clear, fully transparent boat, which provides a unique perspective of the underwater world without needing snorkels or scuba gear. You’ll see tropical fish, coral reefs, and even sea lions skimming past your view as your guide offers insights into the area’s geology and marine life.

Itinerary Breakdown

• El Arco de Cabo San Lucas: The tour’s centerpiece, the famous rock formation, is visible from the boat’s vantage point. One review mentions that sometimes storms or waves keep the boat at a safe distance, but even from afar, the views are impressive.
• Medano Beach & Playa de los Amantes: These beaches line the coast and provide great photo ops. Travelers have noted that seeing the beaches from the water offers a different perspective, emphasizing the rugged beauty of Cabo’s coastline.
• Divorce Beach: Noted for its stark beauty and the fact that it’s separated from Lover’s Beach by natural formations, this stop highlights the contrast between the lively and peaceful sides of Cabo.
• Marine Life & Rock Formations: Guides are praised for their knowledgeability, explaining what you see—tropical fish, reefs, sea lions, and the unique rock formations around Cabo.
• Pelican Rock & Window of the Pacific: These spots are particularly photogenic, with some reviews mentioning that photos of Pelican Rock come out stunningly, though they are available for purchase afterward at extra cost.
• Additional Sights: The tour also passes by notable landmarks like Mt. Solmar, Pedregal de Cabo San Lucas, and the Puerto Paraiso Mall—great for those interested in combining sightseeing with a gentle cruise.

What Travelers Say

Reviews echo a common theme: spectacular scenery and friendly guides. One reviewer raved, “The tour is not too long and the view is beautiful,” making it perfect for a quick sightseeing fix. Several praised the guide’s insights and helpful commentary, adding depth to the experience.

However, some reviews hint at drawbacks—the boat didn’t always get close enough to the Arch during stormy weather, and photos can be quite costly at over $100 for a few pictures. One guest remarked that bringing your own camera is a smarter choice. It’s also worth noting that some guests found the pickup process a little tricky if arriving by cruise ship, but the tour office is within a 15-minute walk from the pier.

The Practical Side: Pricing & Logistics

At just $26.58 per person, this tour offers solid value. The price includes lifejackets, safety equipment, and the crystal-clear boat. Optional transportation from your hotel or resort is available for an additional $13 per person, which many find worth it for convenience, especially if staying outside the immediate marina area.

The tour’s maximum group size is around 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience compared to larger cruise ship excursions. The meeting point is straightforward—the tour operator’s office is behind Starbucks in the marina area, with check-in recommended 20 minutes before the scheduled start.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Included are safety gear, lifejackets, and a certified guide who doubles as a photographer. You can purchase tour photos after the cruise, but most guests find it better to take their own shots given the high cost. Tipping is optional but appreciated, as is the suggestion to add transportation if you prefer not to walk or navigate the busy marina area.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a quick overview of Cabo’s coast, families looking for a relaxing, safe activity, or anyone eager to see marine life directly beneath their feet without getting wet. The short duration and affordable price make it accessible for most travelers, even those on a tight schedule.

However, if you’re seeking a more adventurous or in-depth snorkeling experience, or if photography is a top priority, you might want to consider alternatives. The tour’s limited proximity to the arch during rough weather could also be a downside for some.

Final Thoughts

This glass-bottom tour of Cabo offers a wonderful glimpse of the area’s natural beauty and iconic landmarks. The friendly guides, stunning views, and value-conscious price point make it a popular choice for many visitors. It’s not overly long, which works well for fitting into a busy day, and the boat’s transparency lends a magical quality to the experience that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.

While photography can be expensive if you buy the official shots, bringing your own camera or smartphone is a good workaround. The optional transportation makes the logistics easier, especially for visitors arriving via cruise, and the small group size fosters a more personal, relaxed atmosphere.

In short, if you’re after a light, scenic, and engaging outing that highlights Cabo’s breathtaking coastline and marine life, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guides with local knowledge and want a fun, memorable snapshot of Cabo without a heavy time commitment.

FAQ

Is transportation to the tour included?
Transportation is not included in the base price but can be added for $13 per person. Make sure to request this at least 24 hours in advance.

Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is at the Envatours CaboMarina, behind Starbucks in the marina area—about a 15-minute walk from the cruise dock.

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 50 minutes, perfect for fitting into a busy schedule or combining with other activities.

Can I purchase photos after the tour?
Yes, photos are available for purchase at the end of the cruise, but many travelers find it easier to take their own photos to avoid high costs.

What about the guide?
Guests consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and friendly attitude, which enhances the overall experience.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Yes, the short duration and safe boat design make it family-friendly. Just be mindful of the sea conditions if your children are very young.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera or smartphone, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. If you want to avoid extra costs, take your own photos rather than buying the tour’s pictures.

In essence, this Cabo glass-bottom boat tour combines affordability, scenic views, and knowledgeable guides, making it a compelling choice for those wanting a quick but memorable sea adventure.