Tour to Arch in the only Clear Boat in Cabo Cruise Hotel PICKUP!

Cabo San Lucas’s most talked-about boat experience: the transparent vessel that takes you close to the famous Arch. We’ve reviewed this tour based on dozens of traveler experiences, and it’s clear that this is a unique way to see one of Mexico’s most stunning coastlines. From the moment you step on board, you’re in for a treat—offering a blend of scenic views, marine life encounters, and easy logistics.

What we love most about this tour is the clarity of the boat, which makes for incredible photos and an experience that feels almost like floating above an aquarium. Plus, the flexibility of departure times and hotel pickup make it accessible and convenient. That said, a few travelers mention that photos can be pricey—something to keep in mind if you’re planning to buy souvenirs or professional snaps.

This tour is ideal for families, solo travelers, or anyone wanting a quick yet memorable glimpse of Cabo’s natural beauty. If you enjoy photo-friendly outings and up-close marine viewing, this experience could be just right. But if you’re looking for a long, leisurely cruise or a luxury experience, you might want to browse other options.

Key Points

• Unique transparent boat offering 360° views of marine life and rock formations.
• Flexible departure times to fit your schedule.
• Includes hotel pickup, making logistics easy.
• Great for photos—both of the iconic Arch and underwater marine life.
• Moderate price point offers good value for a quick boat trip.
• Limitations include optional photos (not included) and potential add-on costs.

An In-Depth Look at the Cabo Transparent Boat Tour

In this detailed review, we’ll explore what makes this tour stand out, what to expect during each stop, and how it stacks up against the price.

Starting Point and Ease of Access

The tour begins at Envatours Cabo Marina, a location that’s easy to find within the marina area, behind Starbucks. The meeting point is dedicated, and most travelers find it convenient to walk from the cruise dock, roughly a 15-minute stroll through the lively marina. For those staying at nearby resorts, optional round-trip transportation can be added for just $13 per person, which many find worthwhile for the convenience.

The check-in process requires arriving 20 minutes before your scheduled start time, giving plenty of buffer for any delays. The tour providers are clear about the pickup options — available at five different times during the day, with prior notice. This flexibility is particularly appreciated, especially if your plans change unexpectedly.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The core of this experience is the hour-long cruise, which covers the main highlights around Cabo’s famous coastline. Here’s a closer look:

Stop 1: El Arco de Cabo San Lucas
This is what everyone comes for—the legendary Arch of Cabo San Lucas, a towering limestone formation carved over centuries by wind and water. The boat’s transparent design makes it possible to get stunning photos of the arch from every angle, and many reviews mention the marine life underneath. Fritz_B called it a “great experience,” praising the guide’s humor and knowledge, which helps make the moment even more memorable. Expect about 10 minutes at this stop, giving you just enough time to snap photos and marvel at the natural wonder.

Stop 2: Pelican Rock
A short 5-minute stop at Pelican Rock allows visitors to see dramatic rock formations and a small beach popular with snorkelers and divers. It’s a lively spot filled with people in the water, and reviewers note it’s a great place for underwater shots. Many mention that they saw plenty of fish swimming underneath the boat, thanks to the clear waters.

Stop 3: Lovers Beach
This famous beach is framed by jagged rocks and boasts a white sand shoreline with striking jade-colored water. It’s often called Cabo’s most romantic spot—Randi_D commented on its postcard-quality scenery. The 3-minute stop here offers a quick chance to appreciate the quiet, scenic beauty, perfect for family photos or a quick dip if you wish.

Stop 4: Cabo San Lucas Beach (Medano Beach area)
The scenic stretch of sands between the Pacific and the Gulf of California is a favorite among travelers. It’s a swimmable, lively beach where you can relax after your boat ride. The 5-minute stop lets you take in the vibrant beach scene, and many reviews highlight how accessible and friendly this area is.

Stop 5: Lovers Beach (Playa del Amor)
The final stop, just 3 minutes, is at Lovers Beach, which is famed for its white sands and gentle waves. Many travelers mention that this spot is ideal for photos and a romantic moment, and it’s a favorite for couples and families alike.

The Boat Itself: Why Transparency Matters

The real star of this tour is the boat—a fully transparent vessel that offers unmatched views of the water and marine life. We loved the way the boat feels like a floating aquarium, with fish swimming beneath you and coral reefs just below the surface. Several reviews highlight how this design enhances the experience, making every moment more vibrant and memorable.

The boat is equipped with life jackets for safety, and the crew is attentive and friendly. Guides are praised for their knowledge and humor, making sure everyone feels comfortable, especially when spotting marine animals or taking photos.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes, making it a perfect short excursion when you’re on a busy Cabo schedule. The group size is capped at 40 travelers, so you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the guides can give personalized attention if needed.

Pricing and What’s Included

At just $24.10 per person, this tour offers a reasonable value considering the photo opportunities, marine views, and hotel pickup. The package includes all fees and taxes, as well as life jackets and a certified guide. Optional round-trip transportation from your resort is available for $13 per person, which many find worthwhile for the convenience.

However, it’s worth noting that professional photos are not included—a common point in reviews. Some travelers mention the cost of photos can be high, so if capturing memories is important, bringing your own camera or smartphone and taking advantage of the tips from guides can help.

Reviews and Authentic Experiences

Many travelers highlight the knowledgeable guides, who make the experience engaging with fun facts and helpful tips. Heather_D mentioned that Angel and Carlos made it very personable and fun, which can transform a simple boat ride into a memorable outing.

While most reviews are positive, some travelers experienced initial issues with transportation, as noted by Katie_N. The company’s response emphasizes their commitment to rectifying such issues with refunds and retraining staff, showing a focus on customer service.

Potential Drawbacks

A few reviews mention that the photos offered for purchase can be expensive, which might deter budget-conscious travelers. Some also feel that the time at each stop could be slightly longer, especially at the Arch, if your goal is extensive photography or exploration. Plus, the tour’s short duration means it’s a quick overview rather than an in-depth marine adventure.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for anyone craving a quick, visually stunning tour with easy logistics. Families with children, couples, and solo travelers all appreciated the relaxed pace and friendly guides. If your main goal is photos and marine scenery, this tour hits the mark.

But if you’re seeking a longer, more immersive experience or luxury amenities, you might find this tour a bit lightweight. Also, if professional photos are a priority, be prepared for additional costs.

The Sum Up

The Cabo transparent boat tour offers a fun, accessible way to see the Arch and surrounding sights without wasting hours on the water. The boat’s design makes it stand out, providing unbeatable views of marine life and rock formations that are perfect for photos and memories. The hotel pickup option adds a layer of convenience that travelers will appreciate.

This tour is best suited for those who want a quick, engaging experience with lots of photo opportunities and friendly guides. It delivers great value for its price, especially when combined with optional transportation. While some may find the photo sales pricey or wish for longer stops, overall, it’s a solid choice for a fun, scenic outing in Cabo.

If you love bright, lively coastlines, marine wildlife, and easy access to iconic sights, this tour ticks all those boxes. Just be ready to take lots of photos and enjoy the view from a boat that feels more like an underwater adventure than a simple cruise.

FAQs

Does the tour include transportation?
Transportation is optional and costs $13 per person round trip. If you don’t add it, you’ll need to meet at the marina, which is easy to find.

How long does the tour last?
The boat ride itself is about 50 minutes, with stops at the main sights.

What are the departure times?
You can choose from several times: 9:40 am, 11:40 am, 1:40 pm, 3:40 pm, or 5:20 pm. It’s best to select a time that fits neatly with your plans.

Is the boat suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention children enjoyed the experience, especially with the marine life and the clear views. Just note that waves might be rough at times.

Can I buy photos during the tour?
Yes, professional photos are available for purchase, but reviews suggest they can be pricey.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

Is the tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The clear boat and scenic stops make it ideal for photos, especially of the arch and marine life.

How many people are on each boat?
The maximum group size is 40 travelers, which keeps the experience feeling personal and manageable.

In essence, this transparent boat tour in Cabo is a fun, picture-worthy, and convenient way to get close to the iconic Arch and enjoy the vibrant marine environment. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or a couple, it’s worth considering if you want a memorable snapshot of your Cabo adventure without a lengthy commitment.