2 Tank Dive – Certified Divers (Santa Maria Bay & Chileno Bay)

If you’re a certified diver planning a trip to Los Cabos, this 2 Tank Dive experience at Santa Maria Bay and Chileno Bay might catch your eye. As one of the most highly-rated tours in the area—boasting a perfect 5.0 stars from 134 reviews—it’s clear many travelers find it a worthwhile adventure. Whether you’re after vibrant marine life, professional guidance, or a seamless day on the water, this tour offers a well-rounded package.

What we love about this experience is the professionalism of the guides and the quality of the marine encounters. It’s reassuring to see that Dive Cabo, the only PADI 5 Star Instructor Development Center in Los Cabos, guarantees safety and expert guidance. Plus, the opportunity to explore multiple sites in one day makes it a great value. On the flip side, some might find the price of $140 per person a little steep if they’re not already certified or looking for a more relaxed, less structured experience.

This tour is ideal for certified divers looking for a reliable, well-organized outing in Cabo San Lucas, especially those eager to experience the region’s famous underwater scenery and diverse marine life. It’s also well-suited for travelers who appreciate detailed guidance and a focus on safety.

Key Points

• Professional Guides: Dive Cabo’s guides are experienced and knowledgeable, ensuring safety while highlighting marine attractions.
• Variety of Sites: Two different dive locations—Santa Maria Bay and Chileno Bay—offer diverse underwater landscapes and marine life.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: The package covers taxes, fees, snacks, beverages, and free photos, adding value to your day.
• Flexibility: Options for refresher courses make it friendly for those who need a quick review before diving.
• Convenient Meeting Spot: The tour starts at a central location, with most travelers able to access it via public transportation.
• Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 18 travelers, you’ll likely enjoy a more personalized experience.

A Practical Look at the Dive Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins promptly at 8:00 am at Two for the Road Cabo JAZZ Spot, on Blvd. Paseo de la Marina. The meeting point is accessible and close to transportation options, making it easier to start your day without stress. You’ll board a boat for about 40 minutes to reach Santa Maria Bay and Chileno Bay, two of the area’s most popular dive sites.

The Marine Sites

Santa Maria Bay is renowned for its clear waters and vibrant marine life. Expect to see schools of jacks and tunas, along with other pelagic fish. One particular highlight is the chance to swim alongside eagle rays at Whales Head—a favorite among divers who enjoy encountering large, graceful rays.

Chileno Bay offers a different experience—colorful reef tops and underwater pinnacles. The reef’s vibrant cover promises a lively backdrop for your underwater exploration. Many reviews note that the marine life here is abundant, with some divers mentioning encounters with moray eels, nudibranchs, and various sting rays.

Guided by Experts

The guiding team at Dive Cabo is highly praised for their professionalism and knowledge. One reviewer shared, “Very nice, professional, knowledgeable of the area,” which underscores how important it is to have experienced guides when exploring unfamiliar waters. They help you navigate the sites, point out interesting creatures, and keep safety at the forefront.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $140, you receive two guided boat dives, all taxes and fees, snacks, beverages, and free pictures—a thoughtful touch for capturing memories. Bring your USB to store the photos. The tour also offers an optional scuba refresher, making it accessible for certified divers who might want a quick review.

However, the package does not include scuba equipment—you’ll either bring your own or arrange to rent it locally. Also, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan accordingly if you’re staying outside the meeting point.

What the Price Buys You

While $140 might seem steep compared to some casual snorkeling trips, this price reflects the high-quality guiding, multiple dive sites, and inclusive amenities. Many travelers, especially those who value safety and expert guidance, find this rate justified. One reviewer appreciated being the only diver that day and receiving a private tour—highlighting the flexibility and personalized service.

The Experience on the Water

Expect a relaxed but well-organized morning. The boat ride sets the tone—quiet and scenic—giving you time to appreciate the stunning coastline before your underwater adventure. Once at the sites, guides manage the group, making sure everyone gets the most out of each dive. The marine life sightings are often described as impressive, with mobula rays, sharks, giant schools of fish, and colorful reefs frequently mentioned.

Reviews and Authentic Insights

Among the glowing reviews, one quote stands out: “All guides are knowledgeable and ensure safety while showing you fantastic marine life.” Another reviewer appreciated the private tour setup, saying, “They gave me a private tour regardless of being the only diver that day, which I really appreciated.” Such comments highlight the tour’s flexibility and focus on quality.

On the downside, there was a complaint about a mix-up in dive locations, though the Dive Cabo team clarified that they adapt to water conditions, which is a common practice in diving operations worldwide. It’s important to understand that the exact sites can vary depending on weather and visibility—something seasoned divers will expect.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re a certified diver wanting a reliable, guided experience in Cabo, this tour checks many boxes. It’s especially suitable if you value professional guides, marine diversity, and a well-organized day. Meanwhile, if you’re new to diving, you’ll need to be certified beforehand, as the tour requires proof of certification.

It’s perfect for those who want to maximize their underwater time without fussing over logistics, and for travelers who enjoy sharing their aquatic adventures with a small, friendly group. With the option of a refresher course, it’s also welcoming to divers who might need a quick review before plunging into new waters.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This 2 Tank Dive with Dive Cabo offers a genuine chance to see some of Cabo’s most spectacular marine environments, guided by experienced, safety-conscious professionals. The inclusion of free photos, snacks, and a flexible approach makes it a strong choice for certified divers who want a hassle-free, high-quality experience. The sites—Santa Maria Bay and Chileno Bay—are two of the best-known spots in the area, each offering unique underwater scenery and abundant marine life.

For travelers who prioritize safety, expert guidance, and diversity of underwater sights, this tour delivers solid value. It’s especially recommended for those who appreciate personalized service, as some reviews mention private tours even when booking in groups.

However, if you’re budget-conscious or not certified yet, you might want to explore other options or plan to get certified before your trip to Cabo. But for seasoned divers eager to explore the Sea of Cortez’s underwater world in a trusted, professional setting, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Do I need my own scuba equipment? No, the tour price does not include equipment use. You’ll need to bring your own gear or rent it locally.

What is the meeting point? The tour starts at Two for the Road Cabo JAZZ Spot, located on Blvd. Paseo de la Marina, in Cabo San Lucas.

How long does the tour last? It’s approximately 5 hours, including boat rides and dives, starting at 8:00 am.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll receive a full refund or a different date.

Is this tour suitable for non-certified divers? No, only certified divers can participate, as proof of certification is required.

What does the price include? The fee covers two guided boat dives, taxes and fees, snacks, beverages, and free photos.

Will I encounter marine life like sharks or rays? Many previous divers report seeing sharks, mobula rays, moray eels, and schools of fish, making the marine encounters quite lively.

In the end, this tour offers a well-rounded, professional, and memorable underwater experience for certified divers wanting to explore Cabo’s vibrant sea life without surprises.