Clear Boat Tour in Cabo San Lucas

Exploring the Sea of Cortez in Cabo San Lucas on a Clear Boat Tour

If you’re considering a water-based adventure in Cabo San Lucas, a Clear Boat Tour might be just what you’re looking for. This experience promises a relaxed, scenic cruise around some of the most iconic sights in this lively Mexican port, all from the comfort of a glass-bottomed vessel. It’s aimed at travelers who want a mix of natural beauty, wildlife spotting, and a touch of local flavor without the heavy price tag.

What we find particularly appealing about this tour is how it combines fascinating marine views with several memorable stops—like Lands End and the Sea Lion Colony. Plus, the fact that it includes hotel pickup makes getting there fairly hassle-free. But, it’s worth noting that, with only about three hours on the water, it’s a quick trip—perfect for those pressed for time or looking for a gentle introduction to Cabo’s coastline. If you’re a traveler who loves authentic, scenic experiences with a good dose of wildlife viewing, this tour might fit the bill well.

However, a word of caution: the tour’s price, at $60 per person, offers decent value, but it’s primarily the boat ride and a few short stops. For those wanting a full-day adventure or extensive shopping, you’ll want to plan ahead. Still, this tour is great for those seeking a light, scenic escape with friendly guides and memorable vistas.

Key Points

• Stunning marine views through the glass-bottomed boat, showcasing local sea life.
• Multiple iconic sights, including Lands End, Sea Lion Colony, and Lover’s Beach.
• Informative guides enhance the experience with wildlife spotting and local insights.
• Convenient hotel pickup from Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo simplifies logistics.
• Flexible stops for photos, shopping, and optional tequila tasting.
• Approximate 3-hour duration makes it manageable for most schedules.

In-Depth Look at the Clear Boat Tour Experience

Introduction to the Tour

This three-hour boat cruise offers a chance to see Cabo San Lucas from a different perspective. It’s a balanced mix of sightseeing, wildlife watching, and light fun, making it ideal for travelers who want a relaxed yet immersive experience without dedicating an entire day. What makes it stand out is the glass-bottom design, which allows you to see the underwater world without getting wet—an excellent feature for all ages and those who prefer a dry adventure.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour covers several key spots, each with its unique charm. We’ll walk you through what you can expect at each stop.

Stop 1: El Arco de Cabo San Lucas
This iconic rock formation is the star of the show. Often called Lands End, it marks the boundary where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean. The tour includes a quick 10-minute stop here, giving you time for photos of this natural marvel. One reviewer loved this part, mentioning “Captain Manual & Johnathan were very entertaining,” and appreciated how “we saw schools of fish through the bottom of the boat” and spotted seals and pelicans. The clear view of marine life makes this a highlight, especially if you’re into wildlife and nature photography.

Stop 2: Lands End and Surroundings
This involves a brief visit to the Sea Lion Colony, which is just a short 10-minute stop. Watching the sea lions nesting on rocks in front of the arch adds a touch of wildlife charm. The admission here is free—a bonus for those on a budget—and it’s a great spot for some candid wildlife photos.

Stop 3: Lover’s Beach and Divorce Beach
These two beaches are connected by the arch, with Lover’s Beach facing the Sea of Cortez and Divorce Beach opening towards the Pacific. The tour allocates about 10 minutes here, giving you a chance to see these contrasting coastlines. One guest remarked that this part was “quite beautiful,” emphasizing the unique setting where two oceans meet. It’s a quiet, scenic spot for a quick stroll or photos.

Stop 4: Views of Medano Beach and the Bay
During the cruise exit from the marina, you’ll get a panoramic view of Medano Beach, famous for its lively atmosphere and water sports. The 10-minute stop here helps set the scene of Cabo’s bustling waterfront and offers perfect photo opportunities.

Stop 5: Additional Wildlife and Shopping
The tour also includes a 45-minute period for shopping at Cabo San Lucas Marina, giving travelers time to browse local stores or visit a nearby flea market. This is a smart way to combine scenic touring with some souvenir hunting or a little retail therapy.

Optional: Tequila Tasting
For those interested, an extra 30-minute tequila tasting is available. The experience involves learning about tequila production and sampling various types—a fun way to indulge in local culture, especially for fans of Mexico’s national spirit.

What the Reviews Say

Feedback from past travelers confirms the positive aspects. Dominique_C praised the “very entertaining” guides and the boat’s cleanliness, adding that “we saw seals and pelicans, making it a nice adventure.” Such firsthand impressions tell us guides can make or break the experience, and in this case, they’re a highlight.

On the flip side, some travelers experienced logistical hiccups. Naazim_M noted that “they arrived late to pick us up from our hotel,” which can be frustrating but is somewhat understandable given traffic in Los Cabos. The tour provider responded politely, explaining the challenges of local traffic, and emphasizing the flexibility of the pickup service.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $60 per person covers the boat ride, stops, bottled water, and the use of an air-conditioned vehicle for pickup. The $5 port fee is an extra cost payable on-site. The tour is designed for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 14, ensuring personal attention but still a friendly group setting. The small group size contributes to a more relaxed atmosphere.

Duration and Group Size

At about three hours, it’s a compact tour—perfect for those who want a scenic overview without a big time commitment. The small group size means you’re likely to get more personalized attention from guides, which can make the experience more engaging and informative.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Book in advance—most travelers reserve their spot 6 days ahead, which helps avoid disappointment.
• Bring your own camera for wildlife shots and scenic views.
• Wear sunscreen and hats—out on the water, the sun can be intense.
• Consider the optional tequila tasting if you want a deeper dive into Mexico’s famous spirit.
• Expect some short waits during stops, but overall, the schedule moves smoothly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who appreciate casual sightseeing with a focus on natural beauty and wildlife. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a quick but memorable glimpse of Cabo’s iconic sights. If your priority is stunning views, friendly guides, and a relaxed pace, this is a solid choice.

It may not satisfy those craving a full-day adventure or extensive shopping, but for a 3-hour, scenic water tour packed with photo ops and wildlife, it hits the mark. Also, if you’re traveling with children or elderly family members, the glass-bottom boat’s stability and covered seating offer comfort and safety.

The Sum Up

The Clear Boat Tour in Cabo San Lucas offers a delightful blend of scenic vistas, wildlife observations, and cultural touches like optional tequila tasting. Its value lies in the quality of the guiding, the convenience of hotel pickup, and the opportunity to see some of Cabo’s most famous sights from a unique vantage point. For those who cherish relaxed, visually stunning experiences, this tour provides a memorable snapshot of Cabo’s natural charm.

While it’s not a comprehensive day-long adventure, it’s perfect for travelers seeking a light, engaging, and family-friendly outing. The stops at Lands End, the Sea Lion Colony, and Lover’s Beach ensure you’ll leave with plenty of photo memories and a greater appreciation of Cabo’s stunning coastlines.

If you’re after authentic scenery, wildlife encounters, and a friendly, small-group atmosphere, this glass-bottom boat trip is a worthwhile addition to your Cabo itinerary.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup from Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, making it easier to start your day without extra hassle.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including stops and transport.

What is the price per person?
It costs $60.00, which covers the boat ride, bottled water, and transportation, with a $5 port fee payable on-site.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers. Be sure to consider individual mobility needs for the boat’s movement.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, sunscreen, hats, and perhaps a light jacket. The boat’s glass bottom allows for great wildlife viewing, so keep your camera ready.

Can I do shopping during the tour?
Yes, there’s a 45-minute window for shopping at the Cabo San Lucas Marina, with options for souvenirs and local crafts.

Is there an opportunity for tasting tequila?
Yes, an optional 30-minute tequila tasting can be added, where you’ll learn about tequila-making and sample different types.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled because of weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, with cancellation policy allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

This trip balances scenic beauty, wildlife, and local culture—an engaging way to see the best of Cabo San Lucas from the water without breaking the bank. If you’re seeking a relaxed, informative, and visually stunning excursion, this glass-bottom boat tour fits the bill nicely.