Glass Bottom Boat in Cabo San Lucas, free time in Playa del Amor

If you’re dreaming of a quick yet scenic escape to Cabo San Lucas, a glass-bottom boat tour offers a fantastic way to see some of the area’s most famous sights without getting your feet wet — unless you want to. This tour, offered by Encuentro T, combines a short but engaging 45-minute boat ride with the option to relax on Playa del Amor, one of Cabo’s most photographed beaches. It’s a simple, budget-friendly excursion that provides a glimpse of the coastline’s striking rock formations and playful sea lions, making it perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, no-fuss experience.

What we particularly like about this tour is its affordable price point and the knowledgeable guides who make the trip informative and fun. Plus, the glass-bottom feature means you get excellent views of marine life and underwater formations without having to snorkel or swim — a bonus for families or those who prefer to stay dry. That said, with a maximum group size of 15, it maintains an intimate vibe, but travelers should be prepared for some walking if arriving via cruise ship or other transit.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a quick, scenic overview of Cabo’s coastline, enjoy spotting wildlife like sea lions, and appreciate a mix of sightseeing and leisure. If you’re after a more extensive adventure or highly specific beach visits, you might look elsewhere. But for most visitors, it hits the sweet spot of value, convenience, and memorable views.

Key Points

• Affordable and quick: At just $30 per person, this tour offers great value for a half-hour marine sightseeing trip with options to extend your visit at Playa del Amor.
• Iconic sights: You’ll see El Arco, Neptune’s Finger, Pelican Rock, and the beaches that make Cabo famous.
• Wildlife viewing: The boat’s glass bottom provides an excellent vantage point for spotting marine life, including playful sea lions.
• Flexible options: You can choose to spend more time relaxing at Playa del Amor and returning later — ideal for those wanting a mix of adventure and leisure.
• Guide quality: Travelers rave about the knowledgeable bilingual captain, who adds context and points out key landmarks.
• Group size: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at a dock in Marina, Cabo San Lucas, a short walk from public transportation options. You’ll meet your bilingual captain, who’s well-regarded for his friendliness and local knowledge. The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, making it an easy addition to a day of exploring or relaxing.

Transportation to and from the dock isn’t included, so most travelers find a taxi from their hotel or cruise port. The tour operates every hour from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, giving you some flexibility in planning your day. For those arriving on a cruise, be aware the meeting point is about a 20-minute walk from the cruise terminal, which some reviewers found inconvenient.

The Itinerary: Highlights and Stops

The main event of this tour is the boat ride, where you’ll glide past some of Cabo’s most famous geological features. The El Arco de Cabo San Lucas, or Land’s End arch, is a highlight — this striking natural formation offers a perfect photo opportunity. Many visitors say it’s simply awe-inspiring to see this iconic feature up close.

Next is Neptune’s Finger, a pointed rock formation that some describe as an inverted peninsula or “upside-down”—a quirky and fascinating feature that sparks a lot of curiosity among visitors. The guide’s insights often bring these rocks to life, making the experience not just visual but educational.

The boat then passes Pelican Rock, a popular snorkeling spot and a lively habitat for marine birds. While the tour itself doesn’t include snorkeling, the boat’s glass bottom allows you to catch glimpses of fish and underwater terrain. According to reviews, the water clarity can be quite good, and the views below are surprisingly detailed.

The next stops are Divorce Beach and Playa del Amor — or Love Beach — both accessible by water tour. Divorce Beach is known for its stronger currents and lively atmosphere, contrasting sharply with the peacefulness of Playa del Amor, often called the “Beach of Love” because of its calm, inviting waters. Several reviews mention that spending time on Playa del Amor is a highlight, with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, or just taking in the scenery.

The Optional Extended Stay at Playa del Amor

One of this tour’s advantages is the flexibility to spend extra time on Playa del Amor. If you choose to do so, you simply stay at the beach longer and hop on a later boat back. This allows those who want to relax and soak up the sun to do so without feeling rushed. However, keep in mind that no transportation to your hotel or other attractions is included, so plan accordingly.

Wildlife and Marine Life

While the main focus is on the rock formations, many travelers are delighted by the marine life sightings. One reviewer even caught a whale jump — a rare treat that adds a sense of spontaneity and wonder. Sea lions are common around El Arco, often seen lounging on rocks or swimming nearby, adding a lively touch to the scenery.

The Glass-Bottom Feature: Viewing Marine Life Without Getting Wet

The glass-bottom aspect of the boat lets you see underwater creatures and formations clearly, which is a big plus if snorkelling isn’t appealing or feasible. Many travelers appreciate this feature, as it provides a peek into the underwater world without the need for gear or getting in the water.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $30 per person, this tour is a cost-effective way to see some of Cabo’s most photogenic sights. The included life jackets ensure safety, and the friendly bilingual captain makes the experience accessible for English and Spanish speakers alike.

However, travelers should be aware of a $2 dock tax payable on site and that transportation to the dock isn’t included. Those arriving via cruise ship might find the walk a bit inconvenient, as some reviews pointed out. It’s also worth noting that towels, drinks, and meals aren’t included, so bring water and sunscreen.

The group size is capped at 15, which keeps the experience intimate but means you should book in advance—on average, this tour is booked 22 days ahead. The tour operates every hour from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, giving flexibility for morning or early afternoon.

What Past Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and stunning views. One noted, “The boat tour was great! The tour guide waited even though I was running late. We were lucky we saw a whale jump out the ocean — which I’ve never seen before.” Another loved the comfy seats and the guide’s efforts to point out landmarks, describing the experience as “short but sweet.”

A more critical review highlighted the walking distance from certain cruise ports, suggesting that arriving on your own might be easier than relying on the tour’s meeting point.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for families, first-time visitors, or anyone pressed for time who still wants a memorable glimpse of Cabo’s natural beauty. It’s especially suited to those interested in marine wildlife, iconic rock formations, or simply enjoying a relaxing boat ride with excellent views.

If you’re seeking more extensive beach time or snorkeling, you might want to consider a longer tour or a dedicated snorkeling trip. However, for a quick, scenic, and affordable experience that captures the essence of Cabo’s coastal charm, this glass-bottom boat ride hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This glass-bottom boat tour in Cabo San Lucas offers a cost-effective and scenic way to see some of the most famous landmarks and wildlife around Land’s End. The guide’s local knowledge adds value, and the views — both above and below the surface — are memorable. Its small group size and flexible options make it a comfortable choice for travelers who want a relaxed, authentic experience without breaking the bank.

It’s especially ideal if you’re short on time but still want to tick off key sights like El Arco and Playa del Amor. The combination of stunning scenery, wildlife sightings, and expert commentary makes this a worthwhile addition to any Cabo itinerary.

However, travelers should plan for some walking if arriving from certain ports, and note that additional expenses like the dock tax and optional photos are extra. The tour provides a balanced mix of sightseeing, wildlife, and leisure — perfect for travelers seeking a memorable, authentic, and affordable Cabo experience.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The boat ride itself lasts about 45 minutes, but with flexible options to stay longer at Playa del Amor.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to and from the dock is not included. Most visitors arrange taxis or walk from nearby hotels or cruise ports.

Can I spend more time on Playa del Amor?
Yes, you can choose to relax on Playa del Amor and return on a later boat, giving you time to swim or sunbathe.

Are drinks or meals included?
No, these are not included, so bring water, sunscreen, and hats for comfort.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

What sights will I see?
You’ll see El Arco, Neptune’s Finger, Pelican Rock, and beaches like Divorce Beach and Playa del Amor.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but must be accompanied by adults. The tour is generally family-friendly.

Do I need special gear?
No, just bring your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen. Life jackets are provided for safety.

This glass-bottom boat tour offers a fun, scenic, and affordable way to experience Cabo’s famous coastline and marine life. It’s a charming introduction to the area’s natural beauty — perfect for those who want a snapshot of Cabo’s iconic sights with a relaxed, friendly vibe.