Los Cabos: Get to know the arch on the iconic transparent boat tour

If you’re heading to Baja California Sur, one experience you won’t want to miss is a boat tour that shows off Cabo’s most famous landmark — the Arch of Cabo San Lucas. This tour, offered by WonderMex Tours, combines a one-hour transparent boat ride with plenty of photo opportunities and natural beauty. It’s a fun, accessible way to see some of the area’s most iconic sights without a huge time commitment or expense.

What we particularly like about this tour: it offers stunning views of the Arch and surrounding rock formations through a crystal-clear boat — giving you a unique perspective that just isn’t possible from land. Plus, the marine life and colorful reefs you glimpse along the way add a lively, vibrant touch. The guides are bilingual and friendly, making for a smooth, informative experience.

One potential drawback is that the tour is quite short — just about an hour — which might leave some travelers wanting a bit more time at each stop. Also, because it’s a seated, mostly stationary experience, it’s not ideal for those with motion sickness or pregnant women. Still, if you’re after a quick, picturesque, and friendly introduction to Cabo’s natural wonders, this tour hits the right notes.

Ideal for first-time visitors, families, or anyone interested in a softer-paced sightseeing experience that combines scenic beauty with a touch of adventure.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Get a close-up look at the iconic Cabo Arch from a transparent boat, offering a fresh perspective.
• Marine Life: Experience vibrant fish and reefs, thanks to the clear waters and enclosed design of the boat.
• Convenient Timing: Usually available in the morning, afternoon, or evening, making it easy to fit into your schedule.
• Guided Experience: Bilingual guides not only point out sights but also serve as photographers, helping you capture memories.
• Short but Sweet: The one-hour duration makes it a quick, relaxing activity that won’t eat up your day.
• Accessible for Most: The tour is suitable for most travelers, but not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

This tour starts at Envatours Cabo, conveniently located just behind the Starbucks near the fountain. Checking in is straightforward — look for the Envatoors logo — and the staff are friendly and ready to help you prepare. Once aboard, you’ll notice the crystal-clear hull of the boat, which is designed to give you an unobstructed view of the marine environment beneath.

The Boat Ride and Sights

The main highlight is, of course, seeing the famous Cabo Arch, a natural limestone formation that acts as the emblem of the city. The scenic drive along the coast provides excellent views of the rock formations like Pelican Rock and the last piece of land known as “Lands End.” These landscapes are often described as dramatic and awe-inspiring.

Unlike traditional boat tours, the transparent hull allows for a closer look at the underwater world — you might see tropical fish darting around or coral reefs below. This perspective makes the experience more immersive than a typical boat ride and gives you a real sense of the ecosystem that surrounds Cabo.

Photo Opportunities

The guides are bilingual and often serve as photographers, helping you capture the perfect shot of the Arch and your group. One reviewer, Tania, from Mexico, praised the guides, saying, “The tour was very good, the tour guides were excellent, and everything was excellent.” You’ll want to bring your camera or smartphone to take advantage of the magnificent scenery, especially since the boat offers scenic views on the way and great angles for social media posts.

Marine Life and Reefs

While the primary focus is the rock formations and the arch, the tour also showcases the vibrant marine fauna in the area. Depending on the day, you could spot schools of tropical fish, and the reefs beneath provide a colorful and lively backdrop. These marine environments are a big part of what makes Cabo’s waters so special — and your tour provides a glimpse without needing to snorkel or dive.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Scenic Return and Final Stop

After about an hour, the boat heads back to Envatours Cabo, giving you a chance to reflect on the breathtaking views or rebook for another tour. The short duration means you get a focused, high-quality experience without feeling rushed.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $44 per person, this tour offers excellent value. It combines unique vantage points, marine encounters, and expert guidance at a reasonable price — especially considering that it includes safety equipment and a bilingual guide. When you compare this to other water-based excursions that often cost more or are longer but less focused, it’s a smart choice for a quick, memorable activity.

For travelers who want a photo-friendly, scenic experience without the hassle of longer boat trips or snorkeling, this tour is ideal. Plus, the flexible scheduling (morning, afternoon, or evening) helps fit it into most itineraries.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring comfortable clothes suitable for the weather, and consider a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.
• Avoid wearing flip-flops or high heels — safety first on a boat.
• Don’t bring large luggage or glass objects to keep the experience smooth.
• Sunscreen is not permitted onboard — possibly to protect marine life; plan to apply it before the tour.
• Arrive early to ensure a relaxed check-in and to get your preferred time slot.
• The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or anyone with motion sickness, so plan accordingly.
• Keep in mind that most of the experience involves sitting or standing at specific times, guided by instructions from staff.

The Verdict

This transparent boat tour stands out as an accessible, visually stunning way to see Cabo’s most iconic natural feature. We especially appreciate the close-up view of the Arch, the marine environment, and the friendly guides who help you capture memories. It’s a perfect choice for those with limited time or anyone looking for a relaxing, scenic adventure.

While it won’t satisfy thrill-seekers craving prolonged or active excursions, it offers enough for most to feel they’ve truly experienced Cabo’s essence — in a fun, comfortable setting. It’s a great value and an experience that leaves most visitors feeling they’ve seen a true highlight of Baja California Sur.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can enjoy the ride, especially since it’s short and visually engaging. Just keep in mind that most of the activity involves sitting or standing, and safety instructions should be followed.

Can I see the marine life clearly?
Yes, the crystal-clear hull provides great visibility of the fish and reefs beneath, making it easier to spot marine fauna than on traditional boats.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for the weather, plus sun protection like hats or sunglasses. Remember, sunscreen isn’t allowed onboard.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about one hour, making it a quick yet comprehensive glimpse of Cabo’s highlights.

Are food and drinks included?
No, the tour price covers the ride, safety equipment, and guides — food and drinks are not included or provided on this specific experience.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
It’s not ideal for those with wheelchairs or mobility challenges, given the seating requirements and boat design.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

Final Thoughts

For a visual feast and a taste of Cabo’s most iconic scenery, this transparent boat tour hits the mark. It combines spectacular views, expert guides, and marine encounters at a reasonable price. It’s perfect for first-timers, families, or anyone wanting a light, scenic activity that captures the essence of Cabo San Lucas.

While it’s not for thrill-seekers or those wanting a lengthy adventure, its simplicity and focus on natural beauty make it a worthwhile addition to your Cabo itinerary. The experience’s accessibility and value make it an attractive choice for many travelers seeking an authentic, fun, and memorable snapshot of Baja’s stunning coastline.

You can check availability for your dates here: