Snorkel and Whale Platinum Tour (Dec 15- Apr 15)

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day on the water in Cabo San Lucas, the Snorkel and Whale Platinum Tour offers an appealing blend of whale watching, snorkeling, and scenic cruising—all wrapped up in a compact four-hour package. This tour is especially popular from mid-December through mid-April when the whales are in town, but it also delivers on other fronts year-round. We’re here to help you figure out whether this experience suits your style and expectations.

What draws many to this tour is its small-group intimacy—up to 16 passengers on a comfortable catamaran—paired with knowledgeable guides and a generous open bar. Plus, the inclusion of lunch and access to Blue Flag beaches makes it a smart choice for travelers who want a memorable, all-in-one ocean adventure. A few considerations: it’s not a full-day trip, so if you’re craving more extensive exploration or a less structured experience, you might want to look elsewhere. But if your goal is a fun, scenic, and informative taste of Cabo’s marine life and coastline, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love small-group excursions, appreciate delicious food and drinks, and are eager for a combination of whale watching and snorkeling—especially during the winter months when the whales are most active. Families, couples, and solo travelers all find this tour appealing, thanks to its relaxed pace and friendly crew.

Key Points

• Seasonal whale sightings during December to April add a magical element to the tour.
• Small-group setting allows for a more personal and engaging experience.
• Includes lunch and open bar, which enhances the overall value.
• Snorkeling at Blue Flag beaches offers a chance to see marine life in protected waters.
• Comfortable, modern catamaran with stability and style.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics hassle-free.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

The day begins at 10:00 am with convenient hotel pickup, making the start of your adventure smooth and stress-free. Once aboard the modern, stable catamaran, with a maximum of 16 guests, you’ll be greeted by friendly crew members who are eager to share their knowledge and ensure your safety.

You’ll leave from the Cabo San Lucas marina, heading toward Santa Maria or Chileno Bay, two of Los Cabos’ most gorgeous Blue Flag beaches. These beaches are not only stunning but also protected areas designated for their excellent water quality and marine life—ideal spots for snorkeling. Based on reviews, the boat’s cleanliness and comfort are highly praised, with many noting the well-maintained facilities and the nice bathroom onboard.

As the boat drifts near the beaches, the crew will provide snorkel gear, and you’ll have ample time to float among vibrant marine creatures in calm, clear waters. Some reviewers mention swimming around the boat as an enjoyable alternative to snorkeling, which shows the flexibility and relaxed atmosphere onboard. The snorkeling here is considered excellent, with some guests stating it’s “fantastic” and “super fun,” especially at Santa Maria Island, a favorite among snorkelers.

Whale Watching During Peak Season

From December through April, whale watching becomes the star feature. As many reviews highlight, this tour offers a real chance to see whales in their winter migration. Several guests recall amazing encounters with these gentle giants, with some noting they saw multiple whales during their trip. The crew’s positioning of the boat to optimize whale viewing is often praised, and the chance to witness such majestic animals is a major highlight.

One reviewer summed it up: “We saw several whales and the whales exceeded expectations,” emphasizing how memorable this part of the tour can be. Because of the seasonality, if whale viewing is your primary goal, planning your trip between December and April is essential.

The Food and Drinks

A big selling point is the included lunch and open bar. The crew’s service is frequently praised for being attentive and friendly, with many reviewers describing the delicious food—including fish tacos and guacamole—and the top-shelf drinks served. The margaritas and Mezcal cocktails are a hit, with some guests mentioning they enjoyed generous, bottomless drinks throughout the trip.

The gourmet touches and well-prepared snacks make the experience feel more luxurious than simply a boat ride. One reviewer even called the food “over the top,” noting that it added to the overall enjoyment of the trip.

The Boat and Group Size

The catamaran itself is modern and well-maintained, with a sleek, stable design that provides a smooth ride. Its small size (up to 16 passengers) is a key advantage, offering a more intimate experience compared to larger tour boats. Many reviews mention that the boat feels like a “personal yacht,” perfect for those who dislike overcrowded excursions.

The crew gets high marks for friendliness, professionalism, and attentiveness. Some guests mention specific crew members—like Captain Topi, Javier, and Rafael—by name, highlighting their engaging and caring approach.

Practicalities and Logistics

The pickup service simplifies your day. Once onboard, shoes are left in a basket, and safety instructions are brief and straightforward. The tour lasts approximately four hours, which is enough time to enjoy snorkeling, whale watching, and relaxing with drinks and lunch without feeling rushed.

A small dock fee of $5 per person applies, so budget accordingly. The tour is priced at $239 per person, which many find reasonable given the inclusions and the quality of experience. When you consider the value—including all equipment, food, drinks, and transportation—it’s a solid deal for a well-organized, memorable ocean outing.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

The positive reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, the stunning scenery, and delicious food. Many mention that the boat is clean, comfortable, and well-equipped, with a few describing it as “like a personal yacht.” The whale sightings are often highlighted as the trip’s most magical moments, with guests describing the experience as “beyond expectations,” “incredible,” and “wonderful.”

However, a few less favorable reviews mention last-minute cancellations or transportation delays, reminding us that weather or logistical hiccups can occur. Still, the tour provider’s cancellation policy is flexible, offering full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This small-group, multi-activity cruise is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded ocean experience with a focus on marine wildlife and scenic beauty. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy good food, drinks, and friendly guides. If you’re keen on whale watching during season, snorkeling in protected waters, and appreciate comfortable, intimate boats, this tour is a strong choice.

Those seeking a full-day adventure or extensive exploration might find this a bit short. But for a concentrated, high-quality, four-hour excursion, this tour delivers a lot of value.

The Snorkel and Whale Platinum Tour in Cabo offers a well-organized, enjoyable, and affordable way to experience some of the best sights and marine life in the area. Thanks to its small-group atmosphere, delicious food and drinks, and opportunity to see whales, it stands out as a balanced choice for travelers who want both relaxation and adventure. The stunning scenery, friendly crew, and attention to comfort make it an experience you’re likely to remember fondly.

While it isn’t a full-day deep dive into Cabo’s marine wonders, for those who want a high-quality, scenic, and fun four-hour escape, it’s a smart pick—particularly if whale watching is a priority during the season.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the tour is designed for adults 18 and over if consuming alcohol. Kids interested in snorkeling or whale watching will likely enjoy it, but check with the provider about age restrictions.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and perhaps a camera. Shoes are left in a basket before boarding, so comfortable clothing is best.

How good is the snorkeling?
Guests consistently say the snorkeling is “fantastic” and in a protected, Blue Flag area, meaning clear waters and lots of marine life.

Can I see whales on this trip?
Yes, during December through April, whale sightings are common, and many reviewers report memorable encounters with whales.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes snorkeling equipment, lunch, open bar, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Dock fees are extra at $5 per person.

What happens if the weather cancels the trip?
You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, as the tour is weather-dependent.

Is this tour crowded?
No, with a maximum of 16 guests, you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience, unlike larger, busier boats.

Enjoy your trip to Cabo, and hopefully, this tour provides the perfect blend of wildlife, scenery, and relaxation to make your vacation truly special.