Experience the Unique Transparent Boat Tour to Cabo’s Famous Arch
When it comes to exploring Cabo San Lucas, seeing the famous El Arco is a must. This tour offers a chance to glide around the sea of Cortez in a completely transparent boat, giving you a 360-degree view of the incredible rock formations, marine life, and beaches. It’s a quick, roughly 50-minute ride that packs in plenty of sights and experiences.
What we really love about this tour is its unique glass-bottom design, which allows for unobstructed views of the underwater world—perfect for spotting tropical fish and coral reefs without getting wet. Plus, the knowledgeable guide adds context and fun facts, making it a little more educational than your average boat ride. On the flip side, some might find the group size limited to 15 travelers a bit snug, especially during peak times, and the additional cost for transportation could catch some off guard.
This experience suits travelers who want a quick, memorable, and visually stunning activity, especially those with a fondness for marine scenery or family groups seeking an accessible adventure. It’s also a good fit for visitors on a tight schedule, given the modest duration and focused sights.
Key Points
- Exclusive experience: First and only transparent boat tour in the world, offering unobstructed views.
- Comprehensive insights: Includes a certified guide/photographer providing detailed explanations of marine life and rock formations.
- Affordable price: At around $25 per person, it offers great value for the views and experience.
- Flexible options: Optional round-trip transportation for just $10, with multiple departure times.
- Authentic sights: See El Arco, Lover’s Beach, Divorce Beach, Pelican Rock, and more, all from the water.
- Limited group size: Max of 15 travelers, which fosters a more intimate experience but can mean booking ahead.
What to Expect on the Clear Boat Tour

Imagine cruising in a boat where you can see through the floor and sides—this is what we love about this tour. The first of its kind in the world, the ClearBoat is designed to give you the best possible view of Cabo’s marine and geological wonders. The boat is certified, ensuring safety, while the guide and photographer onboard enhance the experience with commentary and the opportunity to purchase photos afterward.
The tour begins at the Envatours CaboMarina meeting point—an easy spot to find within the marina area. You can choose to arrive on your own, with instructions to check in 20 minutes early, or add round-trip transportation for a small extra fee. Once aboard, the vessel glides out into the bay, giving you close-up looks at Lands End, where the El Arco rises dramatically from the sea.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Cabo San Lucas
The Highlight: El Arco and Surrounding Landmarks
This iconic limestone arch is the star of the show. Carved over centuries by tide, wind, and time, the arch is a marvel of natural sculpture. Its size and shape have earned it local nicknames like “The Dragon,” and it’s impossible not to snap photos from every angle. From the boat, you get a 360-degree panorama—sky, sea, and sand framing the arch in perfect natural splendor.
Beyond the arch, you’ll see Pelican Rock, a popular snorkeling site with dramatic formations and a small beach. The guide offers insights into the marine ecosystem, pointing out tropical fish or sea lions that often lounge nearby.
Marine Life and Beaches
While the main focus is the geological spectacle, the tour doesn’t skimp on marine sights. You might catch glimpses of sea lions or colorful fish swimming beneath the boat. The beach of Love and Divorce are also visible from the water, giving you a sense of Cabo’s playful and romantic reputation.
The Guide and Photography
A certified guide accompanies each trip, sharing stories about Cabo’s history, geography, and wildlife. Many reviews praise the guide’s knowledgeable and friendly approach, making the experience both fun and educational.
Photos are available for purchase after the trip, allowing you to remember this quick but memorable excursion. Many find the photos worth it, especially since the boat’s transparency gives a stunning perspective you can’t get with standard boats.
Booking, Timing, and Practical Tips

Tours run at several times throughout the day—9:40 am, 11:40 am, 1:40 pm, 3:40 pm, and 5:20 pm—giving flexibility for your schedule. If you’d like to include transportation, it’s recommended to send a message 24 hours beforehand for a $10 addition.
The tour lasts about 50 minutes, making it ideal for those with busy schedules or as part of a broader day of sightseeing. The group size is capped at 15, ensuring a more personal experience, but it’s wise to book early, especially during peak season.
What’s Included and What’s Not
Included in the price are a lifejacket, certified guide, and the tour itself. Tips and professional photos are extra costs. The round-trip transportation is an optional add-on, which many find worthwhile for convenience.
Considerations
Some travelers noted that waiting for the shuttle back can be an inconvenience if you don’t plan ahead. The shuttle departs every hour, so if your tour finishes after the scheduled shuttle, you’ll need to wait until the next one. Also, the tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility issues, as it involves some walking and boarding in a marina setting.
Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback
The reviews reveal a lot about what to expect:
- Joe G. raved, “I had such a great time on the Clear Boat Tour. The service was excellent, and being on a completely transparent boat was such a unique experience.” His enthusiasm captures the experience’s appeal—stunning views and friendly staff.
- Stacey H. pointed out a small downside, noting, “We were left waiting for the prepaid ride back because the company assumed we wanted to shop for 45 minutes.” This highlights the importance of confirming transportation details beforehand but also underscores that the core tour experience remains strong.
Other feedback emphasizes the quality of views and the value for money—a quick, affordable way to see Cabo’s famous landmarks from a new perspective.
Final Thoughts

This tour offers a rare chance to see Cabo San Lucas’s most iconic sights from a transparent vessel that’s as much about the experience as the scenery. It’s perfect for travelers craving stunning visuals without a long commitment—ideal for families, couples, or solo explorers eager for a fun, easy, and memorable adventure.
While the group size and additional transportation fee might require some planning, the value in both the unique boat design and guided insights makes it worth considering. If you’re interested in marine views, natural formations, or photography, this tour will likely hit the mark.
For those seeking a light, scenic ride with friendly staff and a touch of novelty, this Cabo tour is a solid choice. Just plan ahead for transportation if needed, and you’ll be rewarded with beautiful, share-worthy photos and a true sense of Cabo’s natural beauty.
FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour price?
No, transportation is optional and costs an additional $10 per person. You should send a message 24 hours in advance to add this.
How long does the tour last?
The boat ride itself lasts about 50 minutes, offering a compact but comprehensive view of Cabo’s highlights.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at Envatours CaboMarina in the marina area, with check-in 20 minutes early if you arrive on your own.
Can I buy photos after the tour?
Yes, professional photos are available for purchase after the trip. Many travelers find the images to be a great souvenir.
Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s generally suitable for most travelers; however, since it involves walking in a marina setting and limited space in the boat, mobility challenges should be considered.
What are the main sights I’ll see?
The highlight is El Arco, along with Lover’s Beach, Divorce Beach, Pelican Rock, and the marine life surrounding these areas. Expect spectacular views directly from the water.
To sum it up, this Clear Boat Tour in Cabo San Lucas provides a fresh perspective on famous landmarks using a state-of-the-art transparent vessel. It’s a great value, especially considering the guidance and unique views. Perfect for travelers looking for a short, scenic, and engaging activity that blends nature, geology, and marine life into one memorable experience. Just remember to plan your transportation and book early to secure your spot on this one-of-a-kind adventure.
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Cabo San Lucas
More Tours in Cabo San Lucas
- Los Cabos: Glass-Bottom Kayak and Snorkel Tour at Two Bays
- Los Cabos Sunset Boat Tour
- Flavors of Cabo San Lucas: Authentic Mexican Food Tour
- Cabo Snorkeling and Sailboat Tour with Lunch and Open Bar
- Combo Tour: Whale Watching, Shopping and Beach Time
- Full-Day Gray Whale Watching tour from Cabo to Mag Bay
More Tour Reviews in Cabo San Lucas
- Los Cabos: Glass-Bottom Kayak and Snorkel Tour at Two Bays
- Los Cabos Sunset Boat Tour
- Flavors of Cabo San Lucas: Authentic Mexican Food Tour
- Cabo Snorkeling and Sailboat Tour with Lunch and Open Bar
- Cabo ATV Adventure with Camel and Horseback Ride
- One-Way Los Cabos Private Airport Transfer – Sprinter up to 13 Passengers
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Cabo San Lucas we have reviewed
- Los Cabos: Glass-Bottom Kayak and Snorkel Tour at Two Bays
- Los Cabos Sunset Boat Tour
- Flavors of Cabo San Lucas: Authentic Mexican Food Tour
- Cabo Snorkeling and Sailboat Tour with Lunch and Open Bar
- Cabo ATV Adventure with Camel and Horseback Ride
- One-Way Los Cabos Private Airport Transfer – Sprinter up to 13 Passengers
- Combo Tour: Whale Watching, Shopping and Beach Time
- 38 feet Private Boat in Los Cabos.
- Cabo San Lucas: Desert and Beach RZR and Horseback Riding
- Group Getaway: Private Cabo Catamaran with Water Toys for 20ppl
- Ultimate Cabo Adventure UTV Horseback and Sky Bike Combo
- Full-Day Gray Whale Watching tour from Cabo to Mag Bay
