Cabo San Lucas: Snorkeling Cruise, Open Bar & Lunch

Summary

Snorkel Cabo’s clear waters, see El Arco & relax with lunch

You’ll cruise from Cabo San Lucas past El Arco and Land’s End with friendly guides and an open bar before anchoring at Santa Maria Bay for snorkeling or paddleboarding. Expect laughter over lunch, easygoing music, and time to lounge in the sun or chat with locals—all included in your day.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest—I was a little nervous about snorkeling in Cabo San Lucas. I’m not exactly Jacques Cousteau. But something about stepping onto the Cabo Blue trimaran—bare feet on warm deck, that salty breeze—just made it feel easy. The crew handed out drinks right away (I picked a tamarind margarita, which I still think about), and everyone sort of loosened up as we pulled away from the marina. Music played quietly in the background—someone’s playlist, nothing too touristy—and you could hear gulls overhead. Our guide Mario joked that he could spot pelicans better than anyone else on the boat. He probably wasn’t lying.

We drifted by those wild rock formations near Land’s End and El Arco—the arch itself is more dramatic up close than any Instagram photo lets on. Mario pointed out Lovers Beach and told us how one side faces the Pacific, the other the Sea of Cortez. There were couples taking selfies, but also a family whose little girl kept waving at every passing boat. I tried to say “El Arco” properly; Mario laughed and corrected me gently (I definitely butchered it). It was one of those small moments that sticks with you.

When we anchored at Santa Maria Bay for snorkeling, I hesitated before jumping in—the water looked so clear but colder than I expected. They set us up with masks and fins (everything included), and after a minute of floating above bright fish darting around coral, I forgot all about being self-conscious. Some people grabbed paddleboards or just lounged on these big nets at the front of the boat, sun soaking into their skin. Lunch was simple: turkey baguettes, guacamole, chips—nothing fancy but somehow perfect after swimming. And yeah, open bar meant a couple more margaritas for me.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much with strangers or to feel so calm just drifting there with nothing scheduled except maybe spotting a whale if you’re lucky (we weren’t this time). On the way back to Cabo San Lucas marina, everyone was quieter—wind in our faces, salt drying on our arms. Still thinking about that view under El Arco as we turned for shore…

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cabo Blue snorkeling and sightseeing cruise

• Board the Cabo Blue trimaran
• Receive welcome cocktail and VIP service
• Relax on large front nets
• Visit Pelican Rock and take photos
• Stop at Lovers Beach for photo opportunities
• See and photograph the Arch of Cabo San Lucas
• Snorkel at Santa Maria Bay with provided equipment
• Use paddle boards and floating water mat
• Enjoy delicious lunch and open bar drinks

Top questions

Is snorkeling gear included on this Cabo Blue cruise?

Yes, all snorkeling equipment like masks, tubes, fins, and lifejackets are provided as part of your ticket.

Does this tour include food and drinks?

Yes, lunch (baguettes with turkey or veggies) plus appetizers like guacamole and chips are included along with unlimited drinks from an open bar.

Where does the Cabo Blue snorkeling cruise depart from?

The boat departs from Cabo San Lucas marina; check-in is required 20 minutes before departure.

Can children join this snorkeling cruise?

The minimum age for this tour is 5 years old.

Are paddleboards available during the tour?

Paddleboards are available to use when ocean conditions allow—they’re included in your ticket price.

Is there hotel pickup for this tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at the marina for check-in before departure.

What happens if ocean conditions aren’t good for snorkeling?

If weather or water clarity isn’t ideal, locations may be adjusted for safety or enjoyment by the crew.

How many people are on each cruise?

This is a shared group tour with up to 40 guests per cruise.

What’s included

Your day includes all snorkeling gear (mask, fins, tube), paddleboards and a floating water mat when conditions are right; unlimited drinks from an open bar; freshly prepared baguette lunches with sides like guacamole and fruit; music onboard; plus help from local crew who set everything up while you relax between stops at El Arco and Santa Maria Bay before returning to port.