Cabo’s coast looks good from almost anywhere. This shared cruise packs Arch of Cabo San Lucas photo time and snorkeling in Santa Maria Bay into one half-day, plus lunch and an open bar. I especially like the way the crew helps with pictures at the Arch, and how the snorkeling kit is handled for you (masks, tubes, fins, lifejackets). One thing to consider: you don’t land at a beach onshore—you anchor offshore and snorkel from the water, and conditions (crowds, visibility) can swing day to day.

At a glance, this is about 3 hours 30 minutes from Marina Cabo San Lucas, with a maximum of 40 travelers. You’re joining a lively shared boat (some people love the music-and-drinks vibe; others find it a little loud), so go in knowing it’s more “social cruise” than quiet nature boat.

Key things that make this cruise worth your time

• Arch stop with crew-led photo help so your group actually gets good shots (bring your phone)
• Santa Maria Bay snorkeling zone with gear included, plus extra water toys when conditions allow
• Open bar included (alcoholic and nonalcoholic), and drinks are part of the flow of the day
• Lunch is more than snacks: baguette-style sandwiches plus guacamole, salsa, chips, fruit, and more
• Small-group max 40 keeps the “who’s behind who” problem smaller than bigger boat days
• Wildlife sightings happen: whales (including humpbacks), sea turtles, and lots of fish show up in the right moments

Santa Maria Bay snorkeling works because you’re not hunting gear

Cabo snorkeling sounds simple: get in the water, see fish, go home happy. The part most tours rush is the “getting set up” piece—here, your snorkeling equipment is already onboard: masks, tubes, fins, and lifejackets. That matters because you want your limited snorkeling time to be spent looking around, not figuring out straps and fit.

Santa Maria Bay is also one of the practical reasons this cruise is a solid value. Even when you’re not getting perfect visibility, you can still get that moment of weightlessness over the reef area and spot fish coming in and out of view. And when conditions are better, this is the kind of stop that turns into a “how is there this much color here?” afternoon.

Cabo Blue dock check-in: the small timing detail that can wreck your day

This cruise runs from Cabo Blue Boat (Muelle Principal, Marina del Rey, Cabo San Lucas), starting at 1:00 pm. You’ll want to build in extra time because check-in isn’t at departure time—it’s 20 minutes before. I like how this is handled by the crew, but it’s on you to arrive early and be ready.

If you’re a cruise ship passenger, timing is extra serious. Cabo is a tender port, and the tour notes that there are no refunds for no-shows or cruise ship/tender-related delays. In plain language: if your tender timing is tight, you need to treat this tour like it’s non-negotiable.

Also, this is a shared tour, and it’s capped at 40 travelers. That usually means you’ll spend less time waiting around, but you still need to follow the group rhythm when it’s time to move.

From the dock to Los Cabos scenery: what Stop 1 really feels like

Stop 1 is essentially your “get settled, get oriented, and enjoy the first views” moment. You start at the main dock marina area (near the flea market), then you roll into the cruise with a short, structured stop—about 15 minutes.

This is where you’ll likely feel the boat’s vibe. On many days it’s smooth and scenic, and the Bluetooth sound system means music is part of the atmosphere. A couple of the feedback notes also describe it as more of a party-leaning boat with music and drinks flowing. So if you’re sensitive to loud audio, keep that in mind before you lock in your day.

The Arch of Cabo San Lucas photo stop: easy, but you should prep first

The Arch of Cabo San Lucas stop is short—around 10 minutes—but it’s designed for maximum payoff. This natural landmark is described as shaped over time by tide and wind, and it runs down toward the water’s edge (Land’s End) into the Sea of Cortez.

Here’s why I like this stop: the crew doesn’t just point and move on. They help you get photos, and they encourage you to bring your own phone for lots of shots. If your group has different people taking pics at different angles, this is one of those times where it really pays to have your phone charged and ready. Ten minutes can disappear fast when you’re searching for your camera.

Santa Maria Bay: your snorkeling reality check (and why it’s still a good deal)

Santa Maria Beach is the main event, with about 45 minutes in the snorkeling area. You get taken to a safe designated zone for snorkeling, and you jump in with your included gear. The big detail to understand upfront: you may not be getting off onto a sandy beach. One review specifically notes that boats often moor offshore (around 60 yards) rather than docking directly at the beach.

That’s not a dealbreaker—it’s actually normal for marine-protection and safety reasons—but it changes what you should expect. You’ll be snorkeling from the water, and the float-and-kick routine becomes the whole experience.

Snorkeling conditions: expect variability

Some days you’ll get great visibility and lots of fish close enough to feel like you’re in an aquarium. Other days the snorkeling can be more crowded, and visibility can drop. You’ll still likely see fish, but the “wow” factor depends on weather, tides, and how busy the snorkeling area is.

There are also hints from the feedback that wind or rougher conditions around the day before can affect how clear the water feels. So if you’re planning this as your one big snorkeling stop, it’s smart to keep expectations flexible.

Open bar + lunch: when the value isn’t subtle

This half-day tour includes a freshly prepared lunch and an open bar—both alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages. The food is typically sandwich-style: baguettes with turkey, cheese, and vegetables, plus appetizers like guacamole, Mexican salsa, tuna salad, chips, and fruit. One person also mentioned a sweet item like pound cake, so you may see more than just the savory items.

What I like about this setup is the practical side. If you’re out on the water for hours, you don’t want to gamble on finding a decent meal or paying resort prices after snorkeling. Here, you’re fed without hunting.

The open bar vibe: your taste matters

For many people, the open bar is a highlight. It’s often described as keeping drinks flowing, and the vibe can feel celebratory. A couple reviews mention mixed strength in cocktails (some say weaker, some love the drinks), and at least one person found the music-and-party energy not their style.

If you’re someone who wants a calm, quiet cruise, you might find the boat’s social energy a little too much. If you’re happy with music, shared laughter, and a drink in hand, this tour is easier to love.

Paddleboards and the water mat: fun extras with a conditions asterisk

This cruise includes paddleboards and a floating water mat, but the tour notes they’re best when ocean conditions are ideal. In real terms: on smoother water days, you’ll get more chances to try the boards and float setups. If the sea is choppy or wind picks up, the crew may limit how freely people can hop on them.

One review calls out that everyone got an opportunity to try these toys, which is a good sign for fairness. Still, don’t plan your day like you’re guaranteed a full paddleboard session. Treat it like bonus time if conditions cooperate.

Wildlife sightings: whales and turtles show up when you’re lucky

A big portion of the excitement on this trip comes from wildlife sightings. Multiple accounts mention whales—including humpback whale activity—and one review specifically says they spotted a mama and baby whale. Sea turtles also appear in the stories, along with flying fish and plenty of colorful reef fish at the snorkeling stop.

This is the right kind of wildlife situation: you’re on the water anyway, and the cruise route and timing can put you near animals. It’s not something you can control, but it’s one of the reasons many people pick this experience over a purely snorkeling-focused half day.

Who should book Cabo Blue and who should skip it

This tour is a great match if you want:

• A short, focused half-day with sightseeing plus snorkeling
• Snorkel gear provided so you don’t lug equipment
• Lunch and open bar included, especially if you’re traveling with a group
• A boat day that’s active and social, with crew interaction

It might be less ideal if you:

• Want quiet and low-volume sightseeing (music is part of the package)
• Are extremely sensitive to snorkeling crowding or shifting visibility
• Need a guaranteed onshore beach landing (the usual setup is offshore mooring)

Families can also do well here. The tour’s age requirement is 5 years and up, and at least one review says kids felt comfortable and included.

Price and value: why $79.80 can make sense

At $79.80 per person, you’re paying for a half-day that bundles several cost items into one price: boat time, snorkeling gear, lunch, and the open bar. Add in the fact that this is a capped group size (max 40), and it starts to look like good value for people who’d otherwise pay separately for rentals and food.

Also, snorkeling tours often add surprise fees for equipment or marine-zone access. Here, the only extra noted charges are a $1 government fee per person and gratuity (cash requested). If you’re comfortable handling gratuity and bringing a little cash, the upfront experience feels straightforward.

Practical tips for the best day on the water

A few small things make a noticeable difference on this type of cruise:

• Bring your phone for Arch photos. The crew actively helps, and you’ll want it in your hand.
• Bring cash for gratuity since it’s requested.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen and don’t wait until you’re already wet.
• Plan for changing water visibility. If the water isn’t perfect, focus on fish close to the reef area and move calmly.
• If you’re cruise shipping, arrive with buffer time for tender timing.
• If you want paddleboarding, be ready for it to depend on sea conditions.

Should you book Cabo Blue’s Santa Maria Bay snorkeling cruise?

If your goal is a classic Cabo half-day—iconic coastline at the Arch, real water time at Santa Maria Bay, and a meal plus drinks included—this is a strong choice. The best “fit” is for people who want the day to feel like a shared outing with a friendly, active crew.

I’d especially recommend it if you’re hoping for a mix: sightseeing photos, snorkeling gear handled for you, and the possibility of wildlife sightings like whales and turtles. Just go in knowing it’s shared, musical, and offshore snorkeling, and you’ll be set up for the right kind of expectations.

If you want total quiet or you’re chasing the single best, uncrowded snorkeling conditions every single time, you might prefer something more tailored to fewer people. But for most Cabo visitors, this one hits a practical sweet spot.

FAQ

How long is the Cabo San Lucas and Santa Maria Bay snorkeling cruise?

It runs for about 3 hours 30 minutes.

What’s included with the snorkeling stop?

You get snorkeling gear (masks, tubes, fins, and lifejackets). Paddle boards and a floating water mat are also included when conditions are suitable.

Is lunch and an open bar included?

Yes. Lunch includes freshly prepared baguette sandwiches and appetizers such as guacamole, Mexican salsa, tuna salad, chips, and fruit. There’s also an open bar with alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks.

Do we go to the beach, or snorkel offshore?

This cruise anchors for snorkeling rather than docking at the beach, so you’ll snorkel from the water in the Santa Maria Bay area.

What are the main stops on the itinerary?

You’ll start at the marina, then visit the Arch of Cabo San Lucas for photos, and spend time at Santa Maria Beach for snorkeling.

Is there a minimum age?

Yes. The tour is for ages 5 years and up.

Is gratuity included in the price?

No. Gratuity is not included, and it’s requested that you bring cash.