REVIEW · CABO SAN LUCAS
Cabo San Lucas Sunset Cruise with Unlimitted Drinks
Book on Viator →Operated by La Princesa Sailing Catamarans · Bookable on Viator
Sunsets in Cabo hit different on a catamaran. This 2-hour cruise threads past Lovers Beach, around the bay, then out toward the Pacific for sunset views plus a quick stop at El Arco for photos. I love that the boat keeps the fun moving with an open bar of unlimited drinks (plus snacks), and I also like that the route gives you multiple scenery styles in one ride—from Sea of Cortez views to Pacific-side light.
The vibe is purposely party-mode, so you should know what you’re signing up for. Music gets loud after sunset, and if you want quiet and romance, this one may feel a bit too lively. Still, it’s a solid value when you want scenery, a show, and drinks all in one go.
In This Review
- Key Things I’d Focus On
- Cabo Sunset on a La Princesa Catamaran: The Big Picture
- The Route: Sea of Cortez, El Arco, and a Pacific Sunset
- Bay cruising that feels like a guided scenic lap
- Lovers Beach: a landmark you’ll actually recognize
- El Arco: the photo stop that makes the cruise worthwhile
- Pacific side sunset: where the music and mood shift
- Drinks and Snacks: Unlimited, Included, and Easy
- What unlimited really means in practice
- Snacks are there, but they’re not dinner
- Souvenir photos: available, but not included
- Wildlife and What to Look For Out on the Water
- The On-Board Vibe: Fun, Loud Music, and Dancing Space
- Who This Cruise Fits Best (and Who Might Skip It)
- Price and Value: Why It Costs What It Costs
- Timing and Getting There: Your 5pm Start
- Small Practical Tips That Save Your Evening
- When Booking Makes Sense: My Decision Checklist
- FAQ
- FAQ
- What time does the Cabo sunset cruise depart?
- How long is the experience?
- Are drinks really unlimited, and is alcohol included?
- What’s included besides drinks?
- What will I see during the cruise?
- Are souvenir photos included?
- What happens if the weather is bad?
- Can I cancel and get my money back?
- Is hotel pickup included?
Key Things I’d Focus On

- Open bar, unlimited drinks with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options (alcohol only for age 18+)
- Photo stop at El Arco so you can actually plan for the classic arch picture
- Lovers Beach and waterfront views along the way, not just open water
- Sea life spotting potential like sea lions and stingrays while you cruise
- Party atmosphere with lively music and disco-style lights after sunset
- Small-ish group (max 40) compared with the big cattle-car boats in Cabo
Cabo Sunset on a La Princesa Catamaran: The Big Picture

Cabo San Lucas sunset cruises come in two flavors: quiet sightseeing, or fun-on-the-water. This one leans hard into fun. You’ll be on a catamaran run by La Princesa Sailing Catamarans, departing at 5:00 pm from the Cabo San Lucas Marina. That timing matters, because you’re not rushing daylight. You’re leaving in time to enjoy the bay, then crossing the “watch the sky change” part of the evening when the Pacific side starts glowing.
The core payoff is simple: you get a classic Cabo route—bay scenery, a stop at the famous limestone arch (El Arco), then more cruising on the Pacific side as the sun drops. Add in unlimited drinks and snacks, and you’ve got a half-evening that feels like an event instead of a slow boat ride.
One smart detail: this cruise is capped at up to 40 travelers, which usually translates to shorter time spent waiting around and a better chance to enjoy the deck space. Also, the cruise length is about 2 hours, so you’re not giving up your whole evening to the water.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Cabo San Lucas
The Route: Sea of Cortez, El Arco, and a Pacific Sunset

Even without hunting for hidden details, the route has a nice rhythm. You start in the Cabo bay area, head along the Sea of Cortez side where the coast and marine activity are part of the show, and then you shift toward the Pacific side when it’s time for sunset.
Bay cruising that feels like a guided scenic lap
At the start, the crew and captain get you set up with safety tips and introduce the team. Then you cruise around the Cabo bay area at a pace that’s meant for sightseeing. This is when you’ll enjoy the stretch of beachfront scenery—think beachfront restaurants and residences as you pass by.
If you’re traveling with people who want more than a single highlight, this matters. You’re not just racing from one photo point to the next. You’re getting multiple views in one continuous loop.
Lovers Beach: a landmark you’ll actually recognize
As you head along the bay, you’ll pass the well-known Lovers Beach. It’s one of those places that looks best when you see it from the water, because the coastline context is hard to recreate from shore. Watching the beach and the surrounding shoreline from the catamaran deck gives you that “I get it now” moment.
El Arco: the photo stop that makes the cruise worthwhile
The cruise includes a short stop near El Arco de Cabo San Lucas so visitors can take pictures. This arch is a well-known limestone rock formation where the tide helped shape the signature arch look. The key is that you’re not just gliding by. You get a pause long enough to reset your angles, grab the group shots, and capture the arch as the light changes.
This stop is also a great moment for the crew to help you with the experience. Some boats run past the arch so quickly that you miss your chance for good photos. Here, the stop is built in so you can plan for it.
You can also read our reviews of more evening experiences in Cabo San Lucas
Pacific side sunset: where the music and mood shift
After the arch, the cruise continues toward the Pacific Ocean side. This is when the evening turns into the main show. The sky becomes your backdrop, and the boat’s entertainment ramps up—there’s lively music on board, and after sunset it shifts into a more club-like atmosphere with dance-friendly energy.
If you love a party vibe with the view, this is where the experience clicks.
Drinks and Snacks: Unlimited, Included, and Easy

This is one of the main reasons the price works for many people. You’re paying $60 per person for a 2-hour catamaran sunset cruise that includes unlimited drinks from an open bar, plus snacks and bottled water.
What unlimited really means in practice
The open bar includes both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. The rule is clear: alcohol is served only to guests 18 years of age or older. If you’re traveling with mixed ages, it’s still a good fit because non-alcoholic options are included in the unlimited set too.
Also, the crew is attentive about keeping drinks moving. You’re not stuck waiting long for a refill, which is a big deal on a boat where everyone is enjoying the same limited deck time.
Snacks are there, but they’re not dinner
There are snacks onboard, but don’t assume this is a full meal. One key practical tip from the way people talk about it: eat before you go. Snacks can help, and you’ll likely get chips and salsa-style snacks on board, but it doesn’t replace a real dinner plan.
If your crew is hungry right after a swim or a long day in town, you’ll be happier starting with food in your stomach.
Souvenir photos: available, but not included
There’s mention of souvenir photos you can purchase, and they come with extra cost. So plan for that if you want the “pro photographer” shots. If you prefer to save money, you’ll still be able to take plenty of your own pictures during the arch stop and sunset segment.
Wildlife and What to Look For Out on the Water

One of the fun parts of any Cabo boat is the wildlife chances—especially when the route brings you through areas with marine life.
The cruise includes a callout to keep an eye out for sea lions, stingrays, and other marine life. You’re not guaranteed wildlife on every sailing, but the boat gives you the chance. The best way to do this is simple: when you see the crew point or when the boat slows, stand or move to a better viewing angle instead of scrolling your phone.
If you visit during December through March, there’s also a higher chance of seeing whales from a distance. That seasonal possibility is part of why the route is popular in those months.
The On-Board Vibe: Fun, Loud Music, and Dancing Space

This cruise isn’t built for quiet romance. It’s an afternoon-to-evening party at sea. Reviews and feedback patterns consistently point to an atmosphere that gets energetic—music stays in the background for much of the ride, then after sunset it becomes more clubby. There can be dancing, and disco-style lights may show up.
So here’s the consideration that can make or break it: if you want a calm, hushed cruise where you talk in whisper-level conversation the whole time, you might feel annoyed. If you like dancing, loud music, and a social boat, you’ll likely have a better time than you expected.
The good news: this doesn’t feel like chaos. The crew and captain focus on safety, and the experience is paced so you still get the scenery moments. It just happens with energy turned up.
Who This Cruise Fits Best (and Who Might Skip It)

I think this tour is ideal for:
- Couples who want a fun night out and are happy mixing romance with party energy
- Groups of friends who want unlimited drinks without planning a bar crawl
- Anyone who wants a classic Cabo highlight loop (bay views, Lovers Beach, El Arco, sunset) without complicated logistics
It may be a mismatch if:
- You’re traveling with someone who hates loud music or party environments
- You’re mainly looking for quiet wildlife watching and silence
Also, it helps if your expectations match the format. You’re not signing up for a long sailing lesson or a nature-only expedition. You’re buying an event: drinks, snacks, music, and famous views.
Price and Value: Why It Costs What It Costs

Let’s talk money for a second. At $60 per person, this cruise is a strong deal when you price it against the reality of Cabo evenings:
- Getting out to the water for 2 hours with good views usually costs more than you think
- Unlimited drinks dramatically changes the value equation
- You also get included snacks and bottled water
In other words, you’re not paying a “scenery-only” rate. You’re paying for a full built-in experience. For many people, the open bar is what turns the cruise from a nice idea into a no-regrets plan.
That said, you should expect a party environment. If you’re paying for quiet and calm, you may feel like you overpaid. If you’re paying for drinks, music, and an easy highlight run, it often feels like exactly the right price.
Timing and Getting There: Your 5pm Start

The cruise departs at a pre-designated time and the meeting point is at the marina: Blvd. Lázaro Cárdenas Sn, El Medano Ejidal, Marina, 23410 Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico. It ends back at the same meeting point.
Two practical notes:
- There’s no hotel pickup and drop-off, so plan on getting yourself to the marina.
- The meeting location is described as near public transportation, which can make life easier if you’re staying in town without a car.
This matters because sunset cruises can feel tight if you’re late. Aim to arrive with enough buffer time to check in and get settled before boarding.
Small Practical Tips That Save Your Evening
A few details can improve your experience fast:
- Go in fed. Snacks are included, but it’s not a full dinner.
- Bring your phone or camera strategy for El Arco. The arch stop is your time window for the signature shots.
- If you’re sensitive to loud music, plan accordingly. This is not a quiet cruise.
- Expect a social vibe. Good for meeting people; not ideal for people who want solitude.
And one fun angle from the crew energy: people highlight that certain hosts, including Leonardo and Daniel, help set a friendly, engaged tone on board. That kind of crew energy tends to make the whole ride feel smoother.
When Booking Makes Sense: My Decision Checklist
Should you book this? I’d say yes if your perfect Cabo evening looks like this: you want the arch and sunset, you want to cruise along multiple water views, and you’d like drinks and snacks taken care of.
I’d skip it if your “ideal cruise” is quiet, low-music, and slow.
If you’re still on the fence, here’s a simple checklist:
- You’re okay with party music and dancing energy: book
- You want a romantic hushed sail: look for a quieter option
- You’re traveling in peak season or shoulder season and want a whales-from-distance possibility: consider December–March
- You’ll appreciate unlimited drinks more than a fancy meal: this is a good match
FAQ
FAQ
What time does the Cabo sunset cruise depart?
The cruise starts at 5:00 pm from the Cabo San Lucas Marina at the meeting point listed for the tour.
How long is the experience?
It lasts about 2 hours.
Are drinks really unlimited, and is alcohol included?
Yes. The cruise includes unlimited drinks (open bar). Alcohol is served only to guests 18 years of age or older. Non-alcoholic drinks are included too.
What’s included besides drinks?
You get bottled water and snacks in addition to the unlimited drinks.
What will I see during the cruise?
You’ll cruise along the bay area with views that include Lovers Beach and waterfront properties, take a photo stop at El Arco de Cabo San Lucas, and continue out toward the Pacific Ocean side for the sunset. You may also spot sea lions, stingrays, and other marine life.
Are souvenir photos included?
No. Souvenir photos are available to purchase, but they are not included in the tour price.
What happens if the weather is bad?
This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Can I cancel and get my money back?
Yes. You can cancel for a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time. If you cancel less than 24 hours before, the amount paid is not refunded.
Is hotel pickup included?
No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. The tour starts and ends at the marina meeting point.































