The Arch of Cabo turns a fishing day into a real trip. You’ll cruise out from the Cabo San Lucas marina aboard the Phantom II, pass through the iconic arch, and be fishing within 20 to 30 minutes.

I really like that this charter is built around action and options: you can fish for a mix of species, with marlin and sailfish handled catch-and-release unless you choose a trophy.

One thing to watch is timing and clarity around transportation. One booking note flags confusion about whether round-trip pickup was included, so I’d confirm that before you plan your ride.

Key things to know before you book Phantom II in Cabo

• Arch of Cabo first: You’ll see the landmark as you head out, before the fishing grind starts.
• Fast run to the grounds: Expect about 20 to 30 minutes to reach where the fish are.
• Catch rules for marlin and sailfish: Release is the default for these fish unless you opt to keep a trophy.
• Gear and boat basics covered: Professional fishing gear, outriggers, and lifejackets are included.
• A strong crew reputation: Captain Jose, Mario, and Javier are named in top feedback for staying on the hunt.
• Show up early: Even when a start time is posted, an early arrival helps you make the most of the day.

The Arch of Cabo cruise is your warm-up act

A good fishing charter should do two things well: get you to the action fast and make the day feel like more than just waiting for bites. This one does both.

From the Cabo San Lucas marina, you start on the Phantom II and head right into the views. Cruising through the Arch of Cabo San Lucas is the standout early moment. It’s the kind of “wait, take a second” sight that makes the trip feel like Cabo, not just a dock-and-depart routine.

Why this matters for you: the arch moment gives your day an easy start, even before you’re holding a rod. If you’ve got mixed skill levels in your group, it also gives everyone something to enjoy right away.

Practical note: the best day still depends on when you arrive. One clear tip from recent experience is to plan to get there before the posted start time. If your schedule says 7am, aim earlier so you can get fully settled and get fishing momentum right away.

Inside the 5-hour flow: cruising out, fishing, cruising back

This charter is about 5 hours total, and the rhythm is straightforward. You’ll depart from the marina, reach the fishing grounds quickly, fish while the crew runs the boat and rigs, and then head back for the same coastal return with the Cabo views.

Here’s the timing logic you’ll feel on board:

• Early cruising (arch + ride out): you’ll enjoy the coast and landmark sights while the crew handles the initial setup.
• Run to the grounds (20 to 30 minutes): instead of spending most of your trip in transit, you spend more time fishing.
• Fishing time: the crew works locations and keeps the lines moving, which is where your day really lives.
• Return ride (about the same time as the outbound): you don’t just leave the scenery behind. You get the coastal look back toward the marina.

Why this is good value for your time: Cabo trips can feel long when there’s lots of dead time. A faster transition to the grounds helps you maximize your “on the water” experience, not just your “on the clock” experience.

If you’re the type who wants a calm morning, this might feel more energetic than slow. If you want action, that’s exactly what the day’s pacing supports.

Fishing grounds in Cabo: variety is part of the deal

Once you reach the fishing area, the goal becomes simple: get lines in and catch what’s available. You’ll have the freedom to fish for a variety of species during the charter.

One of the biggest “yes” points here is the way the day is described: it’s not a half-hearted cruise with occasional casting. Recent feedback highlights trips where there was consistent fish activity and lots of people who wanted to catch fish did.

You’ll also hear about the type of fish that tends to show up. In one example, the catch included bonita for eating and marlin action. That doesn’t mean every trip matches the exact species mix, but it does show the boat’s style: working hard enough that people aren’t just hoping.

What you should expect in real terms:

• You’ll be busy enough that the time feels full.
• The crew doesn’t treat marlin like a dream only. They chase opportunities when conditions allow.
• You’ll have chances both for photo-worthy moments and for fish you can keep, depending on what you choose and what the day produces.

Marlin and sailfish: catch-and-release with a trophy option

This part is important, and it’s clearly spelled out. Marlin and sailfish are handled under a catch-and-release policy. If you want, you can choose to keep one as a trophy.

That structure is useful for you because it balances two goals:

• If you care about doing things the responsible way, you’re covered.
• If you want the memory of a specific fish preserved, you have an option.

What I’d suggest for planning: decide ahead of time how your group feels about trophy keeping versus full release. When you walk into the day with that decision already made, you’ll avoid last-minute uncertainty if a fish opportunity appears.

Also remember that “trophy” rules can be personal and practical. You may want to ask the crew how they handle keeping a trophy fish versus releasing, so you understand what the day’s outcome might mean for you.

Phantom II basics: gear, outriggers, and a crew that stays busy

The included setup is clear. You get professional fishing gear, outriggers, and lifejackets, plus a bilingual crew.

Why that matters more than people think:

• Outriggers can help with how lines are presented and managed offshore. That’s part of why a charter can be efficient.
• Lifejackets being included means you don’t have to bring anything safety-related.
• Professional gear lowers the friction factor. Even if you’ve never fished a charter before, you’re not stuck figuring out what to use.

The crew experience is a major part of the praise. Names that come up in top feedback include Captain Jose, Mario, and Javier. The theme: they were active, focused, and willing to keep working when marlin showed up.

If you’re hiring a charter, you’re not just buying a boat. You’re buying problem-solving at sea. The best days feel like the crew is constantly adjusting to the bite and the conditions, not waiting for luck.

Price and value: $1,015 per group (up to 8)

At $1,015 per group up to 8, this is not a “cheap morning” activity. It’s a private charter price, and it’s priced as a premium half-day.

So what makes it feel worth it?

1) You’re paying for time on the water with control. Private means your group isn’t squeezed into someone else’s schedule. It’s your day, your fishing pace, and your crew focus.

2) You get more than fishing. The Arch cruise is a real bonus. You’re not just heading out to disappear on open water. You’re doing Cabo’s most recognizable sight as part of the experience.

3) The fishing approach is active. The highest praise centers on consistent action and people getting chances to fish. That’s the biggest factor in perceived value. If you leave feeling like the crew worked hard, the cost starts to make sense.

4) You only need one “ticket” type of booking for the group. Since it’s per group, families or friend groups can spread the cost and make it practical.

A quick budgeting reality check: the price does not include fishing licenses (one person), and crew gratuities aren’t included. Plan for those so there are no surprises at the end of the trip.

Logistics that can make or break your morning

Most of the practical details are straightforward, but a few points are worth your attention:

Meeting point: East Dock, Marina, Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico. The activity ends back at the meeting point.

Start time tip: Even though the day may be listed with a start time, one clear piece of advice from a successful outing is to arrive earlier than that stated time to get the best start. If you’re traveling in from outside the marina area, build in buffer time.

Near public transportation: This helps if you’re not arranging private transit. It’s a small thing, but it makes the planning less stressful.

Transportation confusion: One feedback note mentions miscommunication about whether round-trip transportation was included. The tour information you receive at booking should clarify this, but I’d still confirm directly so you don’t lose time hunting for a pickup.

Who this charter suits best (and who might not love it)

This is a good fit if:

• You want a private group charter instead of a shared boat.
• You care about seeing Cabo’s landmarks as part of the outing.
• Your group includes people who want both action and scenery, not only one or the other.
• You’re open to marlin and sailfish catch-and-release as the default approach.

It might be less ideal if:

• You want something that’s mostly relaxing with minimal planning around timing.
• You’re extremely cost-sensitive and need a cheaper shared option.
• Your group needs confirmed hotel pickup without any follow-up. (Because the one flagged issue suggests you should double-check.)

The practical checklist I’d use before you go

You can’t control the fish, but you can control your readiness. Here’s how I’d prep for a day like this:

• Decide trophy vs release expectations for marlin and sailfish before you’re on the water.
• Plan to arrive earlier than the posted start time so you’re not rushed.
• Bring only what you need for the charter. The operator is providing core fishing and safety equipment.
• Budget for the fishing license for each person (at least one person is specifically noted as needing a license) and for crew gratuity.
• If your plan involves pickup, confirm the transportation details early so you’re not improvising at the marina.

Should you book Phantom II exclusive fishing in Cabo?

If you want a Cabo half-day that mixes real scenery with a serious fishing mission, this is the kind of charter that tends to deliver. The Arch of Cabo cruise adds meaning to the trip, and the active crew approach is reflected in the highest ratings, including specific mentions of Captain Jose, Mario, and Javier.

I’d book it if your group is private-charter minded and you want to maximize time fishing within a tight schedule. I’d also book it if your comfort level includes catch-and-release for marlin and sailfish, with an option to keep a trophy if that fits your preferences.

I’d think twice only if transportation is a big deal for your day and you don’t want to do any confirming. The experience is built well, but the one logistics complaint is enough that you should verify pickup or ride-in details before you go.

In short: it’s a sportfishing day designed for action, with Cabo’s most famous landmark folded into the early minutes. If that matches your priorities, it’s an easy yes.

FAQ

How much is the Phantom II fishing tour in Cabo San Lucas?

The price is $1,015.00 per group (up to 8 people).

How long is the tour?

The tour lasts about 5 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at East Dock, Marina, Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico and ends back at the same meeting point.

What fishing rules apply to marlin and sailfish?

Marlin and sailfish are handled under a catch-and-release policy, unless you’d like to keep one as a trophy.

What’s included in the charter?

Included items are professional fishing gear, outriggers, lifejackets, and a bilingual crew.

What is not included?

Fishing licenses (one person) and crew gratuities are not included.

Is this tour private and what language is it in?

Yes, it’s a private tour/activity with only your group participating, and it’s offered in English. A confirmation is received at the time of booking and the tour uses a mobile ticket.