Arch Boat Tour and Snorkeling at Pelican Rock

Experience the Best of Cabo San Lucas with the Arch Boat Tour and Snorkeling at Pelican Rock

The Arch Boat Tour and Snorkeling at Pelican Rock offers a straightforward, engaging way to explore some of Cabo San Lucas’s top sights in just about 2 hours. Priced at $89 per person, this tour makes a good choice for those seeking a brief but memorable outing, especially with safety and snorkel gear included—no need to pack your own. The tour departs from Cabo San Lucas Marina and is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 10 people ensuring a more personalized experience.

While it generally receives mixed reviews, the tour stands out for its convenient access to famous landmarks like Lands End, El Arco, and Pelican Rock. Its flexibility, friendly guides, and the chance to snorkel in the Sea of Cortez make it appealing for families, couples, and solo visitors wanting a quick, scenic adventure. However, potential participants should note that some reviews mention crowded snorkeling spots and older boats, so it’s best to consider these factors when booking.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $89, this tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a short but packed excursion.
• Highlights: Includes visits to Lands End, El Arco, Lovers Beach, Divorce Beach, and Pelican Rock with a focus on sightseeing and snorkeling.
• Included: Boat tour, safety and snorkel equipment, and admission to stops.
• Group Size: Limited to 10 travelers, promoting a more intimate experience.
• Additional Options: You can add round-trip transportation for $20 or bring your own food and drinks (ice and cooler supplied).
• Reviews: The tour has a 3.7/5 rating based on 23 reviews, with praises for friendly guides and beautiful scenery, but some concerns about boat quality and crowded snorkeling spots.

Starting Point at Cabo San Lucas Marina

The tour begins at the Cabo San Lucas Marina, a location that is near public transportation and easy to find. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, streamlining the logistics. Confirmation arrives instantly after booking, and the mobile ticket makes check-in straightforward.

Exploring the Stops: Lands End, El Arco, and Lovers Beach

The tour’s highlights include a 10-minute stop at Divorce Beach, which features a pristine white sandy shoreline on the Pacific coast. Just nearby, you’ll see El Arco de Cabo San Lucas, a spectacular limestone arch and one of the most photographed landmarks in the area.

Next, the 30-minute stop at Playa de los Amantes (Lovers Beach) offers a chance to admire the jagged granite formations and enjoy some time on the beautiful shoreline. This stop is perfect for capturing photos and soaking in the scenery, although some reviews note that it’s crowded and not ideal for lounging.

The Pelican Rock snorkeling segment, lasting about 20 minutes, features rich marine life. This spot is considered one of Baja’s best snorkeling sites, with lots of fish and clear waters. However, some reviews mention rough tides and crowded conditions, which could impact the experience.

The Boat Ride: Comfort and Features

The boat ride itself provides a scenic cruise along the Sea of Cortez, known worldwide for its spectacular sea life. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable commentary about the coastline, rock formations, and marine animals. The boat’s age and fancy appearance vary in reviews, with some noting that the vessels are older and may not match the pictures.

Music and a friendly crew contribute to the lively atmosphere, making it suitable for families and groups seeking a fun, relaxed outing. The smooth ride and attentive service are commonly appreciated features.

Snorkeling at Pelican Rock: Gear and Experience

The snorkel equipment is included with the tour, ensuring no extra hassle for participants. The snorkeling area is protected, offering a safe environment for novice and experienced snorkelers alike. While many reviews highlight the abundance of fish, some mention the rocks can be uncomfortable for sitting or lounging, and the water can be rough at times.

A few reviews point out crowded snorkeling conditions, especially during peak times, which may affect the overall enjoyment. Still, the marine diversity and clear waters make Pelican Rock a classic Baja snorkeling spot.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participation

The tour is booked on average 36 days in advance, indicating high demand. To secure a spot, it’s advisable to reserve early. For those wishing to maximize the experience, adding round-trip transportation for $20 can make logistics easier, especially if arriving from a cruise or hotel.

Bringing your own food and drinks is encouraged, as you can bring a cooler with your favorites—ice and cooler are supplied. A $1 dock fee per person applies at the marina.

Review Insights: What Works Well and What Doesn’t

Most reviews commend the friendly guides like Vicente, Leo, Jose, and Indio, who are praised for their customization and knowledge. Many visitors enjoy the scenic views and snorkeling, describing the marine life as abundant and vibrant.

However, some reviewers mention older boat equipment and crowded snorkeling spots, which can detract from the experience. A few negative reviews discuss confusing logistics or communication issues, but these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule.

Suitable for Different Travelers

This tour effectively suits families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a short, scenic boat trip with snorkeling. It is especially appealing for those who want to see the iconic Arch and Lover’s Beach without committing to a longer tour. Travelers seeking luxury vessels or private experiences might find this tour less suited, given the older boats and crowd levels at snorkeling stops.

Final Thoughts on the Cabo San Lucas Boat and Snorkeling Tour

The Arch Boat Tour and Snorkeling at Pelican Rock offers a convenient and cost-effective way to see Cabo’s most famous landmarks and enjoy some marine exploration. Its short duration makes it a good choice for a quick overview of the area, especially with included gear and a friendly crew.

While some aspects like boat quality and crowd levels could be improved, the spectacular scenery and marine life experienced at Pelican Rock keep this tour worth considering. It’s most suited for those who prioritize sightseeing and snorkeling over luxury or extended trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included with this tour?
No, transportation is not included but can be added for $20 per person.

What should I bring for snorkeling?
The tour provides snorkel gear, but bringing your own mask or fins is optional. It’s good to wear swimwear and bring sunscreen.

Can I just join the tour for the snorkeling part?
The tour is designed as a combined sightseeing and snorkeling experience, with stops at key points and time for snorkeling at Pelican Rock.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is family-friendly, especially since it’s a short, gentle boat ride.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Divorce Beach, El Arco, Lovers Beach, and Pelican Rock for snorkeling.

How long is the snorkeling at Pelican Rock?
The snorkeling segment lasts about 20 minutes.

Are the boats comfortable?
Reviews mention older boats, which may not be as fancy as images suggest, but they are functional and provide a scenic cruise.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours prior mean no refund.

Is this tour best for first-time visitors?
Yes, it offers a great overview of Cabo’s iconic sites suitable for first-time visitors wanting a quick trip.

Will I see whales on this tour?
Some reviews mention whale watching, but it is not guaranteed and depends on the season and conditions.