Huatulco: Bays Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Hotel Pickup

Explore the Beautiful Bays of Huatulco with a Snorkeling Boat Tour

The Huatulco Bays Boat Tour offers an engaging way to experience the natural beauty of Oaxaca’s coast. Priced at $32 per person and lasting 7 hours, this tour takes you through Santa Cruz, Organo, Maguey, and more. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward. The tour combines scenic boat cruises, marine wildlife encounters, snorkeling adventures, and beach time at some of the region’s most picturesque spots.

While the tour boasts many highlights, there are a few considerations such as optional snorkel equipment rental and additional charges at beaches. This tour is most suited for those who enjoy marine scenery, light adventure, and delicious seafood, all within a comfortably paced schedule.

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Key Points

• Affordable price of $32 per person for a full-day experience
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for easy access to all stops
• Scenic boat rides through multiple bays with stunning coastal views
• Snorkeling at Chachacual Bay, part of Huatulco National Park
• Wildlife sightings like dolphins, turtles, and stingrays (with luck)
• Beach stop at Maguey Bay with swimming and seafood tasting

Starting the Tour with Hotel Pickup in Tangolunda

The tour begins with hotel pickup from hotels in Tangolunda, simplifying the day’s plans. A friendly guide wearing a blue Paraiso Huatulco shirt will meet guests at the hotel lobby. After a brief 15-minute van ride, travelers arrive at the main dock in Santa Cruz Bay to begin the boat cruise.

This pickup-and-transfer approach ensures a hassle-free start, especially for those unfamiliar with local transportation. It also allows guests to relax and enjoy the scenery even before heading out on the water.

Scenic Boat Cruise across Huatulco’s Bays

The first cruise, lasting approximately 80 minutes, takes visitors past the lush vegetation, sandy beaches, and colorful coastlines of Santa Cruz Bay. The boat offers panoramic views of the coastline, setting the perfect scene for photos.

The boat itself is described as eco-friendly, adding an environmentally conscious touch to the experience. This cruise provides a restful way to admire Huatulco’s still waters and natural surroundings, building anticipation for the stops ahead.

Snorkeling at Chachacual Bay in the Underwater Park

The highlight for many is the snorkeling stop at Chachacual Bay, which is part of the Huatulco National Park. This underwater park features a coral reef teeming with marine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling without needing prior experience—swimming skills are sufficient for participation.

Guests get approximately 1.5 hours at this stop to explore marine species and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. Snorkel equipment rental is optional at $12.50 USD, so consider bringing your own gear to avoid extra costs.

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Natural Formations and Marine Wildlife Sightings

After the snorkeling, the boat continues to showcase natural formations such as the Bufadero stone face, known locally as the Mixteco Face. The boat also passes by an island shaped like a turtle, making for striking photo opportunities.

With some luck, travelers may spot dolphins, stingrays, turtles, and various bird species during the cruise. The boat captain actively searches the waters, adding an element of excitement to the wildlife viewing.

Beach Stop at Maguey Bay with Seafood Dining

Next, the tour moves to Maguey Bay, where visitors have about 2 hours to relax on the sands. This beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just unwinding. The tour offers a seafood meal, featuring options like fish, stuffed pineapple, shrimps, and lobster with butter.

Note that at Maguey Bay, additional costs for services like chair and umbrella rentals are common, with some reviews describing these as expensive. The beach has no shade, so bringing sun protection is advisable. Guests are free to choose from local restaurants for lunch, but the tour does suggest a nearby restaurant for convenience.

Continued Scenic Cruises Returning to Santa Cruz

Following the beach stay, the boat departs for another cruise segment lasting about 50 minutes. This cruise offers more coastal vistas and opportunities to capture photos of the sea formations and islands.

The tour wraps up with a 30-minute boat cruise back to Santa Cruz dock, where the hotel transfer vehicles are waiting. This relaxed return journey offers final views of Huatulco’s bays and a moment to reflect on the day’s adventures.

Practical Details and Additional Costs

The tour includes soda and water, with hotel pickup and drop-off in Tangolunda, streamlining the day. It lasts 7 hours, giving ample time for sightseeing, snorkeling, beach relaxing, and dining.

However, guests should budget for additional expenses such as snorkeling equipment rental ($12.50 USD), port tax ($4.00 USD), and beach amenities like chairs and umbrellas, which may be expensive. Food and drinks at the beach or restaurants are not included in the package.

Considerations and Recommendations for Participants

This tour is not suitable for people with wheelchairs or pets. It’s designed for those comfortable with light walking and moderate physical activity. While swimming is not mandatory for snorkel participation, guests should be aware of the optional costs and beach conditions.

Guests should bring sunglasses, sun hats, swimwear, towels, sandals, sunscreen, and cash for extra expenses. Since the beaches have no shade, sun protection is essential. No prior swimming knowledge is required for snorkeling, making it accessible for most.

Overall Value and Suitability for Visitors

At $32, this tour offers good value considering the scenic cruises, snorkeling, beach time, and seafood meal. The lodging pickup adds convenience, and the scenic stops highlight some of Huatulco’s most photogenic natural features.

While some reviews mention additional charges and service inconsistencies, the core experience—bays, wildlife, snorkeling, and beach relaxation—remains attractive. It’s especially fitting for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day with light adventure and local cuisine.

Huatulco Bays Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Hotel Pickup: Final Thoughts

This 7-hour boat tour in Huatulco offers a balanced mix of scenic cruises, marine wildlife, snorkeling, and beach leisure. The hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics, while the opportunity to see dolphins and turtles enhances the experience.

Visitors who enjoy sea views, marine life, and seafood will find this tour satisfying. However, be prepared for additional costs and the beach amenities, and consider bringing your own snorkeling gear for better value. Overall, it provides a memorable glimpse of Huatulco’s natural beauty at an accessible price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Tangolunda are included, making the day convenient and stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 7 hours, with various cruises, stops, and activities scheduled throughout the day.

Do I need to know how to swim to snorkel?
No, swimming skills are not required to participate in snorkeling, as it is designed for all comfort levels.

Are food and drinks included?
No, lunch and drinks at the beach are not included. The tour provides soda and water, but additional meals or snacks are extra.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sandals, sunscreen, and cash for optional expenses like snorkel gear or beach rentals.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, snorkeling equipment costs about $12.50 USD, and port tax ($4.00 USD) applies. Beach services like chairs and umbrellas also have extra charges.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
It is best suited for those comfortable with walking and light physical activity. It is not recommended for wheelchair users.

Can I choose my own restaurant for lunch?
While the tour suggests a specific restaurant at Maguey Bay, guests are free to choose other options, although additional costs may apply.

Is there a guide during the tour?
Yes, live guides speak English, French, and Spanish to accompany the cruise and explain key sights.

What makes this tour special compared to other options?
The combination of scenic boat cruises, snorkeling at an underwater park, and seafood dining makes this experience uniquely well-rounded for exploring Huatulco’s bays.

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