Cabo San Lucas All-Inclusive Private Catamaran Snorkeling Cruise

Cabo looks different when you’re on a catamaran. This private cruise mixes snorkeling plus paddle time with a true open bar, and it still moves past Cabo’s main coastal highlights.

Two things I really like about it: you get a full set of water activities included (snorkel gear, paddleboards, kayaks, and a floating mat), and lunch plus an open bar are baked into the price. One thing to think through first is weather, because the experience requires good conditions and plans can shift if seas are rough.

Key Highlights You’ll Feel From the Start

• Private charter for your group (up to 14, with the experience returning to the same meeting point)
• Real “do it all” water time: 4 paddleboards, 2 kayaks, snorkeling equipment, and a floating mat
• Open bar onboard with margaritas, tequila, rum, vodka, whiskey, beer, wine, and mixers
• Cabo classics on the route: El Arco, Playa de los Amantes, and Medano Beach
• Whales may be in the plan during whale season (December to March)
• Lunch is included with a set menu and snacks like fruit, guacamole, pico de gallo, chips, and quesadillas

A Private Cabo San Lucas Catamaran Day, Built Around Water Play

This is the kind of Cabo outing that feels like you’re using a vacation shortcut. Instead of spending your day renting gear, hunting a snorkeling spot, and deciding when to eat, the cruise packages the whole flow for you on the water.

You’re on a luxury catamaran style setup with a crew focused on keeping things moving. That matters, because on a short, 3-hour trip, you do not want long stretches of waiting around. The best version of this cruise is when you treat it like a moving beach day: swim, snorkel, paddle, relax, repeat.

The $2,200 Private Price, and What It Means for Value

The price is $2,200 per group, up to 14 people. When you spread it across a full group, it can be a bargain compared with piecing together separate activities. You’re not only paying for boat time, you’re paying for the equipment, the food, and the bar service.

If your group is smaller than the max, it still can be worth it if you care about:

• having privacy and not waiting for strangers
• staying on a planned route instead of doing trial-and-error snorkeling
• having drinks and lunch handled, so you can focus on the water

The cruise runs about 3 hours. That’s enough time to try multiple activities without turning your day into a full production. If you’re dreaming of an all-day beach lounge, this may feel short. If you want an energetic half-day at sea, this fits nicely.

How the 3-Hour Flow Works (and Why It Feels Like the Right Length)

The cruise is about 3 hours, and it returns back to the same meeting point after the stops. You also get a mobile ticket, and it’s offered in English.

Here’s how I’d plan your mindset: treat the morning or afternoon like a mini festival. You’ll likely spend chunks of time on the water doing something active, then you’ll have calmer moments where you can float on the mat or just watch the coastline slide by.

This timing also helps with crowds. Instead of competing for parking or chase buses, your group is already in the boat day mode.

Stop 1: El Arco de Cabo San Lucas, the Icon You See From the Sea

El Arco is one of Cabo’s signature rock formations, and seeing it from the water gives you a better sense of scale than from shore. On this kind of cruise, you’re not just snapping a quick photo, you’re approaching the landmark while the sea does the talking.

What I like about this stop is how it sets the tone. You get that wow-factor early, before you start switching into swim and snorkel mode. If you’re with mixed ages, it’s also a good early anchor point: you can enjoy the views even if you don’t want to be in the water nonstop.

Stop 2: Playa de los Amantes, Where the Coast Looks Made for Relaxing

Playa de los Amantes is a classic scenic stop in the area. From the catamaran, you get that “Cabo postcards but real” perspective where the shoreline looks close and dramatic at the same time.

The benefit of including this stop is pace. After the first landmark, it’s a chance to settle in. If you’re traveling with kids, this stop can be the moment where they burn off energy watching the water movement and then later jump back into snorkeling or paddle time.

The possible drawback: this is a cruising stop, not described as a long on-foot beach session. So if you’re the type who wants hours of sand, you’ll probably still want to spend most of your time focused on the included water activities onboard.

Stop 3: Medano Beach, Your Big Finale Spot for Swimming and Photos

Medano Beach is Cabo’s best-known beach area, and it works as a strong finale because it’s where the cruise meets the “main event” part of Los Cabos life.

Expect this stop to feel like the wrap-up. If you still have energy, it’s a smart time to get one more water moment. And if you’re thinking about photos, this is often when the lighting and scenery feel very postcard-like.

Also note there’s the option of professional photos for purchase, even though it’s not included in the base price. If you want that extra souvenir, plan for additional spending.

Water Time Is the Real Star: Snorkeling, Paddleboarding, Kayaking, and the Floating Mat

The core of this cruise is simple: you get multiple ways to be in the sea of Cortez, and the gear is provided. That includes full snorkel equipment, paddleboards, kayaks, and a large floating mat for relaxing.

Paddleboards: There are 4 paddleboards available, which is a big deal for a group. It means you can rotate without everyone waiting for a single board. If you’re comfortable on a board, this is a fun way to quietly explore, keep your eyes on the water, and spot where the snorkel-friendly areas might be.

Kayaks: Two kayaks are provided. They’re great if you want a little more control and less “balance work” than a paddleboard. It also gives you another option if you’re not fully ready for snorkeling yet.

Snorkeling: You get the snorkel gear, so you’re not dealing with rental hassle. Snorkeling here tends to be the activity people talk about most because it changes how you experience Cabo. You go from watching the water to stepping into it.

Floating mat: This is one of those underrated inclusions. Not everyone wants to swim for the entire trip. The mat gives you a low-effort way to enjoy being on the water, cooling off, and keeping the day comfortable for everyone in your group.

A smart tip: bring your own towel. Even with a floating mat and gear provided, you’ll want something dry and comfortable at the end.

Open Bar and Lunch: This Is Why It Feels Like a Vacation, Not a Tour

One of the strongest practical reasons to pick this cruise is that food and drinks are part of the package, not an add-on you have to manage.

The open bar onboard

The open bar includes margaritas plus spirits like vodka, tequila, rum, whiskey, and also wine and beer. Mixers are included too. In real life, this matters because it turns the crew into your host. You don’t have to hunt down a bar menu, and you can stay in the day.

If you’re traveling with a mixed group, it’s also good to know you can still enjoy the water activities while others take advantage of drinks. It’s flexible.

Lunch and snack plan

Lunch is included, and the cruise provides items like a fresh fruit platter, pico de gallo, guacamole, salsas, chips, and quesadillas.

There’s also a sample lunch menu that includes a turkey baguette with guacamole and Mexican sauce, plus fruit cocktail. That combo is a practical choice on a boat day because it’s filling without being heavy.

If you’re the kind of traveler who times meals carefully, you’ll appreciate that they handle lunch. Boat days can get chaotic if you’re hungry and unprepared.

Whale Season: What to Expect December Through March

If you’re visiting during whale season, December to March is when this cruise may take you to see whales in the area. The experience is designed to adjust the plan based on the season.

In at least some cases, the cruise has been able to get close enough to spot whales like humpbacks. You should still treat it as a wildlife chance, not a guarantee. But if whale watching is on your wishlist, this gives you a logical, scheduled way to pursue it from the water while you’re also doing snorkeling and paddling.

Crew Style Matters on a Short Boat Day

On a 3-hour cruise, the crew’s vibe affects everything. The names that come up often in praise include Carlos and Ana, with captains like Eddie or David described as friendly and capable. There are also references to hosts like Miguel and Miguelito who keep things upbeat and attentive.

The key takeaway for you is what these crews have in common: they focus on making sure your group can actually do the activities. That means less waiting, more smooth transitions, and a boat atmosphere that stays fun without feeling chaotic.

Who This Cruise Fits Best (and Who Might Want a Different Plan)

This is a smart choice for:

• families with multiple ages, because there are multiple activity levels (snorkel, paddle, kayak, float)
• groups who want privacy, since it’s a private tour and only your group participates
• people who want an all-in vibe, where open bar and lunch are included
• anyone planning a Cabo trip around El Arco and Medano Beach, but wants the water angle

It might be less ideal if:

• you only want a long beach day on sand
• you hate being on the water for several stops and switching activities
• your group is very sensitive to weather, since good weather is required and the operator may adjust plans if conditions are poor

One more reality check: the standard group size is up to 14. If your party is bigger, you’ll want to confirm your exact fit before you commit, since some celebrations have been accommodated at larger sizes, but you cannot assume that for every sailing.

Practical Tips So You Get More From the Day

Here are the things I’d do to get the best experience from this cruise setup:

• Bring a towel, since it’s specifically requested
• Wear swim-friendly clothing and expect to get wet
• If you’re bringing kids, decide in advance who will be in water gear versus on the mat for breaks
• Plan to spend the whole trip alternating between active and relaxed time, not trying to do one activity the entire ride
• If you care about whales, plan your trip between December and March, and stay patient when nature decides to change the timing

Also, this is offered in English, so it’s straightforward if that’s your working language. Service animals are allowed, and it’s near public transportation.

Should You Book This Cabo San Lucas Private Catamaran Cruise?

I’d book it if you want a private, no-hassle Cabo experience that includes the big ticket items: snorkeling equipment, paddleboards and kayaks, lunch, and an open bar. The price can be easier to justify once you see what you get in one 3-hour block, especially for groups that want privacy and variety.

I would pause and consider another option if you’re mainly looking for a long beach day on sand, or if your plans are too tight around weather and sea conditions. If you’re flexible and want a fun mix of sea time plus comfort, this private catamaran cruise is one of the most straightforward ways to do Los Cabos from the water.

FAQ

Is this cruise private or shared?

This is a private tour/activity, so only your group participates.

How long is the Cabo San Lucas catamaran cruise?

The duration is approximately 3 hours.

What activities are included on board?

You have access to paddleboards, kayaks, full snorkeling equipment, and a large floating mat. Snorkeling and water activities are part of the experience.

Is the open bar included?

Yes. The open bar includes margaritas, vodka, tequila, rum, whiskey, wine, beer, and all mixers.

What is the meeting point?

The meeting point is Papillon Yachts Rental at Blvd. Paseo de la Marina, Centro, Marina, 23450 Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico. The activity ends back at the meeting point.

Can this cruise include whale watching?

During whale season (December to March), the cruise may take travelers to see whales in the area.