A private catamaran in Cabo turns the usual sightseeing cruise into real time on the water. You’ll glide past the Cabo shoreline, stop at classic coastal spots, and get snorkeling plus paddle and kayak gear included, with an open bar keeping the mood easy.

I like that this is set up as a true private group outing (up to 14 people), not a crowded boat where you fight for space. I also like that the menu and drinks are built into the price, so you can plan your budget without doing math on every margarita.

One thing to keep in mind: whale sightings are seasonal (December through March), and the day depends on good weather since the experience requires it.

Key things that make this charter worth a close look

• Private time on a catamaran: up to 14 people, with only your group on board
• Multiple water options: paddle boards, kayaks, a floating mat, and full snorkel gear
• Open bar included: margaritas plus tequila, rum, vodka, beer, wine, and mixers
• Whale season add-on: December–March whale watching in the area
• Lunch + beach-snack style food: fresh fruit platter, pico de gallo, guacamole, chips, quesadillas
• Crew-led fun: from keeping things running to making the vibe feel like your day, not their schedule

Private Catamaran Time in Cabo: What You’re Really Paying For

At $2,200 per group (up to 14), this is priced like a “split it with friends/family” day—not a solo splurge. The value jumps fast when you fill the boat. If you get the group near the max, the math lands around $157 per person. If it’s just a small group, it’s still a premium day, but you’re paying for space, privacy, and a captain/crew focused on your schedule.

This is the kind of tour where the main selling point isn’t a single wow moment. It’s the mix: scenery from the water, real time in the sea (snorkel and paddle/kayak), and included food and drinks. If your ideal Cabo day is more “water playground” than “sit and look,” this setup fits.

The best part for planning: the big-ticket items are inside the price—lunch, alcohol (open bar), and equipment. You’re not constantly making decisions on the fly. That makes it easier to relax.

What Happens On Board: Gear, Open Bar, and a Relaxed Pace

This charter is built around motion but not stress. Once you board, you can choose your pace—swim, float, snorkel, paddle, or kayak. That matters because not everyone wants the same “active” level. With this kind of lineup, you can split roles without splitting up the group.

Here’s what you can expect the boat to provide:

• paddle boards (4)
• kayaks (2)
• a large floating mat
• full snorkel equipment

And the vibe stays social thanks to the open bar. You’ll find margaritas, tequila, vodka, rum, whiskey, wine, and beer, plus mixers. Soda and juice are included too (orange, pineapple, cranberry), along with mineral and bottled water.

Timing-wise, it runs about 3 hours. That’s short enough to feel like a win, long enough that you’ll actually use the water gear instead of just tasting it.

Practical tip: ask your crew what order they recommend for the activities when you’re boarding. With multiple options, you’ll get more out of the time if you don’t overthink it.

Stop 1: El Arco de Cabo San Lucas From the Water

Your first stop is El Arco de Cabo San Lucas. Even if you’ve seen Cabo’s famous shoreline from land, there’s something different about seeing it from sea level—scale, angles, and that “you’re right here” feeling.

What I like about starting here is momentum. You’re already on the catamaran, drinks are flowing, and the scenery gets you into vacation mode fast. This is also a good moment to spot how the crew is planning the rest of the water time, because the day’s activities usually feel smoother when you can see what’s ahead.

A consideration: the real “activity value” of the stops depends on conditions. The tour requires good weather, and water time is the whole point. If conditions are rough, you might spend more time moving between the spots and less time in the water than you hoped.

Stop 2: Playa de los Amantes for Swims and Photo Moments

Next up is Playa de los Amantes. This is one of those Cabo stops where the setting gives you a natural break in the cruise—an easy place to switch from cruising to swimming.

Why this stop matters: you get a different feel than just snorkeling at one spot. Playa de los Amantes is the kind of location that supports a quick dip, short swim time, and photos without turning the day into a production.

A helpful detail from the overall experience: professional photos are offered, but they’re optional (and not included). If you care about having pictures from the beach-and-catamaran angle, this is typically the kind of moment that’s worth capturing. If you’re skipping the photographer, you’ll still get plenty of chances for casual group pics on deck.

If you’re traveling with mixed ages, this is also where the “everyone can participate” strength shows. Strong swimmers can take the snorkel gear out. Others can hang on the floating mat or paddle in a more controlled way.

Stop 3: Medano Beach and the Final Stretch of Water Time

Your third stop is Medano Beach. This is often where the day feels most like a classic Cabo beach day, just with the luxury advantage that you arrived by boat.

Medano Beach is a good final stop because it supports the closing rhythm of the cruise: one last swim, one last snorkel session, and time to soak in the coastal views before heading back. You’ll also be thankful for this timing if your crew is managing the gear so everyone has a fair shot.

If you’re thinking about how to use your 3 hours: plan to do one “big” underwater activity (snorkel) and one “on top of water” activity (paddle board or kayak). The floating mat is the secret weapon for people who want fun without getting tired.

Also, don’t forget the basics on the water—sunscreen, sunglasses, and a towel you bring yourself (towels aren’t provided).

Whale Season: What December–March Adds to the Day

From December through March, the cruise includes a chance to see whales in the area. That turns a normal 3-hour water day into something more special, because you’re not just sightseeing—you’re hoping for wildlife in real conditions.

A fair expectation: whale sightings are never guaranteed on any ocean trip. But the tour is set up specifically for whale season, which is the difference between a random “maybe” and a planned search.

If whales are your top priority, aim to travel within that December–March window and keep the schedule flexible in your mind. Conditions matter, and the experience requires good weather. The upside is worth it when it lines up—on whale-capable days, this can become the highlight you’ll remember long after the beach photos fade.

Lunch and Drinks: A Real Meal, Not Just Snacks

Let’s talk food, because this is where many cruises fall short. Here, lunch is included, and it’s more than chips and hope.

Included lunch details include a fresh fruit platter, pico de gallo, guacamole, salsas, chips, and quesadillas. The sample menu you may see includes a Papillon Lunch with a turkey baguette, guacamole, Mexican sauce with tomato, onion, cilantro, and fruit cocktail.

That spread is practical for a boat day. You need calories that won’t feel heavy after you’ve been in and out of the water. You also need flavors that match Mexico, not bland “cruise food” vibes.

Drinks are handled similarly: you get an open bar on board with margaritas and a wide range of alcohol, plus soda/juice and mineral water. The overall effect is that you can focus on having fun rather than negotiating what you can afford to drink.

One budget note: optional professional photos can add cost. If you want them, plan ahead. If you don’t, you can still get plenty of good memories without buying extras.

Crew Style and Group Energy for Up to 14

The crew is a big part of why this type of charter feels worth it. The experience is private, and that changes everything: you’re not waiting for instructions while strangers do their own thing. The crew’s job is to keep the day smooth—handing out gear, helping with the water setup, and keeping the timeline comfortable.

Names you may encounter from past experiences include people like Ana, Carlos, and Captain Eddie, and in other charters Miguel and Miguelito, or Captain David. Those names don’t mean you’ll get the same team every time, but they do show the type of hosting people remember—welcoming, attentive, and quick to make sure needs are handled.

Group-wise, the boat can handle a wide range of ages. That flexibility is huge if your group includes kids plus older adults. With multiple activity options and a floating mat, you can keep everyone included without forcing one style of fun.

If you want the day to run even better, bring a simple plan for your group before boarding: who wants to snorkel, who wants the paddle board, and who just wants to float and drink something cold.

What to Bring (And What They Will Provide)

The tour provides the big essentials:

• snorkeling equipment
• paddle boards and kayaks
• floating mat
• food and beverages
• included air-conditioned vehicle

You should bring your own:

• towel

Also, for real comfort in the sun and on the water, I’d bring:

• sunscreen (a must on Medano-style sun)
• sunglasses and a hat
• a way to keep your phone dry if you plan to paddle or snorkel

If you’re prone to motion sickness, plan for it too. A catamaran cruise can feel smooth, but the ocean still moves.

One more small practical tip: come in with a light plan for what you want to do first. With four paddle boards and two kayaks available, the early order often determines how quickly people get their preferred activity.

Value Check: Who This Private Cruise Fits Best

This charter shines for groups that want privacy and options. It’s especially good for:

• families with mixed ages
• friend groups celebrating birthdays or milestones
• couples who want more space and less “tour vibe”
• anyone who hates the idea of a crowded boat but loves water time

It’s less ideal if you only want a quick look at the coastline and don’t care about snorkeling or paddle/kayak time. In that case, you’d be paying for features you might not use.

The best match is someone who wants control: control over the vibe, control over activity choices, and control over spending since lunch and drinks are included.

And if whale season matters, this is one of the few Cabo day setups that specifically includes whale viewing (December–March). That seasonal advantage can make the premium feel even more justified.

Should You Book This Cabo Catamaran Cruise?

I’d book it if you want a private, short Cabo day that actually gets you into the water. The combination of snorkeling gear, multiple water toys, and a true open bar is exactly the kind of package that makes a 3-hour trip feel like a full day.

Skip it if your group wants only a passive sightseeing cruise with no interest in paddling, kayaking, or snorkeling—and if whales aren’t relevant to your dates.

If you do book, go in expecting a relaxed water playground. Plan for one snorkel run, one paddle/kayak session, and leave room for floating and photos. That’s how you’ll squeeze the most fun out of those 3 hours.

FAQ

How long is the Cabo San Lucas private catamaran snorkeling cruise?

It’s about 3 hours.

What’s the price for this private tour?

It’s $2,200.00 per group, up to 14 people.

Is the cruise private?

Yes. It’s private, and only your group participates.

What activities are included?

You’ll have paddle boards, kayaks, snorkeling equipment, and a floating mat.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is included, with items like fresh fruit, pico de gallo, guacamole, salsas, chips, and quesadillas (and the sample lunch you may see includes turkey baguette and fruit cocktail).

Is the open bar included?

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

Do they provide towels?

No. You should bring your own towel.

When do whale sightings happen?

Whale season is December through March, and during that time the cruise takes you to see whales in the area.

What is the meeting point and where do you return?

You meet at Papillon Yachts Rental on Blvd. Paseo de la Marina in Cabo San Lucas, and the activity ends back at the meeting point.

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