Private sailing in Cabo feels like your own boat. I like the true private charter setup (up to four people, your crew runs the show), and I also love the open bar with snacks that keeps the mood relaxed between swims. The main thing to consider is that it runs on good weather, so you may need to shift dates if conditions aren’t right.

You’ll start at the marina and head straight toward the coast’s biggest photo moments, then get actual time in the water at a clear spot known for fish. Expect snorkel gear on board and a smooth mix of sights plus calm sailing around Cabo’s bay, the Sea of Cortez, and the Pacific side.

Key Things to Know Before You Go on This Cabo Private 38 ft Sail

• Private boat, flexible pacing: you choose the order and how you spend the 3 hours, with crew suggestions
• Snorkeling at Pelican Rock: clear water around 20 to 25 feet deep with lots of friendly tropical fish
• Icon views without the hassle: El Arco plus Lovers Beach area stops with free admission tickets
• Open bar plus snacks: unlimited drinks, bottled water, and food like sandwiches and guacamole
• Extra water-time options: snorkel gear is provided, and you also get paddleboard use

Setting Sail From Cabo Marina: What This Private Charter Feels Like

Cabo San Lucas is busy on land, but this kind of outing is made for people who want the water to slow everything down. You meet at F Dock, Marina, Cabo San Lucas, and you’re back at the same spot when your time is up. That simple loop matters because it keeps the day from turning into a long transfer marathon.

This is a private experience for up to four people, so it doesn’t feel like you’re waiting behind strangers at every turn. The crew manages the timing, and the captain and first mate can adjust to what your group wants—more swimming, more photos, or more sailing. From what I’ve seen described, the crew attitude is usually the point: calm, attentive, and quick to help when you’re figuring out masks, fins, or where you want to spend your swim time.

One more practical note: there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off included. If you’re staying near the marina or using local transport, that’s easy. If you’re farther out, you’ll want to plan your own ride to and from the docks so you don’t lose any sailing minutes.

The Boat Day at a Glance: Timing, Group Size, and Value

The tour runs about 3 hours and operates with several departure times through the day. That flexibility is underrated in Cabo, where wind and sun can change fast. Booking earlier or later can help you match the conditions you want, especially for snorkeling and time on the sail.

Price is per boat (up to four people). At $750 total for a group of four, you’re looking at about $187.50 per person. If you’re a couple, it’s more like $375 per person—but you’re buying privacy, not just a seat. And privacy here isn’t small talk. It’s the ability to change the plan while you’re out there: where you swim, how long you linger, and whether you want to lean more toward sailing or more toward snorkeling.

What’s included is also a big part of the value. You get an open bar, bottled water, snacks, snorkeling gear, and paddleboard use. You’re not stuck paying extra for basics like drinks or gear. And because both main sight areas have free admission tickets on this outing, you’re not adding surprise costs at the stops.

Stop 1 at El Arco: Icon Views, Photos, and a Quick Look at Lovers Beach

El Arco de Cabo San Lucas is the big rock arch everyone comes for, and this stop keeps things efficient at around 15 minutes. The goal here is to get you close enough for the photos and the first real look at Cabo’s signature coastline—rock formations, the arch itself, and the surrounding water views that make the area famous.

This stop also ties into Lovers Beach, which is part of the same visual story. Even if you don’t spend a long stretch on the sand, you’ll understand why people talk about the arch and the beach in the same breath. The short timing is smart for two reasons: you don’t feel rushed on the boat, and you still save energy for the snorkeling stop next.

If you want better photos, here’s the easy move: decide what you’re trying to capture before the stop starts. Bring your phone ready, pick your angles, and don’t waste time fiddling with settings while the boat is positioned. In a short stop like this, speed matters.

One small consideration: El Arco time is brief by design. If your group wants a lot of time on land at viewpoints, this particular format is more about boat-based viewing than extended wandering.

Stop 2 at Pelican Rock: The Snorkeling Spot That Actually Delivers

This is the stop most people will remember for the water. Pelican Rock is only about 15 minutes from the Cabo marina, and it’s built for snorkeling. You’re looking at clear water roughly 20 to 25 feet deep and plenty of friendly tropical fish. That combo is great if you’re new to snorkeling because you can see what you’re doing without fighting dark, murky visibility.

The time here is around 45 minutes, which is long enough to get comfortable, do a slow pass over the rocks, and still have energy left for another swim decision. It’s also the sweet spot between short “pop in the water” tours and long trips that can feel draining.

What’s included helps a lot. You get snorkel gear on board, and the crew is there to help you fit masks and get oriented. You’ll also find that many people relax once they realize this stop is set up for both experienced swimmers and first-timers.

A practical tip: if you wear prescription glasses or you’re sensitive to fit, use the gear provided at the start of your swim time. Don’t wait until you’re already in the water to adjust. Clear water is forgiving, but good fit is still what makes snorkeling enjoyable.

The Sailing Portion: Smooth Cabo Bay Cruising on Sea of Cortez and Pacific Water

After snorkeling, you shift into the relaxed part of the day: sailing across Cabo’s bay and out toward the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean side. The vibe here is slower and more scenic. You’re not doing a checklist of stops anymore—you’re settling in.

This is where you’ll feel the difference between a private charter and a big group tour. The crew can steer the boat based on what your group is enjoying most: calm cruising, better views for pictures, or staying in a spot that gives you comfortable sailing conditions.

Some days you’ll sail more actively, and you might even see the main sail hoisted depending on wind. On other days, the priority stays on smooth cruising and letting people enjoy the water. Either way, the goal is the same: a calm, scenic experience where you don’t feel rushed to get back on board and off again.

If you like photos, this is also a good stretch to swap from “swim mode” to “view mode.” Put your camera away during snorkeling, then enjoy the scenery while you’re back up top. A 3-hour outing means you’ll want the pacing to work, and sailing time helps balance the day.

Food, Drinks, and That Floating-Lunch Style Cabo Day

The included food and drinks aren’t just filler. This is the kind of sailing where you can actually taste the day.

On board you get unlimited drinks under an open bar setup, plus bottled water. You also get snacks that often include things like sandwiches, fruit, chips, and guacamole. Some groups describe the snacks as simple but genuinely tasty, and there’s a steady pace so you’re not stuck waiting for lunch at a specific minute.

If you’re celebrating something, this is also a friendly format. Several people mention birthdays and couples trips, and the crew tends to make the day feel like it belongs to your group. It’s not just a service routine. You’ll feel the attention when you’re given options about how to spend the time.

Important: vegetarian options are available if you tell the team when booking. That matters because food can make or break a half-day outing. If you need a specific diet, send the message early so you’re not hoping something works out last minute.

Paddleboard Time: A Bonus When You Want One More Water Activity

Snorkeling is the headline, but paddleboard use is included too. That turns the day into more than one swim session. If you want a low-key way to be on the water without the full snorkeling commitment, paddleboarding can be perfect.

Use it during the sailing lull, not as an afterthought at the very end. You want time to practice balance, soak in the views, and get your bearings before you’re headed back to the dock.

Snorkeling Safety and Crew Help: The Stuff That Makes You Relax

In Cabo, the best boat days feel safe without feeling stiff. That’s the sweet spot your crew is aiming for. Multiple groups describe a captain and first mate who watch what’s going on, explain what you’ll see, and help you if you’re learning in real time.

Here’s what I like about this setup: you get help with the practical parts—mask fit, where to swim, and how to get the most out of the water without panic. People also talk about being pointed out sea life like turtles, sea lions, and manta rays. Seeing wildlife isn’t guaranteed, but the crew focus on spotting it makes your chances better.

And if something goes wrong, it’s not treated like your problem alone. One memorable story involves an Apple Watch that slipped off and went down. The crew stepped in right away, helped with the search, and eventually found it. That kind of response is worth its weight in calm.

You can’t control every outcome on the water, but you can control how supported you feel. This tour is designed for that.

Getting There and Back: Docks, No Hotel Pickup, and Staying Simple

Meeting point is F Dock, Marina and you return there. That’s straightforward and easy to plan around once you know where you’re going.

Since hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, make sure you build in time for the ride to the marina. The area is near public transportation, which can help if you’re not booking a private driver.

If you’re bringing kids, plan extra buffer time for boarding. A 38 ft sailing setup is intimate, and it’s better when you’re not rushing with bags and gear.

Who This Private Sailing and Snorkeling Tour Is Best For

This tour fits best if you want a Cabo day that feels personal, not scheduled around strangers.

It’s a strong match for:

• Couples who want privacy, great views, and an easy swim plan
• Families with kids who are old enough to snorkel or at least enjoy the sailing and paddleboard time
• Groups up to four who want drinks and snacks without splitting attention
• First-time snorkelers who want clear water and gear provided
• People celebrating a birthday or special occasion, because the crew tone is more “host” than “operator”

If your top priority is long walking tours on land, you may find the short stop times aren’t enough. But if you want boat views, snorkeling time, and a calm 3-hour water reset, this is the right structure.

Booking Tips That Make the Day Smoother

A few simple moves help you get the day you’re picturing:

• Choose your departure time based on what you care about most: snorkeling comfort and lighting can vary through the day.
• Tell the team about vegetarian needs during booking if that applies to you.
• Bring a plan for photos during the El Arco stop so you don’t spend the brief time fumbling.
• If you’re snorkeling for the first time, expect to take a few seconds to adjust. Clear water helps, but comfort matters more than speed.

Also, keep an eye on the weather. This experience depends on conditions, and the tour may be adjusted or canceled if the weather isn’t good.

Should You Book This Cabo Private 38 ft Sailing Tour With Snorkeling?

I’d book it if you want a Cabo outing that mixes the two best parts of the region in one smooth session: iconic coastline views and real time in clear snorkeling water. The private format is the difference-maker. You’re not stuck watching the schedule; the crew works with your group, and the included open bar + snacks + gear means you can focus on enjoying the day.

I’d skip it (or at least rethink timing) if you’re set on a tour that’s heavy on land time or if you’re traveling right when the weather is most unpredictable. Since it needs good conditions, you should be ready to shift dates if the day doesn’t cooperate.

If your dream Cabo day sounds like sailing, swimming, and easy comfort for a small group, this one is a very practical yes.

FAQ

How many people can be in each private booking?

This is priced per boat and supports up to four people per group.

How long is the Cabo private sailing and snorkeling tour?

The experience lasts about 3 hours (approximately).

Where do we meet for the tour?

You’ll meet at F Dock, Marina, Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico. The tour ends back at the same meeting point.

Is hotel pickup included?

No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

What’s included on the boat?

The tour includes beverages, bottled water, snacks, unlimited drinks with an open bar, snorkeling gear, and paddleboard use.

Are there admission fees for the stops?

The admission ticket for El Arco de Cabo San Lucas and Pelican Rock is free on this tour.

Can kids join the tour?

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and most travelers can participate.

What if I need a vegetarian meal?

A vegetarian option is available. You should advise the provider at the time of booking.

FAQ

What is the cancellation policy if weather is bad?

There is free cancellation. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The experience requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor weather you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

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