Cabo Platinum Snorkel & Whale Watching Tour — Santa Maria and Chileno Bay
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic swimming ability recommended for snorkeling.
Overview
Sail the Sea of Cortez on a small-group catamaran that combines snorkeling at Blue Flag bays with seasonal whale watching. This four-hour Platinum tour mixes guided reef swims, a tequila and mezcal cocktail bar, and a relaxed lunch — ideal for travelers who want big marine life and clear-water snorkeling in one outing.
Cabo Platinum Snorkel & Whale Watching Tour — Santa Maria and Chileno Bay
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The catamaran slips away from Cabo San Lucas Marina with a quiet authority: hull humming, sail bellying, and a cool Sea of Cortez wind pushing spray across the foredeck. Passengers cluster at the rail as the shoreline recedes — hotel towers and manicured golf courses slide by, then the coastline opens into bright, protected bays. On clear days the water changes from deep lapis to translucent turquoise; in the winter months a darker silhouette occasionally breaks that glassy surface, and the boat crew points, and the morning rearranges itself around a whale.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Sunscreen protects you and the marine environment; opt for reef-safe formulas to avoid damaging corals and reefs.
Take seasickness prevention
Morning departures are calmer, but if you are prone to motion sickness, take medication before boarding.
Carry ID for alcohol
The tour serves alcoholic cocktails; bring a government ID — you must be 18 or older to drink in Mexico.
Confirm pickup details
Notify the operator after booking to schedule your hotel pickup; some hotels require meeting at the marina.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Humpback whales (seasonal)
- Green sea turtles and colorful reef fish
History
Santa Maria and Chileno bays are part of a protected marine area established to preserve important reef habitat and traditional fishing grounds.
Conservation
Operators follow marine park rules and encourage reef-safe products; avoid touching corals and use designated entry points to reduce impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Cabo San Lucas
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin and the marine environment during surface intervals and on deck.
Swimsuit and quick-dry towel
Required for snorkeling and comfortable drying after swims.
Water shoes or reef booties
Helpful for getting in and out of shallow beaches and protecting feet on rocky entries.
Light windbreaker or rash guard
Blocks the breeze on the ride out and provides sun protection while snorkeling.
winter specific