Three hours on a private yacht in Cabo. This 42-foot Pura Vida cruise is a laid-back mix of cruising and playtime, with water toys ready right in the bay. I like that you can also tell the captain where you want to go, or just let them steer the vibe.

Two things I really enjoy: the open bar is set up like a true all-inclusive, with spirits, beer, juices, and mixer options for margaritas—not just a token drink. I also like the fresh lunch spread, built for sharing, from quesadillas and charcuterie to sashimi and ceviche.

One consideration: the experience depends on good weather, and wind and sun can make you feel it more than you’d expect on open water. If you’re booking for a specific moment (like a proposal or a big party), plan a little buffer if conditions shift.

Key things to know before you board

• It’s truly private (up to 8 people), so you won’t be squeezed in with strangers.
• Toys are part of the deal: kayaks, paddleboards, floating mats, plus clean snorkel gear.
• Open bar + snack-and-lunch service means you spend less time hunting for food and more time on the water.
• You can influence the route: name your must-dos or follow the captain’s recommendations.
• Two classic Cabo zones + a photo stop set you up for the El Arco area and big beach/coast views.

Why this 42-ft Pura Vida cruise feels different from the usual boat trip

Cabo San Lucas boat cruises can blur together fast: same route, same playlist, same drink cup. This one works because it’s private, built around a 42-foot yacht experience, and it gives you a real set of water activities rather than just passing the sights.

You’re not just sitting and watching. You’re actually using the gear—paddleboards, kayaks, floating mats, and snorkel equipment—during the time you’re anchored in the bays. That changes the whole pace. The cruise becomes a mix of cruising, photos, and short adventures you can opt into whenever you feel like it.

And the service model matters. With an open bar and full lunch on board, you’re not timing your hunger around shore stops. It’s the kind of setup that makes groups relax quickly—especially if you’re traveling with people who want different things at different times.

Price and value: what $2,000 per group really buys you

The price is $2,000 per group (up to 8) for about 3 hours. That can look steep at first glance, but the value math changes once you spread it across your group.

Here’s what helps your money go further:

• The price includes snacks, lunch, and an open bar (alcoholic and non-alcoholic).
• You also get snorkel gear and other water toys.
• Private transportation and parking fees are included.
• You get soda/pop and bottled water, plus a proper food menu rather than just chips and salsa.

If you fill the boat with a full group, you’re effectively converting a “Cabo fun expense” into one predictable total cost with fewer add-ons. The only clear extra costs listed are optional food upgrades and top-shelf bottles you can purchase on board.

Getting to Lorenzillo’s and starting your cruise smoothly

You meet at Lorenzillo’s Blvd, Blvd. Lázaro Cárdenas S/N, Centro, 23450 Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico. The good part is that the activity ends back at the same meeting point, so you don’t end up piecing together transportation at the end.

You’ll also get a mobile ticket, and confirmation is sent within 48 hours of booking, depending on availability. Since the cruise is weather-dependent, it’s smart to keep an eye on the forecast and avoid stacking too many tight plans right after your 3-hour window.

The 3-hour flow: El Arco, Medano Beach, and a Pacific Coast photo moment

This cruise is set up in three main chunks, each with a different purpose. You’re getting the famous Cabo landmarks and also enough time in the water to actually do something.

El Arco de Cabo San Lucas: water toys and snorkeling in the bay

You start near El Arco de Cabo San Lucas, one hour focused on bay time and play. This is where the water toys are staged so you can jump in and use them right away—kayak, paddle board, and floating mat are available, along with full snorkel equipment that’s clean and ready.

Why this stop works: El Arco is the icon, but the real win is that you’re not only taking pictures from the boat. You can combine photos with swimming, snorkeling, or just floating around and soaking up the sun.

Watch-outs: snorkel time is only as good as your comfort in the water, and currents can vary. If you’re newer to snorkeling, plan for shorter sessions and keep your safety checks simple.

Medano Beach: flexible sightseeing with a captain’s recommendation edge

Next is Medano Beach for about an hour. This part is described as flexible: you’re free to choose where you want to go, while captains and crew can share recommendations.

This is a nice way to avoid decision fatigue. If your group has mixed energy—some want beach time, others want photos—this stop gives options without turning your tour into a shuffle.

Practical tip: medano-area light can be intense. If you’re planning photos, bring sunglasses and something for your shoulders so you don’t spend the best light half-sunburned.

Pacific Coast: picture time by the arch on a luxury yacht

The final hour is a Pacific Coast segment with a specific photo context: getting nice pictures by the arch in the luxury yacht Papillon 6.

What I like about ending this way: it’s built for memory-making. You get a change of scenery from the bay stop, and it leans into the classic Cabo photo payoff.

Consideration: if your group is tired, you might want to pace your water activities earlier so you still have energy for the photo moment at the end.

Food and drinks: what all-inclusive really means here

This is one of the strongest parts of the experience. You’re not just getting a snack. You’re getting multiple rounds of food plus a fully stocked bar setup.

Snacks and lunch: expect real portions, not filler

Snacks include items like cheese quesadillas, guacamole, pico de Gallo, and chips. Then lunch comes with a broader spread: fresh fruit, charcuterie board, steak and chicken quesadillas, sashimi, and ceviche.

Even if seafood isn’t your thing, there’s usually enough variety to build a solid plate. And for groups, shared platters make life easier. You can graze when you’re hungry, then settle into a more regular meal when the timing feels right.

A small “watch this” point: there’s an optional upgraded food category listed as extra cost—chicken/meat fajitas and ceviche for an additional $19.90 per person (confirm in advance). If you have specific cravings, ask early so you’re not deciding mid-cruise.

Open bar: classic Cabo mix options and non-alcoholic choices

The open bar includes rum, tequila, vodka, beer, and juices (orange, pineapple, cranberry) plus mixers for drinks like margaritas. On top of that, you also get soda/pop and bottled water, which matters more than people think once you’re out on the water.

Important: alcohol is allowed for 18 years old and above only. If you’ve got mixed-age groups, plan around who’s drinking and who’s steering toward juice and soda.

The water toys: how to make the most of them without rushing

The toy lineup is a big part of why this cruise is worth it. You’re choosing between board time, paddle time, and snorkel time, all within the same overall session.

Here’s how to get the best experience:

• Start with the activity that feels most “must-do” for your group (often snorkel or a paddleboard).
• Give yourselves a short window to get confident before you try anything ambitious.
• If you’re traveling with first-timers, stick to the simplest option first. Kayaks and floating mats tend to be easiest to manage.

Also, the equipment is described as available on board and clean, which is practical. Snorkeling gear can make or break the day if it feels questionable. Here, it’s specifically noted as clean and ready.

Crew and vibe: attentive service that also keeps things fun

The biggest repeated theme here is straightforward: the crew tends to be friendly, upbeat, and on top of what people need. People talk about feeling safe, having drinks kept moving, and getting help when it comes to getting photos and navigating the water time.

You may meet crew members like Marco, Adan, Adalid, Miguel, Jose, Dennise, Nicole, Denise, Moses, Julio, Alberto, Alex, Patricio, and Moy (names that show up again and again). Different groups describe different crew setups, but the consistency is clear: they’re engaging and they work hard to keep your time smooth.

One detail that really stands out from celebratory trips: some groups mention surprise extras, like decorations for bachelorette-style celebrations and special handling for engagement plans. If you’re marking something, mention it early when you confirm and ask what’s possible for your group dynamic.

Who this cruise is best for (and who might want something else)

This tour is a strong fit if you want:

• A private Cabo experience without coordinating with strangers
• A mix of cruising, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking
• A true food-and-drink plan that keeps you from constantly spending money off the boat

It’s also good for groups who don’t all want the exact same pace. The toy lineup makes it easy for people to split time between active moments and relaxing moments.

Who might choose differently: if you want a long, shore-based itinerary or want to explore Cabo on land in depth, this is still a yacht experience. You’ll get the water moments and classic sights, not a full city sightseeing program.

Practical tips to enjoy the cruise even more

Bring the basics:

• Sunscreen and water-friendly protection for your shoulders
• Sunglasses with a secure strap (wind off the water is real)
• A light layer if you get cool from sea spray

Plan your timing:

• If you’re doing snorkel and paddleboard, don’t try to max out everything back-to-back.
• Save your calmest activity for the moment you feel least rushed—often mid-cruise.

If you’re celebrating:

• Let the crew know what you’re doing. Even if you’re not asking for anything fancy, it helps them match the vibe, music, and service style.

Should you book this Cabo yacht cruise?

I’d book it if your idea of a great Cabo day includes water time, iconic sights, and food and drinks handled for you. The combination of private 42-foot comfort, use-it water toys, and an open bar plus full lunch is what makes it feel like more than a basic sight cruise.

One more thought before you decide: because it’s weather-dependent, book when you have flexibility and avoid scheduling it like it’s the only thing you can do that day. If conditions hold, this is the kind of trip where you’ll come home with photos, sun-kissed stories, and a group mood that stays happy through the final hour.

FAQ

How long is the Pura Vida yacht cruise?

It’s about 3 hours.

What’s the price and group size?

The price is $2,000 per group, up to 8 people.

Where does the tour start?

The meeting point is Lorenzillo’s Blvd, Blvd. Lázaro Cárdenas S/N, Centro, 23450 Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico.

What water activities are included?

Kayak, paddleboard, floating mat, and snorkel equipment are included.

Is food and drinks included?

Yes. You get snacks and lunch, plus an open bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (including juices) and mixers. Soda/pop and bottled water are also included.

What alcoholic drinks are available?

The open bar includes rum, tequila, vodka, beer, juices (orange, pineapple, cranberry), and mixers for drinks like margaritas.

Is there an option to upgrade food?

Yes. Chicken/meat fajitas and ceviche upgrades are listed for an extra $19.90 per person (confirm in advance). Top-shelf bottles are also available for purchase.

Can minors be on the boat and how does alcohol work?

Alcohol is allowed only for passengers 18 years old and above.

What’s the cancellation policy if weather is bad?

You can cancel for free, and the experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.