Two hours, and Cabo feels personal. This private speedboat outing (Yamaha 28 ft, up to 6) brings you right around Land’s End while keeping snorkel gear ready for close-up marine life time.

I like the simple flow: one hour at El Arco de Cabo San Lucas for the famous arch views, then one hour at Medano Beach for a swim-and-photo break with drinks and snacks onboard. The one thing to consider is that in a small, fast boat, rough water can affect comfort, and the captain may adjust on the fly.

Key highlights I’d put on your short list

• Up to 6 people means it stays genuinely private—no crowding, no sharing your route.
• Yamaha 28 ft speedboat gives you quick access to Cabo’s top water views in a short time window.
• Two marquee stops: El Arco at Land’s End and Medano Beach for time in the water.
• Snorkeling equipment plus drinks are part of the deal, including beer.
• Captains run adaptive routes when conditions change; you may see different wildlife depending on the day.
• Bluetooth music is often part of the vibe, so your playlist can steer the mood.

Cabo on a Yamaha 28-Foot Private Boat: why the setup feels worth it

This is the kind of Cabo tour that works best when you want maximum view time with minimum fuss. You’re renting a private speedboat for up to 6 people, so you’re not stuck watching a schedule that’s built around other groups.

The Yamaha 28-foot size is a sweet spot for a short outing. It’s big enough to feel stable at speed, but small enough that the captain can position the boat close to the action—especially around Land’s End.

At $350 per group, the price isn’t “cheap,” but it often feels fair once you compare it to the hassle of shared tours. If you’ve got a small group (family, friends, or a couple traveling with extra flexibility), privacy becomes the value.

Meeting at Papillon Yachts: the part you can’t skip

You start and end at Papillon Yachts Rental at Blvd. Paseo de la Marina, Centro, Marina, 23450 Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico. The tour description also notes it’s near public transportation, which is useful if you’re not trying to wrangle taxis for one quick outing.

You’ll also have an air-conditioned vehicle included. That matters in Cabo, because the ride to the marina can be warm and bright. The good news: this isn’t a “wander around the port and hope” situation. The tour is set up as a full, point-to-point experience.

You’ll receive confirmation within 48 hours of booking, and it uses a mobile ticket—so you’re not juggling paper. On average, it’s booked about 14 days in advance, which tells me this is popular for short stays.

El Arco de Cabo San Lucas from the water: the famous arch stop

El Arco de Cabo San Lucas is one of those places where the pictures almost look too good. Here, you don’t just see it from a distance—you get the arch views from the water, which is where it really becomes the main character.

You’ll have about 1 hour at the stop, and admission is listed as free for this scheduled visit. That timing is good. You’re not rushing through it at the speed of a bus tour, and you’re not stuck waiting around forever either.

Two practical notes to keep your expectations right:

• If the ocean is calm, you’ll likely feel like you’re getting the “classic arch experience,” with time to reposition and enjoy the view.
• If conditions are rough, you’ll still get the arch perspective, but your comfort may depend on how motion affects you in smaller boats.

Medano Beach time: snorkel, swim, and a laid-back hour

After the arch stop, you shift to Medano Beach for another about 1 hour. This is where the trip turns from “sightseeing” to “being in Cabo.”

The plan includes snorkeling equipment, and the tour highlights also call out options like snorkel and paddleboard time (or simply hanging out and enjoying the view). Even if you don’t snorkel, this stop works because Medano is one of the most recognizable places in the area.

A key detail: drinks and snacks are part of this stretch of the day. The included list specifically covers bottled water and soda/pop in an ice cooler, plus beer. One review even mentions they played music via Bluetooth while relaxing out there—so this stop isn’t just about getting wet. It’s about enjoying the water time without turning it into a chore.

One balanced expectation to have: some people said the snack situation felt lighter than they expected, with at least one note that there were no cups or snacks beyond what they had for water. If you want a “no surprises” day, I’d treat the onboard snacks as a bonus rather than your full meal plan.

Snorkeling gear, beer, and Bluetooth: how they make two hours feel longer

The included extras help the trip feel social, not strictly tour-mode. You get:

• Bottled water
• Soda/pop with ice
• Snorkeling equipment
• Beer (alcoholic beverages)

That combination matters because it supports the whole rhythm. You can snorkel, take a break, and come back without trying to find a store or deal with “bring your own everything” stress.

Another fun detail that shows up in the experience: people often bring their own music and play it over the boat’s Bluetooth speaker. If you’re the kind of group that likes a playlist for the ride, this is a big part of the charm.

Also, there’s an upgrade path. The tour notes mention top shelf bottles available for purchase either onboard or in advance. So if your group drinks higher-end stuff, you don’t feel blocked—you just pay extra.

And if you’re wondering about your own supplies: at least a couple reviews mention bringing extra liquor and snacks. That’s a practical workaround if your group wants a more “picnic on the water” feel.

How the captain’s style changes the day (Goose, Eddy, Adan, Alberto, Adam)

What makes this tour stand out isn’t only the route—it’s how the captain runs the day. Several reviews describe captains who ask what you want early and then steer the experience around that.

For example:

• Captain Goose is praised for taking people to see whales, adjusting when conditions changed, and also choosing safe swimming areas when kids wanted time in the water.
• Eddy is mentioned as attentive with timing and willing to match preferences—like spending more time near the arch.
• Captains Adan and Alberto come up for personable service, good pacing, and helping people relax while still seeing the major sights.
• Adam is noted for bringing guests to nice swimming areas and even adjusting routes for someone who felt queasy by choosing a less wavy return.

That last point is worth underlining: in a fast boat, comfort can vary. If anyone in your group gets motion-sensitive, tell the captain early. One review specifically highlights route changes to help someone feel better.

Extra costs to watch: photos, dock fees, and what’s not included

Most of what you care about is included, including snorkeling gear and drinks. Still, a few add-ons can surprise people if you assume everything is bundled.

Here’s what to plan for:

• Lunch is not included. This is only mentioned as not included, but it’s the big one. If your outing stretches your appetite, bring a plan.
• Upgraded top shelf bottles are available for purchase. If your group wants premium alcohol, budget for it.
• Photos may cost extra. One review notes there’s an option to pay extra for photos.
• A very specific dock-related cost came up: one person mentioned a $1 per person charge to enter the dock, paid in cash. It’s not listed in the main inclusions, so it’s smart to keep a few bills on hand just in case.

If you’re driving or parking near the marina, there’s also a review that mentions $2 per hour parking. That won’t apply to everyone, but it’s useful if you’re not using the included transfer.

Value math: when $350 per group feels like a smart move

Let’s talk value without hype. This tour is $350 per group up to 6 for about 2 hours. If you split that among even four people, the per-person cost drops fast, and you gain something that shared group tours can’t offer: control.

You’re paying for:

• A smaller boat experience
• A private route tailored to your pace
• Time at the two big Cabo water landmarks
• Drinks and snorkeling gear included

If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, it can still work, but the price is really best when you can fill seats with your group.

This is also a strong option for a short Cabo stay. If you only have a half day to spare and you want to see Land’s End plus real water time, two hours is a manageable hit. You’re not stuck committing your whole day to a single activity.

Who should book this private boat rental in Cabo?

This tour fits best when you want privacy and flexibility in a short timeframe.

It’s a great match for:

• Families who want a safer, controlled “own boat” feel, with time to swim and snorkel when conditions allow
• Couples looking for a memorable Cabo outing without long travel logistics
• Small groups of friends who want music, drinks, and a ride that doesn’t feel rushed by crowds

It’s also popular for people who like a mix: sightseeing at the arch plus a genuine water break at Medano Beach.

The tour notes say most travelers can participate, which lines up with the broad family mix in the experience stories. Just remember: snorkeling and swimming are optional, and comfort on the water matters most in a smaller speedboat.

Practical tips that make your day smoother

These are small things, but they pay off:

• Tell the captain what you care about. One review highlights that Captain Goose asked what guests wanted right at the beginning, and the day was shaped around it.
• If someone gets queasy, say so early. One rider mentioned the captain changed the route to reduce the wave motion on the return.
• Bring cash for potential dock fees if you want to avoid a scramble. One review cites a $1 per person dock entry charge paid in cash.
• Expect add-ons for photos. If the crew takes pictures for you, it may not be free.
• Consider your snack plan. Snacks are described as complimentary, but at least one review said only water/snacks were minimal. If your group is snack-heavy, bring your own.
• Use your phone, not just your memory. Music via Bluetooth is common on these trips, and it can be helpful to have a charged device ready for your playlist.

Should you book this private Yamaha 28-foot speedboat?

I’d book it if your goal is a short, private, on-the-water Cabo experience that hits both Land’s End and Medano Beach. The mix of snorkeling equipment, drinks (including beer), and a focused two-hour route makes it feel efficient without turning it into a rushed checklist.

Skip it or at least go in with eyes open if:

• Your group is highly sensitive to motion. Small speedboats can feel lively on rough water.
• You’re expecting a full day with lunch included and zero extra costs. Lunch isn’t included, and a few add-ons like photos or dock-related fees may appear depending on the day.

If your group can handle a fast boat ride and you want privacy for a couple hours, this is the kind of Cabo outing that tends to stick in your memory—arch views, water time, and the freedom to enjoy your own rhythm.

FAQ

How long is the small boat rental in Cabo?

It runs for about 2 hours.

What is the price and group size limit?

The price is $350 per group, up to 6 people.

What locations do we visit?

You’ll stop at El Arco de Cabo San Lucas and Medano Beach.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

What drinks are included onboard?

Bottled water, soda/pop with ice, and beer (alcoholic beverages) are included.

Are admission tickets included for El Arco and Medano Beach?

Admission is listed as free for the scheduled visit at El Arco de Cabo San Lucas.

Where do we meet for the tour?

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

Is this a private tour?

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

When do I get confirmation after booking?

Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

What’s not included in the price?

Lunch is not included, and there are also options to buy upgraded top shelf bottles on board.