La Paz: Day Cruise & Snorkelling (w/sea lions) Food & Drinks

Imagine floating on a luxurious private yacht, surrounded by crystal-clear waters, playful sea lions, and vibrant marine life. That’s exactly what this La Paz day cruise offers—an intimate, well-rounded adventure blending relaxation, wildlife encounters, and a taste of authentic coastal beauty.

Three aspects we particularly love about this experience are the personalized attention from the crew, the chance to snorkel with charismatic sea lions, and the flexibility to customize the itinerary. The inclusion of gourmet snacks and an open bar really ups the luxury factor, making it a great value for those looking to indulge a bit.
One possible challenge? The tour is only three hours long, so if you’re eager for a deep exploration or multiple stops, this might feel a little brief.
This experience is perfect for travelers wanting a private, flexible, and immersive way to enjoy La Paz’s marine environment—ideal for couples, small groups, or families wanting a curated adventure.

Good To Know

• Private yacht with personalized service offers an exclusive experience.
• Snorkeling in La Paz Bay unveils colorful fish, sea turtles, and sea lions.
• Gourmet snacks and open bar add a luxurious touch to the trip.
• Ability to tailor the itinerary means you can focus on your interests.
• Visit secluded beaches and marine parks for a peaceful escape.
• Wildlife encounters include sea lions, tropical fish, and birdlife, with opportunities for close-up views.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the La Paz Snorkeling Yacht Tour

This three-hour private cruise packs in a lot, from scenic boat rides to underwater adventures. We’ll walk through what you can expect, what makes each part special, and how to make the most of your trip.

Starting Point and Transport

Your day kicks off at Marina Palmira, a well-equipped marina with easy access and clear signage. The transfer to your private yacht is smooth, usually involving a dinghy ride to the vessel, which is a nicely maintained boat offering both comfort and stability. The private group aspect ensures you won’t be crowded or rushed, creating a more relaxed atmosphere.

The Yacht Experience

Once aboard, you’ll be greeted by a dedicated crew who focus on tailored service. The yacht itself is equipped with modern amenities, plush seating, and plenty of shade and sun spots for lounging. The light lunch and snacks are a thoughtful addition, offering Mexican-inspired treats that are both tasty and refreshing. Plus, the open bar provides water, soft drinks, juices, beer, and spirits—great for relaxing or celebrating.

Snorkeling and Wildlife Encounters

The core of this tour is the chance to snorkel in La Paz Bay’s crystal-clear waters. As one reviewer noted, “The snorkeling gear was top-notch, and I loved how easy it was to get in and out of the water.” You’ll visit a selection of carefully chosen spots like Lobera San Rafaelito and Playa Pichilingue, which are renowned for their vibrant marine life.

At Lobera San Rafaelito, you’ll enjoy a guided tour with marine life viewing, where you can spot sea lions, fish, and perhaps even turtles. One guest mentioned, “Seeing the sea lions up close and swimming with them was a highlight—I felt like I was in a National Geographic special.” The shallow waters and calm currents make snorkeling accessible even for less experienced swimmers.

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Secluded Beaches and Scenic Views

The boat cruise itself offers scenic vistas of La Paz’s coastline, mangrove forests, and the surrounding islands. Playa Pichilingue is perfect for a quick swim, and many travelers find the beaches here notably peaceful and unspoiled. Some reviews highlight the opportunity to paddleboard or relax on the water mat, making it a well-rounded day.

Wildlife and Marine Life

With the help of experienced guides, you’ll get a close-up look at local wildlife. Sea lions are frequent visitors, often swimming near the boat or basking on rocks. As one reviewer shared, “The crew even helped us get close to a sea lion colony—it was a truly memorable experience.” The bay’s abundant fish and birdlife make it a lively underwater and above-water scene.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise is carefully structured but flexible enough for your preferences:

• Start at Marina Palmira, where your adventure begins.
• 45-minute yacht ride to Lobera San Rafaelito for a guided tour, sightseeing, and snorkeling amid sea lions and marine life.
• Next, a boat cruise to Playa Pichilingue, where you can snorkel, relax, and enjoy scenic views. This stop also offers a chance for whale watching and paddleboarding, if weather permits.
• The return cruise offers a short 45-minute ride back to the marina, giving you time to unwind and reflect on your highlights.

Throughout, the crew is praised for their personalized service, with many mentioning how attentive and friendly they are. The ability to customize your stops and activities makes this tour feel tailored, rather than a cookie-cutter experience.

What’s Included and What to Bring

Inclusions are substantial: guided tours, snorkeling equipment, snacks, beverages, wildlife encounters, park fees, and a dinghy ride to and from the beaches. This all adds up to a hassle-free day where you can focus on enjoying yourself.

What to pack includes a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. Since touching marine life or plants isn’t allowed, you’ll want to respect the environment but still capture plenty of photos. The tour operates in both English and Spanish, accommodating a wide range of travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience suits those who want a luxurious, private adventure with a focus on wildlife and marine environments. It’s great for families, couples, or small groups seeking a flexible, curated day out. If you’re a non-swimmer or prone to seasickness, keep in mind the boat rides are relatively short, and the calm waters make it more manageable.

Note: It’s not suitable for babies under 1 year or those with back problems, but for most active travelers, it’s a manageable and memorable way to explore La Paz’s waters.

Practical Tips

• Book early to secure your preferred time slot, especially during peak seasons.
• Consider packing a waterproof camera or GoPro to capture underwater scenes.
• Use plenty of sunscreen and bring a hat—shade can be limited on the boat.
• Arrive promptly at Marina Palmira; the meeting point is clearly marked at dock number 3.
• If you’re interested in whale watching, check the schedule as the tour mentions the possibility, but it might depend on the season.

The Sum Up

This La Paz private yacht tour offers a balanced combination of luxury, adventure, and wildlife encounters. With the ability to customize stops and a crew dedicated to service, it’s a fantastic way to experience Baja California Sur’s marine richness without feeling rushed or crowded.

Ideal for those wanting a personalized and relaxing outing, this experience delivers excellent value through inclusive amenities, stunning scenery, and memorable wildlife moments. Whether you’re a snorkeler eager to swim with sea lions or simply a traveler seeking tranquility with a touch of exclusivity, this tour ticks many boxes.

For anyone seeking a high-quality, intimate tour focused on marine life, scenic beauty, and comfort, this day cruise fits the bill perfectly.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately three hours, starting and ending at Marina Palmira.

Is the tour private?
Yes, the experience is designed for private groups of up to 10 people, providing a personalized feel.

What is included in the price?
Guided tours, snorkeling gear, snacks, beverages, wildlife encounters, park fees, and a dinghy transfer are included.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour allows you to tailor your stops based on your preferences, making your experience more personal.

Is snorkeling suitable for non-swimmers?
While non-swimmers can participate with assistance, some comfort in water is recommended. Contact the provider for specific concerns.

Are marine life encounters guaranteed?
While wildlife sightings like sea lions and fish are common, they depend on season and conditions, but guides will do their best to maximize sightings.

Is there a chance to see whales?
Whale watching is mentioned as a potential activity, especially at Playa Pichilingue, depending on the season.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. Respect environmental guidelines by not touching marine life.

Are there any restrictions?
Smoking, touching marine life, and touching plants are not allowed. The tour isn’t suitable for babies under 1 year or those prone to seasickness.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.

This private La Paz day cruise offers a fantastic way to connect with Baja’s marine world, enjoy luxurious amenities, and create lasting memories in one of Mexico’s most scenic coastal areas.

You can check if your dates are available here: