Cruise Control
A guide to Los Cabos sunset cruises
By José Haro
You’ve orchestrated the perfect vacation, and now there’s nothing left to do but sail into the sunset. Of course, if we’re being specific, we’re talking about the Technicolor sunsets that paint the Los Cabos sky a brilliant ombré: purple, red, orange magnificence.
In Los Cabos, many of our favorite companies offer sunset cruises that tour the Cabo San Lucas Bay and venture into the vastness of the Pacific Ocean, treating guests to views of landmarks (Neptune’s Finger, Pelican Rock, and the arch at Land’s End), expansive beaches, and impressive developments like Pedregal. Dolphins, orcas, and flying rays are spotted year round, and come winter they are joined by humpbacks, gray whales, and other magnificent migrating mammals.
Here’s a look at some of our favorites. (Learn about additional activities in “The Directory,” page 56.)
The 96-foot black-and-yellow pirate-themed Buccaneer Queen (www.buccaneerloscabos.com) is an exact replica of an ancient galleon that sailed distant seas in search of adventure. Adventure seekers can still return to the ship for an evening of good times, pirate theatrics, and stunning vistas.
Known for its floating nightclub, Cabo Escape (www.wildcabotours.com) specializes in offering guests a good time. The double-decker catamaran sets sail nightly for its fajita cruise. Enjoy yummy food, an all-you-can-drink open bar, and a gregarious crew. Be prepared to dance!
There’s plenty of booty to go around in Los Cabos, which is why we have not one but two popular pirate-themed tour ships. Cabo Legend (www.wildcabotours.com) is a 100-foot twin-masted brig wooden sailing ship that can take up to 80 landlubbers out at a time. Its Yo Ho Ho sunset cruise features barbecued ribs, chicken, open bar, and all the pirate jokes you could ever ask for.
The Cabo Mar (www.pezgato.com) double-decker 65-foot catamaran offers a smooth, family-friendly sunset cruise complete with fajitas, entertainment, open bar, and friendly crew.
The triple-deck, 144-foot Caborey (www.caborey.com) catamaran offers snorkeling and whale watching, but the main attraction is its elegant dinner cruise with a fiery Argentine and Mexican floor show. Enjoy views of the picturesque Cabo San Lucas Bay as you quaff cocktails and listen to music. Then it’s time to head downstairs for a multicourse dinner (entrée options include grilled lobster in a white wine cream sauce, chateaubriand, or seabass) and immersive show with mariachi music, folkloric dancing, Argentine tango, and fire.
Cabo Sails (www.cabosails.com) company has been offering public and private charter options for more than 15 years. Boats range from 28 feet to 44 feet. Bonus: Children 12 and younger sail free.
Los Cabos legend “Captain Bob” knew he wanted to do something special when he set out to travel the world to find Eco Cat (www.ecocatcabo.com), one of the world’s largest sailing catamarans. It’s always a smooth ride as you sail past Los Cabos’ most iconic sights.
The endless drinks and delicious eats that come with Pez Gato’s sunset tour (www.pezgato.com) may be just the ticket to pair perfectly with the outfit’s legendary customer service.
The elegant and eco-friendly SunRider (www.sunridertours.com) has spacious entertainment boats available for chartered or public sunset dinner cruises. Dine on a Mexican buffet, enjoy a domestic open bar, and soak up those sunset views.
Enjoy wine, jazz, and delicious appetizers on the celebrated wine and jazz sunset cruise from Tropicat (www.pezgato.com). It’s a sophisticated affair that will entertain and charm the whole family.