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Private Santa Maria Preserve Snorkel Charter

Guided

Duration: 4 hours

Features

Private
Free Cancellation
On the Water
Beginner Friendly
Kid Friendly
Wildlife
Instant Book
Locally Owned
$2,600 Full Day - 45’ SeaRay Private Yacht Charter
(Includes 1 - 6 passengers • Additional passengers are $75/person • 12 people max)
$4,792 Full Day - 63' Seavana Private Yacht Charter
(Price includes 10 passengers)
$10,000 Full Day - 85’ Viking Princess Private Yacht Charter
(Includes 1 - 10 passengers • Additional passengers are $150/person • 25 people max)
$1,300 Half Day - 45' SeaRay Private Yacht Charter
(Includes 1 - 6 passengers • Additional passengers are $75/person • 12 people max)
$2,396 Half Day - 63' Seavana Private Yacht Charter
(Price includes 10 passengers)
$5,000 Half Day - 85’ Viking Princess Private Yacht Charter
(Includes 1 - 10 passengers • Additional passengers are $150/person • 25 people max)

Description

Snorkel the Santa Maria Preserve on a Private Yacht!

Discover the beauty of snorkeling in the Santa Maria Marine Preserve, a hidden gem in Cabo San Lucas. This protected cove is renowned for its calm, crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for snorkeling enthusiasts of all skill levels. Santa Maria stands out as one of the best snorkeling spots in the region thanks to its thriving underwater ecosystem, featuring colorful coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, playful rays, and even the occasional sea turtle. The area's protected status ensures pristine conditions and abundant marine life that’s unmatched by other local snorkeling spots.

Unlike busier locations, Santa Maria offers a serene environment where you can immerse yourself in the underwater world without the crowds. The rocky reef formations along the bay’s edges create a haven for marine creatures and provide a dynamic snorkeling experience. Whether you’re spotting angelfish darting through the coral or observing the graceful movements of rays gliding across the sandy bottom, every moment in Santa Maria’s waters is unforgettable.
This private yacht charter elevates your snorkeling adventure with personalized attention and luxury. With your own yacht and professional crew, you’ll arrive at Santa Maria in comfort and style, equipped with high-quality snorkeling gear to explore the bay at your own pace. Choose Santa Maria for a snorkeling experience that combines stunning marine biodiversity, calm waters, and an exclusive, private setting.
The way this booking works is to choose a half or full day cruise, followed by selecting a yacht depending on availability for your date. Each yacht has different features and maximum occupancy listed below!

Yacht Option

85’ Viking Princess Private Yacht

Our 85’ Viking Princess Sport’s Cruiser is a three story gorgeous yacht ideal for intimate family charters or larger groups looking to snorkel! Highlights include: 
  • Maximum Capacity: 25 passengers
  • Price includes from 1 to 12 passengers and additional guests will be an additional fee.
  • High speed wifi
  • 4 staterooms
  • 5 heads
  • Crew quarters
  • Fully equipped galley
  • Professional quality sound system with JL audio speakers
  • DJ input
  • Dinghy with davit

63’ Seavana Private Yacht

Our 63’ Seavana Luxury Private yacht is a sleek and modern yacht ideal for soaking up the sun after snorkeling the bay. Highlights include:

  • Maximum Capacity: 20 passengers
  • Price includes from 1 to 10 passengers and additional guests will be an additional fee.
  • Equipment for snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding
  • 3 staterooms
  • 3 heads
  • Fully equipped galley
  • Professional fishing equipment
  • Bluetooth surround systems
  • High speed wifi

45' SeaRay Private Yacht

Our 45' SeaRay 390 motor yacht is the perfect vessel for most of your Cabo yacht charter needs! Highlights include:
  • Maximum Capacity: 15 passengers
  • Price includes from 1 to 6 passengers and additional guests will be an additional fee.
  • 2 State Rooms
  • Full Galley
  • 2 Heads
  • Bluetooth Surround Sound System
  • Comfortable Salon
  • Cockpit with Dining Area
  • Extended Swim Platform
  • All inclusive food and beverages (optional to add private chef)

Duration of Adventure

  • Full Day Charters: 8 Hours
  • Half Day Charters: 4 Hours

Location / Where to Meet

  1. Lote M 18, De La Darsena, 23450 Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico

Ages & Requirements

  • Children 17 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
  • Age restrictions may vary depending on the type of yacht and the charter company. Some charters may not allow children under a certain age or may require that children wear life jackets at all times.

What’s Included

  • Snorkel Gear (Mask, Snorkel, Fins) 
  • Snorkel & Dive Instructions
  • Professional Captain & Crew
  • Private Yacht Charter
  • Life Vest as needed
  • Other items are included depending on your charter selection

Not Included

  • Gratuity - Never expected but if you have a great experience, please consider gifting 10-25% to your guide and captains!
  • If you need a prescription mask, please rent from a dive shop ahead of your tour time!

What to Bring / Wear

  • Swimsuit
  • Towel
  • Reef-Safe Sunscreen
  • Extra layers of clothing - sweatshirts and warm hats
  • Dry bag
  • Snacks & Water
  • Required paperwork - Signed medical form if required, waivers, etc.
  • Waterproof Camera - The company is not responsible for any damaged or lost items.
  • Please remove any jewelry, watches, or anything that can get damaged by water or you don’t want to lose.

Wildlife Guidelines

Please be respectful of the fact that coral is a living organism and any standing, touching, or knocking over will irreparably damage the organism that takes a very long time to grow and is essential to our marine reefs. Please also be respectful of any marine animals including but not limited to turtles, rays, sharks, seals, and dolphins. Please never chase, harass, feed, or TOUCH any of the marine species. Enjoy their company if they approach from a distance and calmly move away from them if in their path.

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Best Cabo Yachts, LLC

FAQs

What sunscreen can I use and why does it matter?

Common sunscreens contain chemicals that can harm coral reefs, as the particles are small enough to be absorbed by corals, causing toxicity and coral bleaching. Reef-friendly sunscreens are formulated without these harmful chemicals. Reef-SAFE sunscreens go a step further by using non-nano particles, which are too large for corals to ingest, helping to preserve marine ecosystems. 

Please avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens. Consider wearing sun-protective clothing, like long-sleeve rash guards, as an alternative to sunscreen. If you choose a mineral-based sunscreen, ensure it is labeled ‘non-nano.’

Can I snorkel if I wear glasses?

Standard eyeglasses can’t be worn with a snorkel mask, but you can find prescription masks at dive shops in Cabo. Please look into getting a prescription mask if needed before your tour with a dive shop. Alternatively, contact lenses can be worn under a snorkel mask, though it’s best to close your eyes if water enters to prevent losing a lens.

Can you go underwater with a snorkel?

Yes, snorkels allow you to breathe with your face in the water at the surface. If you’d like to dive down, though, water will enter the snorkel, so you’ll need to hold your breath until you resurface. Once back at the surface, you can clear the snorkel by blowing out the air in your mouth hard. That should clear the snorkel, but if it doesn’t, tread the water, remove the snorkel from your mouth, and dump the mouthpiece out.

Why book a private charter for snorkeling?

When you charter a private yacht with us, you can be rest assured that you’ll be in the hands of experienced professionals. The crew is trained in all aspects of water safety and is well-versed in the best snorkeling and scuba diving spots in the area.

They will guide you through every step of the way, ensuring that you have a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or going for the first-time, the crew will be there to assist you and answer any questions you may have.

What marine life might I see in Santa Maria Preserve?

In the Santa Maria Marine Preserve, you’ll have the opportunity to encounter an impressive variety of marine life, thanks to its status as a protected cove. Here are some of the specific species you might spot:

  • Tropical Fish: Santa Maria’s coral reef is teeming with vibrant tropical fish, including angelfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, sergeant majors, and damselfish. Schools of yellowtail surgeonfish and Moorish idols are also common in these waters.
  • Rays: Keep an eye out for spotted eagle rays and cow-nosed rays gliding gracefully over the sandy sea floor.
  • Sea Turtles: While not guaranteed, sightings of hawksbill or green sea turtles are possible as they occasionally swim through the preserve.
  • Eels: You might catch a glimpse of a moray eel peeking out from the rocky crevices.
  • Crustaceans: Lobsters and hermit crabs can sometimes be seen scuttling among the rocks.
  • Invertebrates: Colorful sea stars, sea urchins, and anemones cling to the reef and rocky outcrops.
  • Occasional Visitors: During certain times of the year, larger pelagic species such as jackfish or even small reef sharks might pass through.

What types of yachts are available for charter in Cabo?

There are a variety of yachts available for charter in Cabo, including motor yachts, sailing yachts, catamarans, and luxury mega yachts.

How many people can typically be accommodated on a yacht charter in Cabo?

The number of people that can be accommodated on a yacht charter in Cabo depends on the size and type of yacht. Some yachts can accommodate small groups of 6-8 people, while others can accommodate larger groups of up to 50 people.

What is included in a typical yacht charter in Cabo?

A typical yacht charter in Cabo will typically include a captain and crew, fuel, water, ice, and soft drinks. Some charters may also include food and alcoholic beverages.

Can I bring my own food and drinks on a yacht charter in Cabo?

Yes, most yacht charters in Cabo allow guests to bring their own food and drinks. However, some charters may require that you use their catering services.

Do I need to have boating experience to charter a yacht in Cabo?

No, you do not need to have boating experience to charter a yacht in Cabo. The captain and crew will take care of all of the navigation and safety aspects of the charter.

How long can I charter a yacht in Cabo for?

You can charter a yacht in Cabo for as little as a few hours or for several days or even weeks, depending on your needs and preferences.

What activities can I do on a yacht charter in Cabo?

Some popular activities on yacht charters in Cabo include swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and exploring the local beaches and coves.

Are there any age restrictions for passengers on a yacht charter in Cabo?

Age restrictions may vary depending on the type of yacht and the charter company. Some charters may not allow children under a certain age or may require that children wear life jackets at all times.

How far in advance should I book a yacht charter in Cabo?

It is recommended to book a yacht charter in Cabo as early as possible to ensure availability, especially during peak season (December - April). It is not uncommon for charters to be fully booked months in advance.

Cancellation Policy

15 days before your charter, you can cancel without penalty in exchange for a gift card of the full amount paid. Cancellations made within 14 days results in a forfeit of the full deposit.

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Availability

May 2025

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Location

Address

Cabo San Lucas, BCS,

MX

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