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VIP Afternoon Aboard the 38 Foot Azimut: Sail, Snorkel, and Spot Sea Lions

VIP Afternoon Aboard the 38 Foot Azimut: Sail, Snorkel, and Spot Sea Lions

Approx. $1,700 USD • 3 Hours • All Ages

Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur
By Eric Crews
boat charters, water activities, fishing, wildlife natureNovemberwinter

You push off from Cabo San Lucas marina and the city’s chatter shrinks into a smear of color. The bow of the 38 Foot Azimut cuts the glassy Sea of Cortez as the sun throws a last generous arc over Land’s End. Rock faces—scarred, vertical, impossible—rise like set pieces, and somewhere beyond them a colony of sea lions barks the afternoon into life. In three hours this private yacht compresses the best of Los Cabos: sculpted geology, warm water, curious wildlife, and the slow comfort of a good boat with an open bar.

Trail Wisdom

Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect your skin and local marine life—regular sunscreen can harm coral and fish life.

Pack a Dry Bag

Keep phones, wallets, and cameras dry during transfers and while snorkeling.

Eat Light Before Snorkeling

A light meal keeps you comfortable in board and underwater; the charter provides ceviche onboard.

Consider Motion Remedies

If you get seasick, take prevention (patch or pills) before boarding—the sea can roll unexpectedly.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Pelican Rock snorkel site — a lively reef with good visibility
  • Sunset at the western end of Médano Beach for fewer crowds and dramatic light

Wildlife

California sea lions, Seasonal humpback whales (winter)

Conservation Note

Respect the marine environment: use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching reefs or wildlife, and follow crew guidance to minimize anchoring damage.

Cabo San Lucas began as a small fishing village; its dramatic Land’s End formations have guided mariners for centuries.

Seasonal Guide

spring

Best for: Calm waters for snorkeling, Wildlife viewing — young marine life, Shoulder-season pricing

Challenges: Variable winds, Occasional spring swell

Spring offers warming water and active sea life; expect good snorkeling with occasional choppy afternoons.

summer

Best for: Warmest water temperatures, Long daylight for afternoon trips, Excellent visibility for snorkeling

Challenges: Higher heat and sun exposure, Occasional afternoon winds

Summer is best for comfortable water temps and visibility—take sun protection and hydrate well.

fall

Best for: Fewer crowds, Warm water lingering, Spectacular light for photography

Challenges: Hurricane season tail risk early fall, Changing wind patterns

Fall can be quieter and photogenic but monitor storm advisories during peak hurricane months.

winter

Best for: Whale watching (seasonal), Cool, clear air, Stable boating conditions

Challenges: Cooler air and water, Higher demand for charters

Winter brings whales and clear light; dress in layers and book in advance for holiday periods.

Photographer's Notes

Aim for golden hour near Land’s End for warm light on granite. Use a polarizing filter to cut glare on the water and get clearer shots of submerged life. Keep equipment in a dry bag, and use a fast shutter for action shots of sea lions and splashing water. If flying a drone, check local regulations and stay well clear of wildlife.

What to Bring

Reef-safe sunscreenEssential

Protects skin and the marine environment while you’re exposed on deck or snorkeling.

Non-marking deck shoesEssential

Provides grip on wet decks and protects boat finish when boarding and disembarking.

Lightweight windbreaker

Keeps you comfortable against bow wind, especially in cooler months.

Dry bag or waterproof phone caseEssential

Protects electronics during transfers, snorkeling, and while relaxing on deck.

Common Questions

Are children allowed on this charter?

Yes — the trip is family-friendly and suitable for all ages; life jackets are provided and the crew is experienced with families.

Is fishing gear included?

Yes — light fishing gear is included; check with the crew for local catch limits and regulations.

Can I extend the charter beyond three hours?

Often yes — extensions depend on availability and fuel; request additional time at booking or ask the captain the day of the trip.

What should I do about sea sickness?

Take a preventive remedy before boarding if you’re prone to motion sickness; ginger or motion patches work well for many people.

Are gratuities included?

No — crew gratuities are not included in the price and are customary if service is excellent.

Is transportation from the airport included?

Transportation is not included but can usually be arranged upon booking for an extra fee.

What to Pack

Swimsuit (for snorkeling), reef-safe sunscreen (protects reefs), dry bag (keeps valuables safe), non-marking deck shoes (grip and boat-safe)

Did You Know

Explorer Jacques Cousteau called the Sea of Cortez 'the aquarium of the world' for its extraordinary biodiversity—a phrase often used to describe this marine region.

Quick Travel Tips

1) Fly into Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) and allow 45–60 minutes to the marina; 2) Book winter whale-season charters early; 3) Bring cash for tips and small purchases; 4) Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.

Local Flavor

After the cruise, eat fresh ceviche at a marina-side restaurant or head to The Office on Médano Beach for drinks with sand between your toes; for classic Baja flair try Edith’s for grilled seafood and margaritas.

Logistics Snapshot

Closest airport: Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) ~45–60 min drive; Driving distance from town: Marina is in downtown Cabo San Lucas; Cell service: reliable near marina, variable offshore; Permits/passes: operator has required permits and insurance — no guest permits needed.

Sustainability Note

This area is ecologically sensitive—use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching marine life, and follow crew instructions to minimize disturbance to sea lion colonies and reefs.

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