El Arco frames your cast, and that mix of scenery plus fishing makes this charter fun. I really like the chance to fish with an English-speaking crew and the fact that rods and equipment are provided, so you can show up ready. One drawback to plan for up front: the $20 USD fishing license per person is not included, so your real cost will be a bit higher than the base price.

From the marina, you’re out for about 5 hours on the Pacific, with a crew that runs five fishing lines and you have a restroom and ice on board. It’s also a private setup for your group, but note the operator’s COVID update can limit you to 3 passengers even if the listing says up to 4.

Key things to know before you go

• Private group time: you’re on your own boat, not stuck in a mixed crowd
• Landmark route: you’ll pass Cabo San Lucas Arch and Lovers Beach on the way out
• Gear included: fishing rods and equipment are provided, plus ice and a restroom onboard
• Budget for extras: fishing license is $20 USD per person, live bait costs more
• Outcome is luck: you can catch a lot, or catch nothing, even with a hard-working crew

Setting out from Muelle Norte, puerta 3

This charter leaves from the Cabo San Lucas marina area, with the meeting point listed at Muelle Norte, puerta 3. That matters because Cabo has multiple docks and lots of people moving around, and the biggest frustration I see with boats in this area is not the fishing itself, it’s finding the right spot at the right time.

Plan to arrive early, ideally with a little buffer. You’ll likely get a mobile ticket after booking, so have your phone ready. Also double-check the boat assignment and any pier instructions before you walk down to the dock. Some passengers have described confusion around directions and pier-door details, so your best move is to confirm the exact door and boat info in advance, not when you are already standing there.

One more practical note: the operator states the “COVID-19 update” allows only 3 passengers uploading, even though the group size is otherwise described as up to 4. If you’re traveling as a group, treat that as a real headcount limit when you plan.

The five-hour Pacific route, El Arco and Lovers Beach views

What makes this trip feel like more than just “go fish” is the water ride. You leave the marina and, along the way, you pass major Cabo sights like Cabo San Lucas Arch (El Arco) and Lovers Beach. The cruise angle is especially good for photos because you’re right there on the water looking at the coastline and rock formations as you get oriented.

There’s also mention of seeing a sea lion colony during the route. Even if your goal is pure fishing, these quick sightseeing moments help you get the day’s momentum early. And because this is about 5 hours total, you do not waste your whole trip only moving around without context. You’re out, you’re seeing things, and then you fish.

Stop 1 is described as El Arco de Cabo San Lucas, which signals that you’re heading to classic fishing country right away. The downside is that the exact fishing result still depends on conditions. Cabo can be great, but it can also be spotty, and the crew can only react based on what they find.

Price and logistics: what you pay for, and what you don’t

The headline price is $550 USD per group (up to 4) for about 5 hours. That can be good value for a private half day because you’re paying for boat time plus an experienced crew, not just a seat. But the best way to judge value is to look at the extras that are clearly not included.

Here’s what to budget for based on the stated inclusions and exclusions:

• Fishing license: $20 USD per person (not included)
• Live bait: $30 USD if needed (not included)
• Fish cleaning: not included
• Food and drinks: not included
• Crew gratuities: not included, but they are greatly appreciated
• Transportation/pick-up: not included
• Disembark or pier fees: not listed as included, and some passengers have reported small extra charges at the pier, so keep a few extra dollars on you

If you want the math to be simple, assume you will also pay for at least the license for everyone on board. Then decide if you want to buy live bait during the trip. If you skip live bait, you might still fish, but you should expect the crew to choose lures and bait options based on what’s working that day.

One more thing I think you’ll appreciate: ice is included on board, and there is a restroom. That turns a windy, salty day into something more comfortable, especially if you plan to bring your own water and snacks.

Crew and gear: why this charter lives or dies on the hands aboard

The most consistently praised part of this experience is the crew. People describe captains and mates as friendly, helpful, and focused. Names that showed up in feedback include Capt Alberto and Antonio, praised for being fluent in English and knowing the area. Another captain mentioned is Captain Charlie, described as determined and careful with rules around staff conduct.

Here’s why that matters in practical terms. Fishing trips are physical and messy. You want a captain who can:

• adjust the approach quickly when bites slow down,
• keep multiple lines running efficiently (this boat has five lines),
• change bait and lures when conditions demand it,
• and keep the experience positive even when the fish are stubborn.

On the gear side, feedback highlights good condition rods and fishing equipment. Since rods and equipment are included, you’re not stuck with random, worn tools that make it harder to feel confident casting or reeling in.

Still, I would not ignore the negative notes about clarity. Some people reported that meeting instructions felt vague, that they were not given clear boat names or captain names at the pier, and that directions led to delays. That’s not a fishing-physics issue. It’s a planning issue, and it can be prevented with one simple step: confirm the exact boat name and door with the operator before you arrive.

What the fishing is like when the fish are in the mood

Deep sea fishing off Cabo is a “sport” experience, not a guaranteed catch. Some trips produce big wins like marlin and dorado, and other days can be light. That’s not a failure of the crew. It’s marine conditions.

I like how this charter is described as a real fishing operation: a crew experienced in finding fish, running multiple lines, and working the water actively during the 5 hours. In strong days, the pattern looks like this:

• the crew puts you on the right spots,
• they keep changing bait and tactics until something takes,
• and they help you land and handle the catch.

In weaker days, you may feel the same crew effort but still not get bites. One piece of advice from the real-world feedback: certain months can be slower. Late March was mentioned as less consistent, and May was described as particularly challenging unless you treat it as an expensive water-view day. If your dates are flexible, I’d consider choosing a time when you’ve heard more consistent bite reports for Cabo. If your dates are fixed, then go in with the right mindset: you’re paying for the hunt, not only the trophy.

Also, consider what you’re fishing for. The trip is set up as deep sea sport fishing, with tactics that might include using live bait if a marlin or specific species is around. The crew can guide you on bait choice, but you should be ready to pay the $30 live bait add-on if you decide to go all-in that day.

After you fish: cooking your catch and the extra costs to expect

A big part of the appeal is that you can have your catch cooked at a local restaurant afterward. That’s an excellent idea because it turns the trip into an actual meal, not just photos on the boat.

But there are two practical cautions. First, fish cleaning is not included, which can affect how the restaurant experience works. Second, food and drinks are not included, so don’t assume snacks are waiting for you during the day.

So here’s what I’d do: when you book, ask what happens after the catch. Confirm whether cleaning is handled by a third party and what you should expect to pay. Then bring a basic plan for the day’s calories: water, snacks, and anything you’d want to eat after you return.

That way, you get the best of both worlds: you keep your focus on fishing during the trip, and you avoid the scramble afterward.

The value question: is $550 a fair deal for your group?

At $550 per group, this charter can be a smart buy if you’re traveling with 2 to 4 people and you really want the private experience. You’re not sharing boat time with strangers, and you get the full attention of the crew for your group. For many people, that alone is worth it, especially if you care about having an English-speaking captain and mate.

But value depends on how many people are actually allowed. With the operator’s COVID update limiting to 3 passengers, the cost per person can rise if you were planning on a full four-seat group. If you have three in your group, you’re closer to the price-per-person that feels typical for private Cabo fishing. If you have four, double-check how the operator will handle it on your date.

Then add the known extras:

• $20 per person for the fishing license
• possible $30 live bait
• fish cleaning if you want it handled
• tips (not included, but expected)
• food and drinks (not included)

When you total it up, the trip is still often worth it for the private boat time and the chance at a memorable catch. Just keep your budget realistic so surprises do not ruin the day.

One more value factor: communication. Several issues reported revolve around meeting point confusion and unclear breakdowns of fees. You can protect yourself by doing a quick prep checklist:

• confirm the pier door and boat details before you go,
• bring cash for the fishing license and any bait choices,
• and ask for a clear explanation of what each payment is for.

Should you book this Cabo deep sea fishing charter?

I’d book this charter if you want a private half-day deep sea fishing experience with gear included, a restroom and ice onboard, and a crew that has a strong track record for being friendly and effective. It’s especially a good fit for families and groups who want both the water views around El Arco and Lovers Beach and the chance to land a serious fish.

I would hesitate or at least go in extra prepared if:

• your dates are in a season you know can be inconsistent for Cabo fishing,
• you hate paperwork and variable costs, since the license and bait are add-ons, and
• you are the type who needs crystal-clear pier directions and named captains in advance, because meeting confusion has shown up in real-world experiences.

If you do book, bring your own snacks and water plan, keep cash handy for the $20 license, and confirm the exact boat and pier door details ahead of time. Do that, and you give yourself the best shot at a day that feels smooth, not stressful.

FAQ

How long is the deep sea fishing charter in Cabo San Lucas?

The trip runs for about 5 hours.

How many people can be on the charter?

The offer is described as up to 4 people per group, but there is also a COVID-19 update stating only 3 passengers may upload. You should plan around that limit.

What’s included in the price?

Included items are the crew (captain and first sailor), safety equipment and a first aid kit, a restroom on board, fishing rods and equipment, and ice on board.

Is the fishing license included?

No. The fishing license costs $20 USD per person.

Is live bait included?

No. Live bait is available for an additional $30 USD.

Is food and drinks provided?

No. Food and drinks are not included. You’ll want to bring your own or plan to buy something separately.