Puerto Peñasco Boat Tours 2025: Your Ultimate Guide to Sea Adventures
Set sail from Puerto Peñasco (also known as Rocky Point) and experience the Sea of Cortez like never before. Whether you're looking for a relaxing sunset cruise, a chance to snorkel with sea lions at Bird Island, thrilling fishing action, or a seasonal whale-watching encounter, there’s a perfect boat tour waiting for you in 2025.
Puerto Peñasco is just a 4- to 5-hour drive from Phoenix and Tucson, making it a favorite weekend and vacation destination for travelers across the Southwest. The town’s small size keeps tours personal, while its location offers access to incredible marine wildlife and stunning scenery. Here’s what’s available this year.
1. Rocky Point Sunset Cruise: Unwind with Stunning Views
These cruises are all about good vibes—calm waters, music, margaritas, and glowing skies. The sun dips over the Baja Peninsula horizon while dolphins, sea lions, and (in season) even whales may show up along the way. Most cruises include music, light snacks, and a domestic open bar. The vibe is laid back, but the views are unforgettable.
Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours, some afternoon options available.
Perfect for: Couples, groups, families, and anyone looking to relax.
2025 pricing guide (average):
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Adults: $27 – $33 USD
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Kids (4–12): $12 – $17 USD
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Children (0–3): Usually free (confirm with operator)
Included: Open bar with beer, soda, water, margaritas; snacks; music.
Reputable operators:
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Santiago’s Ocean Services
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Rey Del Mar (pirate-style ship)
2. Bird Island (Isla San Jorge) Tour: A Wildlife Sanctuary Adventure
A must-do if you love nature. These 5- to 6-hour tours take you to a protected island rich with marine life. Bird Island is home to one of the largest sea lion colonies in the Sea of Cortez and over 20 species of migratory birds like boobies, pelicans, and frigatebirds. Many tours include snorkeling near sea lions, kayaking, and relaxing on deck.
Perfect for: Families, wildlife lovers, snorkelers, and active travelers.
2025 pricing guide (average):
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Adults: $108 – $119 USD
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Kids (3–15): $70 – $105 USD
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Children (0–2): $25 – $30 USD (usually covers safety gear)
Included: Lunch, open bar (beer, water, soda), snorkeling gear, kayaks (varies by operator), music.
Reputable operators:
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Santiago’s Ocean Services
3. Whale Watching in Puerto Peñasco: Witness Marine Giants (Seasonal: Jan–Mar)
Every winter, massive gray and fin whales migrate through the Sea of Cortez—and Puerto Peñasco is perfectly positioned to witness this epic journey. On a good day, you’ll spot breaching, spy-hopping, or mother-and-calf pairs. While some sightings happen near shore, boat tours give you the best chance for respectful close-up views.
Duration: 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on the operator.
Perfect for: Wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, families.
2025 pricing guide (average):
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Adults: $58 – $65 USD
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Kids (4–12): $32 – $48 USD
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Children (0–3): Usually free (check per operator)
Included: Open bar (beer, water, soda), snacks, experienced guides and spotters.
Pro tips: Bring layers, sunscreen, non-slip shoes, and binoculars. Mornings can be cool and breezy.
Reputable operators:
4. Fishing in Puerto Peñasco: Angler’s Paradise
The Sea of Cortez is a fishing haven. Charter boats take you to rich spots near Bird Island or offshore waters where you might catch everything from sierra mackerel and grouper to dorado or even marlin. Many charter operators include bait, tackle, fishing licenses, and fish cleaning.
You can also fish from shore at El Malecón or from local beaches and estuaries—just check tide charts and local rules.
Perfect for: Beginner and experienced anglers, groups, adventure seekers.
2025 pricing: Varies widely depending on group size, trip length (half or full day), season, and boat size.
Pro tips: Morning trips offer the calmest waters and best catches. Confirm all inclusions—licenses, bait, rods, snacks—when booking.
Reputable charter operators:
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Santiago’s Ocean Services
Before You Go: What to Know for 2025 Tours
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Booking: Contact operators directly for updated schedules, prices, and what’s included.
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What to Bring: Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, a jacket (it’s cooler on the water), motion sickness meds, cash for tips.
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Border Tip: If you’re driving from the U.S., make sure you have valid Mexican auto insurance.
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Accessibility: Some boats are more accessible than others—ask ahead if you have mobility needs.
Explore More of Puerto Peñasco in 2025
Boat tours are just the beginning. While you're in town, check out:
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The best beaches for swimming and sunsets
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Puerto Peñasco’s top golf courses
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Land and desert adventures like ATVs and dune tours
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Local food spots from taco stands to high-end seafood
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Upcoming events and festivals (check our Events Calendar)
Puerto Peñasco is one of the most accessible ocean escapes for travelers from Arizona, Southern California, and beyond. These boat tours give you a deeper, more personal look at one of Mexico’s most vibrant coastlines.