Private Catamaran, 4.5 Hours, Light Meal

Overview

Blue Dolphin Sailing runs this private catamaran trip out of Tamarindo, and the whole boat is yours for four and a half hours. The sail leaves from El Chiringuito and heads up the Costa Rican coast, with the crew pointing out marine life along the way. Dolphins, sea turtles, manta rays and whales are all possibilities, though sightings depend on the day.

Once the catamaran anchors in a cove, the focus shifts to the water. Snorkel gear, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are all on board and included, so guests can rotate between them or stay on deck. A light meal is served at whatever point in the trip the group prefers, and drinks flow for the whole outing, with beer, cocktails, spirits and wine plus options for younger passengers.

Because the boat is private, this suits travellers who want the tour to themselves and want to set their own pace. There is no hotel pickup, so everyone makes their own way to the meeting point at El Chiringuito. The return leg doubles as a sunset sail when the timing lines up, and the trip ends back where it started.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Meet at El ChiringuitoThe group gathers at El Chiringuito in Tamarindo, Guanacaste. There is no hotel pickup with this tour.
2. Boarding and briefingWelcome refreshments are served and the crew runs a safety briefing before departure.
3. Coastal sailThe catamaran sails along the Pacific coast with guided commentary, scenic views and marine life and wildlife viewing on the way.
4. Cove activitiesIn a secluded bay, guests can swim, snorkel, kayak and stand-up paddleboard with the equipment provided.
5. Light meal onboardA light meal is served at the time the group chooses, with youth and adult beverages available throughout the journey.
6. Sunset sail backThe return leg offers sunset views before the boat arrives back at El Chiringuito.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points help this trip run smoothly, from what to pack to how the day is structured.

• Getting there. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan transport to El Chiringuito in Tamarindo yourself. The trip also ends at the same spot.
• Bring your own. Sunscreen and towels are not included, so pack both. The listing carries no other bring list, so anything beyond that is each guest's own call.
• Food and drink. A light meal is included, served at a time the group picks, and the open bar covers beer, cocktails, spirits and wine along with youth drinks. It is a light meal rather than a full dinner, so plan an evening meal afterwards if that matters. Tipping is not included, and the listing recommends budgeting for one.
• Pace and fitness. The water activities are all optional. Guests can snorkel, kayak and paddleboard, or stay on deck and relax the entire time.
• Wildlife luck. The listing highlights possible sightings of whales, dolphins, manta rays and turtles. None of these are guaranteed on any given day. Treat them as a bonus rather than the reason for booking.
• Group feel. This is a private charter, so the group sets the tone. That means flexibility on when to eat and how long to stay in the water. Smoking and pets are not allowed on board.

Common issues. The main limitations come straight from the listing. Sunscreen and towels are not provided, and tips are excluded, with the operator recommending 15% to 20%. There is no hotel pickup, so transport to El Chiringuito is on each guest. Pets, smoking, mobility scooters, electric wheelchairs and unaccompanied minors are not permitted, and travellers using mobility devices should check directly with the operator before booking. Wildlife sightings depend on conditions and cannot be promised.

Common Questions