Private Snorkel Boat, Photos Included

Overview

Pura Dive runs this four-hour private snorkeling trip straight off Tamarindo Beach, and the whole boat belongs to your group. There is no mixing with strangers. The crew sets the route on the day based on visibility, ocean conditions, and how confident everyone in the party is in the water.

Strong swimmers may be taken toward the Catalina Islands area when conditions allow, which is the more offshore option. When the sea does not cooperate, the crew picks a closer and calmer stretch of water instead, so the day still works for mixed-ability families. Gear, snacks, and drinks come with the tour, and underwater photos are taken for you and handed over at no extra charge. Drone video and photos are also offered as an optional extra.

The trip suits couples, families, and groups of friends who want a flexible pace and route rather than a fixed schedule on a shared vessel. No snorkeling experience is needed. One reviewer reported sightings of fish, a ray, dolphins, and a turtle on their trip, though the operator is clear that wildlife cannot be guaranteed.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Meet at TamarindoArrive 15 minutes early at the meeting point on C. Cardinal in Tamarindo. Pickup is not included, so travellers make their own way there.
2. Board the speedboatThe group boards the private speedboat directly from Tamarindo Beach, and the professional crew gives a safety briefing.
3. Snorkel stop near Las CatalinasThe crew selects the day's snorkeling area based on conditions and the group's comfort, with the Las Catalinas area as one possible destination.
4. Possible Playa Flamingo stretchDepending on the day's route and ocean conditions, the boat may also cruise toward Playa Flamingo.
5. Snacks and photosBetween stops the group gets water, soft drinks, and snacks, while the crew shoots underwater photos that are included in the price.
6. Return to TamarindoThe boat arrives back at the starting point around four hours after departure.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points help this trip go smoothly, from what to pack to how the day is shaped by the ocean.

• What to bring. Pack a towel and beachwear. The operator also recommends reef-safe sunscreen and a swimsuit. Everything else, including masks, snorkels, snacks, and drinks, is provided.
• No experience needed. The listing states the tour is suitable for beginners and that no snorkeling experience is required. The crew gives a safety briefing before departure and chooses spots that match the group's comfort level in the water.
• Private group feel. Only your party is on the boat, so the pace and route stay flexible. Reviewers describe the crew as attentive, with one saying they took care of everything at all times.
• Photos included. Underwater photos are part of the package, so there is no need to bring a camera for the snorkeling itself. Drone video and photos are also available as an option for anyone who wants aerial coverage.
• Weather flexibility. The route changes with ocean conditions on the day, and the offshore Catalina Islands option only happens for strong swimmers when the sea allows. If conditions are unsafe, the operator reschedules or issues a full refund.
• Arrive early. The meeting point is on C. Cardinal in Tamarindo, and the operator asks everyone to arrive 15 minutes ahead of departure. Pickup from hotels is not part of this tour.

Common issues. The main limitation is that the whole trip depends on weather and ocean conditions, so the itinerary and snorkeling spots can change on the day, and the offshore option is not guaranteed. Marine wildlife sightings are also not promised, since animals come and go on their own. Pickup is not included, so travellers need to get themselves to the meeting point in Tamarindo on time.

Common Questions