Marlin Del Rey Sunset Snorkel Cruise

Overview

This is a five-hour cruise on a catamaran that leaves from Tamarindo or Playas del Coco. Native's Way Costa Rica runs the trip. The boat carries up to 50 travellers, and reviewers describe a day of sailing, snorkelling, swimming, eating and drinking, with the return leg timed to the sunset.

On board, the crew serves lunch and passengers can snorkel with the provided equipment, jump off the boat, swim, or relax on deck. Drinks are included, with an open bar featuring alcoholic beverages plus bottled water. All taxes and fees are in the ticket price; the only extras are gratuities and hotel transport, which can be arranged for an additional fee.

Reviewers describe a sociable, well-catered trip with an attentive crew, and many report sightings of dolphins, sea turtles and humpback whales. Snorkelling conditions are not always ideal, so treat marine life and clear water as a bonus rather than a guarantee.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Meet at the departure pointHotel pickup and drop-off can be arranged for an additional fee.
2. Board the catamaranOne reviewer noted that footwear is collected in a bin on board, and another said boarding from Playas del Coco involved a small boat from the shore requiring a step up.
3. Sail along the coastReviewers have reported dolphins, sea turtles and humpback whales seen from the deck during the trip.
4. Snorkel and swim stopTime for snorkelling with the provided equipment, swimming, or jumping off the boat.
5. Lunch and open barLunch is served on board, with an open bar included. Reviewers repeatedly call the food delicious and fresh.
6. Sunset sail backThe return leg is timed so the boat heads home as the sun goes down.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical things will shape the day, from what to bring to how the group feels on board.

• Barefoot on board. One reviewer reported that shoes come off and are stored in a bin when you board. Move carefully when the boat is under way, especially in wet conditions.
• Bring a towel. Snorkel gear is supplied.
• Group feel. The boat takes up to 50 travellers and reviewers describe it as lively rather than private. One departure may feel crowded to travellers wanting quiet, though most found the atmosphere fun.
• Food and drink. Lunch is included and reviewers repeatedly call it delicious, generous and fresh. Drinks come constantly, including alcohol, and the crew keeps cups refilled.
• Snorkel expectations. Several reviewers said visibility varies and that snorkelling can be ordinary even when the rest of the day is great. Fish and sea turtles have been spotted, but treat clear water as luck.
• Weather matters. The trip requires good weather and can be cancelled in poor conditions, with the offer of a different date or a full refund. Reviewers describe the sailing, swimming and food as the highlights even when conditions are imperfect.

Common issues. The boat is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for travellers with back problems, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Snorkelling conditions vary, and some reviewers reported poor visibility or murky water. Hotel pickup is not included, though it can be arranged for a fee. Weather can force a change of date, and the operator requires a minimum number of travellers, so a departure can be cancelled with the offer of a different date or a full refund. Gratuities are not included.

Common Questions