Flamingo Beach: Small Group Sunset Sail with Snorkeling & Lunch

Summary

Sail the gulf of papagayo with just 13 guests and open bar

You’ll leave Playa Flamingo behind on a relaxed 50ft yacht with just 13 guests, sharing laughs with your local crew as you snorkel quiet coves and enjoy fresh lunch with an open bar. There’s no loud party vibe—just ocean breeze, warm light on your face, and time to soak in those last golden moments before sunset.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I almost skipped booking this small group sunset sail from Playa Flamingo because I thought it’d feel too “organized.” But then we stepped onto that Beneteau — shoes off, sun still high, only a handful of us. The crew greeted us like old friends (I think one actually remembered my name by hour two), and there was this low hum of reggae mixing with the slap of water against the hull. Not what I expected at all.

We drifted past Las Catalinas — our guide pointed out Casa Chameleon perched up on the hill, and I tried to snap a photo but mostly just squinted at how the light hit the cliffs. Snorkeling gear came out next; I’m not much of a swimmer but they didn’t rush anyone. The water smelled faintly briny, like wet stone and sunscreen, and I could hear someone laughing through their snorkel when a fish darted by. Lunch was simple but good — grilled chicken, lots of fruit, something cold to drink from the open bar (they really meant “open”).

I liked that nobody was shouting over thumping music or pushing for selfies; it felt easy, almost like being invited out by locals who know when to keep things chill. At some point we sailed near Conchal — or maybe not? The weather decided for us. Anyway, the sun started dropping fast after 5pm and suddenly everything was gold for a minute. Someone said it’s always like that here but I don’t quite believe them. Still think about that view sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Small group sailing and snorkeling cruise

• Depart from Playa Flamingo
• Set sail on 50ft Beneteau Oceanis
• Snorkel, swim, and fish in Gulf of Papagayo
• Sail past Las Catalinas and Casa Chamaleon
• Possibly sail past Conchal beach
• Enjoy open bar and premium bottle service
• Watch beautiful sunset on board

Top questions

How many people are on the small group sunset sail?

The tour takes up to 13 passengers per sailing.

Does the tour include snorkeling equipment?

Yes, all snorkeling gear is provided for guests.

Where does the sunset sail depart from?

The boat departs from Playa Flamingo (Flamingo Beach).

Are drinks included on board?

Yes, unlimited drinks including premium bottle service are included.

Is lunch provided during the cruise?

Yes, lunch is served along with appetizers and fresh fruit.

What time does the tour start and end?

The cruise starts at 1:30 PM and returns after sunset (about four hours).

Can children join this tour?

The minimum age is 3 years old; specialized infant seats are available if needed.

Is fishing possible during this trip?

Yes, fishing gear is available for guests who want to try fishing in the Gulf of Papagayo.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?

Vegetarian meals can be arranged if requested at booking.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes guided snorkeling in calm waters with all equipment provided, a fresh-cooked lunch plus appetizers and fruit, unlimited drinks with premium bottle service from an open bar, fishing gear if you want it—all while sailing from Playa Flamingo until sunset alongside a friendly local crew.