Manuel Antonio: Catamaran Tour with Snorkeling & Lunch

Summary

Catamaran cruise along Quepos coast with snorkeling stop

You’ll glide along Manuel Antonio’s coast by catamaran, spot dolphins or even whales if you’re lucky, snorkel above colorful reefs at Biesanz Beach, and share a typical Costa Rican lunch with fresh fruit and drinks onboard. Expect laughter, salt on your skin, and maybe a dolphin sighting that’ll stick in your memory long after you’ve rinsed off the sand.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t think I’d care that much about seeing dolphins, but when our guide Marco pointed out the first one—just this little grey fin slicing through the water—I actually gasped. The catamaran left from Quepos, music playing (not too loud), and there was this salty tang in the air mixed with sunscreen and fresh pineapple. I kept looking back at the coastline, all green and kind of wild. It’s only three hours but somehow it felt like we’d been out there for ages—in a good way.

We stopped at Biesanz Beach, which is tucked away behind these rocky bits. The water was warm, almost silky, and Marco handed me a snorkel mask that still smelled faintly of disinfectant (they’re serious about hygiene). I’m not a great swimmer but ended up floating over these bright fish—yellow ones mostly. Someone tried the slide off the boat and splashed so hard we all laughed. There was a moment where I just bobbed there, staring up at clouds moving fast overhead, thinking how weirdly peaceful it felt.

The lunch was simple: rice, vegetables, chicken or fish (I went for fish), plus sweet fruit and some kind of natural juice—maybe guava? I never did figure it out. We chatted with another family from San José who told us to look out for flying fish (I missed them). On the way back, I sat near the bow just letting the wind tangle my hair. Dolphins showed up again right before we docked. So yeah—if you’re after something low-key but still full of those “wait—did you see that?” moments, this catamaran tour from Manuel Antonio is worth it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran tour and snorkeling

• Board catamaran in Quepos
• Enjoy coastal ride with music
• Spot whales, dolphins, and rays
• Stop at Biesanz beach
• Snorkel in colorful reef
• Use snorkeling equipment and facilities
• Have typical lunch and fruit snack
• Return to Quepos

Top questions

How long does the Manuel Antonio catamaran tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours from start to finish.

Is snorkeling equipment included in the catamaran tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included for all guests.

Are meals or drinks provided during the tour?

The tour includes a typical Costa Rican lunch with chicken or fish, fruits, and natural drinks.

Is this catamaran tour suitable for children or families?

Yes, it’s suitable for all ages—including infants and small children in strollers.

Can you see dolphins or whales on this day trip?

Dolphin sightings are common; whale sightings are likely during whale season.

Does the boat stop for swimming or snorkeling?

Yes, there’s a stop at Biesanz Beach for swimming and snorkeling on a reef.

Is pickup included in this Manuel Antonio catamaran tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at the departure point in Quepos.

Are there separate toilets on board?

Yes, there are separate toilets for women and men on the catamaran.

What’s included

Your day includes a ride along the Manuel Antonio coast aboard a comfortable catamaran with music, use of snorkeling equipment at Biesanz Beach’s reef, fresh fruits and natural drinks throughout the journey, plus a typical Costa Rican lunch featuring rice with vegetables and your choice of chicken or fish before returning to shore—all managed by friendly local guides who keep things easygoing yet attentive to safety.