Tamarindo & Coco: Catamaran Sunset Cruise with Snorkel & Open Bar

Summary

Glide Costa Rica’s Gold Coast by catamaran with lunch, snorkeling, and open bar

You’ll step barefoot onto a spacious catamaran in Tamarindo or Playas del Coco and sail Costa Rica’s Gold Coast with an open bar at your elbow. Snorkel in calm Pacific waters, eat fresh-cooked lunch right on deck, and watch sunset colors spill across the sky as you drift back toward shore—simple pleasures that linger long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed was the sound — not music, but that low hush of water against the hull as we left Tamarindo behind. The Marlin del Rey catamaran is bigger than it looks in photos; I almost tripped over someone’s flip-flops (sorry, whoever you were). The crew joked around in Spanish and English, passing out cold drinks before we’d even found a spot to sit. There was this salty breeze that made everything taste sharper — even the pineapple from the snack tray.

I’d never been on a catamaran this size before. When we picked up speed along Guanacaste’s coast, it felt like flying, but slow and smooth. Our guide pointed out a line of pelicans skimming the water and said something about dolphins — I didn’t see any then, but later there was a flash of silver near the bow. We anchored in a quiet bay where you could actually hear people laughing over the slap of waves. I fumbled with my snorkel mask (always do), but managed to spot some bright blue fish darting below. The water was warmer than I expected.

Lunch was simple but good: BBQ chicken and rice, black beans, fruit — nothing fancy, but after swimming it hit the spot. Someone brought me another drink (can’t remember what it was called, something with guaro?) and Li from our group tried to order in Spanish. The crew teased him for his accent and he laughed so hard he nearly spilled his beer. On the way back, everyone got quiet for a while just watching the sky change color — orange melting into purple over Tamarindo Beach. I still think about that light sometimes when things get noisy at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Marlin del Rey Catamaran Sunset Cruise

• Pick up from Conchal Hotels
• Pick up from JW Marriott/Pinilla
• Pick up from Playa Grande Resort
• Pick up from Wyndham Tamarindo and other Tamarindo Hotels
• Pick up from Occidental (Barcelo) Tamarindo and Cala Luna
• Meet at 1:15 pm
• Board the Marlin Del Rey catamaran
• Sail along Costa Rica’s Gold Coast
• Watch for dolphins, sea turtles, and whales
• Stop in a tranquil bay to snorkel
• Enjoy BBQ chicken lunch with sides
• Relax with open bar drinks
• Sail during sunset and capture photos

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this catamaran cruise?

Hotel pickup can be arranged for an additional fee from select hotels in Tamarindo, Conchal, Playa Grande, JW Marriott/Pinilla, and others.

What food is served during the Marlin del Rey cruise?

The lunch includes BBQ chicken, yellow Spanish rice, fruit, chips, black bean puree, pico de gallo, and homemade chocolate chip cookies.

Are drinks included on this sunset cruise?

Yes, there’s an open bar offering unlimited tropical drinks, beer, wine, bottled water and other beverages throughout the trip.

Where does the catamaran depart from?

The Marlin del Rey cruise departs from Tamarindo Beach or Playas del Coco depending on your booking selection.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes—snorkel gear is included for all guests at no extra charge.

How long does the sunset cruise last?

The tour typically lasts around 4 to 5 hours including sailing time and stops for swimming/snorkeling.

Can children join this tour?

Yes—children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult throughout the tour.

Is this cruise suitable for travelers with spinal injuries?

No—the tour is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries due to boat movement and activity level required.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes hotel pickup if requested (for an extra fee), all taxes and fees covered upfront, unlimited drinks from an open bar throughout the trip—including local cocktails—and use of snorkel equipment so you can jump right in when we anchor. Lunch is served fresh onboard before sailing back at sunset toward Tamarindo or Playas del Coco.