Tamarindo Catamaran Sailing: Dolphins & Snorkeling Tour

Sail north from Tamarindo spotting dolphins and whales, then anchor in a cove to swim, snorkel and paddle.

A private catamaran tour from Tamarindo with a bi-lingual crew aboard a 40- or 50-foot sailing catamaran, running 4.5 hours north along the coast with stops for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding in a cove near Playa Huevos. Breakfast or a light meal (depending on morning or afternoon departure) and all beverages are included; the crew handles the boat while you handle the water.

The Experience

The boat leaves Tamarindo and heads north, and the first hour is spent watching for sea life—whales, dolphins, turtles and rays move through these waters. The crew keeps drinks flowing and points out what appears. Around the one-hour mark you anchor in a cove usually just offshore of Playa Huevos, where the water activities begin: you can swim, snorkel, kayak, paddleboard or float on pool noodles, moving between the water and the boat as you choose. The cove is shallow enough that none of it feels rushed or risky.

Back on board after the water stops, you get a light meal (breakfast on morning tours, a snack around 3:30 PM on afternoon ones) and the ride back to Tamarindo follows the coast. The crew is licensed and bilingual—English, Spanish or French—and they work to keep the group comfortable and safe. The two boats differ in size: Blue Dolphin 1 is a 40-footer with an open layout, and Blue Dolphin 2 is a larger 50-foot cruising catamaran, so the feel changes a little depending on which one you book, but both are outfitted for comfort and built for groups of any kind—families, friends, wedding parties, birthday parties.

You'll need to bring your own towel and sunscreen; the crew provides everything else in the water. If you don't have transport to the boat, pickup can be arranged for an extra cost. The tour suits any fitness level, and the pace is built around what you want to do in the cove rather than a fixed schedule of stops.

What’s included

• Breakfast or a light meal depending on your departure time.
• all beverages including beer, wine, spirits and the house special.
• swimming and snorkeling gear.
• kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.
• pool noodles.
• use of the boat's restroom.
• a bi-lingual licensed crew.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearby

Operated by Blue Dolphin Sailing

Is this one for you?Choose the private charter if your group wants to set the itinerary and pace in the cove rather than follow a fixed schedule with other passengers.

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Top questions

What's the difference between the two catamarans?

Blue Dolphin 1 is a 40-foot catamaran with an open layout; Blue Dolphin 2 is a larger 50-foot cruising-style catamaran. Both are outfitted for comfort and safety, and the choice comes down to group size and whether you prefer the more open feel or the larger, more enclosed space.

Will we actually see dolphins and whales?

The crew keeps watch for sea life—whales, dolphins, turtles and rays—during the northbound sail, but sightings are not guaranteed. The boat is on the lookout, but the animals move through the water on their own schedule.

What water activities can we do in the cove?

You can swim, snorkel, kayak, paddleboard or float on pool noodles. All the equipment is on board, and you move between the water and the boat as you want during the cove stop.

Is food included, and what about dietary needs?

Yes—breakfast is included on morning tours and a light meal around 3:30 PM on afternoon tours. The crew prepares food fresh and can accommodate vegetarians and vegans; let them know when you book.

How do we get to the boat in Tamarindo?

You make your own way to the departure point in Tamarindo, or you can arrange pickup from your hotel for an additional cost. Public transportation options are available nearby if you're staying in town.

What drinks are available on board?

Sodas, juices, beer, white wine, Cacique Guaro, rum, vodka, tequila and water are all included. The crew also makes their signature drink, the Blue Dolphin Especial, a tropical mix served throughout the tour.