Tamarindo: Snorkel & Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Lunch

Summary

Sail Tamarindo’s coast, snorkel hidden bays, unwind with fresh lunch and open bar

You’ll sail from Tamarindo along Costa Rica’s coast on a spacious catamaran, spotting dolphins or turtles as you go. Snorkel in quiet bays or relax on deck while the crew prepares a fresh lunch with local flavors and homemade cookies. Drinks flow freely from the open bar as sunset colors fill the sky — it’s easygoing and real, not rushed or staged.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the water to look that blue — almost fake, like someone cranked up the color just for us. We left Tamarindo beach in the early afternoon, shoes off and toes already gritty with sand. The crew was all smiles; I think one of them called out “pura vida!” before handing me some sort of pineapple drink (can’t remember what was in it, but it tasted like holiday). Everyone spread out on the catamaran’s deck — some folks stretched out in the sun, others ducked under shade. I just leaned back and watched the coastline slide by, jungle green against all that ocean.

Our guide — I want to say his name was Marco? — pointed out a couple of dolphins not far off. At first I thought he was joking, but then there they were, slipping through the wake. There was this moment when everything went quiet except for the slap of water against hull and someone laughing at their own Spanish. We stopped in a small bay where you could jump in for snorkeling or just float around with noodles (I tried both; mask kept fogging up but I did see a turtle gliding below). The salt stuck to my skin and honestly, I didn’t mind.

Lunch came later than I expected — maybe around 4:30? — but by then everyone had that hungry-salty feeling from swimming and sun. They laid out plates of chicken and rice, guacamole so fresh you could smell the cilantro before you even sat down, fruit that tasted like it had just been picked. Someone passed me a homemade cookie that reminded me of my grandma’s kitchen back home (except hers never came with an ocean view). Drinks kept coming if you wanted them; Imperial beer seemed to be everyone’s go-to.

The sail back felt slower somehow. Maybe it was the light changing or maybe just not wanting it to end yet. The sky started throwing these wild colors over Tamarindo as we drifted closer to shore. I still think about that view sometimes — how simple it felt to just sit there with strangers who’d become friends for an afternoon.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sail, snorkel, lunch, and sunset cruise

• Depart from Tamarindo beach
• Sail along Costa Rica coastline
• Watch for dolphins and sea life
• Fish off the back of catamaran
• Swim and snorkel in secluded bay
• Use life vests and paddle boards
• Relax on deck or in salon
• Enjoy light lunch with drinks
• Sail across bay at sunset
• Disembark at Tamarindo or Playa del Coco

Top questions

How long is the Tamarindo snorkel & sunset cruise?

The cruise lasts about 4.5 hours from departure to return.

Is lunch included on this Tamarindo catamaran tour?

Yes, a light lunch is served around 4:30pm including BBQ chicken or pasta salad, rice, beans, fruit plates, chips with pico de gallo, and homemade cookies.

Are drinks included during the cruise?

Yes, there is an open bar offering soft drinks, juices, beer, wine and several liquors throughout the trip.

Can you snorkel on this Tamarindo day trip?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided when conditions allow during a stop in a secluded bay.

What wildlife might you see on this tour?

You may spot dolphins, sea turtles, flying fish, rays or even whales along Costa Rica’s Gold Coast.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; departure is from Tamarindo beach or Playa del Coco sands.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, infants and small children can join; strollers are allowed onboard.

What should I bring for this cruise?

A camera is recommended for sunset views; swimwear if you plan to snorkel or swim; sunscreen too.

What’s included

Your day includes sailing on a purpose-built catamaran from Tamarindo beach with unlimited drinks from an open bar (beer, wine, soft drinks and spirits), snacks throughout the trip plus a freshly prepared lunch featuring BBQ chicken or pasta salad with sides like rice and guacamole. Snorkeling gear is available if conditions are right before returning at sunset.