Tortuga Island: Private Boat Tour, Snorkeling & Beach Lunch

Summary

Private boat to Tortuga Island small group snorkeling lunch

You’ll glide from Puntarenas on a private boat toward Tortuga Island’s clear waters, spotting dolphins if you’re lucky and pausing for spider monkeys at Isla Negritos. Snorkel volcanic reefs with a local guide, then relax on your own stretch of beach with a fresh lunch and Costa Rican coffee before heading back—still sandy, still smiling.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped off the dock at Puerto Azul just as the sun was starting to get serious—already felt that sticky warmth on my arms. Our guide, Diego, handed out life jackets and grinned like he’d done this a thousand times but still liked it. The boat ride out of Puntarenas was loud in a good way—music thumping, wind whipping hair everywhere, and the smell of salt water mixing with something fruity (pineapple maybe? Someone had snacks going early). I kept scanning the water for dolphins because Diego said we might get lucky if the weather held. We did—just for a minute—a few fins slicing through blue before they disappeared. I didn’t even try to get my phone out in time.

On the way to Isla Tortuga, we stopped by Isla Negritos for spider monkeys. They were louder than I expected—one actually threw a bit of fruit at us (Diego laughed and said that meant hello). The boat slowed near this natural stone arch that looked almost fake against the sky. The air changed here—suddenly cooler and sharp with sea spray. By then I’d already forgotten about anything except what was right in front of me.

Landing at Tortuga Island felt like sneaking into someone’s backyard party—our own little spot set up away from the big groups. Hammocks strung between palms, tables already waiting for us. Snorkeling was next; I hesitated getting in because honestly, I’m not great with masks. But Diego swam alongside me and pointed out these electric-blue fish darting around volcanic rocks—I swear one stared back at me. Afterward, lunch showed up: grilled fish or chicken (I went fish), ceviche so fresh it tasted like the ocean itself, and mango slices cold enough to make my teeth ache. Coffee came later with cookies while we watched other boats loading up to leave. I could’ve stayed there another hour just listening to nothing but waves and distant music drifting over from somewhere else.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private full-day tour to Tortuga Island

• Meet at Puerto Azul hotel and marina
• Receive safety briefing and boarding
• Enjoy dolphin watching (weather permitting)
• Spot spider monkeys at Isla Negritos
• Visit natural Stone Arch
• Arrive at private beach spot on Tortuga Island
• Take guided one-hour snorkeling tour
• Eat fresh fish ceviche appetizer
• Enjoy delicious lunch and dessert
• Snack on tropical fruits and bottled water
• Have afternoon coffee and cookies
• Relax with onboard music

Top questions

Is pickup included for the Tortuga Island day trip?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at Puerto Azul boutique hotel and marina in Puntarenas.

What meals are provided during the private Isla Tortuga tour?

You get bottled water, tropical fruits, ceviche appetizer, your choice of grilled fish or chicken for lunch, dessert, plus afternoon coffee and cookies.

How long is the snorkeling session on Tortuga Island?

The guided snorkeling adventure lasts about one hour near a volcanic reef.

Are drinks included on this Tortuga Island tour?

Yes, unlimited non-alcoholic drinks are included throughout the day.

Can children join this day trip to Isla Tortuga?

Yes; infants can ride in prams or strollers or sit on an adult's lap during transport.

Will we see wildlife on this tour?

You may spot dolphins (weather permitting) and will visit Isla Negritos to see spider monkeys.

Is there private parking available at the meeting point?

Yes; private on-site parking is available at Puerto Azul boutique hotel and marina.

Are guides bilingual during this trip?

Yes; professional guides speak both English and Spanish.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting at Puerto Azul marina with private parking, safety briefing by bilingual guides, professional boat transport to Isla Tortuga with dolphin watching if weather allows, spider monkey viewing at Isla Negritos, guided snorkeling near volcanic reefs (equipment provided), unlimited soft drinks and bottled water, tropical fruits and snacks onboard, fresh ceviche appetizer followed by your choice of grilled fish or chicken for lunch right on your own beachfront area (with dessert), plus afternoon Costa Rican coffee and cookies before heading back to Puntarenas.