Tortuguero to Moin Boat Transfer: Wildlife, River & Local Captain

Summary

Boat ride Tortuguero to Moin with wildlife and local stories

You’ll travel from Tortuguero to Moin by boat with a local captain who knows every bend in the river. Watch for monkeys overhead, crocodiles in the shallows, and flashes of color from toucans or herons as you glide through 86 kilometers of winding canals. It’s not just wildlife — it’s sharing laughs and stories with fellow travelers while soaking up Costa Rica’s wild side.

What’s the experience like?

Captain Desmon was already waving when I showed up at the dock in Tortuguero — he’s got this easy grin, like he’s seen everything the river can throw at him. There were only a few of us waiting, and I ended up next to an older couple from San José who kept pointing out birds before we’d even left. The boat itself was nothing fancy but felt sturdy, with that faint smell of wet wood and diesel that somehow fits the place. I didn’t expect how quickly the village faded behind us — just a blur of green and a few dogs barking on the bank.

The canals are wide at first, then suddenly narrow and twisty. Desmon slowed down for a patch where some spider monkeys were making a racket overhead (honestly, louder than I thought possible). He told us to keep our eyes open for crocodiles — “sometimes they’re just logs until they move,” he said, which made me laugh but also made me stare extra hard at every floating branch. We did spot one eventually, jaws barely above water, looking lazy as anything. Someone else swore they saw a sloth but I missed it; guess you can’t win them all.

There was this moment halfway through when everything went quiet except for the hum of the motor and some distant bird calls — I think toucans? The air felt heavy and warm, not uncomfortable but almost like you could taste it. We passed another boat going the opposite way and everyone waved; that’s just what people do out here apparently. I tried saying “gracias” to Desmon for pointing out an iguana camouflaged in the branches — pretty sure my accent gave me away because he smiled even wider.

I still think about that stretch near Moin where the river opens up again — light bouncing off the water in these weird patterns. It’s not really about seeing every animal (though yeah, we saw plenty), it’s more about being part of this slow-moving world for a few hours. If you’re taking the day trip from Tortuguero to Moin by boat, don’t rush it. Let yourself drift a bit.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat transfer from Tortuguero to Moin

• Arrive at meeting point at 9:45 am
• Ask for Captain Desmon
• Board boat for river and canal journey
• Observe wildlife: crocodiles, monkeys, toucans
• Enjoy views of lagoon and surrounding nature
• Look for iguanas and possible jaguar sightings

Top questions

How long is the boat transfer from Tortuguero to Moin?

The route covers approximately 86 kilometers along rivers and canals.

What animals might I see during the transfer?

You may spot monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, alligators, herons, toucans, iguanas and possibly even a jaguar.

Is there a guide or captain on board?

Yes, Captain Desmon leads the journey and points out wildlife along the way.

Is transportation included?

Yes, transportation by boat from Tortuguero to Moin is included.

Is this transfer suitable for wheelchairs or strollers?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible; strollers are allowed too.

Are infants allowed on board?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap; prams or strollers are permitted.

Do I need to arrive early for departure?

You should arrive at least 15 minutes before start time at the meeting point in Tortuguero.

What’s included

Your journey includes transportation by boat with Captain Desmon from Tortuguero to Moin along 86 kilometers of rivers and canals—wildlife spotting comes naturally as part of this ride.