Top 5 Nicoya Peninsula Cruises & Sailing Tours – A Review

Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, that striking landmass jutting into the Pacific Ocean, just might be one of those spots that folks picture when they close their eyes and dream of paradise. So many gorgeous beaches rim the coast, lush jungles roll inland, and the vibe is totally, completely laid-back – “pura vida,” like your told. Deciding how you will spend your time is important. What if you’re thinking, “Okay, yes! I am headed there. Now, how do I best get out *on* that big, shining ocean?” Well, cruises and sailing tours, that’s absolutely how!

1. Sunset Sailing Cruise from Tamarindo

Starting off with a classic, right? Like a super reliable old friend, a sunset cruise from Tamarindo might just be the quintessential Nicoya Peninsula experience. Leaving from the shores of Tamarindo, a town absolutely buzzing with activity and charm, these tours often present a wonderful blend of relaxation and just a tiny dash of adventure. In fact, the big draw really, is the chance to watch the sun dip below the horizon. A nice thing that this cruise delivers on is making memories. What usually happens is this: as the boat glides along the water, the sky erupts in all kinds of colors – oranges, pinks, purples, and a whole bunch more.

It’s like Mother Nature decided to put on a free show just for you. Add to that, too it’s almost always that these cruises come with drinks – perhaps something like an open bar offering fruity cocktails and chilled beers, along with some snacks and eats. That way you are sure to get the party vibe just right. It can be an awful experience if that part is off. Now you might just ask: are there opportunities for a quick dip? Absolutely! Almost every cruise has a spot where the captain will drop anchor in a calm bay. Plus you might grab your snorkel gear and see what the fishes are doing.

2. Catamaran Tour to Tortuga Island

Dreaming of snow-white beaches and crystal-clear water that looks so inviting? Yeah, who isn’t? A Catamaran tour to Tortuga Island, that small little piece of paradise off the southeastern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, might be just the ticket. Now these tours often leave from various spots along the coast, sometimes that includes places like Jacó or Montezuma, and promise a great, big fun-filled day. First thing is first, catamarans? They are ideal for these kind of trips. In fact they are large and super stable, too it’s almost always that they come with plenty of deck space for lounging and soaking up some rays, along with shaded spots if you happen to get just a bit too much sun, something you can almost be assured of in this part of the world.

When the boat arrives at Tortuga Island, is that a collective “ooh” and “aah” sound I hear? You can pretty much expect a really breathtaking view of pure tropical beauty. Apparently, the island itself provides some pretty spectacular snorkeling and swimming spots. Snorkeling, just a little heads up, might mean that you’re getting to swim alongside some brightly colored fish. How cool is that? If you are so inclined, you may choose to stretch out on the shore. Or better yet: grab yourself a secluded spot and just let the hours slip away. Some tours can include lunch served right on the beach. This may feature up fresh seafood, grilled meats, and maybe some tropical fruits, giving your tastebuds a delightful punch of what the region is offering. As I was saying, there may even be optional activities on the island like volleyball, or if that’s not your thing, hiking some trails. It can be such an awfully amazing day, right?

3. Private Sailing Charter in the Gulf of Nicoya

So, are you trying to tell me you want something extra, super, special? Okay. That’s just fine. What about a private sailing charter in the Gulf of Nicoya? Seriously. It can be the ultimate in personalized adventure. What that usually means is that you have a boat and crew basically all to yourself. Basically it opens up some choices to custom design that dream day on the water, exactly as you like it. Now the Gulf of Nicoya, just for you to understand, has that interesting maze of islands, secluded beaches, and just lots and lots of charming little fishing villages, as a matter of fact, all just awaiting to be explored. The benefit is really yours because it opens doors. Choosing a Private Sailing Charter means the opportunity to be in charge of your experience.

If you fancy some fishing, your captain might take you to the best spots to try to reel in tuna or maybe a snapper. Want to snorkel? Maybe some isolated coves, teaming with sea life is right for you. That is a very valid and reasonable thing to want. The way these things typically work is that your onboard chef can prepare tasty meals based upon what you like to eat. That includes fresh seafood, local produce, and a whole bunch of dishes to just treat your taste buds to. Really, with a private charter, is that possibilities are very much unlimited. It can be an incredibly, outstanding memory in the making.

4. Sport Fishing Trip from Nosara

Calling all fishing fans! Are you seeking to test your skills? That kind of thing? Look no further than a sport fishing trip from Nosara. Known for just a little offbeat, slightly bohemian atmosphere, Nosara happens to be a gateway to fantastic sport fishing experiences. That region’s coastal waters are totally brimming with species like marlin, sailfish, tuna, and dorado. You’ve absolutely got a good chance of catching one. That is an extremely strong possibility that should definitely be considered, especially if that is one of the priorities.

Generally, these tours are geared toward everybody from beginner anglers to someone who has had a lot of time out there doing their thing. If you happen to be one of those beginners, it is definitely okay, like don’t sweat it. Usually experienced captains and crew are extremely ready to provide guidance. They also have some helpful tips to assist you to land that prize catch. Sport fishing boats will often be loaded to the max with some things like top-of-the-line equipment, and of course all that safety gear, that allows you to fish maybe inshore or offshore. After that first hit of the line. You just might be getting ready for that exciting fight with your fish as you start reeling it in. Do understand that most tours go by strict catch-and-release policy. So many people will return these magnificent creatures back to the ocean to ensure that our fisheries resources get protected for many years, as I was saying, to come.

5. Palo Verde National Park Boat Tour (from Nicoya Area)

Okay so, it turns out it is not all about the open ocean, that sort of thing. Something truly unique is taking a boat tour through the Palo Verde National Park. Now from the Nicoya area, those excursions provide an experience, unlike say, something along the lines of sailing out at sea. Basically Palo Verde is a big, important refuge for all kinds of migratory birds. If birdwatching gets you excited. Here is something that sounds right for you. Palo Verde provides you with all that magical beauty through the waterways. Your captain, he might really know their birds, you see, can point out the various species that might get seen. Apparently that may include spoonbills, jabirus, herons, and the absolutely famous roseate spoonbills. Is that cool or is that cool? Getting out on the water is an activity that is both relaxing and filled with great views. Palo Verde provides visitors with unique natural environment.

Apart from all that, keep those peepers open, as I was saying. Other animals may hang out near the riverbanks too. So you might be able to glimpse monkeys, iguanas, and even crocodiles, usually lazing about in the sun. Usually these boat tours are nice and gentle, which tends to allow people time to be very thankful. All that time. Those little quiet places and niches are also awesome. Something that really lets you soak up a completely scenic side of Costa Rica. That’s totally off the usual coastal scene.