Sunset Tour to Playa Fantasia on Sealounge Catamaran

Sunset Tour to Playa Fantasia on Sealounge Catamaran

Imagine cruising on a 50-ft catamaran along the Costa Rican coast, heading toward a secluded beach accessible only by water, where you’ll enjoy a delicious beachside lunch and possibly catch a glimpse of curious wildlife. This Sunset Tour to Playa Fantasia costs around $137.69 per person, lasts about 4.5 hours, and offers a blend of sailing, relaxation, and nature all wrapped into one trip.

What makes this experience notable? First, the intimate group size—only 25 guests—ensures a more personalized vibe. Second, the private beach is a rare find, giving you a peaceful escape from the crowds.

A few things to consider before booking: weather impacts can alter the schedule, especially in the green season from May to November, when the sunset tour operates from 11 am to 3:30 pm instead of evening hours. Prices are reasonable for what you get, especially considering the all-inclusive drinks and fresh local food.

This tour is perfect for travelers craving a mix of sailing adventure, scenic beauty, and gourmet beachside dining. If you’re someone who appreciates calm, nature, and a touch of luxury, you’ll find plenty to love here. However, if you prefer high-energy parties or are prone to seasickness, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

Beautiful secluded beach accessible only by boat offers tranquility and natural beauty.
All-inclusive bar with cocktails, sodas, and juices keeps the drinks flowing worry-free.
Delicious beach lunch of kebabs, salads, and roasted potatoes makes the trip well worth the price.
Wildlife sightings like turtles, monkeys, and dolphins add a memorable touch.
Group size limited to 25 enhances the experience with a friendly, intimate atmosphere.
Weather considerations in green season may change the schedule, so plan accordingly.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

When we think about what makes a boat trip worth the money, two things stand out: quality of the experience and authenticity. This tour delivers on both. For just over $130, you’re not only getting a sailing adventure, but also a chance to unwind on a pristine beach with world-class food and drinks.

The private setting of Playa Fantasia makes it feel more like a special escape than a busy tourist trap. Multiple reviews highlight how peaceful and beautiful the beach is—the kind of spot where you can really relax or take part in water activities like paddleboarding or snorkeling. The free equipment provided—boogie boards, snorkels, and paddleboards—offers added value for those who want some fun in the water.

The lunch prepared by the onboard chef is praised as fresh and tasty, with options like chicken and steak kebabs, salads, and roasted potatoes. Reviewers have raved about how good the food was, with mentions of delicious dips, fresh fruit, and the overall quality surpassing expectations for a beachside meal included in a tour. Plus, the open bar offers a selection of cocktails including margaritas, mojitos, and pina coladas—perfect for unwinding during the sail or at the beach.

In terms of timing, the 4.5-hour duration hits a sweet spot—enough time to enjoy sailing, lunch, and the beach without feeling rushed. The pickup and transportation arrangements, starting from the Pacific Center in Garabito, make the process straightforward, although punctuality is essential as the boat departs from the beach on schedule.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Playa Fantasia (Approx. 3 hours)
This is the highlight—a completely secluded stretch of white sand, inviting you to relax in hammocks, lounge chairs, or even take a dip with provided snorkel gear. Several reviews mention how pristine and peaceful this beach is, with some describing it as “paradise” or “a true highlight.” Wildlife sightings like turtles and monkeys spice up the experience, making it more than just a lazy day at the beach.

The chef’s lunch here is a notable feature, with fresh kebabs, salads, and roasted potatoes prepared right on the beach. If you’re feeling adventurous, water activities like paddleboarding or boogie boarding are available free of charge. Some travelers appreciate the extra touch of a private chef, transforming what might be a simple beach day into a memorable feast.

Stop 2: Sealounge Catamaran (Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes)
The sail back offers a chance to take in the scenic coastline, with some reviews mentioning whale sightings and playful dolphins. The group size keeps the atmosphere relaxed and friendly, making it easy to chat with fellow travelers or simply enjoy the views. The crew is praised for their attentiveness and professionalism, with some describing them as “amazing and friendly,” eager to share the experience.

What You Can Expect on Board and En Route

The large catamaran is well-equipped, with shaded areas to escape the sun, and an open deck for panoramic views. The crew is attentive, ensuring everyone feels safe and comfortable. They serve a variety of drinks, from tropical cocktails to soft drinks, and water, making it easy to stay hydrated on a sunny day.

Most travelers find the ride out to Playa Fantasia smooth and enjoyable, although a few mention that the short boat ride from the beach to the catamaran can be splashy and wet—so packing a towel or a change of clothes might be wise.

The lunch on the beach is often highlighted as a big plus: fresh, flavorful, and served in a relaxed, scenic setting. Some reviews mention the vegetarian options, like veggie kebabs, making this experience more accessible for different dietary preferences.

The Overall Experience and Real-World Insights

Many reviews echo that this tour is more than just a boat ride. It’s an opportunity to unwind in a gorgeous natural setting, indulge in good food and drinks, and enjoy some playful wildlife encounters. For example, one reviewer said, “The beach was beautiful, the crew was attentive, and the drinks were abundant,” capturing the essence of what most travelers rave about.

The small group aspect creates a feeling of intimacy, allowing for relaxed conversations and easier access to the crew if you want to ask questions or request something special. Many reviews also mention that the experience exceeded expectations, especially given the reasonable price point for an all-inclusive outing.

However, it’s worth noting that weather conditions can impact the schedule, especially during the rainy months. The tour’s flexibility in rescheduling or adjusting the itinerary during green season (May-November) is a positive feature, but travelers should be prepared for possible changes.

Some less favorable reviews mention issues like rude behavior from the captain or damage to swimsuits caused by the boat deck. While these are rare, it’s a reminder that no experience is perfect, and expectations should be set accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers looking for a relaxing, scenic day that combines sailing, a private beach escape, and delicious food. If you enjoy small-group tours with a focus on comfort and quality, you’ll appreciate the intimate setting. It’s perfect for families, couples, or friends wanting a memorable day in Costa Rica.

People who value wildlife sightings and scenic views will find this tour particularly rewarding. The all-inclusive bar and tasty lunch make it a good choice for those who like to indulge without worrying about extra costs.

On the other hand, if you’re prone to seasickness or dislike being on the water, it’s worth noting that the trip involves a boat ride to the private beach and back. Also, those expecting a wild party atmosphere may be disappointed, as this tour emphasizes relaxation and natural beauty over high-energy entertainment.

The Sum Up

The Sunset Tour to Playa Fantasia on Sealounge Catamaran offers a balanced mix of sailing adventure, tranquil beaches, and gourmet food. Its limited group size, private beach access, and inclusive drinks are features that make it stand out as an authentic, value-packed option in Jaco. The experience is especially suited for those who love nature, good company, and a touch of luxury, all wrapped in a relaxed Costa Rican vibe.

While weather can influence the schedule during green season, most travelers find this tour to be a highlight of their trip—a smooth blend of scenic sailing, wildlife sightings, and a memorable beachside feast. If you’re seeking a calm, scenic day with friendly service and stunning views, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes. The tour offers private transportation from the meeting point in Garabito to the boat departure site, and you’ll be notified of your pickup time.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours 30 minutes, including sailing, beach time, and lunch.

What should I bring?
Towels are not provided, so bring your own. Sunscreen that is spray-on is not permitted, so consider protective clothing or hats for sun safety.

Can I book a vegetarian meal?
Yes, vegetarian options are available. Be sure to advise at the time of booking if you need this.

Is this a party cruise?
No. This tour is focused on relaxation, scenic views, and good food, not on drinking or partying. The bar is available for those over 18, but drinking is moderate.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there wildlife sightings?
Yes, many travelers report seeing turtles, dolphins, monkeys, and whales, adding a special touch to the experience.