Blue Dolphin – Public Catamaran Tour

Imagine gliding along the sparkling waters of Guanacaste aboard a 40-foot catamaran, with the sun warming your skin and a full bar within reach. For around $85 per person, this 5-hour sailing trip from Tamarindo offers a blend of scenic cruising, water activities, and relaxed socializing—a true taste of Costa Rica’s famed coastlines. From dolphin sightings to sunset vistas, this tour packs enough variety to keep any traveler engaged.

What we particularly like are the stability of the double-hull design, which makes for a smooth ride even when the surf gets lively, and the abundance of water-based options—kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling gear—that cater to both adventure seekers and those simply wanting to lounge in the sheltered coves. The friendly crew and well-organized schedule shine through in the many positive reviews, making it clear this trip is well-loved.

A word of caution—the tour can be quite lively, especially if there’s a boisterous crowd or windy weather, which might not suit travelers seeking a quiet, peaceful sunset. But if you’re looking for a fun, social, and scenic outing that’s suitable for most ages, this tour could be just right.

This experience tends to draw a mix of families, couples, and solo travelers who want a taste of the sea with a focus on comfort, scenery, and social fun. If you love wildlife sightings, beautiful coastal vistas, and a lively onboard atmosphere, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Comfortable ride thanks to the double-hull catamaran design, ensuring stability even on choppier waters.
• Variety of water activities including kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling, making the trip engaging for different interests.
• Excellent value with drinks, food, and water gear included, plus the possibility of whale and dolphin sightings.
• Beautiful sunset views that cap off the trip, offering ideal photo opportunities.
• Lively atmosphere with music, dancing, and a friendly crew, perfect for travelers wanting fun and social vibes.
• Accessible for most travelers with restrooms onboard and assistance for those with mobility issues.

The Itinerary: What To Expect

Your day begins on Tamarindo Beach, where you’ll meet your crew and step aboard the sturdy, spacious 40-foot catamaran. The trip kicks off with approximately an hour-long cruise heading north along the coast, giving you your first taste of Guanacaste’s rugged shoreline and panoramic ocean views.

The vessel’s double-hull design isn’t just for show; it provides a more stable and smoother sailing experience, especially appreciated if the water gets a bit lively. As you cruise, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, which are a common sight according to many reviews. Some travelers have even caught glimpses of whales and turtles during their trip, turning a simple day at sea into a wildlife spectacle.

After about an hour, the boat anchors at a peaceful cove near Playa Huevos. Here, the fun really begins. You can snorkel with provided gear, paddle around on stand-up paddleboards, or simply relax on the deck. The sheltered waters are perfect for families or anyone new to water sports who wants to dip their toes in.

For those who prefer to stay dry but still want to participate, pool noodles and kayaks are available to enjoy in the calm waters. This part of the tour is highly praised for its relaxed vibe — “great experience,” says one reviewer, emphasizing the helpful crew and the overall fun.

The Food and Drinks

One of the highlights is the full bar stocked with a variety of sodas, juices, beers, wines, and spirits including vodka, rum, tequila, and Cacique, a popular Costa Rican liquor. Guests often mention how well the drinks are flowing and how the crew keeps everyone refreshed.

A light meal is served mid-trip, featuring local specialties like chicken fajitas, black beans, and fresh fruit. Many reviewers rave about the quality and abundance of the food, calling it “delicious” and “ample,” providing a satisfying break from the water activities. Homemade banana bread adds a sweet touch at the end of the meal.

Wildlife and Scenery

Expect to see dolphins frequently**, often jumping alongside the boat or frolicking nearby, as many reviews note. Some travelers have been lucky enough to spot humpback whales and turtles, especially during the right season. The return cruise is particularly scenic, with west-facing sunsets casting a golden hue over the water—perfect for photos or just soaking in the moment.

While snorkeling is part of the experience, some reviews mention that visibility can vary, sometimes being less than ideal. The underwater scenery isn’t always abundant with fish or coral, but the chance to see marine mammals makes up for it.

Atmosphere and Crew

The crew is consistently praised for being friendly, attentive, and lively. They often go above and beyond to ensure everyone has a good time—whether by teaching salsa on deck or keeping drinks flowing. The music sets a cheerful tone, and many guests mention the crew’s efforts to create a fun, inclusive atmosphere.

However, a few reviews note that sometimes the party vibe can be a bit loud or rowdy, especially if there are younger kids or groups of party-goers. It’s worth considering if you’re looking for a quieter, more relaxed sunset cruise.

Practical Details

The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, from boarding to disembarkation. It departs from Tamarindo Beach, with the meeting point at El Chiringuito, and ends right back where it started. The group size is limited to 45, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Price-wise, at $85 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering the included food, drinks, water gear, and wildlife sightings. It’s advisable to book about three weeks in advance, as the tour is popular during peak season.

Considerations

While the experience is generally smooth, some travelers have pointed out that if the weather is windy, the trip can be less enjoyable and snorkeling may be impossible. Also, for those with mobility issues, note that some assistance is available, but it’s best to confirm beforehand.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal for families, couples, and groups of friends who want a fun-filled, scenic day on the water. It’s especially good if you like water activities and wildlife sightings or simply want to relax with a beverage in hand while watching the sunset. Those seeking a tranquil, quiet experience might prefer a different tour, as the party atmosphere can sometimes be lively.

Final Thoughts

The Blue Dolphin Catamaran Tour offers a well-rounded taste of Costa Rica’s coastlines, combining scenic cruising, water sports, and excellent food and drinks. Its friendly crew, stability at sea, and beautiful sunset views make it a compelling choice for most visitors to Tamarindo.

While it’s not a perfect fit for everyone—those seeking silence or a very peaceful ride might find the lively atmosphere less appealing—the majority of reviews suggest it’s a fantastic value. The chance to see dolphins, whales, and stunning sunsets, combined with the comfort of the boat and the quality of the onboard offerings, makes this a standout experience.

If you’re after a fun, social, and scenic adventure with a hint of wildlife and a splash of local flavor, this tour is worth considering. Book ahead, bring sunscreen, and get ready for a memorable day at sea.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for most ages; the sheltered waters and water activities make it family-friendly. However, consider your kids’ comfort with lively atmospheres and water sports.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, including cruising, water activities, and the sunset return trip.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers the boat ride, water gear (kayaks, paddleboards, snorkel gear), a full meal with local specialties, and a variety of drinks including sodas, juices, beer, wine, and spirits.

Are there restrooms onboard?
Yes, the boat is equipped with restrooms, making it convenient for all travelers.

Can I book this tour last minute?
It’s recommended to book at least 23 days in advance, but last-minute spots may be available depending on availability.

What should I bring?
Towels, sunscreen, and possibly a waterproof camera are good ideas. Towels are not included, and sunscreen is a must to enjoy the day comfortably.

Is snorkeling worth it?
While snorkeling is part of the experience, some reviews mention that visibility varies, and marine life may be minimal at times. It’s more about the water fun and scenery.

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. If the weather is windy, snorkeling might be canceled altogether.

In all, the Blue Dolphin Catamaran Tour provides a lively, scenic, and well-organized way to explore Tamarindo’s waters. Whether you’re seeking wildlife encounters, social fun, or just a beautiful sunset, it’s a solid option for most travelers wanting to experience Costa Rica’s coast from a different perspective.