TIMAROUBA Sunset Sailing Catamaran in Tamarindo

Sailing off from Tamarindo, Costa Rica, this 5-hour sunset cruise offers a colorful mix of relaxation, adventure, and scenic beauty. For $95 per person, you’ll enjoy a well-equipped catamaran with opportunities to kayak, paddleboard, snorkel, and of course, marvel at that famous Costa Rican sunset. Led by a professional crew, this tour combines laid-back fun with memorable vistas — all with a generous lunch and open bar included.

What we particularly like about this experience is the attention to comfort and variety: the availability of water sports equipment to keep active, and the delicious vegetarian options served at lunch. Plus, the scenic stop at Cabo Velas promises some of the best views and snorkeling opportunities in the area.

However, a key consideration is the group size—while most reviews note a fun, friendly atmosphere, larger groups can sometimes feel crowded, especially during peak times. Also, some reviews mention the importance of bringing your own towels and sunscreen for added comfort. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of socializing, scenic beauty, and water activities, and who want a balanced day on the water with a taste of Costa Rica’s coastal charm.

Key Points

• Stunning Sunset Views: Experience the changing colors of the sky as the boat returns to Tamarindo.
• Active Water Sports: Kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling gear are included for those who want to stay busy.
• Delicious Lunch & Open Bar: A satisfying meal with vegetarian options along with drinks served throughout.
• Relaxing & Fun Atmosphere: Friendly crew and scenic stops create a welcoming environment.
• Potential Crowd & Time Constraints: Be mindful of possible crowding and limited beach time during stops.
• Ideal for a Variety of Travelers: Suitable for groups seeking adventure and relaxation, with options to stay on the boat or explore.

A Detailed Look at the Tamarindo Sunset Catamaran Tour

Starting Point & Logistics

The tour begins on Tamarindo Beach, right in front of the Chiringuito Beach bar. Meeting at 12:30 pm, you’ll gather on the sand, ready for a day of water-based fun. The initial 30-minute walk from town or nearby transportation puts you right at the heart of the action, and the group size caps at around 50 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable atmosphere.

From the beach, you’ll transfer to the catamaran via a motorboat, giving you a quick ride over the water. We like this small touch of adventure right at the start, setting the tone for what’s to come. Just remember to bring a hat, a towel, and sunscreen — essentials for comfort during the day.

The Sailing Experience

Once aboard, the sail across Tamarindo Bay lasts about an hour and ten minutes. The crew, often praised for their professionalism and friendliness, will handle the sails if the weather permits—although some reviews note that sails aren’t always used. The open seating area on the boat offers views of the coast, and the gentle movement of the water provides a calming backdrop.

During this cruise, you can relax, take photos of the rugged Guanacaste coast, or chat with fellow travelers. Many mention the stunning scenery and the relaxed vibe, making it a perfect way to unwind. Reviewers like Josilyn describe it as “the best experience,” highlighting the mixture of scenic beauty and attentive service.

The Beach Stop & Water Activities

Next, the boat anchors at a small beach near Cabo Velas—a highlight for many. Here, the crew offers snorkel gear, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards. The opportunity to swim in clear waters or explore the coral seabed is a big draw, especially since the gear is included and the crew provides safety instructions.

However, some reviews, like Kelly’s, point out the limitations with snorkeling gear, which can be grimey or ill-fitting. If snorkeling is your main goal, be aware that the experience is limited to about an hour, and gear quality can vary.

Many travelers appreciate the peace of this secluded bay, which allows for a more intimate water experience. For example, Tracy notes that their guide Gabriel “went above and beyond,” making the water activities especially enjoyable.

Lunch & Relaxation at Cabo Velas

Following water activities, the boat remains anchored for a delicious onboard lunch. The menu often includes traditional Costa Rican dishes with vegetarian options, served with drinks from the open bar. Reviewers like Ashley praise the “great service” and “delicious food,” which makes the experience feel more authentic and special.

While most guests find the meal satisfying, a few mention that the food can be bland or simple, so don’t expect gourmet cuisine. Still, the opportunity to sit back, enjoy the breeze, and watch the rugged coastline is worth it.

The Return & Sunset

As the tour winds down, the boat heads back towards Tamarindo during the magnificent sunset. This is the moment many travelers look forward to — a perfect photo opportunity and a peaceful way to end the day. Music, drinks, and the natural beauty combine to create a memorable atmosphere.

Vickie L describes it as a “great afternoon on the sunset sail,” emphasizing the “wonderful service” and “loved it.” Several reviews mention the friendly crew and attentive service that help guests unwind and soak in the stunning scenery.

Authentic Traveler Experiences & Insights

Drawing from reviews, we see that the crew’s friendliness and professionalism are consistently praised. Gabriel, in particular, gets shout-outs for going “above and beyond,” and Captain Bismark’s leadership is often lauded for making the trip fun and smooth.

The food and drinks are another highlight. Many mention the quick, plentiful service and the quality of the onboard meal, with some describing it as “delicious” and “great” — especially considering it’s included in the price.

Water activities seem to be a mixed bag. While many enjoy the snorkel, kayak, and paddleboard options, some note the limitations, especially with gear quality or timing. Kelly’s review offers a cautionary note that the snorkeling gear may not always meet expectations, and the limited water time might not satisfy those seeking a dedicated snorkel adventure.

The group size and atmosphere vary. Some find it lively and social, while others note it can feel crowded, especially during peak season. It’s worth considering whether you prefer a more intimate or bustling environment.

Pricing & Value

At $95, this tour offers a competitive price point considering the length, the included water activities, lunch, open bar, and scenic stops. When you factor in the multiple experiences packed into the trip, the value becomes clear—especially for first-timers wanting a comprehensive taste of Tamarindo’s coast.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy variety: a bit of sailing, water sports, good food, and sunset views. It’s perfect for couples, groups of friends, or families, as long as everyone is comfortable with the group size and some potential crowding. Those seeking a quiet, secluded day might find the tour’s lively atmosphere less appealing.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The TIMAROUBA Sunset Sailing Catamaran in Tamarindo delivers a well-rounded adventure. You get a scenic sail, opportunities for water activities, a tasty meal, and a breathtaking sunset. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to combine relaxation with a touch of adventure and don’t mind sharing the boat with others.

What stands out most is the friendly crew, quality food, and the unforgettable views of Costa Rica’s coast. The experience offers good value, especially considering the inclusions of lunch and drinks, making it a smart choice for those looking to enjoy Tamarindo’s waters without breaking the bank.

However, expect some crowding and limited water activity time. If snorkeling is a priority, consider your gear quality expectations and the short duration of the water stop. For a lively, scenic, and delicious day on the water, this tour hits most marks.

In summary, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a laid-back day with friends, or just want to see Costa Rica’s coast in a fun, relaxed setting, the TIMAROUBA Sunset Sailing Catamaran is a trip worth considering.

FAQ

Is there a minimum or maximum number of travelers?
Yes, the tour caps at around 50 people, making it lively but manageable.

When does the tour start and end?
It begins at 12:30 pm and lasts about 5 hours, returning to Tamarindo in the evening.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a hat, towel, and sunscreen for comfort during water activities and sun exposure.

Is the water activity equipment included?
Yes, kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkel gear are provided, but some reviews mention gear quality concerns.

What should I expect from the lunch?
A traditional Costa Rican meal with vegetarian options, served onboard during the stop at Cabo Velas.

Can I cancel if the weather’s bad?
Yes, they offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip, with full refund if canceled due to weather.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Most travelers report it’s good for most ages, especially with water activities and scenic sightseeing. Remember to bring towels and sunscreen for kids.

If you’re after a relaxed but active day on the water, with a stunning sunset as the finale, this Tamarindo catamaran tour is a solid pick. It’s a chance to enjoy Costa Rica’s famous coast while making new friends, eating well, and soaking in some of the most beautiful views you’ll find on the Pacific side.