If you’re a certified diver looking to explore Costa Rica’s underwater treasures, this Diving Tour in Isla del Caño is a solid choice. For around $167.40 per person, you’ll spend roughly six hours discovering some of the most vibrant and lively marine habitats along the Pacific coast. The tour departs from Drake Bay, a charming spot known for its lush scenery and laid-back vibe, making it an ideal base for aquatic adventures. Expect to spend about 45 minutes on a boat heading to the Isla del Caño Biological Reserve, where underwater landscapes and marine life are truly spectacular.
What we love about this experience is how well it balances adventure with comfort. First, the small group size—max six divers—means you’ll get personalized attention from your divemaster, ensuring safety and a tailored experience. Second, the inclusion of lunch and a cold beer on the beach makes the day feel complete, giving you a chance to unwind after your underwater explorations.
A potential consideration is the boat ride, which can be quite fast and sometimes choppy, as some reviews suggest taking sea sickness pills if you’re prone to motion sickness. This tour is best suited for experienced, certified divers who are comfortable with boat travel and underwater navigation. If you’re seeking a well-organized, intimate, and marine-rich experience, this should be right up your alley.
Key Points
- Small Group Experience: Max 6 divers for personalized attention and safety.
- Comprehensive Marine Encounters: Expect turtles, sharks, seahorses, rays, and vibrant fish.
- Includes Lunch & Beverages: Enjoy a hearty meal and a cold beer after your dives.
- Expert Guidance: Dive with a knowledgeable divemaster familiar with the best local spots.
- Ideal for Certified Divers: This is exclusively for those with diving certification.
- Good Value: For around $167, you get multiple dives, transport, and food, making it a strong value for marine lovers.
A Detailed Look at the Isla del Caño Diving Experience
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Starting Out: Early Morning Departure from Drake Bay
Your adventure kicks off around 7:30 am at Marisqueria Roberto’s in Drake Bay. The early start is worth it as the boat ride to Isla del Caño usually takes about 45 minutes. The boat itself might feel quick, and some reviewers note that it’s quite speedy, so if you’re sensitive to motion sickness, bringing pills might be wise. The boat is a comfortable, purpose-built vessel designed for small groups, which helps keep the experience intimate and relaxed.
The Journey to Isla del Caño
As you leave Drake Bay behind, you’ll enjoy views of lush coastlines and open sea—coastal Costa Rica has a rugged, wild beauty that sets the tone. The short journey to Isla del Caño provides a chance to prep your gear and chat with your divemaster, who will give last-minute briefings and safety instructions. This informal part of the trip can be quite scenic, with chances to spot sea birds or even dolphins if you’re lucky.
First Underwater Encounter: Coral and Rock Formations
Once at Isla del Caño, your divemaster, Alexa, or whichever guide is leading the group, will help you into your gear and prepare you for your first swim. Expect to explore rock formations and vibrant corals, which serve as a bustling backdrop for your underwater adventure.
According to reviews, the underwater scenery impresses with multicolored fish, turtles, rays, sharks, and sometimes even seahorses. One diver noted, “Thanks to our divemaster Alexa for the amazing dive. She took all the time for us to get ready and showed us turtles, sharks, many fishes, and seahorses.” The sense of safety and personalized attention is clear from these comments.
Underwater Wildlife: What You Might See
The marine life here is what makes this tour stand out. Divers frequently mention encounters with turtles, including a sleeping turtle captured in one review, and sharks, such as a whitetip reef shark. The diversity of fish is also notable, with many colorful species swimming around the coral reefs. Rays are common, gliding gracefully through the water, and some lucky divers have spotted octopuses and seahorses hiding amidst the rocks.
The Break and Second Dive
After the first dive, you’ll enjoy about 40 minutes on the surface—enough time for snacks, hydration, and chat about your underwater discoveries. This downtime is especially appreciated, as it allows your breathing to regulate and prepares you for the second session.
The second dive takes place at a different location around the island, providing a fresh perspective and new underwater sights. Reviews highlight how well the guides choose sites with varied underwater topography—whether it’s different rock formations or coral patches—so each dive feels like a new adventure.
Relaxing on Playa San Josecito
Post-diving, the boat heads to Playa San Josecito, a stunning beach featuring golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Here, you can relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy a cold beer—a perfect way to unwind after your aquatic adventures. Many reviewers remark on how refreshing this stop is, especially after the exertion of diving.
The beach itself is idyllic, with calm waters that are perfect for a quick swim or simply lounging on the sand. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a great spot to reflect on your underwater encounters and take some photos.
Lunch and Return to Drake Bay
The tour wraps up with a visit to a local restaurant around 1:30 pm for lunch. The menu is varied, and the emphasis is on fresh, local ingredients. This meal rounds out the day nicely, giving you the energy to head back to your accommodations.
The boat then returns to Drake Bay, completing a full six-hour experience that balances adventure, relaxation, and culture.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
Considering the price of $167.40, this tour provides multiple diving sessions, boat transportation, snacks, lunch, and a beach stop—all with a small group size. The personalized attention from guides, combined with the chance to see a diverse array of marine life, makes it a worthwhile investment.
The reviews reinforce the value, with several guests describing it as “super well organized” and “spectacular,” especially highlighting the chance to observe sharks, turtles, and a variety of colorful fish. The inclusion of lunch and a cold beer adds a relaxed, social element that makes the day feel complete—not just a technical diving excursion but a full-day experience.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is best suited for certified divers who want to explore Costa Rica’s offshore marine ecosystems in an intimate setting. If you enjoy personalized guiding and small group adventures, you’ll appreciate the attention given to safety and comfort. It’s also ideal for those who are keen to see sharks, sea turtles, and seahorses—things that really make underwater life in Isla del Caño special.
Given the early start and boat ride, it’s suited for travelers comfortable with a quick cruise at sea. If you’re a marine enthusiast or an experienced diver craving a day of ocean discovery, this tour hits the right notes.
The Sum Up
The Diving Tour in Isla del Caño offers an authentic, underwater-rich experience with a focus on safety and personalized service. Small group sizes mean you’ll get plenty of attention from your guide, and you’ll see a wonderful variety of marine creatures in their natural habitat. The inclusion of lunch, snacks, and a relaxing beach stop makes this trip a great balance of adventure and leisure.
Whether you’re a seasoned diver eager to explore Costa Rica’s underwater wonders or someone looking for a memorable day on the water, this tour delivers impressive value and genuine encounters. The stunning views both above and below the surface, combined with the chance to see sharks, turtles, and vibrant reef life, make it a standout choice in Drake Bay.
For travelers who want a well-organized, intimate, and marine-focused adventure with excellent reviews backing it up, this tour is hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a certified diver to participate?
Yes, this tour is exclusively for certified divers, as it involves multiple dives and requires experience underwater.
What is the price of the tour?
The cost is approximately $167.40 per person, which covers boat transportation, multiple dives, snacks, lunch, and the beach stop.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about six hours, starting at 7:30 am and returning around 1:30 pm.
Where does the tour begin?
It starts at Marisqueria Roberto’s in Drake Bay, with the meeting time at 7:30 am.
What should I bring?
While not explicitly stated, it’s wise to bring your diving certification, personal snorkeling gear if you prefer, sunscreen, a hat, and any motion sickness remedies if needed.
Is this tour suitable for non-divers?
No, it is designed specifically for divers with certification; non-divers might enjoy snorkeling tours instead.
What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
You’ll likely see turtles, sharks, rays, seahorses, and many colorful fish. Some reviews mention encounters with octopuses and sleeping turtles.
Is the boat ride rough?
The boat ride is described as quite fast, so if you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautionary measures.
What is included in the tour?
Use of scuba equipment, snacks, lunch, a cold beer, and guided dives are all included.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
This experience is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Exploring the underwater world of Isla del Caño with a small, dedicated group makes for a memorable adventure in Costa Rica. Whether you’re chasing sharks or just want to float among colorful fish, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic look at one of Central America’s most impressive marine environments.