Fundive Catalina Islands (2 dives only for certified divers)

Experience the Underwater Wonders of Catalina Islands in Costa Rica

Imagine gliding through crystal-clear waters off Tamarindo, Costa Rica, surrounded by vibrant marine life including sea turtles, sharks, and starfish. For certified divers, this two-dive guided tour offers an accessible yet exhilarating way to see the rich aquatic world of the Catalina Islands for only $165 per person. The tour lasts roughly 7 hours, with pick-up offered, making it a convenient addition to your Costa Rican adventure.

What we really love about this experience is the small group size—capped at five—which means personalized attention from knowledgeable guides. Plus, the all-included gear and snacks make for a hassle-free, comfortable outing. On the flip side, travelers should note it’s not suitable for beginners or those looking for a longer or more extensive diving experience, but for certified divers craving two quality dives, it’s hard to beat.

This tour is perfect if you’re seeking authentic marine encounters, well-run instruction, and a friendly, professional team. It’s especially suited for adventurous couples, families with certified divers, or solo travelers eager to explore Costa Rica’s underwater magic.

Key Points

• Small group experience: Limited to five divers for personalized attention.
• Certified divers only: The tour is tailored for those with scuba certification.
• Marine diversity: Opportunity to see sharks, sea turtles, starfish, and more.
• All equipment included: No need to bring your own gear, just show up ready to dive.
• Two dives in different sites: Each offering unique underwater sights.
• Convenient logistics: Pickup offered, with a mid-morning start and return around midday.

A Closer Look at Fundive Catalina Islands

When considering a scuba adventure in Costa Rica, it’s natural to want a balance of value, safety, and memorable sights. This tour delivers just that. For $165, you’re getting two guided dives, all necessary equipment, snacks, and a professional team—an impressive package that emphasizes quality over quantity.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Our day begins with a meet-up at the TamaDive Tamarindo Diving Center, conveniently located at Avenida Central. Here, you’ll fill out some paperwork, try on your gear, and receive a briefing from your guides. The team is praised for their professionalism and attentiveness, which instantly sets a tone of confidence and comfort.

Once suited up, you’ll hop onto a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that takes you to the boat. The journey itself is short and scenic, with the boat ride to the first dive site often becoming part of the adventure. Because the tour is capped at just five divers, the boat remains uncrowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience.

Each diver gets two dives with a break in between—a perfect chance to decompress, share your experiences, or simply absorb the underwater serenity. The sites are chosen for their vibrancy and diversity, with opportunities to see stingrays, white tip reef sharks, and even manta rays (as reported by one thrilled diver). The reviews highlight that even with varying visibility, guides make sure everyone gets to see starfish, blowfish, and other fascinating creatures.

Marine Life and Sightseeing

One reviewer described their experience as “Incredible”, noting that their guide was exceptional at showing wildlife. Even in less-than-ideal visibility, they managed to spot a huge stingray and sharks, which speaks volumes about the guides’ expertise. Another diver called it “one of the best dives ever,” citing the chance to observe sharks, starfish, and manta rays—a true highlight for marine enthusiasts.

The underwater landscape itself is lively—coral formations, colorful fish, and rays create a dynamic scene that appeals to both first-time and experienced divers. The small-group aspect means your guide can give individual attention, making sure everyone gets good viewing angles and safety is maintained.

The Equipment and Comfort Level

All scuba gear is provided, which means you don’t need to worry about lugging your own. The guides are known for their attention to gear care and making sure everything fits properly—crucial for a safe and comfortable dive. Snacks, bottled water, and soft drinks are included, allowing you to refuel after your underwater adventures.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Given its structure, this tour is best suited for certified divers who are comfortable in the water. It’s not designed for beginners or non-divers. Travelers who value small groups and want a personalized experience will appreciate the capped numbers. If you’re looking for professional guides, a well-organized itinerary, and the chance to see Costa Rica’s marine life close-up, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Pricing and Value

At $165, this experience offers excellent value—especially considering the inclusion of all equipment, snacks, and a guided, safe environment. Reviews emphasize the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, which enhances the experience. Many mention how worthwhile the trip was, even if it’s a bit of a drive from Tamarindo, citing “totally worth the trip” and “best dive ever”.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a certified diver wanting two quality dives in a small, friendly setting, this is a fantastic choice. It’s ideal for adventurous couples, solo travelers looking for a personalized experience, or families with certified divers. The marine sights—sharks, turtles, rays—are captivating, and the professional guides ensure safety and fun.

Travelers who enjoy authentic, hands-on marine encounters, appreciate good value for their money, and prefer smaller groups will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s a perfect way to add a memorable underwater chapter to your Costa Rican holiday.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Do I need to be a certified diver?
Yes, this tour is only available for certified divers. It involves two dives, so certification is required for safety reasons.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all scuba equipment, snacks, bottled water, soda, and a professional scuba guide. Tips and sun protection are not included.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for about 7 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around midday.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at TamaDive Tamarindo and ends back at the same meeting point.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle is used for pickup and transportation to the boat.

What about safety and group size?
With a maximum of five participants, guides can focus on safety and individual interests, making it a more personalized experience.

What might visibility be like?
Visibility can vary (as noted in reviews), but guides are skilled at showing marine life regardless of conditions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before will not be refunded.

What should I bring?
While gear is provided, bring sun protection (hats, sunscreen), and a sense of adventure.

Final Thoughts

This Fundive Catalina Islands tour stands out for its combination of professional guides, small groups, and vibrant marine life. It offers a well-organized, enjoyable experience for certified divers eager to explore Costa Rica’s underwater treasures. The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable team and the diverse marine sightings, making it a solid choice if you want quality over quantity.

While it’s not suited for beginners or non-divers, those with certification will find this tour delivers excellent value for money. The limited group size ensures everyone has plenty of attention, and the included amenities make the day comfortable and hassle-free.

If you’re looking for an authentic diving experience that combines professionalism, personalized service, and memorable marine encounters, this Costa Rican tour is a smart pick. Just pack your certification, prepare for a day of underwater exploration, and get ready for some truly spectacular sights beneath the waves.