Marlin del Rey Catamaran Snorkel Sunset Cruise from Tamarindo or Playas del Coco

Experience a Sunset on the Water with the Marlin del Rey Catamaran
Imagine yourself gliding across Costa Rica’s golden coastlines aboard a spacious 66-foot catamaran—that’s what the Marlin del Rey offers. Starting from either Tamarindo or Playas del Coco, this 5-hour cruise delivers a mix of snorkeling, delicious food, and an open bar with top-shelf liquor, all wrapped up in a relaxing, scenic experience. With prices at $125 per person, it’s a solid value for a full afternoon of fun, especially considering the thoughtful touches like lunch, drinks, and snorkel equipment included.

What we love most? First, the comfort and size of the boat allow plenty of room to spread out and relax, which is a big plus in a cruise setting. Second, the quality of the drinks and food—you’re not just sipping cheap beer but enjoying fresh cocktails like the highly praised Pina Coladas and a delicious buffet lunch.

A possible consideration? The water visibility for snorkeling can sometimes be affected by weather, as some reviews mention cloudy water due to rain, which might limit underwater viewing. Also, hotel pickup isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation unless you choose to pay extra for it.

This cruise suits travelers looking for a relaxed, all-inclusive adventure that combines coastal sightseeing, underwater exploration, and sunset views—perfect for couples, families, or groups wanting a memorable day on the water.

Key Points

• Spacious and Comfortable Boat: The 66-foot catamaran offers ample room and a smooth ride.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Snorkels, drinks, lunch, and taxes are included, providing great value.
• Stunning Coastal Views: Pass Guanacaste’s bays, beaches, and jungles while enjoying the sea breeze.
• Wildlife Sightings: Dolphins, sea turtles, and even whales are commonly spotted.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: The crew is praised for their friendliness and attentiveness.
• Sunset Spectacle: End with a picture-perfect sunset over the ocean—truly a highlight.

A Detailed Look at the Cruise Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

Depending on where you stay in Tamarindo or Playas del Coco, the tour offers multiple pickup points, with pickups starting as early as 12:15 pm from places like Playa Grande Resort or Wyndham Tamarindo. If you’re not staying nearby, this could mean a bit of planning to coordinate your transport, or you might opt to meet at the boat directly. The meeting time is generally 1:15 pm, aligning with the cruise’s afternoon schedule.

The transport service is available for an additional fee, which is worth considering if you want to avoid the hassle of arranging your own transfer—especially in Costa Rica, where local buses and taxis are plentiful but sometimes less predictable.

The Boat and Its Comfort

Once on board, you’ll notice the large interior space that’s air-conditioned and not hot—important for comfort, especially if you’re traveling with kids or prefer a break from the sun. The netting area isn’t made of rough rope but smooth canvas, as one reviewer noted, making lounging safer and more comfortable.

The boat’s ability to reach speeds of up to 25 knots under sail means you get a lively, smooth ride along the coast, with the added thrill of passing exotic bays and mangrove-lined channels. It’s a boat designed for both speed and stability, making the journey enjoyable even if you’re prone to seasickness.

The Itinerary – What Makes Each Stop Special?

The cruise begins with a glide along Costa Rica’s White Sand Beaches and Tropical Jungles, where you can scan the seas for dolphins, flying fish, and even breaching whales—an experience many reviews rave about. Several travelers mention dolphins swimming close to the boat or whales spotted during the trip.

A major highlight is stopping in a tranquil bay—here, the crew anchors the boat, offering you the chance to snorkel or relax on deserted beaches. The clear blue waters are perfect for snorkeling, and while some mention cloudy water due to rain, the experience of swimming among tropical fish is still highly valued. One reviewer said, “Snorkeling was okay, some tropical fish but cloudy water due to some rain storms,” reflecting that nature’s unpredictability is part of the adventure.

You’ll also have the opportunity to run down the white sands of a deserted beach—a simple joy that feels like discovering your private paradise. The crew is attentive, helping with gear and safety, ensuring everyone feels comfortable whether floating in the water or lounging onboard.

Food and Drinks – A Highlight of the Tour

The lunch is described as delicious, with many reviewers mentioning it exceeded expectations for a boat meal. The buffet-style lunch typically features local flavors and fresh ingredients, making it a perfect refreshment after snorkeling or lounging.

The open bar is a major selling point. Passengers rave about the top-shelf liquor, especially the famous Pina Coladas and rum punches. One reviewer called the drinks “amazing”, and many mention how staff keep the drinks flowing throughout the cruise. Bottled water and unlimited drinks ensure you can enjoy as much as you like, making it a true all-you-can-drink experience.

Sunset and Scenic Beauty

As the afternoon turns into evening, the boat finds a prime spot to watch the sunset. Many reviews describe the breathtaking views, with colors changing over the horizon—a perfect moment for photos or just soaking in the natural beauty. Even if the weather isn’t perfect, the overall ambiance and friendly crew make the experience memorable.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Our speaking with past travelers revealed a lot of nuanced experiences. Petra, who called it a “Beautiful day out on the water,” appreciated the chance to meet new friends and enjoy the crew’s friendliness. Stephanie enjoyed the relaxed vibe and the chance to snorkel and swim, even if the sunset was missed due to rain.

Many reviewers emphasize the attention to safety, comfort, and quality of service—noting that the crew goes above and beyond, making everyone feel cared for. One said, “The staff was very good,” and another that the crew was attentive and helpful with all needs.

A few reviews pointed out that snorkel visibility can vary with weather, but even then, the overall experience remains positive. The large boat and ample space help accommodate different comfort levels, and the friendly atmosphere makes it easy to socialize or relax quietly.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for those looking for a laid-back, all-inclusive day on the water with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, enjoy good food, and watch a stunning sunset. If you value space, comfort, and quality drinks, you’ll find this experience hits the mark. Families appreciate the safe environment and spacious boat, while couples find it a romantic escape.

However, if you’re a serious snorkeler looking for crystal-clear waters or whale sightings are a must, it’s wise to keep in mind that weather conditions may impact visibility, and sightings are not guaranteed. Also, those who prefer included transportation from their hotel may need to plan ahead as the tour doesn’t include pickup by default.

All in all, this cruise offers a well-rounded, relaxing experience with a good balance of adventure, comfort, and scenic beauty. It’s a great way to unwind in Tamarindo or Playas del Coco after days of exploring Costa Rica’s natural wonders.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup isn’t included but can be arranged for an additional fee. Most travelers will need to plan their own transportation to the meeting point.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 5 hours, starting around 1:15 pm and ending back at the meeting point.

Can I snorkel during the cruise?
Yes, snorkel equipment is provided. While some water can be cloudy due to weather, most guests still enjoy swimming and observing tropical fish.

What should I bring?
Bring swimsuits, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. A towel and waterproof camera are also handy for capturing the sunset and underwater moments.

Is there a bathroom onboard?
Yes, the boat has bathrooms, and the interior space is large and comfortable, with no hot or cramped areas.

Can children participate?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but parents should consider the comfort of younger kids on the boat.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a reschedule or a full refund.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the tour can accommodate up to 50 travelers, ensuring a lively but not overcrowded atmosphere.

What is the price for this experience?
The cost is $125 per person, including all taxes, fees, lunch, drinks, and snorkel gear—offering good value for a full afternoon of enjoyment.

Can I see whales or dolphins?
Many reviews mention dolphins swimming near the boat and whale sightings have been reported, though they are not guaranteed.

In summary, the Marlin del Rey Catamaran Sunset Cruise offers a comfortable, scenic, and fun-packed way to enjoy Costa Rica’s coast. Its combination of snorkeling, great food, and spectacular sunsets makes it perfect for those wanting to relax with a touch of adventure and a lot of beautiful views—best suited for travelers who appreciate comfort, good company, and memorable moments on the water.