Private Boat Tour with Free Food and Drinks and Snorkeling

Imagine drifting along the coast of Costa Rica’s Playa Flamingo, with a private boat that combines comfort, personalized service, and the chance to snorkel among vibrant marine life. For $130 per person, this 4.5-hour private boat experience promises an intimate exploration of beaches, islands, and hidden coves, with the bonus of free food and drinks. Led by Kokoruga Charters, the boat itself is a classic 44-foot Grand Banks style vessel— spacious, vintage, and designed for comfort.

What we really love about this trip is the thoughtful accessibility – the boat departs from the new Marina Flamingo, making it easier for elderly guests or families with small children to board and disembark smoothly. Plus, the personalized service, where the owners are part of the crew, ensures a more attentive and flexible experience, unlike larger, cookie-cutter tours. The combination of scenic cruising, snorkeling, and a relaxed atmosphere makes this tour stand out.

A potential consideration is the weather—since this is an outdoor adventure at sea, poor weather might lead to cancellation or rescheduling. Also, while the capacity is 18, groups larger than 15 should inquire ahead, especially if you’re traveling with a bigger party. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a more intimate, flexible, and comfortable way to enjoy Costa Rica’s coastal beauty—perfect for couples, small families, or groups of friends.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The owners are part of the crew, offering tailored service and attention to detail.
• Comfort and Accessibility: Launch from the new Marina Flamingo, making it easier for all guests to board comfortably.
• Scenic & Diverse Stops: Visit beaches, islands, and snorkeling sites like Playa del Amor and Isla Danta with options depending on weather.
• All-Inclusive Food & Drinks: Enjoy delicious local snacks and drinks included in the price, making it a hassle-free outing.
• Flexible & Private: Only your group participates, allowing for a more tailored and relaxed experience.
• Weather-Dependent: The tour relies on good weather; cancellations are possible but offer full refunds or rescheduling.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Setting the Scene: The Vessel and Departure

The Kokoruga, a vintage 44-foot Grand Banks style boat, is as charming as it sounds. We loved the way the boat’s classic wooden details and spacious layout added a sense of nostalgia and comfort. Inside, there’s a main lounge with air conditioning, cozy cabins, bathrooms, and a kitchen—plenty of space to relax. On the deck, the Fly Bridge offers panoramic views, shaded and large enough for at least 15 people, making it perfect for taking in the scenery while staying out of the sun.

The departure point in Marina Flamingo is a big plus, especially if you’re traveling with seniors or small children. The ease of embarking and disembarking here reduces stress and makes for a smoother start and finish, unlike some tours that require a boat ramp or docks that can be tricky.

The Itinerary: Beaches, Islands, and Marine Life

The exact stops depend on weather conditions and the day’s wind, but generally, you’ll cruise past a variety of beaches and islands. Possible destinations include Isla Plata, Islote Chocoyas, Isla Danta, and Isleta El Arbol. The boat will moor at Playa del Amor (Honeymoon Beach), Macaw, or other scenic spots, giving you a chance to relax on pristine sands or snorkel in clear waters.

One of the highlights is the opportunity to see birds and marine fauna, depending on the season. The reviews mention that the crew might point out various bird species or marine creatures you might spot while cruising or snorkeling.

Snorkeling and Wildlife Viewing

The snorkeling stop is a key feature—expect to see vibrant, colorful fish and perhaps some marine invertebrates. The clear waters of Costa Rica’s coast make for excellent underwater visibility, and the crew is likely to assist or advise on the best snorkeling spots. Since observing marine fauna is somewhat seasonal, you might find that certain species are more active at different times of the year, adding an element of surprise.

Food and Drinks: A Highlight

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the free food and drinks. The reviews highlight how the food is delicious, making the outing feel more like a relaxed, floating feast. Expect local snacks or tapas that perfectly complement the tropical setting. With cold drinks available, you can unwind and enjoy the scenery without worrying about packing or purchasing extra supplies.

The Personal Touch

Having the owners as part of the crew means you’ll get a more intimate and tailored experience. From answering questions to customizing stops if weather permits, their presence adds an extra layer of care. One reviewer mentioned how easy and friendly communication was with Diego prior to booking, which is reassuring if you want a smooth planning process.

What Travelers Say

Elise’s review captures the essence: “Excellent day out on the water!!!” She appreciated the attentive communication and the personalized service, which made her skeptical initially due to limited reviews feel unnecessary. The consistent five-star ratings show that many guests leave feeling they received good value and a memorable experience.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour Logistics

Duration and Schedule

The tour lasts around 4 hours 30 minutes— a generous chunk of time to see multiple sights without feeling rushed. Whether you prefer heading north to beaches like Playa Minas or south toward spots like Playa del Amor, the schedule allows for leisurely exploration.

Group Size and Privacy

This is a private tour, meaning only your group participates. With a capacity of 18, but generally smaller groups, you’ll enjoy a more personalized service. If you’re traveling with a larger party, confirm in advance to ensure your needs are met.

Price and Value

At $130 per person, the cost includes access to a well-maintained vessel, personalized service, food and drinks, and the flexibility of a private tour. For those valuing comfort, intimacy, and the chance to customize your day at sea, this price point offers solid value.

Accessibility and Ease of Boarding

The tour’s departure from the new marina simplifies access, especially for guests with mobility concerns. This small but significant detail enhances the overall comfort and reduces the hassle of logistics.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

Since this is a sea-based activity, good weather is crucial. The policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, with full refunds if weather forces cancellation. This helps manage expectations and ensures you’re not stuck with a rainy or stormy day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates personalized service and comfort while exploring coastal areas, this tour suits you. It’s ideal for small groups, families, or couples wanting a relaxed day on the water with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and enjoying delicious local food. The accessibility aspect makes it appealing for older travelers or those with small children.

Travelers who value authentic, intimate experiences over crowded tours will find this private boat trip hits the mark. The focus on natural beauty, marine life, and good food creates a well-rounded, memorable outing.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

In our view, this private boat tour provides a high level of comfort, flexibility, and personalized attention that larger tours often lack. The vintage vessel adds charm, while the stops along beaches and islands allow for quiet relaxation and wildlife viewing. The inclusion of free, tasty food and drinks elevates it from a simple cruise to a full-day leisure experience.

For travelers seeking a more intimate and relaxed way to discover Costa Rica’s coast, this tour offers excellent value. The ability to tailor the experience, combined with the ease of access from the marina, makes it a smart choice for those wanting to avoid the hustle and bustle of larger group excursions.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours 30 minutes, giving plenty of time to explore beaches, islands, and enjoy snorkeling.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the private boat, all food and drinks, snorkeling gear, and the personalized service from the crew.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly guests?
Yes, the easy access from the marina and the spacious boat make it suitable for guests of all ages, including seniors and families with small children.

What should I bring?
While food and drinks are provided, you might want to bring sun protection, swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera for photos.

Can I customize the stops?
The itinerary depends on weather and sea conditions, but the crew is likely flexible and willing to adapt if possible.

What if the weather is bad?
If poor weather cancels the tour, you will be offered a different date or a full refund. Weather-dependent cancellations are policy-compliant for peace of mind.

How many people can join?
Up to 18 guests, but groups larger than 15 should inquire in advance for availability and arrangements.

Is the boat comfortable?
Absolutely. The vessel features vintage wood details, a shaded fly bridge, air-conditioned lounge, and plenty of space for lounging and socializing.

How do I book?
Booking can be done online via Viator or directly through Kokoruga Charters with confirmation sent immediately upon booking.

To sum it up, this private boat tour from Playa Flamingo offers an authentic, relaxed Costa Rican sea adventure with the added bonus of personalized service and delicious food. It’s a smart choice for those wanting a comfortably immersive day on the water, away from the crowds but full of natural beauty and good company. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a peaceful day with spectacular views, this experience delivers on all fronts.