The Quepos-Manuel Antonio coastline serves up several outstanding boat excursions that let you experience Costa Rica’s Pacific waters without breaking the bank. A historic wooden sailing vessel and modern catamarans offer half-day and sunset trips, complete with snorkeling stops and wildlife viewing. The Damas Island mangrove tours, running in smaller boats, deserve special mention for their intimate look at Costa Rica’s rich coastal ecosystem.
I’m particularly impressed with the catamaran snorkeling tours, which include good equipment, tasty meals, and naturalist guides who know their stuff. The century-old wooden ship tours earn points for authenticity and charm, though they can get crowded in peak season.
Let’s look at the specific tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- Catamaran tours in Quepos offer diverse options, including snorkeling, sunset views, and amenities like waterslides and jacuzzis, with generally positive customer feedback.
- Adventure and eco-activities in Quepos include boat parasailing, eco-adventures with snorkeling, and mangrove kayaking tours, providing immersive nature experiences.
- Mangrove boat tours in Quepos, such as the Damas Island Tour and Night Mangrove Safari, offer opportunities to observe diverse wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and crocodiles.
- A 4-hour cruise on a 100-year-old wooden sailing ship in Quepos provides activities like swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, along with exceptional service and wildlife spotting.
- Quepos boat tours generally receive positive customer reviews for their knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and quality food, with some areas for improvement in snorkeling visibility and music volume.
Cruising on a 100 Wooden Sail Ship in Province of Puntarenas
The wooden sailing ship glides effortlessly across the azure waters of Puntarenas. Offering a unique experience, this 100-year-old vessel accommodates up to 46 guests, distinguishing it from the more common catamaran tours.
At €135.56 per person, the 4-hour cruise provides a lower-cost alternative with a Lowest Price Guarantee. With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, guests can book with flexibility.
The multilingual crew offers exceptional service, spotting wildlife like turtles, rays, and dolphins. Passengers can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, as well as a delicious lunch or dinner featuring fresh mahi mahi.
Sunset cruises provide picturesque views, completing this memorable sailing adventure in Quepos.
Read our full review: Cruising on a 100 Wooden Sail Ship in Province of Puntarenas Review
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Mangrove Boat Tour Damas Island | Manuel Antonio
A captivating mangrove boat tour on Damas Island near Manuel Antonio presents visitors with an immersive glimpse into Costa Rica’s rich ecological wonders.
The 4-hour tour, operated by the reputable Costa Rica Jade Tours, allows travelers to explore the diverse mangrove ecosystem and spot a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, snakes, and birds.
With a maximum of 18 participants, the small group size ensures an intimate and personalized experience.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour boasts positive reviews, highlighting the knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery.
Priced from $70, the tour can be booked through Viator, with flexible cancellation policies in place.
Read our full review: Mangrove Boat Tour Damas Island | Manuel Antonio Review
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Mangrove Boat
Situated along the Pacific coast near Quepos, the Mangrove Boat tour offers visitors an immersive exploration of Costa Rica’s verdant mangrove ecosystems.
This 2-3 hour excursion covers approximately 3 miles, showcasing diverse landscapes including rivers, estuaries, and tropical forests.
Travelers can expect to encounter a variety of wildlife in their natural habitats while learning about the native jungle ecosystems from knowledgeable guides.
The tour provides scenic views, photography opportunities, and a relaxing atmosphere in a safe, family-friendly environment.
With convenient mobile ticketing, language options, and a flexible cancellation policy, the Mangrove Boat tour is an educational and enjoyable experience for visitors to Quepos.
Read our full review: Mangrove Boat Review
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Catamaran Tour Manuel Antonio
Visitors to Quepos can embark on an unforgettable Catamaran Tour of Manuel Antonio, offering a unique perspective of the region’s stunning coastline and wildlife.
Priced at $3,200 per person, the tour provides a Lowest Price Guarantee and flexible booking options, including free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance.
The 3-hour experience includes pickup service, mobile ticketing, and a menu highlight of the traditional Casado Tipico dish.
Catering to a maximum of 30 travelers, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with positive reviews highlighting the crew’s friendliness and the high-quality food provided throughout the journey.
Read our full review: Catamaran Tour Manuel Antonio Review
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Boat Parasailing With Aguas Azules
For those seeking a thrilling aerial adventure in Quepos, the Boat Parasailing With Aguas Azules offers an unparalleled experience.
Soar above the stunning Manuel Antonio coastline for approximately 10 minutes, enjoying breathtaking views. No prior experience is required, as all necessary safety equipment, including life jackets, is provided.
Non-flyers can join the boat, subject to space availability. The activity is accessible via public transportation, and the meeting point is easily located on Google Maps.
With a maximum of 10 participants per tour, this parasailing experience promises an intimate and exhilarating outing. Cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund.
Read our full review: Boat Parasailing With Aguas Azules Review
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Catamaran Ocean King Manuel Antonio
The Catamaran Ocean King Manuel Antonio offers a captivating way to explore the stunning coastline of Costa Rica. This approximately 4-hour excursion provides a unique perspective, with opportunities to visit lesser-known islands, snorkel, swim, and spot dolphins.
Guests can enjoy fresh dinner, four complimentary drinks, and vegetarian options. With a maximum capacity of 160, the tour is suitable for couples, friends, and families.
Most travelers report a fun and memorable experience, praising the well-organized staff and scenic views. However, some have mentioned delays, issues with service, and confusion around the booking process.
The tour’s $86 per person price tag is considered high value, though service quality may vary.
Read our full review: Catamaran Ocean King Manuel Antonio Review
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All Inclusive Catamaran Eco Adventure From Manuel Antonio
Travelers can embark on an all-inclusive catamaran eco-adventure from Manuel Antonio, offering a captivating way to explore Costa Rica’s stunning coastline. Priced at $83 per person, the tour provides a lowest price guarantee, free cancellation, and flexible rescheduling.
During the 3.5-hour excursion, participants can enjoy snorkeling, diving, and a boat slide, while spotting dolphins, flying fish, and even whales. Lunch, cocktails, and unlimited refreshments are included, with vegetarian options available.
While visibility may be limited during the rainy season, the tour’s natural beauty and wildlife encounters are consistently praised by travelers. The crew’s attentive service and the overall value for money make this an excellent choice for an immersive Costa Rican experience.
Read our full review: All Inclusive Catamaran Eco Adventure From Manuel Antonio Review
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Night Mangrove Safari Boat Tour With Dinner | Manuel Antonio
Setting out on a night mangrove safari boat tour in Manuel Antonio offers travelers a captivating opportunity to enjoy the region’s rich natural wonders.
This approximately 3-hour experience, operated by Costa Rica Jade Tours, departs from the Manuel Antonio Park meeting point, where guests will be greeted by knowledgeable guides in uniform.
With a maximum of 30 travelers per tour, the experience provides an engaging and intimate encounter with the local wildlife, including the chance to spot sloths, crocodiles, and more.
Following the tour, guests can enjoy an authentic Costa Rican dinner in downtown Quepos, savoring the local casado cuisine.
Wheelchair accessibility is available, and the tour’s cancellation policy offers flexibility, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Read our full review: Night Mangrove Safari Boat Tour With Dinner | Manuel Antonio Review
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Damas Mangrove Boat Tour
A captivating Damas Mangrove Boat Tour offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy the vibrant ecosystem of Damas Island.
The 2-4 hour guided tour, available in English, allows travelers to witness the region’s diverse wildlife aboard ultra-quiet estuary boats. Guests can expect to spot monkeys and learn about the surrounding rainforest during this interactive experience.
Pickup options are available, and instant mobile ticketing provides convenient and paperless access. With an overall rating of 4.8 out of 74 reviews, this tour is a must-try for nature enthusiasts visiting Quepos.
Travelers are advised to confirm start times and cancellation policies prior to booking, as flexibility in timing is based on availability.
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Damas Island Mangrove Boat Tour From Manuel Antonio
Departing from the coastal town of Manuel Antonio, the Damas Island Mangrove Boat Tour offers visitors an immersive exploration of the region’s lush mangrove ecosystems.
With a 4.8 rating and 923 reviews, this $70 tour is a top-rated option, showcasing the biodiversity hotspot of the largest mangrove ecosystem in Central America.
The tour includes round-trip transportation and a meal, and boasts a flexible cancellation policy.
While some reviews mention limited wildlife sightings, the overall feedback highlights the professional guides, educational aspects, and peaceful nature experience.
For those seeking a sustainable and environmentally-conscious activity, the Damas Island Mangrove Boat Tour is a compelling choice.
Read our full review: Damas Island Mangrove Boat Tour From Manuel Antonio Review
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Catamaran Cruise From Manuel Antonio With Snorkeling
The Catamaran Cruise From Manuel Antonio With Snorkeling offers an opportunity to explore the stunning Pacific waters off the coast of Costa Rica. Priced at $93 per person, this 4-hour tour includes round-trip transportation, snorkel equipment, and a meal.
Guests can expect morning snorkeling at Playa Biezans or evening sunset views over the ocean. With a flexible booking policy and a lowest price guarantee, this tour provides excellent value.
Positive reviews highlight the friendly staff, beautiful scenery, and delicious local cuisine. While some feedback mentions mixed experiences with snorkeling visibility and music volume, the majority of travelers rate the tour as amazing and worth the price.
Read our full review: Catamaran Cruise From Manuel Antonio With Snorkeling Review
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Private Catamaran Eco-Adventure Manuel Antonio
Priced at $650 per group (up to 2 people), the Private Catamaran Eco-Adventure Manuel Antonio offers a personalized and immersive experience along the picturesque coastline of Manuel Antonio National Park.
Travelers can enjoy a 4-hour cruise with snorkeling in Biesanz Bay, spacious decks for relaxation, and a homemade buffet lunch.
The activity includes a Lowest Price Guarantee, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and unlimited rescheduling.
Pickup service is available for those in the Quepos/Manuel Antonio area, and instant mobile ticketing provides convenience.
While reviews are mixed, the overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 suggests a quality experience for those seeking an exclusive Costa Rican adventure.
Read our full review: Private Catamaran Eco-Adventure Manuel Antonio Review
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Mangrove Kayaking (Or Boat) Adventure
For those seeking a unique way to explore the natural wonders of Costa Rica, the Mangrove Kayaking (Or Boat) Adventure offers an immersive experience in the Damas Island estuary.
Priced at ₹6,512.10 per person, this 4-hour tour provides a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can expect wildlife viewing opportunities, including monkeys, iguanas, and exotic birds, as they navigate the scenic mangrove forests.
While not wheelchair accessible, the moderate physical fitness required is suitable for most. Guided in English and Spanish, this adventure comes highly reviewed, with a 4.8/5 rating based on 13 verified traveler experiences.
Read our full review: Mangrove Kayaking (Or Boat) Adventure Review
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Manuel Antonio Catamaran Tour
Offering a more leisurely way to explore the natural beauty of Manuel Antonio, the Manuel Antonio Catamaran Tour provides a luxurious and relaxing experience aboard a well-equipped catamaran.
Lasting approximately 4 hours, the tour departs at 7:00 AM and allows guests to enjoy the park’s white sand beaches and lush forests from the comfort of the boat.
Featuring amenities like waterslides, trampolines, a jacuzzi, and a bar, the tour also offers opportunities for snorkeling, music, and refreshments.
Accommodating a maximum of 15 travelers, this tour is accessible, convenient, and perfect for those seeking a comfortable and unforgettable day on the water.
Read our full review: Manuel Antonio Catamaran Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Boat Tours?
Most boat tours don’t have age restrictions, though some may have minimum age requirements for safety reasons. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to understand their policies on children and any age limits that apply.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Cruises?
Most cruises and boat tours allow passengers to bring their own food and drinks. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand, as some may have restrictions or provide meals included in the price.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Boat Tours?
The cancellation policy for boat tours typically allows participants to cancel up to 24-48 hours in advance for a full refund. However, last-minute cancellations may result in a partial or no refund, so it’s best to check the specific policy.
Do the Boats Have Restrooms and Changing Facilities?
The boats typically have onboard restrooms and changing facilities to accommodate passengers’ needs during the tour. This provides convenience and comfort throughout the duration of the excursion.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for the Boat Tours?
Many boat tour operators offer discounts or package deals to attract customers. Travelers can often find savings on multi-day excursions, group bookings, or when bundled with other activities. It’s best to research and compare options to find the best value.
The Sum Up
Quepos offers a variety of cruise and boat tour options to explore the stunning natural beauty of the region. From sailing on a wooden ship to mangrove tours and catamaran excursions, there’s something for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking an adventurous parasailing experience or a peaceful eco-tour, Quepos’ waterways provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable maritime adventure.