Gulf of Papagayo catamaran and snorkel trip

A half day on the water around the coves of the Papagayo coast, for people who want a swim and a look at reef fish rather than a dive. Boats from Playas del Coco and the Papagayo beaches pick two snorkel stops each day by wind and swell, around the islands and rocky points a short ride from shore, and spend about forty minutes at each. Expect reef fish, rays and sea turtles. Dolphins sometimes swim alongside, and humpbacks show up in season.

Some stops are over water too deep to stand in, so floats and vests come with the gear, but you still need to be able to swim. Trips last around four hours, with a morning sailing or one that ends at sunset, and most include fruit, snacks and drinks, with some tying up at a beach reachable only by boat. In February and March cold upwelling can drop the water to around 19°C and cloud the visibility.