The Best Boat Rentals in Costa Rica

For shared sightseeing or sunset cruises in Costa Rica, expect about $75–$150 per person with snacks and drinks included. Private half‑day charters on mid‑size boats typically run $1,200–$2,500 and often include a captain, fuel, ice, soft drinks, fruit, and basic gear for swimming or snorkeling. Full‑day private trips are usually $2,200–$4,000+, depending on the boat size and menu. Dedicated sportfishing charters commonly range from $1,400–$2,800 for a full day, while small coastal boats may offer half‑days from roughly $600–$1,000. Luxury yachts and superyachts start around $5,000 per day and can exceed $10,000 when you add premium catering and crew. Prices vary by season, boat size, and what’s included, so check the listing details and message the captain about menus, fuel, and any add‑ons you want.

You can choose from sailing catamarans for smooth cruising, sportfishing boats built for offshore action, classic sailboats for a relaxed day under sail, center consoles for quick coastal hops, and motor yachts for extra space and comfort. If you’re planning a celebration, look for catamarans or yachts with shaded deck space, good sound systems, and easy water access.

Most travelers book captained charters in Costa Rica so a local skipper handles navigation, anchoring, and safety while you relax. A limited number of bareboat options exist, but operators typically require proof of competence such as recognized sailing certifications and a solid boating resume. If you plan to fish, expect your captain to supply tackle and local know‑how, and note that anyone fishing may need a short‑term license. When in doubt, choose a captained trip for the easiest experience.

On the Pacific coast, popular departure points include Los Sueños Marina in Herradura by Jacó, Marina Pez Vela in Quepos for Manuel Antonio, Marina Flamingo at Playa Flamingo in Guanacaste, and Marina Papagayo in Culebra Bay on the Papagayo Peninsula. You will also find regular departures from Playas del Coco for coastal cruises and snorkeling, and from Golfito in the Golfo Dulce for wildlife‑rich excursions. Your captain will confirm the exact pier or pickup spot after you book.

From the Pacific side you can cruise past jungle‑covered headlands, quiet coves, and islands in the Gulf of Nicoya, with favorites like Isla Tortuga for clear water and sandy beaches. Guanacaste trips often explore calm bays and volcanic rock pinnacles where dolphins, sea turtles, and manta rays are common, and Manuel Antonio’s coastline delivers dramatic cliffs and sunset views. On the Caribbean side, boat tours focus on palm‑lined shores and coral gardens near places like Cahuita. In season, humpback whales pass the Pacific coast, and dolphins are spotted year‑round.

If you hire a captained charter in Costa Rica, you do not need a boating license. For any self‑operated rental, charter companies may ask for recognized certifications and a resume showing recent experience, and availability is limited. If you plan to fish, short‑term sportfishing permits are commonly required for those actively fishing; many crews handle this for you at check‑in, so ask your captain what is needed for your date.

Yes, families are welcome on most boats in Costa Rica. Charters carry life jackets for all guests, and child sizes are typically available if you share ages and approximate weights ahead of time. Captains review safety basics before departure, and many recommend morning trips for calmer seas with little ones. Pack sun protection and a light cover‑up so kids can take a break from the sun between swims.

Private charters in Costa Rica usually allow you to bring your own snacks and beverages, and many include soft drinks and fruit, with lunch on full‑day trips. Some boats offer open bar or upgraded catering for an extra fee. Glass is often discouraged for safety, so plan on cans and reusable bottles. Shared tours typically include a set menu and may limit outside items, so check the listing or message the captain with any dietary needs.

Pet policies vary by boat in Costa Rica. Small, well‑behaved dogs are often permitted on private charters with advance approval, while shared tours usually do not allow pets. If your itinerary includes protected beaches or national park areas, local rules may restrict animals on shore. Let the owner know your pet’s size and bring a leash, waste bags, a towel, and fresh water.

Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is driest from December through April, while May through November brings brief afternoon showers and greener scenery. Mornings are often calmer on the water, and many captains recommend earlier departures for smooth seas. The north Pacific can see seasonal winds, and the south Pacific’s Golfo Dulce is typically very protected. If the captain decides conditions are unsafe, trips are rescheduled or refunded according to the boat’s cancellation policy. On the Caribbean side, September and October are usually the driest months for boating.

Absolutely. Boats in Costa Rica frequently host birthdays, proposals, bachelor or bachelorette get‑togethers, and corporate retreats. Pick a catamaran or motor yacht with ample shaded seating and a good sound system, confirm the maximum passenger count, and ask about catering or décor. For groups that want time at a beach or sand‑anchorage, choose an itinerary with an easy swim stop and plan your playlists and celebration touches in advance.

For the Pacific coast, the peak boating season is December to April with steady sunshine and high demand, especially around holiday weeks. January through March also bring major billfish tournaments based at Los Sueños, and April typically features big game events out of Quepos, which makes marinas lively and boats book up early. The Caribbean coast shines in September and October when seas are typically calm and clear. Weekday mornings are your best bet for smoother water and easier scheduling; weekends and afternoons fill up fast, and U.S. holiday periods like late May, July 4, and early September see strong demand from visitors.

Two favorites are day trips to Isla Tortuga for turquoise water and beach time from the central Pacific, and wildlife cruises in the Golfo Dulce where calm fjord‑like waters offer frequent dolphin encounters and, in the right conditions, nighttime bioluminescence. In Guanacaste, boats often head to the Catalina Islands for clear‑water snorkeling and the chance to spot rays, while seasonal whale watching along the Pacific brings incredible sightings in January–February and again in August–September. Ask your captain which option fits your dates and group vibe.