For the best waterway experiences in Limon, Costa Rica’s busiest cruise stop, several boat tours stand out. The practical combo of Zipline Canopy Tour & Tortuguero Canal hits all the right notes – you’ll glide through the forest canopy and then drift peacefully along the canal’s wildlife-rich waters. I’m particularly fond of the Tortuguero Canal Eco Cruise for its intimate wildlife encounters – you’ll often spot sloths, monkeys, and tropical birds without fighting crowds.
The small-group Tortuguero Canal Tour works perfectly for travelers who prefer a more personal experience, while chocolate enthusiasts will appreciate combining a traditional chocolate-making session with canal wildlife viewing on the Chocolate Lovers tour.
These top boat excursions showcase the best of Limon’s natural beauty – let’s explore the specifics of each recommended tour.
Key Points
-
The Tortuguero Canal Eco Cruise offers a 4.5-star experience with a Badge of Excellence, allowing you to spot diverse wildlife and visit local plantations.
-
The Veragua Rainforest Walk & Tortuguero Boat Tour provides a 4.5-star rated experience with a 90% traveler recommendation, including a rainforest tram ride and guided nature walk.
-
The Tortuguero Canal Boat Tour offers a small group experience with a maximum of 6 travelers, allowing you to spot monkeys, toucans, and sloths during the guided boat tour.
-
The Chocolate Lovers & Tortuguero Boat Tour combines a 3-hour experience with a chocolate-making workshop and a boat tour, with a 5-star rating and high demand.
-
The Zipline Canopy Tours offer a thrilling combination of zipline activities and a scenic boat tour, with 11 cables up to 885 feet long and heights up to 263 feet.
Zipline Canopy Tour & Tortuguero Canal Boat Tour. Shore Excursion From Limon
For cruise ship passengers exploring Costa Rica’s Limon, the Zipline Canopy Tour & Tortuguero Canal Boat Tour offers an exciting eco-adventure combining thrilling aerial activities and a leisurely canal cruise.
The tour includes an hour-long boat tour through the Tortuguero Canal, where travelers can spot howler monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, and toucans.
The zipline experience features 11 cables up to 885 feet long and 263 feet high. Guides provide a safety briefing before the zipline.
Travelers are transported from the cruise terminal to the activities and back.
While most reviews praise the experience, some report issues with organization and communication that the tour operator aims to improve.
Read our full review: Zipline Canopy Tour & Tortuguero Canal Boat Tour. Shore Excursion From Limon Review
Book now: Check availability
Tortuguero Canal Eco Cruise and Banana Plantation. Puerto Limon Shore Excursion
The Tortugruero Canal Eco Cruise and Banana Plantation tour offers cruise ship passengers a unique opportunity to enjoy the natural and cultural wonders of Costa Rica’s Limon region.
Rated 4.5 stars with a Badge of Excellence, this highly recommended 92% by travelers shore excursion includes a professional guide, air-conditioned transportation, and a boat cruise along the Tortuguero Canals to spot diverse wildlife.
Guests will also visit a banana and chocolate plantation, local souvenir shops, and enjoy a refreshing tropical fruit snack.
With a maximum of 200 travelers per tour, this experience provides an intimate and personalized way to explore the best of Limon.
Read our full review: Tortuguero Canal Eco Cruise and Banana Plantation. Puerto Limon Shore Excursion Review
Book now: Check availability
Veragua Rainforest Walk, Tram & Tortuguero Boat Tour. Limon Shore Excursion
Cruise passengers visiting Limon, Costa Rica can embark on the Veragua Rainforest Walk, Tram & Tortuguero Boat Tour, a highly-rated shore excursion that immerses them in the region’s natural wonders.
This 4.5-star tour, operated by Greenway Nature Day Tours, offers a unique blend of experiences, including a rainforest tram ride, a guided nature walk, and a boat tour through the Tortuguero Canals.
With a 90% traveler recommendation rate, the tour has received praise for its knowledgeable guides and opportunities to spot wildlife like sloths and monkeys.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour accommodates varying fitness levels. Guests can enjoy the convenience of air-conditioned transportation and complimentary snacks.
Read our full review: Veragua Rainforest Walk, Tram & Tortuguero Boat Tour. Limon Shore Excursion Review
Book now: Check availability
Tortuguero Canal Boat Tour: From Puerto Limon
Limon’s Tortuguero Canal Boat Tour offers cruise passengers a unique opportunity to explore Costa Rica’s “Amazon” – a network of lush waterways teeming with diverse wildlife.
Departing from Puerto Limon, the guided tour takes travelers on an open-sided safari boat to spot monkeys, toucans, and sloths. The tour includes transportation, a knowledgeable driver/guide, and the chance to purchase alcoholic drinks.
With a maximum of 6 travelers, the small group experience provides ample opportunities for wildlife viewing. Reviewers praise the tour’s knowledgeable guides and the rich variety of animals encountered.
The 2.5-hour tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers, but most others can participate.
Read our full review: Tortuguero Canal Boat Tour: From Puerto Limon Review
Book now: Check availability
Veragua Zipline & Tortuguero Canal Boat Tour. Puerto Limon Shore Excursion
Travelers visiting Puerto Limon can embark on a thrilling Veragua Zipline & Tortuguero Canal Boat Tour. This 5-star rated excursion takes adventurers on a zipline canopy tour through the Veragua Rainforest, followed by a relaxing cruise along the Tortuguero Canals.
The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, a naturalist guide, a city tour of Puerto Limon, and a fresh fruit snack. Priced from $175 per person, the tour has a maximum of 15 travelers.
However, it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant women, or those with heart conditions. With free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance, this is an enticing option for active Costa Rica explorers.
Read our full review: Veragua Zipline & Tortuguero Canal Boat Tour. Puerto Limon Shore Excursion Review
Book now: Check availability
Chocolate Lovers & Tortuguero Canal Boat Tour
After disembarking from their cruise, visitors to Puerto Limon can enjoy the rich chocolate heritage of Costa Rica with the Chocolate Tour & Tortuguero Boat excursion.
This 3-hour experience includes a 2-hour chocolate-making workshop and a 1-hour boat tour through the Tortuguero Canal. Priced at $135 per person, the tour accommodates up to 50 travelers and includes bottled water, fresh fruit, and an air-conditioned vehicle.
While lunch and alcoholic beverages are provided, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.
With an impressive 5-star rating based on verified reviews, this tour is likely to sell out, so early booking is recommended.
Read our full review: Chocolate Lovers & Tortuguero Canal Boat Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Common Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Tours?
Generally, passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on boat tours, though it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. Some may have restrictions or offer on-board refreshments for purchase.
What Is the Policy for Children on the Boat Tours?
Most boat tour companies welcome children, often offering discounted fares. However, parents should check policies as some tours may have age or size restrictions. It’s best to inquire about specific child-friendly options when booking to ensure a comfortable experience for the whole family.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography or Videography During the Tours?
Most boat tour operators allow photography and videography during the tours, but may have restrictions to protect passengers’ privacy or the natural environment. It’s best to check with the tour company ahead of time to understand their specific policies.
Do the Boat Tours Provide Any Amenities or Facilities on Board?
The boat tours typically provide amenities such as seating, shade, snacks, and restrooms on board. Some tours may also offer audio commentary or onboard guides to enhance the sightseeing experience.
Can I Book the Boat Tours in Advance or Do I Need to Purchase Them on the Day?
You can book most boat tours in advance to ensure availability, though some may allow same-day purchases. It’s best to check with the tour operator about their booking policies and availability to plan your trip accordingly.
The Sum Up
Limon, Costa Rica offers a variety of boat tours and cruises that allow visitors to explore the Tortuguero Canals and experience the local culture. From zipline tours to chocolate tastings, these shore excursions provide a well-rounded experience. Travelers can choose from multiple options to find the best fit for their interests and time constraints.