Dolphin watching in Tamarindo delivers reliable wildlife encounters without breaking the bank. Two excellent choices stand out: the public Blue Dolphin Sailing Adventure and the private Blue Dolphin Cruise with brunch.
I’m especially fond of the Catamaran Snorkeling Sunset option – it smartly combines wildlife viewing with snorkeling and refreshments, making the most of your vacation time and money. Group tours start at $99 per person, while private tours can be customized. All tours include meals and drinks.
Let’s explore the best dolphin watching experiences Tamarindo has to offer.
Good To Know
- The Blue Dolphin Catamaran Snorkeling Sunset Cruise from Tamarindo offers the opportunity to see dolphins while swimming and snorkeling at Playa Huevo beach.
- The Public Blue Dolphin Sailing Adventure provides a chance to spot dolphins during the 3-hour sailing trip on a 40-foot catamaran.
- The Private Blue Dolphin Sailing Adventure allows for a more personalized dolphin watching experience with various water activities included.
- The Blue Dolphin Private Cruise Bloody Mary and Mimosa Brunch includes an open bar and the possibility of seeing dolphins during the 3-hour cruise.
- The tours depart from El Chiringuito in Tamarindo, providing convenient access to the best dolphin watching spots in the area.
Public Blue Dolphin Sailing Adventure
Departing from the scenic El Chiringuito in Tamarindo, the Blue Dolphin catamaran takes guests on a 40-foot ecotourism adventure. Part of Costa Rica’s renowned ecotourism destination, this public catamaran tour offers a variety of included activities such as swimming, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and using pool noodles.
During the 1-hour cruise north along the coast, passengers can enjoy a delectable meal of chicken fajitas, black beans, salad, fruit platter, and homemade banana bread, accompanied by a selection of beverages including sodas, juices, beer, white wine, Cacique, vodka, rum, and tequila.
The catamaran moors at a cove near Playa Huevos, where guests can enjoy the tropical waters and participate in the water activities. The return trip to Tamarindo is timed to coincide with the west-facing sunsets, providing a scenic and memorable end to the adventure.
Read our full review: Public Blue Dolphin Sailing Adventure Review
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Blue Dolphin Catamaran Snorkeling Sunset Cruise From Tamarindo
The Blue Dolphin catamaran departs from the scenic El Chiringuito in Tamarindo, offering guests a 40-foot ecotourism adventure along the coast. The cruise sails to Playa Huevo beach, where travelers can swim and snorkel, taking in the vibrant marine life.
Onboard, an open bar serves tropical fruit cocktails, wine, beer, soda, and water, complemented by a delicious lunch. Snorkel and kayak equipment is provided, allowing guests to fully enjoy the coastal environment. As the sun sets, the catamaran returns to Tamarindo, offering stunning views.
This Blue Dolphin Catamaran Snorkeling Sunset Cruise is priced at $99 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior. Hotel pickup and drop-off are available for an additional fee from select locations. With a maximum capacity of 35 travelers, this cruise provides an intimate and personalized experience along the Tamarindo coastline.
Read our full review: Blue Dolphin Catamaran Snorkeling Sunset Cruise From Tamarindo Review
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Private Blue Dolphin Sailing Adventure
For an intimate and personalized sailing adventure along the Tamarindo coastline, guests can opt for the Private Blue Dolphin Catamaran Tour. This 3-hour tour provides a range of inclusions, from beverages like sodas, juices, beer, and spirits to various water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The tour also offers amenities like restrooms, towels, and sunscreen.
The tour departs from El Chiringuito, located 15 minutes prior to the start time, with boarding taking place on the beach in front of the restaurant. The private tour ensures that only your group will participate, providing a more exclusive experience. Gratuities are recommended at 15-20% of the tour price, and transportation can be arranged at an additional cost.
Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and the tour is accessible to most travelers, though it isn’t wheelchair-friendly. Cancellations can be made free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Read our full review: Private Blue Dolphin Sailing Adventure Review
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Blue Dolphin Private Cruise Bloody Mary and Mimosa Brunch
Guests looking for a more indulgent sailing experience along the Tamarindo coastline can opt for the Blue Dolphin Private Cruise Bloody Mary and Mimosa Brunch. This exclusive 3-hour tour departs at 9 AM and includes an open bar serving mimosas, bloody marys, and blue dolphin screwdrivers. The brunch menu features a selection of yogurt, granola, a 5-fruit tray, croissants, and banana bread.
The cruise also offers a short swim, Bluetooth stereo, and towels and sunscreen for guests’ comfort. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers. Gratuities are recommended at 15-20% of the tour price, and transportation can be arranged for an additional cost.
The meeting and end point is at El Chiringuito in Tamarindo. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the tour is a private experience, with only your group participating. This luxurious brunch cruise is the perfect way to indulge and enjoy the scenic Tamarindo coastline.
Read our full review: Blue Dolphin Private Cruise Bloody Mary and Mimosa Brunch Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Tamarindo offers a variety of exciting dolphin watching tours. From public sailing adventures to private cruises with brunch, there’s something for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil sunset sail or a lively snorkeling excursion, these Blue Dolphin tours provide the perfect opportunity to observe these magnificent marine creatures in their natural habitat.