Your First Private Boat Tour in Guanacaste: What to Expect and What to Bring
Planning a day on the water from Playa Hermosa? Here’s how a private tour works, what’s included, and what to pack so you can simply enjoy the ride.
A private boat tour is one of the best ways to see Guanacaste. The boat is yours for the day: one group, one crew, and a plan built around what you actually want to do — sport fishing, snorkeling, surfing, or simply hopping between beaches you can only reach by boat. If it’s your first time, here’s what to expect and what to pack.
Why go private?
On a shared tour you follow a fixed script. On a private charter, the day adapts to you. Want more time at a snorkel spot? Stay longer. Kids getting tired? Head back early. The crew reads the conditions and adjusts the route in real time, so you spend your day in the best spots rather than the busiest ones.
How the day works
Tours leave from Playa Hermosa, usually in the morning when the water is calmest. Half-day trips typically run from 7:00 to 11:00 AM, while full-day charters stretch into the afternoon. Before your date, Steven and his team check the forecast and suggest the best plan for the conditions.
What’s included
A private boat with captain and crew
Gear for your activity: rods, tackle and live bait for fishing, masks and fins for snorkeling, and life vests for everyone
Cold drinks, water and fresh seasonal fruit on board
Most tours include up to 4 guests (5 on the Full-Day Combo Adventure), and additional guests can join for $40 per person, up to the boat’s maximum.
What to bring
Reef-safe sunscreen and a hat
Sunglasses — polarized lenses help a lot on fishing days
Swimsuit and a towel
A light long-sleeve shirt for extra sun protection
Your phone or camera in a waterproof case
If you’re prone to seasickness, your usual remedy, taken before you board
A few tips for a great day
Let us know in advance about any food allergies or dietary needs.
Kids are welcome — just tell us their ages so we bring the right life vests.
In high season (December to April), book a few days ahead to get your preferred date.
Ready to plan your day?
Message Steven and his team on WhatsApp with your dates, group size and the activities you’re interested in, and they’ll help you put together the right tour.