Board a private speedboat from Herradura and cross the Gulf of Nicoya to Tortuga Island for early snorkeling, Subwing flights, spider-monkey sightings and a shaded beach picnic. This full-day private tour from Jaco blends wildlife viewing with active water play and relaxed beach time.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The sun lifts off the Pacific horizon as a private speedboat slips out of Herradura, music low, engines humming. Salt wind pushes through the crew’s announcements and the Gulf of Nicoya opens ahead—blue ribbon interrupted by the dark silhouette of Tortuga Island.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8–9 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate; comfortable standing and basic swimming ability required. You should handle short open-water swims and prolonged sun exposure.
Wildlife
History
Tortuga Island has been a waypoint for local fishermen and a source of seafood for Puntarenas communities; its name reflects early accounts of abundant sea turtles and coastal fauna.
Conservation
Choose reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching coral, and follow crew guidance—local operators now emphasize low-impact visits to protect reefs and coastal wildlife.
Reserve your spot on the Tortuga Island Private Full-Day Boat Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive rested and fed
Have a light breakfast and bring snacks—breakfast is a bakery snack but the day runs long and you’ll want energy before snorkeling and Subwing sessions.
Protect against sun and spray
Use reef-safe sunscreen, wear a hat and quick-dry layers; a windbreaker helps on the open crossing.
Secure seasickness remedies
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take medication before boarding and sit mid-boat where motion is less pronounced.
Keep electronics dry
Bring a small dry bag or waterproof phone case—boats provide Bluetooth but salt spray and sunscreen smear quickly.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin and local reefs during long sun exposure on deck and at the beach.
summer
Swimsuit and quick-dry layers
Useful for snorkeling, Subwings and staying comfortable between water activities.
summer
Small dry bag
Keeps phone, wallet and extras dry during crossings and splash-prone activities.
Water shoes
Helpful for rocky beach entries and scrambling on shallow reef edges.