Private Boat Tour to Tortuga Island
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 6 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Private Boat Tour to Tortuga Island worth booking?
Private Boat Tour to Tortuga Island is a 8-hour experience in Jaco, Costa Rica, from $265 per person. It scores 63 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 6 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 63 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (6)
- Duration
- 8 hours
- From
- $265 per person
Other than packed big boats and Catamarans we travel in our own Private speedboat, connect your own music with bluetooth. Our goal is to give you the best Tortuga Island experience packed with lots of activities for young and old. We are small and that makes us flexible to the wishes of our guests. We arrive at snorkel location as the first ones continued by flying underwater with our unique Sub-wings, we will see spider monkeys up close from boat. After all this we will head to beach where you get your beach chairs where we will serve you fresh tropical fruits and a perfect tasteful presented warm lunch. We can visit near private beach too. We have a great day when you had one.
What you get
About this experience
Other than packed big boats and Catamarans we travel in our own Private speedboat, connect your own music with bluetooth. Our goal is to give you the best Tortuga Island experience packed with lots of activities for young and old. We are small and that makes us flexible to the wishes of our guests. We arrive at snorkel location as the first ones continued by flying underwater with our unique Sub-wings, we will see spider monkeys up close from boat. After all this we will head to beach where you get your beach chairs where we will serve you fresh tropical fruits and a perfect tasteful presented warm lunch. We can visit near private beach too. We have a great day when you had one.
What's included
Included
- We go monkeyspotting at neighboring Island
- Beachchairs are waiting for you at the beach
- Bottled water
- We fly our unique Subwings underwater, come fly with us
- Snacks
- Use of snorkeling equipment
- Sup board available at beach so is volleyball or football
- Lunch
- Alcoholic beverages
- Breakfast
- Captain and personal guide/host
Not included
- Additional drinks sold at the beach
What you'll see and do
Tortuga Island
A Private Boat Excursion where guests are treated like VIP guests, with their own private itinerary. They will see Spider Monkeys, Javelinas, all sorts of tropical fish while snorkeling, as well as other various marine life whilst out on the open water. All food and drinks are provided for the day. Sea Cruising, Snorkeling, and unique Subwings that all ages can do. A one of a kind experience. At Tortuga Island, Stand up paddle boards, private beach chairs, volleyball, football, all to be provided. As well as a sumptuous hot cooked lunch. Guests have the ability to personalize this experience, plugging in their own bluetooth to their liking as well as any other wishes they may have to really make this a unique experience catered to their liking.
240 minutes here · Admission included
Herradura
This will be our departing beach we depart from here at 7:30 and come back around 3:45 pm (slight changes possible due to weather situations)
Pass by without stopping
This is the Gulf that we cross to go to neighboring island to watch spider monkeys in their natural habitat, this boatride typically takes like 45 minutes, from here its only 10 minutes to the snorkeling location at Tortuga Island
45 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Jaco
This is on main beach of Herradura, do not go into Los Sueños, there is a bus stop on beach where we will be waiting for you.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.
Ends at
This is on main beach of Herradura, do not go into Los Sueños, there is a bus stop on beach where we will be waiting for you.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, nl, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 7 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Subwing Costa Rica
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- We don't serve Gluten Free foods
- We only serve alcoholic drinks for travelers 18 years old and above. Minor travelers below 18 years old will be served non-alcoholic drinks.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 6 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Food and drink
4 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Organization
2 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Small groups
2 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
6 verified traveler reviews for Private Boat Tour to Tortuga Island. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Amazing tour totally worth it!!
Captain Robert was amazing from start to finish. He was prompt and replied quickly to my emails before the trip. On the day he was waiting for us at the beach and he met all our needs to the fullest. We did a private trip to Tortugas Island and he even took us to extra snorkel spots because we were interested in snorkeling. One of our party got a little sea sick so he took her over to the beach right away. The boat is beautiful and the experience was one of our favorites. We've done several private boat tours and this was our favorite. Really great!
Response from the operator: Hi thank you so much for your review, i know i m a bit late in response but this review must have slipped througj my attention. Thank you for the compliments and the one of the clean boat I also like a lot. It was my pleasure having you.
via Tripadvisor
the best of tortuga boat tours!
This was the highlight of our trip to Jaco. the experience Robert provided was exceptional, we were able to see the spider monkeys on our way to the snorkeling spot and when it started to get busy he took us to another area to see some sharks. after that, we did the subwings and I can not tell you how much fun it is! we had reserved chairs and lunch at the main beach on tortuga, then we went to a more secluded beach where the howler monkeys made an appearance as well as a pair of deer! and finally, the food and drinks that Robert provided were super yummy. if we make it back to Costa Rica we will definitely book with Subwing Costa Rica again!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your beautiful review Memorie, yes we were lucky with the animal show we got today, esspecially the howler monkeys were active and the deer nearby.. I m happy you had a great day. Looking forward to having you guys again
via Tripadvisor
Subwing tour Mantas Beach
We did the Mantas Beach Subwing tour with Robert at Subwing Costa Rica. Communication was excellent. The but was speedy The equipment was new. It even started on time! Robert's wife made us homemade empanadas. The snorkel site was pristine with variations and varieties of fish I had never seen. We heard whale song under the water. Robert even took us to try and find the whales. We couldn't spot them, though. The subwing experience itself was unreal — gliding underwater and feeling like you’re flying. Beer,fresh pineapple and rum punch capped off the gentle ride home. I could not recommend this tour more highly.
Response from the operator: Thank you Elaine for your excellent review. To hear the whales singing was very nice and I m glad you could experience it too. So happy you had a great day.
via Tripadvisor
Amazing experience!!
Absolutely unforgettable experience with Subwing Costa Rica! Captain Robert made the day feel personal and relaxed—like exploring with a friend. From the 45-minute boat ride to Tortuga Island, to snorkeling among vibrant fish and even turtles, to the exhilarating Subwing, SUP, and beach relaxation, every moment was packed with fun. The food and drinks, fresh fruit, rum punch, and a delicious lunch—kept us energized and happy. The private boat meant minimal crowds and maximum enjoyment, and Robert’s attentiveness to everyone's needs—a true highlight. We even spotted monkeys. All in all, a perfect day, highly recommended
Response from the operator: Thank you for your excellent review Marco. We are happy you had a great day since that is our job to deliver to you. :-)
via Tripadvisor
Worth every colones!
This had to be one of the most personalized and most fun tours I have ever experienced in my 55 years of life travels! We were picked up by the owner, Robert. He right on time and helpful loading us and our belongings into the vehicle. Along the way, we had a great conversation, which we all seemed to really feel comfortable with one another. So, we insisted he join us for the day. The Captain, Erick was super at spotting humpback whales and their babies, turtles, and manta rays on our way both to and from the island. He was very helpful with us all when it came to the getting us all in and out of the vessel plus, helping my best friend’s husband retrieve his drone that stopped responding to his controls. He also took us by a close island and showed us the cutest little squirrel monkeys. Where we drifted peacefully alongside the islands shore whilst we were given a delightfully light and airy chicken empanada and a choice of juice or water for breakfast. It really hit the spot! The owner, Robert, was so sweet and knowledgeable! Wonderful sense of humor, I might add. He was also very patient with teaching my best friend how to use the subwing. I have severe back problems and was afraid the subwing would agitate it making for a miserable day, so I opted out of trying it out. My girlfriend on the other hand said it was an absolute blast! We could really tell she was having the time of her life too. Both her and Robert enjoyed some time on the subwing but cut it short due to several jelly fish that decided to move into the area. Then we headed to Tortuga’s beach for some snorkeling, floating, swimming, more whale watching (they weren’t far out), sunbathing and lunch. While eating lunch, we were joined by peccaries and iguanas. The water is perfect. A tiny bit cool but perfect to cool you off from the Costa Rican sun. Luckily, we brought some cash/colones with us as the use of the facilities was 600 per use/each person. Ollie on the island, owns a restaurant/bar and makes delicious rum and fresh coconut drinks(small fee). For lunch OH MY GOD….. I don’t know if we were all just starving to death from playing all afternoon but we practically inhaled lunch! We all ordered the chicken that was tender and very flavorful. It came with a simple rice topped with fragrant cilantro and a lime wedge, for spritzing. Alongside the rice and chicken was a perfectly portioned skewer of grilled vegetables such as broccoli, tomato, bell pepper, and onion. There was also a cucumber, red onion and tomato salad with a vinaigrette dressing. Absolutely delicious 😋 The other option that we didn’t choose but Robert did, was fish. The only difference in sides was that he had black beans which he shared with my friends as they love black beans and rice 😂 Returning back to the mainland, we encountered more whales and a few dolphins. We captured (on video)some manta rays jumping out and back into the water as well. I was enjoying myself so much, I forgot to take hardly any pictures. I just wanted to be “in the moment”. Just truly a delightful, fun, relaxing, adventurous all wrapped into one, day! Robert, you will forever be remembered for you hospitality and sense of humor. Erick, you were such an attentive captain pointing out all of the wildlife, we were very grateful! Thank you both from the bottom of our hearts. We hope to return someday soon and see you again!!!
Response from the operator: Hi Tammy and Family, thank you so much for your beautiful detailed excellent review. yes I had a very nice day myself spending the day with you and assisting hosting you. We had beautiful weather and we were lucky seeing the Whales and all .Thank you so much for choosing us and hopefully until the next time. warm regards Robert
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 2
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Subwing Costa Rica, who run 4 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 66.1.
See everything Subwing Costa Rica runsWhy this scores 63
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Private Boat Tour to Tortuga Island: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Jaco.
How much does Private Boat Tour to Tortuga Island cost?
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Prices start at $265 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Jaco usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Private Boat Tour to Tortuga Island take?
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Plan for about 8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Jaco is not rushed.
Is Private Boat Tour to Tortuga Island worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 63 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 6 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Jaco, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Private Boat Tour to Tortuga Island?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Private Boat Tour to Tortuga Island suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Private Boat Tour to Tortuga Island?
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Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Jaco can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Jaco and add a light layer if any part of the 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Private Boat Tour to Tortuga Island start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Jaco within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Jaco?
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On Outty we rank every Jaco experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall, Hot Springs Combo Tour with Lunch & Dinner, Jason Crocodile Tours, Jaco Beach Costa Rica Horseback Riding. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Jaco?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Jaco?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Private Boat Tour to Tortuga Island?
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Included: We go monkeyspotting at neighboring Island; Beachchairs are waiting for you at the beach; Bottled water; We fly our unique Subwings underwater, come fly with us; and Snacks. Not included: Additional drinks sold at the beach. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Private Boat Tour to Tortuga Island include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 2 listed pickup locations in and around Jaco. Be ready about 15 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Private Boat Tour to Tortuga Island offered in?
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It is offered in English, Dutch and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Private Boat Tour to Tortuga Island?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
What happens to Private Boat Tour to Tortuga Island if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Private Boat Tour to Tortuga Island?
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Across 6 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include food and drink, photo opportunities, value for money. The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
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