Tortuga Island Private Tour from Jaco

Your own speedboat, your own captain and a full day on Tortuga Island, departing from Herradura Bay near Jaco.

Deal valid until end of November

What’s Included in Your Private Tour

3 Beers per person, rum punch, waters, & iced tea.
Hot lunch included at the island.
Bilingual captain.
Bluetooth sound system.
Beach chairs with umbrellas at the island.

Subwing included.
Snorkel gear included.
Stand up paddle board included.
Beach toys at the island.
Local Transportation from Jaco is available for $50 (roundtrip).
Cocktails available at the island (at your own expense).

Why Choose a Private Tour to Tortuga Island?

Most visitors reach Tortuga Island on large shared catamarans. On a private tour the boat, the schedule and the beach setup are yours. We leave early, usually reach the snorkeling site before the catamaran groups arrive, and shape the day around your group, whether that means more time in the water or a slower lunch on the sand.

Your own boat and bilingual captain
Private beach chairs and umbrellas on the island
A flexible pace, ideal for families, friends and celebrations
Subwing, snorkel gear and paddleboards included. Guests from 5 to 82 years old have flown the Subwing with us.

Your Day, Step by Step

7:15 am: optional pickup from your Jaco hotel ($50 round trip)
7:30 am: meet the boat at Herradura Bay
45-minute crossing of the Gulf of Nicoya, with dolphins, turtles or whales depending on the season
Monkey island stop to watch spider monkeys, with a chicken empanada and drinks on board
Snorkeling and your Subwing session
Beach time: paddleboarding, swimming, pickleball and volleyball, with fresh tropical fruit and drinks
Around noon: homemade Costa Rican lunch at a shaded picnic area (vegan option on request)
2:45 pm: head back, arriving at your hotel by about 4 pm

Tortuga Island Private Tour Description

Join us for a full day of fun on our private speedboat trip to the stunning Tortuga Island. Our main goal is to provide you with the best experience possible and exceptional customer service. We meet at the “Subwing Costa Rica” meeting point on maps at 7:30 am or pick you up from your Jaco stay at 7:15 am (additional cost). You’re only 10 minutes away from the boat’s departure location.

Our 45-minute boat trip across the Gulf of Nicoya might treat you to sightings of dolphins, turtles, and whales, depending on the season. We’ll first stop at an island to spot spider monkeys—it’s always a delight to watch them play and show off their acrobatic skills. Here, we’ll serve a chicken empanada with drinks. Then, we’ll continue to our snorkeling site, enjoying the views of the Pacific Coast. We typically arrive before the catamaran crowds rush in.

Next, we’ll give you brief instructions on using our unique subwings, allowing you to fly underwater, spin around, and have fun. This activity is enjoyable for all ages—we’ve had guests from 5 to 82 years old try it! Afterward, it’s beach time. You can play with a stand-up paddleboard, swim in the calm waters, enjoy pickleball, volleyball, and more, or simply relax in your private beach chairs. We’ll serve fresh tropical fruit and have drinks available for you.

Around noon, we’ll serve a delicious homemade Costa Rican lunch at a shaded picnic area: rice with chicken, beet salad and potato chips. All our food is gluten-free, and a vegan option is available with at least 24 hours’ notice. At 2:45 pm, we’ll head back on the boat, aiming to return you to your hotel by 4 pm. We can’t wait to welcome you and provide an excellent day on the water and beach. Please note that our tour is private.

Tortuga Island Private Tour Price

1-5 People: $950
6 People: $1,120
7 People: $1,240

8 People: $1,340
9 People: $1,420
10 People: $1,480

*Prices are per group (the whole boat), not per person.

*Prices do not include VAT 13%

*Some activities can be added to the Tortuga Island Tour for an additional cost. There are services on the island that have their own expense and are not included with our service. You are free to bring extra cash to inquire about the activities & services on the island.

Reserve Tour

Tortuga Island Private Boat Tours - Subwing Costa Rica

Shared Tours to Tortuga Island

Looking for an affordable way to experience one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful island destinations? Our Shared Tours to Tortuga Island offer the perfect combination of adventure, relaxation, and value. Join other travelers on a fun-filled day exploring the crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and tropical scenery that make Tortuga Island one of the country’s most popular day-trip destinations.

Starting at $150 USD per person, our shared tour option is ideal for couples, families, solo travelers, and small groups who want to enjoy the experience without booking a private charter. A minimum of 4 guests is required for the tour to operate.

Book Your Shared Tour to Tortuga Island

Space is limited on each departure. Contact our team today to check availability and reserve your spot on one of the best Shared Tours to Tortuga Island in Costa Rica. Experience pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unforgettable memories—all at an exceptional value.

Stand Up Paddle Jaco: Flat Water You Won’t Find at the Beach

Stand-up paddleboarding is included with every Tortuga Island tour at no extra cost, and the island is honestly the best place to do it anywhere near Jaco. The beaches around Jaco and Hermosa are surf beaches, which makes them fun to ride and frustrating to paddle. Tortuga Island sits protected inside the Gulf of Nicoya, so the water there is usually glassy, shallow and warm, exactly the conditions a first-timer needs to stand up on a board within a few minutes.

If you’ve been looking into stand up paddle in Jaco and want more than a rental on a choppy beach break, this is the upgrade. Paddle out over the reef and you can see straight down to the sand and the fish below you. Follow the shoreline to quieter corners of the island. Or bring the board out with the kids, who tend to treat it as a floating platform to jump off more than anything else. Our crew will get you balanced and pointed in the right direction before you go.

The boards are available all afternoon while you’re on the island, alongside the Subwings, snorkel gear, beach chairs and beach toys, so you can switch between activities as often as you like.

Tortuga Island Private Tour FAQ

How far in advance should I book?Pacific Marketing Agency2026-10-26T08:33:59-06:00

How far in advance should I book?

As early as you can. Booking early gives you the best chance of getting your preferred date.

Do you accept last-minute bookings?Pacific Marketing Agency2026-10-26T08:34:03-06:00

Do you accept last-minute bookings?

Yes, with at least 12 hours’ notice. The deposit must be paid within that time to confirm your tour.

Is a deposit required?Pacific Marketing Agency2026-10-26T08:34:07-06:00

Is a deposit required?

Yes. To reserve your date, we ask for a $200 deposit plus a $12 PayPal fee, paid through PayPal. The balance plus 13% sales tax is paid on the day of the tour, in cash or by credit card.

What is your cancellation policy?Pacific Marketing Agency2026-10-26T08:34:10-06:00

What is your cancellation policy?

More than 7 days before your tour: full refund of your deposit.
Between 7 days and 48 hours before: 50% refund of your deposit.
Less than 48 hours before: the deposit is non-refundable.

Can I reschedule my tour?Pacific Marketing Agency2026-10-26T08:34:14-06:00

Can I reschedule my tour?

Yes. You can reschedule for free, subject to availability, up to 48 hours before your tour. Changes made less than 48 hours before have a $100 fee.

What happens if sea conditions aren’t safe?Pacific Marketing Agency2026-10-26T08:34:19-06:00

What happens if sea conditions aren’t safe?

Your safety comes first, and only the captain decides whether conditions are safe. If they aren’t, we’ll try to move your tour to another date. If rescheduling isn’t possible, the tour is cancelled.

Do you run the tour all year?Pacific Marketing Agency2026-10-26T08:34:22-06:00

Do you run the tour all year?

Yes. In the green season the island has fewer visitors and everything is lush and green.

When is the best time for snorkeling?Pacific Marketing Agency2026-10-26T08:34:27-06:00

When is the best time for snorkeling?

The dry season usually brings the calmest water and the best snorkeling conditions. The sea can be a little choppy at any time of year, but nothing our boat and captain can’t handle comfortably.

Is there a minimum or maximum age?Pacific Marketing Agency2026-10-26T08:34:33-06:00

Is there a minimum or maximum age?

Guests of all ages are welcome. One of our guests was an 86-year-old woman with walking sticks who still went snorkeling and climbed our boarding ladder, and she had a great day. Babies up to 1 year old ride free when held in a parent’s arms.

Do I need to be a strong swimmer?Pacific Marketing Agency2026-10-26T08:34:36-06:00

Do I need to be a strong swimmer?

No. We have life jackets for snorkeling and the Subwing on request, so you don’t need to be an expert swimmer.

How many guests can join?Pacific Marketing Agency2026-10-26T08:34:40-06:00

How many guests can join?

Our boat, the Flying Dutchman, carries up to 10 guests.

Is the tour suitable for guests with limited mobility or who are pregnant?Pacific Marketing Agency2026-10-26T08:34:44-06:00

Is the tour suitable for guests with limited mobility or who are pregnant?

Yes. Our crew helps guests with limited mobility get on and off the boat safely. Pregnant guests are welcome as long as they feel comfortable on a boat.

What should I bring?Pacific Marketing Agency2026-10-26T08:34:47-06:00

What should I bring?

A towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and some cash for tips, extra cocktails and souvenirs on the island. Wear your swimsuit: snorkeling starts right from the boat when we arrive.

Are there bathrooms on Tortuga Island?Pacific Marketing Agency2026-10-26T08:34:51-06:00

Are there bathrooms on Tortuga Island?

Yes, there are bathrooms on the island, at ₡600 (Costa Rican colones) per use. There are no showers or running water.

What food do you serve? Can you accommodate dietary needs?Pacific Marketing Agency2026-10-26T08:34:56-06:00

What food do you serve? Can you accommodate dietary needs?

In the morning we serve a chicken empanada. Lunch is a homemade, typical Costa Rican dish made with love: rice with chicken (with a little bacon), beet salad and potato chips. All our food is gluten-free, and a vegan option is available if you request it at least 24 hours in advance.

Do you offer hotel pickup?Pacific Marketing Agency2026-10-26T08:44:59-06:00

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 171 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Laura Ogrady 
 
 
 
 Verified Wonderful Private Tortuga Island Tour with Subwing Costa Rica
We had an excellent day trip to Tortuga Island with Subwing Costa Rica and highly recommend it to anyone visiting the Jaco area. From the beginning, communication with Robert, the owner, was outstanding. He provided clear instructions before the tour and was waiting for us when we arrived in Herradura. His friendly personality and knowledge of the area immediately made us feel comfortable. The boat ride to Tortuga Island was exciting and offered beautiful views of Costa Rica's Pacific coastline. One of the highlights of the trip was spotting spider monkeys along the rocky shoreline. Watching them climb and leap across the rocks was an unforgettable experience. We also enjoyed snorkeling at a nearby reef. While the water wasn't as clear as the Caribbean, we still saw colorful tropical fish and large schools surrounding us. All snorkeling equipment was provided. The beach at Tortuga Island was beautiful, with soft sand, calm water, and plenty of comfortable beach chairs and umbrellas. We spent several relaxing hours swimming, walking on the beach, and enjoying the tropical scenery. Lunch was included and was surprisingly good, with several choices available. The island also offers clean facilities, a gift shop, and additional activities for those seeking more adventure. What we appreciated most was the private tour experience. Instead of being part of a large, crowded group, we were able to enjoy the island at our own pace with personalized attention throughout the day. If you're staying in Jaco or the Central Pacific region and want a relaxing day that combines wildlife, snorkeling, beautiful beaches, and excellent service, Subwing Costa Rica is a fantastic choice.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Touristasaurus 
 
 
 
 Verified 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!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Catherine M 
 
 
 
 Verified Fun day!!!!
Robert is super fun! Very nice day!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Mary Bell V 
 
 
 
 Verified Day trip
Robert is a great captain. Very knowledgeable and service oriented. Laid back but super organized. Food was awesome and the boat is comfortable.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Mary Bell V 
 
 
 
 Verified Awesome snorkeling
Super fun snorkle tour! Food great, captain fun and knowledgeable!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   CEJCGK 
 
 
 
 Verified Private tour for people that don’t do big crowds
The Flying Dutchman soars above big box tours
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Memorie M 
 
 
 
 Verified 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!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Keith P 
 
 
 
 Verified Excellent day trip to Tortuga
Our group of 5 spent a fabulous day with Robert and his 1st mate Jordan. If you want to go to Tortuga, this is the way to do it! Robert and Jordan were knowledgeable about the area, took great care of us and made the day a great memory of our vacation to Costa Rica. Our friend's mother was 86 and we were worried about her mobility on/off the boat. They were spectacular! "Best day I've had in Costa Rica!" Her quote. Thank you Robert and Jordan!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Julia C 
 
 
 
 Verified Great sunset cruise
We had an enjoyable cruise along the coastline of jaco beach and watched an incredible sunset through the cloudy skies. We enjoyed a variety of snacks and cold drinks. Captain Robert provided interesting details on the area and all the development that has and is occurring.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Elaine S 
 
 
 
 Verified 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.