Fresh seafood dominates lunch experiences along Puntarenas’ coast. The practical Tortuga Island day tour packs good value, offering a 6-hour trip with lunch included — perfect for budget-conscious travelers who still want a taste of island life. Our favorite is the full-day Tortuga Island Cruise from San José, featuring a comfortable catamaran ride and excellent snorkeling spots. This tour’s lunch spread consistently impresses with fresh local ingredients and generous portions.
Let’s look at your best options for lunch tours in Puntarenas.
Key Points
- The Tortuga Island Cruise offers a full-day excursion with a catamaran or yacht ride across the Gulf of Nicoya and a fresh lunch included.
- The One Day Tour Isla Tortuga includes a snorkeling experience, dolphin sightings, and lunch and drinks provided during the 6-hour tour.
- While the overall rating for the Tortuga Island Cruise is 4.5 out of 12 reviews, customers have praised the attentive service and variety of activities.
- Travelers with back problems may want to consider the higher-priced tour options, as the One Day Tour Isla Tortuga is not recommended for those with such issues.
- The Tortuga Island Cruise has a flexible cancellation policy and allows for unlimited rescheduling, making it a convenient option for booking.
One Day Tour Isla Tortuga With Lunch From Puntarenas
The One Day Tour Isla Tortuga with Lunch from Puntarenas offers travelers a chance to escape the mainland and explore the picturesque Isla Tortuga. Priced at $80 per person, the tour lasts approximately 6 hours and departs from the ICT Tourist Dock in Puntarenas at 8 AM.
Guests can expect to see dolphins and enjoy a snorkeling experience, as well as a delicious lunch with drinks.
While the tour generally receives positive reviews, there have been some safety concerns reported, including a slippery gangway and issues with the snorkeling equipment.
Travelers with back problems may want to reconsider this tour. It’s also important to arrive early to locate the meeting point, as some customers have struggled with this.
For a better experience, guests may want to consider a higher-priced tour option.
Read our full review: One Day Tour Isla Tortuga With Lunch From Puntarenas Review
Book now: Check availability
Tortuga Island Cruise With Lunch From San José
A Tortuga Island Cruise with Lunch from San José offers travelers a full-day excursion to the picturesque Isla Tortuga. Priced from $148 per person, the tour includes transportation, a catamaran or yacht ride across the Gulf of Nicoya, and a range of activities like swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and banana boat rides on the island.
The tour provides a fresh lunch, snacks, and a box breakfast, along with a tour guide. Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, but gratuities aren’t included.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, infant seats are available. It’s important to note that the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions or pregnant women.
With an overall rating of 4.5 out of 12 reviews, the tour receives praise for its attentive service, beautiful island, and variety of activities. However, some customers have mentioned long wait times for transportation, crowded conditions, and issues with the beach’s cleanliness.
Cancellation and booking policies offer flexibility, allowing free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Read our full review: Tortuga Island Cruise With Lunch From San José Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Transportation to the Island Included in the Tour Package?
The tour package typically doesn’t include transportation to the island. Visitors usually need to arrange their own transportation, such as a boat or ferry, to reach the island destination. It’s best to check with the tour operator for details on getting to the island.
What Type of Cuisine Is Served for the Lunch?
The type of cuisine served for the lunch varies depending on the tour package, but it typically features local seafood dishes and traditional Costa Rican fare. Meals are freshly prepared using high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients.
Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated on the Cruise?
Most cruise lines can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. They’ll offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other options to ensure passengers with dietary needs enjoy their lunch experience.
How Long Is the Boat Ride to Tortuga Island?
The boat ride to Tortuga Island takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes each way. This scenic journey provides stunning views of the Pacific coastline and the surrounding islands. Visitors can expect a comfortable and enjoyable experience on the water.
Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees Not Covered in the Tour?
There may be additional costs or fees not covered in the Tortuga Island tour, such as optional activities, gratuities, or incidentals. It’s best to check with the tour operator for a full breakdown of what’s included and any potential extra expenses.
Recap
While Puntarenas offers a range of lunch options, the island tours stand out as the best experiences. The Tortuga Island cruises from both Puntarenas and San José provide a chance to enjoy a delicious lunch amid stunning coastal scenery. These tours are convenient, offer great value, and allow visitors to make the most of their time in the region.