A bottlenose dolphin leaps out of the ocean near Cano Island, Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica

Scenic view of San Juan river also known as El Desaguadero at the border of Costa Rica and Nicaragua

Flock of scarlet and red-and-green macaws

An olive ridley sea turtle swims in the Pacific ocean off Costa Rica's Corcovado peninsula

Flying Resplendent Quetzal, Pharomachrus mocinno, Savegre in Costa Rica

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Costa Rica

Costa Rica Cruises

Q: Are there any small ship cruises around Costa Rica?

Yes, Costa Rica is an excellent destination for small ship and expedition cruises. These vessels access remote national parks, wildlife reserves, and lesser-visited beaches along the Pacific coast, offering a more intimate and flexible experience than large cruise ships.

Q: How much does a Costa Rica cruise cost?

Costa Rica cruise prices vary based on duration, vessel type, and level of luxury. Shorter cruises on small expedition ships may start around $4,000–$5,000 per person for 5 days, while longer cruises or private charters can be significantly higher. Inclusions such as guided excursions, park fees, and some beverages are typical.

Q: What is the best cruise to Costa Rica?

The best cruise depends on your interests. For wildlife and nature, choose itineraries visiting the Osa Peninsula, Corcovado, and Caño Island. Look for cruises with expert naturalist guides, small group sizes, and stops at protected reserves for the richest experience.

Q: When is the best time to cruise Costa Rica’s Pacific coast?

The dry season (December–April) offers the sunniest weather and calmest seas, ideal for cruising and wildlife viewing. The green season (May–November) brings lush landscapes and fewer crowds, but expect occasional rain.

Q: What should I pack for a Costa Rica cruise?

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a rain jacket, sturdy walking shoes, swimwear, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), insect repellent, binoculars, and a reusable water bottle. Quick-dry fabrics and waterproof bags are also recommended.

Q: What is Costa Rica famous for?

Costa Rica is renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity, national parks, and commitment to conservation. Expect to see monkeys, sloths, colorful birds, lush rainforests, active volcanoes, and pristine beaches—embodying the spirit of “pura vida”.

Costa Rica

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Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s wild coastlines and rainforests beckon with scarlet macaws, sloths, and pristine beaches. Snorkel Caño Island’s reefs, wander Corcovado’s jungles, and glide through mangroves alive with monkeys and tropical birds.

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Manuel Antonio National Park

Wander rainforest trails in Manuel Antonio, where monkeys swing above dazzling beaches and sloths lounge in emerald canopies—nature’s playground on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.

Isla Tortuga

Swim, snorkel, or paddle in the crystalline waters of Isla Tortuga, where colorful fish, turtles, and rays glide above coral reefs beside powdery white sands.

Golfito & Osa Peninsula

Uncover the wild beauty of Golfito and the Osa Peninsula, a biodiversity hotspot where lush rainforests meet the sea, and every day brings a new wildlife encounter.

Río San Juan Mangroves

Glide through the labyrinthine mangroves of Río San Juan, a hidden world of twisting roots, exotic birds, and tranquil waters—perfect for kayaking and quiet exploration.

Corcovado National Park

Lose yourself in Corcovado’s primeval rainforest, where scarlet macaws, tapirs, and elusive jaguars roam. This Osa Peninsula gem is a living Eden, teeming with rare wildlife and untamed adventure.

Caño Island

Beneath turquoise waves off the Osa, Caño Island’s coral gardens dazzle with manta rays, turtles, and swirling fish. Above, palm-fringed beaches and ancient stone spheres evoke a mysterious past.

Savegre River

Float down the Savegre, Costa Rica’s cleanest river, where kingfishers dart and waterfalls tumble through emerald jungle. Rafting, birdwatching, and tranquil beauty await on this wild, winding waterway.

Why Cruise Costa Rica's Pacific Coast?

Costa Rica cruises immerse you in a living tapestry of rainforests, wild coastlines, and vibrant wildlife. Glide along jungle-fringed rivers, anchor off pristine beaches, and hike cloud forests where scarlet macaws, monkeys, and sloths thrive. This is a land where volcanoes meet the sea, turtles nest on moonlit shores, and every day brings a new encounter with nature’s wonders.

Costa Rica is world-renowned for its incredible biodiversity, boasting approximately 5% of the world’s species on just 0.03% of the planet’s landmass. The best Costa Rica cruises unlock the country’s most biodiverse corners. Navigate the mangroves of the Osa Peninsula, snorkel the coral gardens of Caño Island, or explore the legendary Manuel Antonio National Park—home to dolphins, whales, and sun-dappled jungle trails.

What will you discover on your Costa Rica adventure?

Highlights

Hike through vibrant, wildlife-rich rainforests.
Encounter incredible biodiversity up close.
Explore remote, lesser-visited Pacific shores.
Discover nature in its purest “Pura Vida” form.