Luxury Catamaran in Gulf of Papagayo, Guanacaste
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Both experiences include your private catamaran charter in Papagayo Gulf with professional crew, bilingual guides, and all the magic of Costa Rica's Pacific coast. Two ways to spend the day. Both entirely yours.
Free cancellation 5+ days before · 100% refund if we cancel for any reason
5 hours or full-day cruising & beach hopping
Private chef onboard — lunch or dinner (both on full-day)
Round-trip transportation (in the Gulf of Papagayo)
Bilingual (English/Spanish) guides
Premium open bar · champagne · fine liquors · handcrafted cocktails & wine selection
Fresh ceviche & gourmet snacks
2 Jet Skis for 1 h (3 Jet Skis on full-day)
Wakeboarding · water skis
Tubing · subwing
Fishing gear · paddleboards
Visit natural sea caves, mangrove river tour and wildlife spotting (sightings are never guaranteed)
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Premium Trip
Standard Trip
EVERY THING IN STANDARD, PLUS
4 hours or full-day cruising & beach hopping
Round-trip transportation (in the Gulf of Papagayo)
Bilingual (English/Spanish) guides
Snacks, soda, iced tea (lunch on full-day)
Cocktails · open bar · beer & wines
Costa Rican fruit
2 Jet Skis for 30 min
Fishing
Stand-up paddleboards
Snorkeling tour
Visit natural caves, mangrove river & Monkey Head Rock
Wildlife spotting — monkeys, dolphins, turtles · whales in season. Sightings are never guaranteed.
Catamaran tour, was above and beyond of our expectation!
The private chef Cooked delicious fresh food, he called it “local food”
Captain was snorkelling with us and showed all kind of different ocean species ( sea eel, different stars, butterfly fish, puffer fish)
A big group of dolphins played with catamaran ( chasing).
We were able to see the ray and the whale jumping .
We stopped at the different beaches with caves during the tour.
Irina T
Best Costa Rican catamaran experience !
Papagayo Catamaran Tour
We were at the four seasons papagayo with my wife, two sons and girlfriends. We enjoyed the afternoon 4-Hour catamaran trip immensely. This is our third time with the same company. Three crew members, they were all extremely pleasant and accommodating. They helped us decide where to go and what to do while we were on board, and we had a wonderful experience. We saw humpback whales, manta rays jumping, amazing amount of sea life on this short trip. The catamaran itself was essentially brand new and showed no wear and tear. On the way out, snacks and fresh fruit, Margaritas and pina coladas were served. When we got to our first beach destination, they served ceviche, different cheeses and deli meats. Delicious! We sailed on the way back until the sun went down, beautiful photos! It was really a fantastic experience for our family and we will do it again next time we come.
Deheal
Tripadvisor Reviews
(Excellent)
Finn H
Amazing time!!
Absolutely amazing experience! The catamaran was spotless, spacious, and incredibly comfortable, with plenty of room to relax and enjoy the views. The ride was smooth, the music and vibe were perfect, and the crew was outstanding—friendly, professional, and clearly passionate about making sure everyone had a great time. From start to finish, everything felt well-organized but still laid-back and fun. Whether you wanted to chill, take photos, swim, or just enjoy being out on the water, this trip delivered. Easily one of the highlights of the trip and something I’d 100% do again and recommend to anyone.
Tropical Explorers became our go to service provider for our activities while we’re in Costa Rica when we realized what great service we were getting. We came with our large family, including grandma as well as younger children. We did the wave runner tour, deep sea fishing and tubing/wakeboarding/knee boarding (twice!) deep sea fishing we caught tuna, a barracuda and a rooster!
Brayan was very responsive, gave us lots of different options with variety and length of activities. Very professional and safe and we had a great time. If we get to come back to Costa Rica again, we will definitely use these guys. They are our one stop shop for safe fun in Costa Rica.
E D
One stop shop for Costa Rica fun!
Max P
Amazing Day Trip
Did a full day private trip with the family including mangroves, tubing, caves, coco beach lunch, and snorkeling. Bryan and team were fantastic and the family had an amazing time with his crew, who were extremely nice and helpful, catering to everything we needed. Would highly recommend, esp if you are at The Four Seasons.
Ocean adventures in Playa Hermosa
Emily R
We had a varied age range of travelers and there was something for everyone to enjoy. From jet skis, snorkeling, swimming, lounging in or out of the sun, to sitting and relaxing. This adventure covered everyone’s experience wish list. We ended our day with the most amazing freshly cooked dinner and ocean sunset. I HIGHLY recommend this if you want a private family experience!
Signature Experience
Verified reviews from Tripadvisor
Signature Experience
Classic Adventure
Imagine waking up in Guanacaste knowing today is yours completely. No schedules, no crowds, no compromises. Just you, the people you love, and the entire Gulf of Papagayo waiting to be explored.
Aboard Kephas a luxury Catamaran Lagoon 42 2021 , your private chef is already preparing fresh gourmet meals. Your crew knows exactly where the dolphins are this morning. And the only decision you'll need to make is whether you want to snorkel first or sip champagne on the bow while the coastline drifts by.
This is what a perfect day in Costa Rica looks like.
Your experience begins the moment we pick you up. We offer flexible hotel and resort pick-up directly from Four Seasons, Andaz Papagayo, Secrets, Nekajui A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Waldorf Astoria, and many more properties along the coast of Playas del Coco, Flamingo, Papagayo, Playa Hermosa, and Conchal. From there we drive you to the beach, where our crew meets you and takes you out to Kephas by dinghy, a two-minute ride across the bay. Arrive relaxed, step aboard, and let us handle everything from start to finish.
The catamaran has a capacity of up to 27 people. For larger groups, please inquire for a custom quote
100% Private Experience
14+ Years Experience
Private Chef on board
Open Bar Premium drinks
5.0 based on 61+ verified reviews from Tripadvisor
PREMIUM:
Half day (5 hours): USD 3,200 +tax — private charter for up to 7 guests, everything included
Full day (8 hours): USD 4,980 +tax — private charter for up to 7 guests, everything included
STANDARD:
Half day (4 hours): USD 1,950 +tax — private charter for up to 7 guests, everything included
Full day (8 hours): USD 3,300 +tax — private charter for up to 7 guests, everything included
GREEN SEASON RATES
Aug 1 - Nov 25
Kephas — A 2021 Lagoon 42, Entirely Yours for the Day
High season rates apply from November 25. Contact us for dates after that.
Meet our Crew
Behind every unforgettable day on Kephas is a team of passionate professionals who know these waters better than anyone. From our captain and private chef to our bilingual guides, every member of our crew is dedicated to making your experience extraordinary from start to finish.
Kephas Team
Luis · Sailor & Navigation Assistant
The quiet force behind every smooth journey. Luis works alongside Captain Kadir to ensure the boat runs perfectly and your safety and comfort are always the priority.
Elías · Bartender & Guest Experience
Your go-to for good vibes and great drinks. Elías keeps the atmosphere lively and your glass full, making sure everyone onboard feels welcome from start to finish.
Captain Kadir · Captain & Activity Director
The one who keeps everything running perfectly. Kadir navigates the waters of Papagayo Gulf with expertise while personally overseeing every activity of your day, so you never have to worry about a thing.
Ingrid · Private Chef
Ingrid turns every meal into a highlight of your trip. She prepares fresh gourmet dishes tailored to your group's preferences and dietary needs, because great food is part of the experience.
Luis
Kadir
Elias
Ingrid
Your Private Chef Onboard
One of the things our guests remember most isn't the views — it's the food.
Ingrid cooks on board. Not catered from shore, not reheated. She prepares your meal while you snorkel, and serves it on deck when you come back up.
Main course. Grilled lobster, beef tenderloin, or the catch of the day, with a crisp salad and two tropical sides.
To start, choose your bar. A ceviche bar with mixed, fish, or shrimp. A sushi station with assorted rolls and nigiri. Or a gourmet taco station with seafood, chicken, or vegetables.
Dips, choose two. Mango with sweet chili, tropical avocado, creamy pejibaye, or smoked palm hearts. Alongside a display of seasonal tropical fruit.
For the children. Ham and cheese filled potato, macaroni and cheese, chicken or fish quesadillas, or slider burgers.
Relax on the panoramic front net or unwind in the air-conditioned cabin below deck, and let your chef handle everything. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and allergy-safe menus available — tell us when you book and Ingrid plans your day around it.
Step Aboard Kephas: Your Private Luxury Catamaran
Kephas is more than a boat. It's a floating luxury experience designed with your comfort in mind, from the spacious open deck to the air-conditioned cabins below.
Above deck: stretch out on the trampoline nets at the bow, feel the ocean breeze, and keep an eye out for tropical fish, manta rays, and passing dolphins. The panoramic upper deck is perfect for sunset views and open bar moments with your group.
Below deck: when you need shade or a quiet moment, our air-conditioned cabins offer a cool retreat. Clean bathrooms, comfortable seating areas, and everything you need to recharge before heading back out to the water.
Kephas Catamaran specifications
Model: Lagoon 42
Year: 2021
Length: 42 ft / 12.8 m
Beam: 25 ft 2 in
Draft: 4ft 2in
Cabins: 4
Bathrooms: 4
Air conditioning Yes
Sound system
Connetivity
Interior and exterior zones
Starlink aboard
Private transportation for your comfort
For your convenience, we offer exclusive private transportation from your location straight to the boarding point, where Kephas will be ready for you. Travel in comfort with our premium vehicles and arrive relaxed, fully prepared to enjoy your catamaran Papagayo adventure from the very beginning.
Water Activities & Ocean Adventures in Papagayo
Your day aboard Kephas is yours to design. Our private catamaran tour in Guanacaste comes loaded with everything you need to make every hour on the water unforgettable.
Ride the waves on jet skis along Papagayo's coastline, try wakeboarding, waterskis, subwing, or tubing, grab a paddle board, or simply snorkel through crystal-clear waters teeming with tropical fish and vibrant coral. Whatever your pace, we have you covered.
And then there's the wildlife. Dolphins regularly swim alongside Kephas, sea turtles glide beneath the surface, and during migration season, whale sightings in Guanacaste are a very real and breathtaking possibility. No aquarium. Just wild Costa Rica.
You choose the activities and the rhythm. Our crew handles every detail so you never have to think about anything except enjoying the moment.
We offer flexible durations to fit your plans: 4-hour, 5-hour, and full day options. Morning and sunset departure times available depending on your preference and the season.
Our private catamaran tours in Papagayo welcome guests of all ages.
Each jet ski accommodates up to 2 passengers.
All safety equipment and briefings are provided by our professional crew.
WHAT TO BRING
Sandals
Towels
A change of clothes
Sunglasses highly recommended
Sunscreen
CUSTOMER REQUIREMENTS
THINGS TO KNOW
OPTIONAL ADD-ON ACTIVITIES:
Want to make your day even more special? Ask your guide about:
➤ Decorations for special moments
➤ DJ on board
➤ Drone Images
➤ Photographer
➤ Surf lessons and surfing at Witches rock
All with a personalized approach: You choose the pace and activities, and our team takes care of organizing everything to ensure the best experience according to the day's conditions.
Frequently asked questions
What's included in the catamaran experiences?
The Premium experience includes the full private catamaran with professional crew, a private chef preparing fresh meals onboard, an open bar with premium liquor, champagne, beer, wine and handcrafted cocktails, jet skis, snorkeling gear, water activities and stops at the most beautiful spots in the Gulf of Papagayo. No hidden costs, no surprises — everything is taken care of so you only have to enjoy the day.
The Standard experience includes the private catamaran with professional crew, open bar with cocktails, beer and wine, snacks and Costa Rican fruit, jet skis, snorkeling, paddleboards and fishing, plus visits to natural sea caves, the mangrove river and Monkey Head Rock.
Is this a private tour or shared with other guests?
Every catamaran tour is completely private, only your group onboard. This is what sets us apart from typical group tours: you get the boat, the crew, and the chef exclusively for your party. Your day, your pace, your experience, whether it's a romantic getaway, a family celebration, or a group of friends.
Why is the catamaran tour priced the way it is?
Our catamaran experiences range from $2,750 to $5,850 because this is a fully private, all-inclusive charter, not a shared boat ride.
The catamaran, the crew and the chef are yours alone for the day. No other guests, no fixed schedule, and no one else deciding where you stop or how long you stay. We come to the beach where you're staying, and everything from the food to the water toys is already included.
The Kephas is a 2021 Lagoon 42 with a four-person bilingual crew, and we've been running ocean experiences in the Gulf of Papagayo since 2012.
What if the weather is bad or I need to cancel?
We keep our policy simple and fair. If we ever need to cancel due to weather or operational reasons, you receive a full 100% refund, no questions asked, or we reschedule if you prefer. Your safety and experience always come first.
Cancellations more than 5 days before the tour receive a 100% refund of the deposit. Between 48 hours and 5 days before, you receive a 75% refund. Within 48 hours, the deposit is retained, as the catamaran, crew, chef and provisions have already been reserved exclusively for your group.
How do I book and secure my date?
Dates fill up quickly, especially during peak season and for sunset tours. To lock in your preferred date, simply contact us and check availability and reserve with a deposit. Once confirmed, your date is fully secured and we handle every detail from there. We recommend booking as early as possible to guarantee your spot.
Should I book directly with you or through Viator?
You'll find us on Viator and other platforms because that's where many travelers start their search, and we want to be there. However, booking directly with us gives you the best experience: faster responses, full flexibility to customize your day, and direct communication with our team from the moment you reserve until you step off the catamaran. Either way, you're getting the same premium private experience that has earned us over 25,000 satisfied guests in 14+ years.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept international wire transfer, credit card and PayPal (subject to a 8% processing fee).
A deposit confirms your date: $500 for catamaran charters and $200 for boat experiences. For jet skis, the deposit depends on how many units you reserve. The deposit is part of your total price, not an additional charge.
The balance is settled on the day of the tour, in cash (USD) or by wire transfer beforehand. Once your deposit is received, you'll get a written confirmation with all your tour details, and the date is yours.
Cancellation policy
We understand that travel plans can change, so our policy is designed to be as fair and transparent as possible:
More than 5 days before the tour: full 100% refund of the deposit.
Between 48 hours and 5 days before the tour: 75% refund of the deposit.
Within 48 hours of the tour, or no-shows: the deposit is non-refundable at this stage and no additional charge applies, as we've already reserved the catamaran, crew, chef, and provisions exclusively for your group.
If we ever need to cancel due to weather or operational reasons, you receive a full 100% refund, no questions asked — or we can reschedule for another date if you prefer. Your safety and experience always come first.
How these timeframes apply
All timeframes are calculated from the scheduled tour start time, Costa Rica time (CST).
Cancellations must be sent via WhatsApp or email to our booking channels. The date and time the message is received determines the applicable window.
A no-show is defined as the guest not arriving at the meeting point within 30 minutes of the agreed time, without prior notice.
Refunds are processed within 1–5 business days via the original payment method. For PayPal payments, the 8% platform fee is non-refundable.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about our Cancellation Policy, please contact us by e-mail team@tropicalexplorerscostarica.com
Ready for the Kephas Catamaran Experience?
Dates book up fast, especially during peak season and for sunset departures. Don't miss your preferred date.
Questions? Our team responds within minutes. WhatsApp us at +506 8522 0876
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