Quepos and Manuel Antonio · Catamaran tour
Iguana Tours
Catamaran, mangrove and kayak trips from Quepos
Iguana Tours is a Quepos-based tour company that has been operating since 1989. Its own catamaran sails from Marina Pez Vela along the Manuel Antonio coast, and it also runs Damas Island mangrove boat and kayak trips, which makes it a handy one-stop shop for families and groups staying in Manuel Antonio.
What they offer
Iguana Tours has been running trips around Quepos and Manuel Antonio since 1989. It's a full-service local tour company, so alongside the boat trips it offers guided walks in Manuel Antonio National Park, river rafting, waterfall hikes, canopy tours and transfers. For anyone interested in the water, these are the trips that matter:
- Catamaran and snorkeling: the company's own catamaran, with a naturalist guide on board.
- Damas Island mangrove boat tour: a slow boat ride through the estuary with a guide, also offered at night.
- Mangrove kayak trip: the same mangroves by kayak, with a night version too.
- Ocean kayak and snorkel: a sea paddle along the coast.
- Mangrove fishing: fishing in the Damas estuary.
The catamaran trips
The catamaran leaves twice a day, at 8 am and 1 pm, for about 4 hours, and cruises along the Manuel Antonio coastline.
- The morning trip includes a free snorkel at Playa Biesanz, a small sheltered bay near Manuel Antonio.
- The afternoon trip is aimed at wildlife and the sunset over the Pacific.
Both trips include a naturalist guide, water, juice and fruit, a meal (lunch or dinner, depending on the trip), and time to swim and snorkel. They're open to all ages and need only minimal effort. You can join with hotel transport or drive yourself to the marina, and private charters can be arranged. Reservations less than 24 hours ahead go through WhatsApp or phone.
Humpback whales pass this coast in two seasons, roughly July to October and again around January and February, and dolphins are often seen year-round.
Where you leave from
The catamaran leaves from Marina Pez Vela in Quepos, the town's main marina. The company's office is in Quepos, and its transport picks up from hotels in the Quepos and Manuel Antonio area.
Who it suits
- Families with kids, since the trip is calm, guided and open to all ages
- Groups who want one company to handle several days of tours
- Visitors who'd rather watch for whales and dolphins than steer a boat
Some reviewers mention music and a social, party-like feel on the catamaran, so if you want a quiet nature sail, ask about the morning trip or a private charter.
Good to know before you book
- Snorkeling visibility at Biesanz depends on swell and recent rain. It's usually better in the dry season (December to April).
- There's a minimum number of guests for a departure to run, so confirm your date.
- Bring sunscreen, a towel and a dry layer for the ride back on the afternoon trip.
For more trips on this coast, see the Central Pacific section.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the Iguana Tours catamaran leave from?
From Marina Pez Vela in Quepos.
How long is the catamaran tour?
About 4 hours, with departures at 8 am and 1 pm.
Is there snorkeling on every trip?
The morning trip includes a snorkel stop at Playa Biesanz. The afternoon trip focuses on swimming, wildlife and the sunset.
Can kids come?
Yes, the catamaran tour is open to all ages.
