What to Pack for Costa Rica Catamaran Tour | Complete Packing Checklist

9 August, 2025 acosta1028@gmail.com 0 Comments 1 category

Introduction: Don’t Leave These Behind

There’s a moment on every catamaran tour—usually around hour three—when someone realizes they forgot something important. Maybe it’s sunscreen (and now they’re bright red). Maybe it’s a towel (and they’re shivering in the wind returning to shore). Maybe it’s cash (and they can’t tip the crew).

After 20+ years of sailing Costa Rica’s Pacific coast with Planet Dolphin, we’ve learned what people need, what they think they need but don’t, and what they absolutely regret forgetting.

This guide is built on thousands of real catamaran experiences. We’ll tell you exactly what to pack, what we provide, and what makes the difference between a good day and a perfect day on the water.

What We Provide (You Don’t Need to Bring These)

First, let’s eliminate some guessing. Here’s what’s included with every Planet Dolphin tour:

Water Equipment

✅ Professional snorkeling masks and fins (all sizes, including children)
✅ Snorkels (new equipment, regularly sanitized)
✅ Life jackets (all sizes, comfortable and safe)
✅ Fresh water rinse (to remove salt after snorkeling)

Food & Beverages

✅ Gourmet lunch or dinner (prepared fresh daily)
✅ Unlimited beverages (beer, wine, cocktails, soft drinks)
✅ Fresh fruit platters
✅ Snacks throughout the day
✅ Coffee and tea

Services & Amenities

✅ Round-trip hotel transportation
✅ Clean, comfortable restrooms onboard
✅ Shade structures (multiple areas)
✅ Sound system with music
✅ First aid kit and trained crew
✅ Expert bilingual guides

The Essential Packing List: What You MUST Bring

Clothing

Swimsuit

Bring 2 if possible (one wet, one dry for return)
Wear under your clothes when boarding
Rash guards provide sun protection if you burn easily
Compression shorts work well for many

Quick-Dry Shirt or Cover-Up

Lightweight, packable material
Something to throw on between water activities
Protects from sun exposure
Many wear rashguards instead

Light Jacket or Fleece

Critical for the return trip
Wind on the catamaran creates chill when you’re wet
Lightweight packable jacket takes minimal space
You’ll regret not bringing this (we promise)

Shorts or Beach Pants

Something to change into after snorkeling
Quick-dry material better than cotton
Two pairs ideal (one for wearing, one for backup)

Comfortable Shoes for Getting On/Off Boat

Easy slip-ons best (shoes come off on boat)
Deck shoes or water-friendly sandals
Not required to wear on boat, just for getting there

Sun Protection

Sunscreen (Reef-Safe)

SPF 30 minimum, SPF 50+ recommended
Reef-safe formula is required in Costa Rica
Bring 2-3 times more than you think necessary
Reapply every 60-90 minutes in water
Sunburn on boats is brutal—the reflection intensifies UV

Lip Balm with SPF

Lips burn faster than you’d think
Prevents uncomfortable blistering

Hat or Visor

Protects face and scalp from direct sun
Baseball caps, bucket hats, or visors all work
Will get wet but helps control sun exposure

Sunglasses

Protects eyes (UV damage is real)
Polarized lenses reduce glare
Bring a strap to prevent loss overboard

Personal Items

Towel

Bring a lightweight microfiber beach towel (takes less space)
Hotel towels are often small—bring your own
You’ll use it multiple times throughout the day

Waterproof Phone/Camera Case

Protects your device from salt water
Allows photos without removing phone
Even “waterproof” phones benefit from extra protection
GoPro alternative for action shots

Medications (If Needed)

Seasickness medication (if prone—take 30 minutes before tour starts)
Any personal prescriptions
Dramamine or ginger supplements for motion sensitivity

Cash in Small Bills

Tips for crew (optional but appreciated, $5-10 per person typical)
Some beach stops have small vendors
ATMs aren’t near beaches
USD or colones both accepted

ID/Passport

Not required onboard but keep safely
You’ll need at hotel anyway

The “Highly Recommended” List

Hydration & Nutrition

Personal Water Bottle

Sounds included? Technically yes, fresh water available
But many prefer having their own bottle to sip constantly
Hydration is critical in tropical sun
Refillable bottles environmentally friendly

Electrolyte Drink Mix

Optional but helpful for staying hydrated
Many bring packets to mix with water
Prevents dehydration-related fatigue

Snacks You Love

We provide food, but if you have dietary preferences…
Granola bars, nuts, fruit for mid-tour snacking
Most people are satisfied with provided food

Health & Comfort

Seasickness Medication

If you’re prone to motion sickness, don’t skip this
Dramamine, Bonine, or prescription scopolamine patches all work
Take 30 minutes before departure (not after you’re sick)
Ginger supplements also help some people

Motion Sickness Wristbands (Acupressure)

Some swear by these—worth trying if worried about seasickness
No medication, uses pressure points

Pain Reliever

Ibuprofen or acetaminophen for headaches
Sunburn sometimes causes mild aches
Won’t hurt to have on hand

Blister Pads/First Aid

We have first aid onboard
But if you’re blister-prone from sun exposure or walking, bring extras

Tech & Photography

Action Camera (GoPro)

Better for action shots than phones
Mounts easily to railings
Captures video of dolphins, snorkeling

Camera with Zoom

For wildlife photography enthusiasts
Better than phone for distant dolphins/whales

Portable Phone Charger

Battery drains fast with camera use and sun exposure
Keeps your phone usable throughout the day

Underwater Camera/Phone Mount

If serious about snorkeling photos
Better than waterproof cases for hands-free shooting

Comfort Items

Wet Bag or Waterproof Backpack

Keeps electronics and valuables dry
Keeps wet items separate from dry items
Many use plastic bags from hotel

Lightweight Backpack

For carrying all this stuff
Easier than rolling luggage to the beach

Dry Bag for Return Trip

Change of clothes stays dry for ride home
Prevents wet car seats

Tote Bag

Easy way to transport everything to the boat
Can leave on boat during tour

What NOT to Bring (Save Space)

These things are unnecessary and just take up packing space:

❌ Heavy Beach Towels
We said bring a towel, but microfiber beats terry cloth. Heavy towels are bulky and dry slowly.

❌ Expensive Watch or Jewelry
Salt water damages watches. Jewelry can be lost overboard. Leave valuables at your hotel.

❌ Multiple Pairs of Shoes
You only need one for getting to the boat. You won’t wear shoes on the catamaran.

❌ Full-Size Cooler
We provide food and drinks. You don’t need to bring a cooler.

❌ Underwater Camera Equipment
Unless you’re a serious photographer, your phone in a waterproof case is sufficient.

❌ Formal or Nice Clothes
This is a beach day. Casual only. You’ll be wet or sandy.

❌ Lots of Makeup
It washes off immediately. Skip it—you’re here for nature, not makeup.

❌ Hair Dryer or Styling Tools
You’ll be wet. No point drying hair for the return trip.

❌ Multiple Pairs of Sunglasses
One pair is enough. They’ll likely get wet anyway.

Packing Strategy: Travel Light, Pack Smart

The Minimalist Catamaran Packing Method

What you wear to the boat:

Shorts or beach pants
T-shirt or light top
Sandals (leave at dock or on boat)
Swimsuit underneath

In your small bag:

Lightweight jacket
Sunscreen
Hat
Sunglasses
Towel (microfiber)
Phone in waterproof case
Cash

Weight: Minimal. Everything fits in small day backpack.

Why this works: You’re not checking luggage. You’re not managing multiple bags. Your only job is carrying a small backpack to the boat.

The Complete Packer (You Want Backup Everything)

Same as above, plus:

Second swimsuit
Extra shirt
Change of shorts
Medications
More snacks
Seasickness meds
Electrolyte powder
Small first aid kit

Weight: Still manageable (small backpack/tote).

Specific Scenarios: What to Pack

You’re Prone to Seasickness

✅ Dramamine or Bonine (take 30 min before departure)
✅ Ginger supplements
✅ Acupressure wristbands
✅ Light snacks (crackers, ginger candy)
✅ Focus on horizon, not reading
✅ Sit in middle of boat (less motion)

You Have Sensitive Skin / Sunburn Easily

✅ SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen
✅ Rash guard shirt
✅ Wide-brimmed hat
✅ Sunglasses with UV protection
✅ Aloe vera (in case you burn despite precautions)
✅ Plan shade breaks every 90 minutes

You’re a Photography Enthusiast

✅ Waterproof camera case or underwater housing
✅ Action camera (GoPro)
✅ Telephoto lens (if bringing DSLR)
✅ Extra memory cards
✅ Portable charger
✅ Lens cleaning kit
✅ Polarizing filter to reduce glare

You Have Young Children (Ages 4-10)

✅ Life jackets (we provide all sizes)
✅ Extra changes of clothes
✅ Favorite snacks (if picky eater)
✅ Sunscreen (kids burn faster)
✅ Lightweight jacket (kids get cold)
✅ Comfort item (stuffed animal, blanket)
✅ Entertainment for return trip (tired kids)
✅ Swim diapers if applicable

You’re Traveling on a Budget

✅ Just the essentials (we provide most)
✅ Your own water bottle
✅ Snacks from your hotel
✅ Cash for tips (optional)
✅ Everything fits in one small bag

Pro Tips from Our Crew

After 20+ years, our captains and crew have learned what makes the difference:

Sunscreen Application Tips

From Captain Miguel, 15 years onboard:

“The biggest mistake people make is applying sunscreen once in the morning. You need to reapply every 60-90 minutes, especially after snorkeling. The reflection off the water intensifies UV. Use a lip balm with SPF—lips burn first. And reef-safe sunscreen is non-negotiable here.”

Staying Comfortable During the Tour

From María, Activities Coordinator:

“Bring that light jacket! I know the day is hot, but the return trip with wet hair and wind is cold. Also, stay hydrated constantly—people underestimate how much the sun and salt air dehydrate you. Drink fresh water throughout the day, not just when you’re thirsty.”

What Guests Actually Regret Not Bringing

From Marco, Lead Snorkeling Guide:

“In order: sunscreen, towel, jacket, and cash for tips. I’ve seen people get badly sunburned who were sure they didn’t need it. The return trip is always windy and cold—everyone regrets leaving that jacket. And tipping culture is strong here—crew appreciate it even if optional.”

Seasickness Prevention

From Jorge, Captain:

“If you’re worried about motion sickness, take medication 30 minutes before departure. Don’t wait until you’re feeling sick. Our boats are stable and most people feel fine, but prevention is better than remedy. Also, focus on the horizon, not your phone. Sitting in the middle of the boat (not the edges) helps. And eat something light—an empty stomach makes seasickness worse.”

What Happens to Your Stuff While You’re in the Water

Valuables:

Secured by crew in safe area
Theft is not an issue on our boats
Leave expensive jewelry at hotel anyway (loss risk)

Wet Items:

Towel and swimsuit left on boat
Multiple designated dry areas
Your stuff won’t get lost

Shoes:

Leave at designated area
Collected at end of tour
Usually dry or easily cleaned

Phone/Camera:

Keep with you in waterproof case
Or secured safely on boat if not taking to water

Valuables You Brought:

Cash kept on your person or in secure area
ID left on boat in safe place
Crew keeps an eye on everything

Packing Timeline: When to Prepare

1 Week Before

Check weather forecast (doesn’t matter much—conditions are consistent)
Confirm you have all essentials
Charge any batteries

2 Days Before

Lay everything out
Test waterproof phone case
Check that sunscreen is in your bag

Night Before

Pack everything into small bag
Verify sunscreen is there (seriously, don’t skip this)
Set out clothes to wear to the dock

Morning Of

Take seasickness medication 30 minutes before departure (if needed)
Eat a light breakfast
Wear swimsuit under clothes
Pack water bottle with hotel water if possible

After the Tour: What to Do with Everything

Wet Gear

Swimsuit & Clothing:

Rinse with fresh water (shower at your hotel)
Hang to dry, don’t leave in sealed bag (causes mildew)
Most hotels have clotheslines or fans for drying

Towel:

Rinse if salty
Hang to dry
Microfiber dries faster than regular towels

Sunburn Care

Apply aloe vera or moisturizer to burned areas
Drink extra water (sunburn pulls fluids to skin)
Avoid further sun exposure for 24 hours
Take ibuprofen if uncomfortable

Camera/Phone

Rinse with fresh water gently
Dry completely before charging
Don’t put in rice (actually not recommended for modern devices)
Keep in cool, dry area

Equipment to Return/Rental Info

Snorkel gear provided—no return needed
Towels provided—no return needed
Life jackets provided—no return needed
Rental equipment clearly marked (paddleboards, etc.)

Common Packing Questions Answered

Q: Can I rent snorkel gear instead of buying?

A: We provide professional snorkel gear free with every tour. No rental fees. High quality equipment all sizes. You don’t need to bring your own.

Q: Do I need a wetsuit in Costa Rica?

A: No. Water temperature is 78-82°F year-round. Very warm. Wetsuit would make you hot. Rash guards provide sun protection if needed.

Q: What if I forget sunscreen?

A: While not ideal, sunscreen is available at nearby shops. But prices are marked up for tourists. Bring your own and you’re fine.

Q: Is there a locker or secure storage?

A: Yes, secure areas onboard for valuables. Nothing gets lost or stolen on our boats.

Q: Can I bring my own snorkel gear?

A: Of course! If you prefer your own equipment, bring it. But our gear is excellent and well-maintained.

Q: What if I get seasick despite medication?

A: Rare with our stable catamarans. If it happens, crew can help. Medication beforehand prevents 99% of cases. Ginger candy also helps. Focus on horizon.

Q: Should I bring reef shoes for snorkeling?

A: Not necessary. Reefs aren’t sharp. Sand and water are soft. Reef shoes are optional but can help if you’re worried about stepping on sea urchins (rare).

Q: Can I bring a backpack on the boat?

A: Yes. Small backpacks work fine. Large hiking backpacks are cumbersome. Just keep it out of the walkway.

Q: What if I don’t have reef-safe sunscreen?

A: Reef-safe sunscreen is required by Costa Rican law. Regular sunscreen damages coral reefs. Use reef-safe only—it’s the law and the right thing.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

✅ ESSENTIALS (Don’t Leave Home Without)

✅ HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

✅ NICE TO HAVE (Optional)

❌ DON’T BRING

Final Packing Advice

Pack light. Seriously. You don’t need much. The catamaran provides most essentials. Your only real job is bringing sunscreen, a towel, and that crucial light jacket.

Prioritize sunscreen. This is the one item you absolutely cannot go without. Sunburn ruins days. It ruins return trips. It ruins vacations. Bring good sunscreen and reapply.

Bring a jacket. The day is hot. The return trip is breezy and you’re wet. You will be cold. That lightweight jacket makes the difference between comfortable and miserable.

Leave valuables. Your fancy watch, expensive jewelry, and lots of cash don’t belong on a catamaran. Hotel safe is better.

Don’t stress. You’ll forget something and it won’t matter. Our tours run perfectly smoothly even when people forget items. We’ve provided essentials. You’ll have an amazing time.

What Our Guests Say About Packing

“I over-packed terribly. The advice to bring a light jacket was perfect—nobody mentioned that and I would have been miserably cold on the return.”
— Rebecca T., Florida

“I was paranoid about sunscreen. Applied it four times during the tour. Didn’t burn once. Best advice ever.”
— Mark H., Canada

“I forgot seasickness meds but took ginger candy instead. Worked great—no issues.”
— The Kim Family, South Korea

“Seriously, they provide EVERYTHING. I over-packed for nothing. Next time I’m bringing a small bag and that’s it.”
— Jessica D., Ohio

What to Pack for a Costa Rican Catamaran Tour: Complete Packing List