Joy Ride Sailing Tours

What locals are saying about Joy Ride Sailing Tours

Joy Ride Sailing leaves from Herradura beach aboard Ashuma, a 25-foot trimaran built in Costa Rica in 1979, carrying up to six guests and always as a private tour: the group picks the music, whether to sail the whole time or anchor to swim, and how much to snorkel. Captain Neil is what comes up most: he explains how to sail, is patient with kids (he shows them the fish while snorkeling) and adapts to what each family wants. You can drop a line (one family landed a mackerel), see dolphins, jumping manta rays and, in season, whales, and the fresh fruit, drinks and snacks get praise.

The departure point is Herradura beach: you call the boat and a water taxi, included in the price, takes passengers out to Ashuma, so be ready to get wet to the knees. One guest calls it the way to avoid the tourist traps, with attention to detail tailored to you. The private tour costs US$500 for up to six guests, with a two-hour minimum (three to four hours recommended), near Herradura.