Playa Flamingo · Catamaran tour
Panache Sailing
Catamaran snorkel and sunset trips from Flamingo
Panache Sailing runs catamaran trips from Marina Flamingo on Guanacaste's Gold Coast, about 30 minutes from Tamarindo. You can join a shared morning or sunset sail, or book the boat privately for a half or full day, with snorkeling, food and drinks included. It suits couples, families and groups staying between Flamingo and Tamarindo.
What they offer
Panache Sailing is a catamaran operator based at Marina Flamingo, on the stretch of northern Guanacaste coast often called the Gold Coast. It's been running trips here for more than 10 years and holds Costa Rica's CST certification for sustainable tourism.
There are 3 ways to sail with them:
- Morning sail, roughly 8 am to 12 pm, shared or private. Mornings are often the calmest and driest part of the day in the green season.
- Sunset sail, roughly 2 pm to 6 pm, shared or private, finishing as the sun drops behind the Pacific.
- Full-day private charter, about 8 hours, roughly 10 am to 6 pm, for groups who want to go farther and stay out longer.
Every trip includes food, an open bar, snorkel gear with a guide and life vests in all sizes. Private charters come with an upgraded menu. Guests typically see the coastline from the water, stop to snorkel at a quiet spot, and keep an eye out for dolphins, sea turtles, flying fish and, in season, whales.
The boats
Panache says it runs its own fleet of catamarans. Listings describe different boat lengths for different trips, so if size matters to you (for a big private group, for example), ask which boat you'll be on when you book. Catamarans are a good fit for this coast: they're stable, they have shade and toilets on board, and there's room to spread out on the nets and deck.
Where you leave from
Trips leave from Marina Flamingo in Playa Flamingo, about 30 minutes north of Tamarindo. Hotel pickup is included from Flamingo, Potrero, Brasilito, Conchal, Catalinas, Tamarindo and Playa Grande. From Playas del Coco or the Papagayo area there's an extra charge for transport.
Who it suits
- Couples on the sunset sail.
- Families. Kids are welcome, and there are child rates; ask when you book.
- Groups and celebrations who want the whole boat to themselves on a private trip.
- Snorkelers who'd like a guide and gear sorted for them.
If you're comparing options, Planet Dolphin also runs a much larger catamaran from Marina Flamingo, which feels more like a party boat than a small-group sail.
Good to know before you book
- Guanacaste's dry season runs roughly December to April. Strong Papagayo winds can blow from about December to March, which can make the sea choppy on some days.
- Shared tours can be cancelled up to 24 hours before pickup for a full refund; private tours need 48 hours' notice.
- Tips for the crew aren't included.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, a towel and a dry layer for the ride home after sunset.
Frequently asked questions
Where does Panache Sailing leave from?
From Marina Flamingo in Playa Flamingo, Guanacaste.
Do they pick up from Tamarindo?
Yes. Hotel pickup is included from Tamarindo, Playa Grande, Flamingo, Potrero, Brasilito, Conchal and Catalinas.
Is snorkeling included?
Yes. Snorkel gear and a guide are included on every trip.
Can we book the boat just for our group?
Yes. Private half-day morning or sunset trips and full-day charters are available.
Can young children come?
Yes. Life vests come in all sizes, including for small children.
