Whale & Dolphin Tour, Drake Bay

5.0 (1 review)
Spot whales and dolphins off the coast of the Osa Peninsula on a boat trip, then snorkel to spy the rich marine life

Overview

Board a boat and set out from Drake Bay on a thrilling adventure to spot several species of whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. With large resident pods of dolphins year-round and seasonal whale migrations, your chances of spotting these magnificent creatures are high. In addition to the marine life, you'll be surrounded by the stunning wilderness of Corcovado National Park meeting the Pacific Ocean. 

Highlights

  • Spot several species of dolphins and whales in their natural habitat
  • Enjoy the stunning scenery of Corcovado National Park meeting the Pacific Ocean
  • Have the opportunity to snorkel and spot turtles, manta rays, and other marine life

Know before you go

Duration
6 hours
Recommended for
All ages
Group
Small group
Food & Drink
Lunch Included

What you'll do

Step aboard your boat and set out from Drake Bay for an unforgettable dolphin and whale-watching adventure. The secluded sandy curve of Drake Bay offers a backdrop of lush and unspoiled waters, making it one of the most biologically intense places on the planet. Named after the notorious pirate Sir Francis Drake, the bay today draws visitors for its wildlife-rich landscapes and seascapes.

Your adventure begins with the opportunity to spot several species of dolphins, including spotted dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, spinner dolphins, common dolphins, and rough-tooth dolphins, all of which are regularly seen year-round. From mid-July to October, you'll have the chance to spot southern migration whales, including the distinctive humpbacks. From mid-November through April, you may be able to see northern migration whales.

Throughout the trip, your experienced guide will share fascinating insights into the local marine life and the surrounding wilderness of Corcovado National Park. Depending on the weather, you may also have the chance to go snorkeling to see turtles, manta rays, and other marine life up close.

It's important to remember that dolphins and whales are in their natural habitat, and respecting them and their boundaries is crucial. Never force them to interact with you, the boat, or other passengers. The most memorable interactions are when the dolphins and whales choose you!

Start times

  • Daily
    8:00 am

What's included

  • Bilingual guide
  • On-board hydrophone (to hear the dolphins and whales)
  • Snorkeling gear
  • Lunch
  • Snacks
  • Bottled water

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Traveler reviews

G
Greg T.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Dec 27, 2023
This was the most amazing thing EVER! I have been a certified scuba diver since 1976 and I have NEVER experienced anything like this basic snorkeling experience. We literally ended up in a huge bait ball of sardines while hundreds of dolphins and a 35 foot Bryde's Whale feed very close to us! This was not the guide's intent, but the bait ball moved towards us for protection from the feeding frenzy.....truly a National Geographic experience of a lifetime! Read more

This was the most amazing thing EVER! I have been a certified scuba diver since 1976 and I have NEVER experienced anything like this basic snorkeling experience. We literally ended up in a huge bait ball of sardines while hundreds of dolphins and a 35 foot Bryde's Whale feed very close to us! This was not the guide's intent, but the bait ball moved towards us for protection from the feeding frenzy.....truly a National Geographic experience of a lifetime!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Loved having a marine biologist on the boat!
Transport

Like what you see?

Chat with our local specialists and let us help you customize your trip with experiences like this.

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Itineraries with Whale & Dolphin Tour