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Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Embrace the Adventure: Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Costa Rica
If you want to try stand-up paddleboarding for the first time, you can paddle in protected bays, over coral reefs in warmer waters on our Costa Rica and The Panama Canal expedition. More experienced paddlers can enjoy the larger waves on beaches.
The experience of stand-up paddle-boarding (SUP) in one of the most biologically intense regions of the world both above and under the water is guaranteed to stir your soul. Paddle above vibrant coral reefs, or drift quietly under the backdrop of lush rainforests.
Rather than travelling large distances, our aim is to see as much as possible. We paddle anywhere between 2.5-5 km / 1-2 mi. (2 to 4 hours) per outing, sometimes taking a snack and a cool drink to enjoy on our excursion.
Our group of up to 8 paddlers generally visit the same wildlife sites as our fellow expeditioners. However, the shallow draft of our boards means that we also have the opportunity to access areas that are often not accessible by Zodiacs.
The warm aqua-blue waters are perfect for spotting manta rays, dolphins, turtles and whales. The elements play an important role in any paddle outing so it is important to understand that our paddleboarding time may be affected by the weather that we experience
What's Involved
Required Experience
Fitness Requirements
Climates & Weather Conditions
Price & How to Book
What's Involved
We offer small, guided, intimate groups a chance to take SUP paddling to the next level. Weather permitting, we will offer daily outings with a support Zodiac. We provide waterproof day packs to carry our cameras and spare clothing to make the most of our excursions above the water and on shore.
Each group of three to eight paddlers generally visit the same wildlife or historic sites as our fellow expeditioners. However, our smaller craft (SUP) and manoeuvrability often means that we also have the opportunity to access areas that are often not accessible by Zodiacs. We will also make time to do some shore landings with the rest of the group.
Required Experience
Our Tropical trips are the perfect time to try stand-up paddleboarding for the first time. We just require you to be active in the outdoors and have an adventurous spirit.
You do not need to be an expert, however, you are required to be able to swim. For beginners, we will paddle in protected bays, over coral reefs in warmer waters on our Costa Rica and Panama Canal expedition. More experienced paddlers can enjoy the larger waves on beaches.
Fitness Requirements
You should be fit enough to paddle for up to two hours at a time to take full advantage of this activity, and climb between moving Zodiacs on the water. Regular exercise is recommended, as the fitter you are the more you will enjoy the experience. The more paddles you can do before the trip, the better (we recommend at least 3 to 4 outings prior to your voyage) if you plan on taking full advantage of this complimentary activity.
Climates & Weather Conditions
In Costa Rica and Panama, April is the end of the dry season. The shoulder season begins in May, bringing increased humidity. Afternoon rain showers are possible in May with temperatures ranging from 26-36 °C (80- 96 °F). Winds are generally light at this time of year.
The water temperature ranges from 27 -29 °C. Surf landings are not likely, but be prepared to paddle in a small swell or wind chop, with winds up to 15 knots. We will not paddle if wind conditions are too strong and there is no sheltered area for paddling.
Price & How to Book
For our Costa Rica and Panama Canal voyages Stand-up Paddleboarding is a complimentary activity, pre-booking is not required!
Top reasons to choose a Stand-Up Paddleboarding holiday
See wildlife unobtrusively
SUPs are one of the best ways to spot rare wildlife, from curious marine life to diverse birds.
Better access
Access intimate bays and coves that bigger crafts can't reach.
Make friends
Become lifelong friends with your small group of like-minded adventurers.
It's fun!
Have the time of your life exploring some of the wildest places on earth from the water.
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FAQs
Yes, you will be supplied with a waterproof backpack for extra clothing, binoculars and anything that needs to be kept dry. You should also carry a water bottle. You are also welcome to bring along your own 5-10 litre dry bag for personal items.
Yes, but we highly recommend a waterproof camera or phone, or a good quality waterproof case. You can also put a smaller camera in the waterproof back pack. These are very solid and dependable.
- SUP board, leash & paddle
- Neoprene boots
- Safety gear
- A dry bag
- PFD (Life jacket)
We do not attempt to paddle too far away from the ship – the emphasis is on experiencing the destination rather than travelling long distances. Your guide will be in constant radio contact with our ship captain and expedition leader and if we need to return to the ship a Zodiac can be called.
The inflatable paddle boards are stable but in the event that wind chop or swell make paddling uncomfortable, your guide will cancel the outing or transfer boards and paddlers to a protected shoreline.
Our guides have many years of stand-up paddleboarding experience in the destinations we visit. The paddleboarding guide will lead the group on each excursion, explaining facts about the wildlife and other highlights we paddle across.
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