All Your Drake Bay Boat Questions in One Place

Q: What is the boat schedule from Sierpe to Drake Bay?

A: The boat leaves Sierpe every day at 11:30am. For more schedule details please visit our Boat Guide Page.

Q: How do I ensure my boat captain knows where I am going?

A: Easy: when making your shuttle reservation you will be asked which hotel you are going to, so your boat captain already knows before you arrive!

Q: Does the boat operate every day?

Q: How long is the boat ride?

A: From Sierpe to Drake Bay is approximately 1 hour. To the Caletas and Corcovado Sectors can be an additional 20-45 minutes depending on the amount of stops that day.

Q: Where does the boat to Drake Bay and surrounding lodges depart from?

A: The departure point is in Sierpe, specifically from our departure point HERE.

Q: Where can I stay in Sierpe?

A: For personalized attention and a very comfortable guest house in Sierpe, stay here. Alex and Sarah are spectacular hosts who will gladly drop you off to catch the boat and even store a rental car for you!

Q: How can I get to Sierpe from Palmar Norte?

A: From Palmar Norte, you'll need to take a taxi. Grab a taxi in front of the bus station.

Q: How can I get to Sierpe from San Jose?

Private Shuttle - From San Jose, the recommended shuttle service is Osa Private Transport. They are the only shuttle company that communicates directly with the boat captains to make sure everyone makes their boat and has the most enjoyable experience.

Q: Can I park my car in Sierpe?

A: Yes, but spaces in our enclosed and monitored parking is limited with only 12 spots. (over 100 people need parking per day). Book your spot HERE

Q: What if I need to return a rental car in Sierpe?

A: While there are no rental companies in Sierpe, Adobe and Solid Rental have offices in Uvita and offer car pick-up services for a fee. For post-adventure car rentals, these companies can deliver the car to Sierpe for you. Contact them directly to arrange a pick up or drop off right in Sierpe.

Q: What should I know about the boat ride?

A: The boats accommodate 12-25 passengers. Ensure your belongings are secured in plastic bags, especially electronics. Please make sure your shoes are off and securely fastened to your bags when departing the boat in Drake Bay and surrounding areas. Please wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for the ride (the sun reflects off the water). Please keep your hands inside the boat and resist the temptation to feel the splashing water through your fingers, you will get the guests behind you wet. Please try to consolidate your belongings into the least number of bags possible.

Q: Are reservations required for the boat?

A: YES! Reservations are now required for the boat both to and from Sierpe. You can easily book your tickets with our booking system and get an instant confirmation email. Book your tickets here.

Q: What is the luggage policy for the boat?

A: Please keep luggage to one large bag and one backpack per person. If you are parking a car in Sierpe, please leave belongings you don't need in the car.

Q: Is flying an option for reaching Drake Bay?

A: Yes, Sansa Airlines operates daily flights from San Jose to Drake Bay. If you are going to a Corcovado or Caletas sector hotel you can book the 12:40 boat from Drake Bay to Caletas or Corcovado Sector. If you would like to book a private boat, you can do so HERE.

Q: Can I drive to Drake Bay instead of taking the boat?

A: Driving to Drake Bay is strongly discouraged due to challenging road conditions, including bridgeless river crossings. We recommend utilizing the boat service from Sierpe for a safer and more enjoyable experience. If you have a rental car, your insurance will likely NOT cover any damages incurred in Drake Bay. Flooding a car in the river crossings will total the car.

Q: Are child tickets the same price?

A: Yes. By law, children above the age of 3 must occupy their own seat, therefore their ticket price is the same as an adult. Children 2 and under can ride for free as they will be in the parents lap.

Q: Are there ATMs and places to exchange money in Drake Bay?

A. There are NOT any ATMs in Drake Bay or Sierpe. The last ATM is in Palmar Norte. It is highly recommend to have cash on hand when visiting Drake Bay for meals, tips, taxis, snacks, etc.

Q: What is the boat cancellation policy

A. Cancellations will incur a 30% cancellation fee. No cancellations and no refunds within 72 hours of boat departure time. You can make date changes for a ticket at the same departure time free of charge.
Peak season dates Dec 20th- Jan 20th are non refundable.