FunDive Catalina Islands (certified divers only)
Certified divers-only 2-tank boat dive from Tamarindo to the Catalina Islands. Includes guide, all scuba equipment, snacks and non-alcoholic beverages on the boat. Pickup from nearby accommodations may be available (confirmed the day before). Maximum 5 certified divers per group.
In Collaboration with TamaDive. Updated on February 14, 2026.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with TamaDive, inspired by the tour FunDive Catalina Islands (certified divers only). Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Two guided dives at the Catalina Islands (2-tank)
- Small groups (maximum 5 certified divers)
- All scuba equipment provided; snacks and non-alcoholic beverages on board
- Pickup available (surcharge may apply depending on location)
- Operated from TamaDive Tamarindo
Explore all itineraries in Tamarindo.
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day two-tank guided dive trip departing from TamaDive Tamarindo. Start at 06:30 with pickup/meeting, return and gear rinse in the early afternoon.
Pickup / Meet at TamaDive Tamarindo (see confirmation)
Pickup is confirmed the day before depending on location. Extra charges may apply if pickup is not close to the dive center. We will contact you about pickup beforehand. Guests who choose to meet on location should arrive at TamaDive Tamarindo by 06:30.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect a pickup window — the operator confirms exact pickup time the evening before; have your phone on and reachable.
- Have your dive certification card and a photo ID ready to show at pickup or on arrival.
- Wear swimwear and a light cover-up (you’ll board wet later); stow valuables at your accommodation rather than on the boat.
Check-in, paperwork & equipment fitting
On arrival at the dive center complete check-in, sign necessary forms, fit rental equipment and brief on the day's dive plan and safety procedures.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring your dive certification card and logbook; staff will record your dives during check-in.
- Tell staff your BCD/weight sizes in advance if you know them to speed up fitting.
- Use the restroom and have a light snack before boarding — boat space and restroom access are limited.
Boat transfer to Catalina Islands
Depart Tamarindo by boat for the Catalina Islands dive sites. Transit time depends on sea conditions; relax, enjoy provided snacks and non-alcoholic beverages on board.
Tips from local experts:
- If you are prone to seasickness, take recommended medication at least one hour before departure.
- Bring a small dry bag or waterproof pouch for phones and valuables; the boat will get wet during boarding.
- Apply reef-safe sunscreen before boarding; avoid oily lotions that may soil rental gear.
Dive 1 — First tank at Catalina
Guided first dive of the day at a Catalina dive site. Dive profile and depth are set by guide and participant experience; maintain buddy contact and follow the guide.
Tips from local experts:
- Check your buddy and gear on the surface; do a full buddy-check with weights, BCD and air.
- Descend slowly and equalize early; monitor your air consumption and depth frequently.
- Mark important marine life sightings (turtles, rays) in your logbook for debriefing later.
Surface interval (snacks & hydration) onboard
Surface interval between dives — light snacks and non-alcoholic beverages provided on the boat. Time to rest, rehydrate and prepare for the second dive.
Tips from local experts:
- Hydrate well during the surface interval — dehydration increases risk of post-dive issues.
- Keep your logbook and any wet items secure and out of direct sun to avoid damage.
- Use this time to confirm camera and regulator settings for the second dive.
Dive 2 — Second tank at Catalina
Second guided dive of the day at a Catalina site. Follow your guide’s instructions and observe no-decompression limits.
Tips from local experts:
- Plan your dive with your buddy and guide — agree on maximum depth and turn-around air supply.
- Make a safety stop (typically 3 minutes at 5 meters/15 feet) unless otherwise instructed by the guide.
- If using an underwater camera, check battery and memory during the surface interval to avoid delays.
Return boat transfer to Tamarindo
Boat transit back to Tamarindo where the dive center will receive you for gear rinse and debrief.
Tips from local experts:
- Rinse your mask and remove contact lenses before rinsing equipment; ask crew for a freshwater rinse if needed.
- Keep a change of dry clothes in an easily accessible bag for the return to shore.
- Record dive details in your logbook while the surface interval/debrief notes are fresh.
Gear rinse, debrief and drop-off
Final equipment rinse and dry, return rental gear, debrief with your guide and arrange return drop-off to your accommodation if selected (pickup/drop-off confirmed in advance). Reminder: leave 18–24 hours between diving and flying.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow staff to rinse and hang rental gear; this speeds up turnaround for the next group.
- Confirm your preferred drop-off location and time with the operator before leaving the dive center.
- Observe the 18–24 hour recommended surface interval before flying or going to altitude after diving.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 3 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 5 |
| Total Places | 7 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Experience, Sport, Break |
Why this experience
You descend into water so clear it barely feels like water, your dive computer at your wrist, the reef opening below you in layers — first the sandy bottom scattered with rocks, then the shelves where the light still reaches, then the darker blue where the wall drops off. The Catalina Islands are one of Costa Rica's best dive sites, and the reason is marine life you won't see from a snorkel: giant manta rays that move through the water like underwater birds, their wingspans larger than your boat is long. White-tip reef sharks moving through the current with the precision of something designed for speed. Schools of jacks that swirl and scatter like a single organism when you pass.
You complete two dives — tanks changed between them, a surface interval where you catch your breath and process what you've just seen. The water temperature hovers around 26–28°C, warm enough to make the dive feel like floating rather than work.
This is only for certified divers. The Catalina Islands demand the kind of experience and fitness that comes from previous dives.
Before you go
- Best time: Dry season offers the best water clarity and calmest conditions. Green season brings warmer water and occasional stronger surge, but fewer divers and more active marine life.
- Budget: Check the booking widget for current pricing. Typically includes the boat, two guided dives, tanks and weights, and a guide. Equipment rental (BCD, regulator) may cost extra — confirm when booking.
- Difficulty: Advanced beginner to intermediate. You must be a certified diver (PADI Open Water or equivalent minimum). Previous ocean diving experience is strongly recommended. Strong currents can occur.
- What to bring: Dive certification card. A wetsuit of your own if you have specific preferences (3mm is common for Costa Rica). Any medications you take regularly. A towel and change of clothes for after the dive.
- Getting there: You'll meet at the dive shop in or near Tamarindo. The boat ride to Catalina Islands takes approximately 45 minutes. Arrive at least 1 hour before the scheduled departure.
- Accessibility: Inform the operator of any accessibility needs. Boat boarding may require climbing, and entry is from the boat into the water. Discuss limitations when booking.
Frequently asked questions
What's included in this dive trip? A two-tank dive trip to Catalina Islands includes the boat transfer, two guided dives with a professional dive guide, air tanks, weights, and underwater instruction if needed. Check the booking widget for pricing and confirm whether equipment rental is included or extra.
What certification level do I need? You must hold at least a PADI Open Water certification (or equivalent from another agency). Proof of certification will be required at the dive shop. Dives deeper than 18 metres require Advanced Open Water or equivalent.
What marine life can we expect to see? Giant manta rays are the signature sighting at Catalina Islands — they're almost guaranteed in the right season. White-tip reef sharks, schools of jacks, groupers, trevally, and sea turtles are also commonly seen. Visibility typically ranges from 15–25 metres.
Is this trip suitable for divers with limited experience? Open Water certification is the minimum, but the Catalina Islands can have strong currents and deeper drop-offs. If your last dive was more than a year ago, consider a refresher dive first or tell the guide about your experience level so they can choose a suitable site and plan accordingly.
What if the conditions are rough? The Catalina Islands are exposed to the Pacific swell. If conditions are unsafe, the operator may reschedule you to a different site or date. Confirm the weather policy when booking.
Complete your trip in Tamarindo
Pair this diving experience with other water activities or land-based exploration in Tamarindo.
- Catamaran Cruise Along the Guanacaste Coast — Snorkeling and Water Sports — A surface-level snorkeling alternative if you want to explore the reefs without diving.
- Surf Lesson in Tamarindo — Private and Group — Switch to the waves for another type of Pacific experience.
Browse all Tamarindo itineraries at TheNextGuide.
Last updated: April 2026
