Continuing Ocean independence’s mission to offer unsurpassed yachting experiences around the globe, we explore Costa Rica with Senior Charter Manager Daphne d’Offay.
A boots-on-the-ground trip to this tropical paradise reveals just why its protected jungle, remote beaches, rugged volcanoes, and vivid wildlife can only be fully appreciated from the water.
If you’re looking for an only-by-yacht tropical escape, Costa Rica needs to be near the top of your list. This small gem of a country, tucked away in Central America between Nicaragua and Panama, is sparking the interest of many in the superyacht charter market.
Despite being less than half the size of England (51,000 sq km), Costa Rica is home to a staggering array of wildlife. This density of natural life (615 species for every 10,000 sq km) is the greatest anywhere on earth. Its thriving rainforests and sprawling coastlines offer a unique appeal for those with a spirit for adventure.
However, the country’s wilderness is certainly not for everyone. With the tropical heat, insect dense jungle, and challenging terrain, Daphne notes, “visiting requires a bit of stamina, especially if you want to immerse yourself in all the activities the jungle has on offer. Some on our trip found it more rugged than anticipated, and to truly enjoy the rainforest’s offerings, being properly prepared helps.”
Speaking candidly about her experience, she added “the beauty of this destination is precisely because it is not for everyone. Visiting by yacht broadens the whole experience far more than if exploring solely by land.” While most who visit are subject to bouncing along rugged tracks in 4X4s and taking on sweaty jungle treks to get anywhere near the best spots, a well-equipped yacht and tender can comfortably deliver guests to the best drop off points in the thick of the action.
IMMERSED IN MOTHER NATURE
Situated on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, Marina Bahia in Golfito stands as the premier destination for discerning clientele visiting the remote southern reaches of Costa Rica. A luxury beachfront resort, still under development and superyacht marina boasting 45 slips accommodating yachts from 40 to 350 feet, Daphne was invited to stay at this resort during her visit and emphasised that “it’s incredibly well-equipped for yachts and their crew – the kind of place they’d want to return.”
However, she is quick to make an essential clarification for charterers more acquainted with the pristine blue waters of the Caribbean. “One shouldn’t expect the typical crystal-clear Caribbean waters fringed by white beaches specifically in this southern region. The presence of freshwater runoff from the surrounding rainforest, particularly during the rainy season, gives most of the waters a unique emerald-green tint.”
Golfito bay is a “gulf within a gulf”. The marina is in the sheltered Golfito Bay, itself nestled within the more expansive Golfo Dulce or ‘Sweet Bay’ – a nod to its unique waters. As Daphne elaborates, “It’s where the ‘Sweetwater’ from the rainforest runoff merges with the ocean’s saltwater. The mix of the two creates the ‘Sweet Bay’.”
The area’s geographical significance doesn’t end there. “Golfito is adjacent to the Osa peninsula, with the Corcovado reserve and rainforest right on their doorstep. A corridor connects the two landmasses and it’s reassuring to see 500,000 acres protected in that corridor to curtail development, as the local wildlife uses this area to transit between the two landmasses”, Daphne observes.
Aside from the luxury amenities and stunning location at Marina Golfito, this thriving wildlife has solidified Golfito’s position on the luxury yachting map. Daphne recalls “by pure chance, while in the bay, we came across a pod of 100 dolphins and even had the opportunity to swim alongside them. Being an unplanned encounter, it was a stark testament to the region’s abundant wildlife.”
