{"id":7806,"date":"2026-05-08T09:32:34","date_gmt":"2026-05-08T15:32:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/?p=7806"},"modified":"2026-05-08T09:33:42","modified_gmt":"2026-05-08T15:33:42","slug":"puntarenas-to-paquera-ferry","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/puntarenas-to-paquera-ferry\/","title":{"rendered":"How Long Is the Ferry Ride from Puntarenas to Paquera? Here&#8217;s What to Expect"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"7806\" class=\"elementor elementor-7806\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-310aa41 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"310aa41\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-24fc15e elementor-widget elementor-widget-n-accordion\" data-id=\"24fc15e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;default_state&quot;:&quot;all_collapsed&quot;,&quot;max_items_expended&quot;:&quot;one&quot;,&quot;n_accordion_animation_duration&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;ms&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:400,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\" data-widget_type=\"nested-accordion.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-n-accordion\" aria-label=\"Accordion. Open links with Enter or Space, close with Escape, and navigate with Arrow Keys\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<details id=\"e-n-accordion-item-3870\" class=\"e-n-accordion-item\" >\n\t\t\t\t<summary class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title\" data-accordion-index=\"1\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"e-n-accordion-item-3870\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-header'><div class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title-text\"> Puntarenas to Paquera Ferry: What's Covered <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-icon'>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-opened' ><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-arrow-alt-circle-down\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M504 256c0 137-111 248-248 248S8 393 8 256 119 8 256 8s248 111 248 248zM212 140v116h-70.9c-10.7 0-16.1 13-8.5 20.5l114.9 114.3c4.7 4.7 12.2 4.7 16.9 0l114.9-114.3c7.6-7.6 2.2-20.5-8.5-20.5H300V140c0-6.6-5.4-12-12-12h-64c-6.6 0-12 5.4-12 12z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-closed'><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-arrow-alt-circle-right\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M256 8c137 0 248 111 248 248S393 504 256 504 8 393 8 256 119 8 256 8zM140 300h116v70.9c0 10.7 13 16.1 20.5 8.5l114.3-114.9c4.7-4.7 4.7-12.2 0-16.9l-114.3-115c-7.6-7.6-20.5-2.2-20.5 8.5V212H140c-6.6 0-12 5.4-12 12v64c0 6.6 5.4 12 12 12z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"e-n-accordion-item-3870\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-77f9bca e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"77f9bca\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"e-n-accordion-item-3870\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5ad3e61 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-child\" data-id=\"5ad3e61\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7513ceb elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7513ceb\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/ferry-from-puntarenas-to-paquera\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Puntarenas to Paquera ferry<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> crosses 11 nautical miles (20 km) of the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/where-is-costa-rica\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gulf of Nicoya<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in 70-80 minutes, connecting San Jos\u00e9 travelers to<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/santa-teresa-montezuma\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Santa Teresa, Montezuma<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and Tambor while cutting 4+ hours off the overland drive.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Quick Facts:<\/b><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Crossing time:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> 70-80 minutes, 8 daily departures each direction (4 AM\u201310 PM)<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Cost:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Priced in colones \u2014 check<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.quickpaycr.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">QuickPay CR<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for current USD equivalent<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Best departure:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> 9 AM from Puntarenas for travelers from<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/san-jose-stopover-city-guide\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">San Jos\u00e9<\/span><\/a><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Vehicle:<\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/costa-rica-car-rental-vehicle-requirements\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4WD recommended<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for peninsula roads, especially during<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/costa-rica-green-season-guide\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">green season<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (May\u2013Nov)<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Booking:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Online essential December\u2013April; arrive 1.5\u20132 hours early for in-person tickets<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><b>Top 3 Ferry Tips:<\/b><\/p><ol><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Book online early<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 QuickPay CR sells limited spots; in-person buyers during<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/costa-rica-dry-season-guide\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dry season<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> risk missing peak departures<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>All passengers exit the vehicle<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Driver boards alone; others walk on with individual tickets<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Download tickets offline<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Cell service at both docks is unreliable; screenshot your confirmation<\/span><\/li><\/ol><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The ferry is the fastest route to the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/unwind-in-nosara-costa-rica-a-tropical-haven-for-surf-yoga-and-wellness\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">southern Nicoya Peninsula<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for travelers from San Jos\u00e9 or the Central Pacific. Those arriving via<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/renting-a-car-at-liberia-airport-costa-rica-a-complete-guide\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Liberia Airport<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> typically save time driving around via the Friendship Bridge instead.<\/span><\/p><p><b>If you need any help with a Costa Rica car rental,<\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/contact-us\/\"> <b>contact us now!<\/b><\/a><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-72a06b2 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"72a06b2\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The ferry ride from Puntarenas to Paquera takes approximately 70 minutes to cross the Gulf of Nicoya, covering 11 nautical miles. It&#8217;s the main gateway to the southern Nicoya Peninsula and serves destinations like<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/santa-teresa-montezuma\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Santa Teresa, Montezuma, Mal Pa\u00eds, and Tambor<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Whether you&#8217;re a foot passenger or bringing a rental car, the ferry cuts a 5+ hour drive around the peninsula down to a scenic 70-minute crossing with Gulf views, wildlife spotting, and an onboard cafeteria. It&#8217;s not just transportation; it&#8217;s genuinely a pleasant part of the trip.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5716074 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"5716074\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Key Takeaways<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8fd2792 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"8fd2792\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Crossing time<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 70\u201380 minutes across 11 nautical miles of the Gulf of Nicoya.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Schedule<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 8 daily departures each direction \u2014 4 AM, 6:30 AM, 9 AM, 12 PM, 3 PM, 6 PM, 8 PM, 10 PM.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Cost<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: \u20a1810 CRC per adult foot passenger (~$1.50\u20131.55 USD at current rates); \u20a111,400 CRC + tax per car with driver (~$23\u201326 USD depending on exchange rate).<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Capacity<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 170 vehicles, 700 passengers.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Booking<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Online via QuickPay CR website or in person at the dock \u2014 online strongly recommended December through April.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Best for<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Reaching Santa Teresa, Montezuma, Mal Pa\u00eds, and Tambor from San Jos\u00e9 or the Central Pacific.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c9eed8f elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"c9eed8f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"334\" src=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Puntarenas-\u2194-Paquera-Ferry-Schedule-1024x534.png\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-7873\" alt=\"Ferry schedule comparison showing all 8 daily Puntarenas-to-Paquera departure times with recommended use cases for each \u2014 early morning departures for overnight stays, midday for flexible travelers, and evening crossings for late arrivals from San Jos\u00e9\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Puntarenas-\u2194-Paquera-Ferry-Schedule-scaled.png 1024w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Puntarenas-\u2194-Paquera-Ferry-Schedule-350x183.png 350w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Puntarenas-\u2194-Paquera-Ferry-Schedule-768x401.png 768w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Puntarenas-\u2194-Paquera-Ferry-Schedule-1536x802.png 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" title=\"\">\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ee65232 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"ee65232\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What Is the Ferry Schedule from Puntarenas to Paquera?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4b978b6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"4b978b6\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The ferry operates eight times daily in each direction, with the same departure times going both ways.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Puntarenas \u2192 Paquera<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 4 AM, 6:30 AM, 9 AM, 12 PM, 3 PM, 6 PM, 8 PM, 10 PM<\/span><\/p><p><b>Paquera \u2192 Puntarenas<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 4 AM, 6:30 AM, 9 AM, 12 PM, 3 PM, 6 PM, 8 PM, 10 PM<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The operator is<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/navieratambor.com\/horarios-y-tarifas\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Naviera Tambor<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and their large vessel holds 170 vehicles and 700 passengers. It&#8217;s substantial enough that you barely feel the Gulf swell during the crossing. Always confirm the current schedule on their website before traveling, although times occasionally shift around major holidays.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-934fa9c elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"934fa9c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Which Departure Time Works Best?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6907e70 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"6907e70\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>9 AM ferry<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> from Puntarenas hits the sweet spot for most travelers coming from<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/sjo-airport-confusion-solved\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">San Jos\u00e9<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Leave the city around 6:30\u20137 AM, allow time for<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/traffic-alerts\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">San Jos\u00e9 traffic<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> on the way out, and you&#8217;ll arrive at the dock with time to spare. You&#8217;ll reach Santa Teresa or Montezuma by early afternoon.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>6:30 AM departure<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> works if you&#8217;re staying overnight in Puntarenas or need to get to the Nicoya Peninsula early, which is useful if you&#8217;re chasing a morning surf session. The <\/span><b>6 PM or 8 PM<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> ferries give you a full day exploring the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/manuel-antonio-national-park-complete-guide\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Central Pacific coast<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> before making the crossing, arriving at your accommodation that evening.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b01cb7d elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"b01cb7d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">How Much Does the Ferry Cost?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e04ccbc elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"e04ccbc\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ferry prices are set in Costa Rican colones (CRC). USD equivalents are approximate and fluctuate with the exchange rate, so use the CRC figures as your reference.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>What Are the Passenger Fares?<\/b><\/h3><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Adults<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: \u20a1810 CRC (~$1.50\u20131.55 USD at current rates)<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Children (4\u201311)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: \u20a1485 CRC (~$0.90 USD)<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Seniors<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Reduced rate available at the ticket office<\/span><\/li><\/ul><h3><b>How Much Does It Cost to Take a Vehicle?<\/b><\/h3><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Cars\/SUVs (includes driver)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: \u20a111,400 CRC base + tax (~$23\u201326 USD total)<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Motorcycles<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: \u20a13,400 CRC + tax (~$6.50\u20137 USD)<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Bicycles<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: \u20a12,200 CRC + tax (~$4\u20134.50 USD)<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&#8217;re traveling with a car and two adults, you&#8217;ll purchase one vehicle ticket (which includes the driver) plus one individual passenger ticket for the second person for a total of roughly \u20a112,210\u201313,000 CRC (~$23\u201325 USD). The USD amount you see will depend on that day&#8217;s exchange rate, which is why showing the ticket agent your CRC amount matters more than the USD equivalent. Cash in colones is accepted at the dock; credit cards work at the QuickPay CR booking site.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b363635 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"b363635\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"373\" data-src=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Ferry-Ticket-Prices-Official-CRC-Rates-1024x596.png\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-7874 lazyload\" alt=\"Ferry pricing breakdown showing official CRC prices for all ticket types \u2014 adult foot passenger, children, car with driver, motorcycle, and bicycle \u2014 with approximate USD equivalents at current rates and a note that USD figures fluctuate with exchange rates\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Ferry-Ticket-Prices-Official-CRC-Rates-scaled.png 1024w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Ferry-Ticket-Prices-Official-CRC-Rates-350x204.png 350w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Ferry-Ticket-Prices-Official-CRC-Rates-768x447.png 768w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Ferry-Ticket-Prices-Official-CRC-Rates-1536x893.png 1536w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" title=\"\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 640px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 640\/373;\">\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-12d4d08 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"12d4d08\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">How Do You Buy Ferry Tickets?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8b50885 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"8b50885\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3><b>How Do You Buy Tickets Online?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tickets are sold through the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.quickpaycr.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">QuickPay CR website<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Here&#8217;s how it works:<\/span><\/p><p><b>Step 1<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Select your route (Puntarenas to Paquera or reverse), date, and departure time.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Step 2<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Choose ticket type: &#8220;Vehiculo Liviano Automovil\/SUV&#8221; for standard cars and SUVs, &#8220;Persona(s)&#8221; for foot passengers, or &#8220;Vehiculo Carga Liviana Placa CL&#8221; for pickup trucks with commercial plates.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Step 3<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Enter the number of adults, children, and seniors. For vehicles, enter the license plate. For rental cars where the plate isn&#8217;t assigned until pickup, enter any 6-digit placeholder or type &#8220;RENTALCAR.&#8221;<\/span><\/p><p><b>Step 4<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Enter your name, phone number, and email. Accept terms and click &#8220;Comprar&#8221; (Buy).<\/span><\/p><p><b>Step 5<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Complete payment. Your ticket arrives by email, so screenshot it or save the PDF before leaving WiFi, since cell service at the Paquera dock is unreliable.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The site sells a limited number of tickets online per departure. Once those sell out, remaining spots are available in person only, which is why early online booking matters during<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/costa-rica-dry-season-guide\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">the dry season<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, when<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/first-time-costa-rica-mistakes\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">first-time visitors<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> often underestimate how fast ferries fill up.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Can You Buy Tickets in Person?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The ticket office is across the street from the dock in a store called &#8220;To Go.&#8221; Tell the cashier how many passengers and whether you have a vehicle: <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&#8220;Dos adultos y un carro liviano por favor&#8221;<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Two adults and one small car, please).<\/span><\/p><p><b>Arrive early for in-person purchases:<\/b><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regular days: At least 1 hour before departure<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Weekends and December\u2013April: 1.5\u20132 hours early<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Christmas, New Year&#8217;s, Easter: 2\u20133 hours early because these periods can sell out, and getting bumped to the next departure means hours of waiting<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-192ae19 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"192ae19\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Where Is the Ferry Terminal in Puntarenas?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-94c1e63 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"94c1e63\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The ferry departs from the tip of Puntarenas, at the end of &#8220;Paseo de los Turistas,&#8221; which is the main coastal road that runs parallel to the shore.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>How Do You Find the Ferry Terminal?<\/b><\/h3><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Google Maps<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Search &#8220;Ferry El Carmen Puntarenas&#8221;<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.waze.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Waze<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Enter &#8220;Atracadero Ferry Paquera \u2013 Naranjo&#8221;<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both work well once you&#8217;re in Puntarenas city. If you&#8217;re driving from<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/unlocking-the-charms-of-san-jose-costa-rica\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">San Jos\u00e9<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, note that the final approach through Puntarenas city can be confusing, so stick to GPS directions rather than guessing. The parking area at the dock gets congested during busy departure windows, so factor in an extra 10\u201315 minutes if arriving during peak season.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>How Long Is the Drive from San Jos\u00e9 to the Ferry?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The drive from<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/choosing-the-right-international-airport-in-costa-rica\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">San Jos\u00e9&#8217;s Juan Santamar\u00eda Airport<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to the ferry dock takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes under normal conditions via Highway 27 toward the Pacific. In reality, always add at least 30 minutes for traffic, and up to an hour during rush hours (6:30\u20138:30 AM and 4:30\u20136:30 PM). The route is well-paved, and a<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/costa-rica-car-rental-vehicle-requirements\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">standard vehicle handles it without issue<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d2627da elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"d2627da\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" data-src=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/puntarenas-paquera-ferry-interior-passenger-cabin-1024x683.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-7907 lazyload\" alt=\"Interior passenger cabin of the Puntarenas to Paquera car ferry in Costa Rica, with rows of seats and travelers resting during the crossing\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/puntarenas-paquera-ferry-interior-passenger-cabin-scaled.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/puntarenas-paquera-ferry-interior-passenger-cabin-350x233.jpg 350w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/puntarenas-paquera-ferry-interior-passenger-cabin-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/puntarenas-paquera-ferry-interior-passenger-cabin-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/puntarenas-paquera-ferry-interior-passenger-cabin-2048x1365.jpg 2048w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" title=\"\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 640px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 640\/427;\">\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-99dc4b8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"99dc4b8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">How Do You Take the Ferry with a Car?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-92c0e9b elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"92c0e9b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3><b>What Should You Do Before Loading?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When approaching the dock with a vehicle, watch for officers in yellow vests directing traffic. Follow signs reading &#8220;Fila de Ferry \u2013 Line to Ferry&#8221; and get in the <\/span><b>Paquera line<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> specifically, as the Naranjo ferry uses a separate queue, and they load from the same general area. A ferry attendant will approach the vehicle line to check tickets before loading begins.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>What Happens During the Loading Process?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Loading begins approximately one hour before departure. Announcements are played in both English and Spanish.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Important:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> When driving onto the ferry, all passengers except the driver must exit the vehicle and board on foot. Each person needs their individual ticket, either physical or digital, to show the boarding agent. This is one of the most common mistakes families make, and it causes boarding delays if everyone stays in the car.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>What Is There to Do During the Crossing?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Leave your car on the lower deck and head upstairs. The ferry has an air-conditioned indoor cabin with TVs, outdoor deck seating with Gulf views, a cafeteria selling snacks, drinks, and food, free WiFi (requires a simple signup), bathrooms, and a pet area on the lower level (pets must be leashed).<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The views crossing the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gulf_of_Nicoya\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gulf of Nicoya<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are genuinely worth being on the upper deck for. You&#8217;ll pass small islands; some are protected bird sanctuaries, others house fishing communities as well as pelicans, frigatebirds, and occasional dolphins. Bring binoculars if you have them.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>What Happens When You Arrive in Paquera?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An announcement alerts drivers to return to their vehicles as the ferry approaches the dock. Foot passengers disembark first, then vehicles drive off. From the Paquera dock:<\/span><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Tambor<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 20\u201330 minutes (30 km \/ 19 miles)<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Montezuma<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 45\u201360 minutes (45 km \/ 28 miles)<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Santa Teresa \/ Mal Pa\u00eds<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 60\u201375 minutes (53 km \/ 33 miles)<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The roads on the southern Nicoya Peninsula have improved significantly over recent years, but still include unpaved sections. A 4WD or high-clearance vehicle is recommended, particularly during the green season (May\u2013November) when rain turns road surfaces unpredictable. If you&#8217;re coming from<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/guanacaste-airport-your-gateway-to-costa-ricas-hidden-gem\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Liberia Airport<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and heading to the southern peninsula, the ferry route isn&#8217;t your most efficient option, but more on that below.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b505aaf elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"b505aaf\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What Do Foot Passengers Need to Know?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8768b3f elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"8768b3f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3><b>How Do Foot Passengers Get to the Dock?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If arriving by bus from San Jos\u00e9, you&#8217;ll be dropped directly at the ferry ticket area. The Montezuma and Santa Teresa buses continue through the ferry with you, so stay on the bus when it drives onto the vessel. Foot passengers can also reach Puntarenas by public bus from San Jos\u00e9&#8217;s Coca Cola Terminal for around $2 USD.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While waiting to board, foot passengers gather under a large covered area near the loading zone. Have your ticket ready to show when the line moves.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>How Do Foot Passengers Board the Ferry?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Follow the foot passenger line when loading begins, show your ticket to the attendant, and find a seat on the upper decks. Seating is open, and there are no assigned spots. The outdoor upper deck fills up fast on sunny mornings, so board early if you want deck space.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>How Do Foot Passengers Continue from Paquera?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you arrived on the San Jos\u00e9 bus, simply reboard after the ferry docks. The bus continues to C\u00f3bano, Montezuma, and Santa Teresa. Taxis wait at the Paquera dock as well, and you can expect around \u20a130,000 CRC (~$57\u201360 USD) for a taxi to Santa Teresa, although prices vary by driver and season. Shared taxis cost less if you can find other passengers heading the same direction.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7068d5b elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"7068d5b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" data-src=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/puntarenas-paquera-ferry-deck-passenger-ocean-view-1024x683.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-7906 lazyload\" alt=\"Traveler in a wide-brim sun hat sitting on the upper deck of the Puntarenas to Paquera ferry, looking out at the wake and open water of the Gulf of Nicoya\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/puntarenas-paquera-ferry-deck-passenger-ocean-view-scaled.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/puntarenas-paquera-ferry-deck-passenger-ocean-view-350x233.jpg 350w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/puntarenas-paquera-ferry-deck-passenger-ocean-view-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/puntarenas-paquera-ferry-deck-passenger-ocean-view-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/puntarenas-paquera-ferry-deck-passenger-ocean-view-2048x1365.jpg 2048w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" title=\"\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 640px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 640\/427;\">\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c10965b elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"c10965b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What's the Difference Between the Paquera and Naranjo Ferries?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7113c82 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7113c82\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Two ferries operate from Puntarenas to the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nicoya_Peninsula\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nicoya Peninsula<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and they serve different destinations. Make sure you&#8217;re in the correct line at the dock because they load separately.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Paquera Ferry<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Naviera Tambor):<\/span><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best for: Santa Teresa, Montezuma, Mal Pa\u00eds, Tambor<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Crossing time: 70 minutes<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tickets:<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.quickpaycr.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">QuickPay CR website<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ul><p><b>Naranjo Ferry<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/coonatramar.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coonatramar<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">):<\/span><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best for:<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/samara-a-hidden-gem-for-family-friendly-beach-getaways\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">S\u00e1mara<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">,<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/unwind-in-nosara-costa-rica-a-tropical-haven-for-surf-yoga-and-wellness\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nosara<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, Nicoya town<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Crossing time: 75 minutes<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tickets: Coonatramar website<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Schedule: Runs more frequently: 3:30 AM, 5:30 AM, 7:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 3:30 PM, 5:30 PM, 7:30 PM, 9:30 PM<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both ferries depart from the same dock area in Puntarenas but have separate queues. Arriving in the wrong line just before departure is a stressful mistake worth avoiding, and<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/driving-in-costa-rica-road-conditions-tips\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">driving in Costa Rica<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> already has enough surprises without adding ferry confusion.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7f3f4fb elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"7f3f4fb\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">When Should You Take the Ferry Instead of Driving Around?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a3cf063 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"a3cf063\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3><b>Does the Ferry Make Sense for Your Route?<\/b><\/h3><p><b>Take the ferry if you&#8217;re:<\/b><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coming from San Jos\u00e9, the Central Valley, or the Central Pacific coast<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heading to the <\/span><b>southern<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Nicoya Peninsula: Santa Teresa, Montezuma, Tambor<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Wanting to cut 4+ hours off total drive time<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Interested in a scenic, relaxing break from the road<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On a<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/1-week-costa-rica-itinerary\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">one-week Costa Rica itinerary<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> where every hour counts<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><b>Drive around via the Friendship Bridge (Puente de la Amistad) if you&#8217;re:<\/b><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coming from<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/top-activities-in-guanacaste-costa-rica-enjoy-the-best-of-the-golden-coast\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guanacaste<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/renting-a-car-at-liberia-airport-costa-rica-a-complete-guide\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Liberia Airport<\/span><\/a><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heading to the <\/span><b>northern<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Nicoya Peninsula:<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/ultimate-guide-to-tamarindo-costa-rica-surfing-hotels-restaurants-safety-tips\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tamarindo<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, Nosara, S\u00e1mara via the main highway<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Planning stops along the peninsula&#8217;s interior towns<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One practical note for<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/2-week-costa-rica-itinerary\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">two-week itinerary<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> travelers: the ferry works best as a one-way crossing from the mainland toward the peninsula. Many travelers combine a Santa Teresa or Montezuma stay with a<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/manuel-antonio-national-park-complete-guide\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Manuel Antonio National Park<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> stop beforehand, then take the ferry onward. Coming from the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/central-valley-beyond-beaches-guide\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Central Valley<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> toward the southern peninsula, this is one of the most efficient sequences available.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-71eeee0 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"71eeee0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"393\" data-src=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Which-Ferry-Which-Destination-1024x628.png\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-7875 lazyload\" alt=\"Decision guide comparing the Puntarenas-Paquera ferry route versus the overland route via the Friendship Bridge \u2014 showing origin cities, drive times, best use cases, and which Nicoya Peninsula destinations each route serves most efficiently\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Which-Ferry-Which-Destination-scaled.png 1024w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Which-Ferry-Which-Destination-350x215.png 350w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Which-Ferry-Which-Destination-768x471.png 768w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Which-Ferry-Which-Destination-1536x943.png 1536w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" title=\"\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 640px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 640\/393;\">\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-df36d1b elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"df36d1b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What Should You Know Before Your First Ferry Crossing?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c96c873 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"c96c873\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><b>Download your ticket offline.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Cell service at both docks can be spotty. Screenshot your confirmation or save the PDF before you lose signal. You&#8217;ll need to show it at least twice.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Bring cash in colones.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Credit cards work at the ticket office, but the onboard cafeteria and last-minute purchases are easier with colones. ATMs in Puntarenas work, but don&#8217;t rely on finding one right at the dock.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Arrive early during high season.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The ferry can&#8217;t accommodate every vehicle that shows up, and being bumped means waiting hours for the next departure.<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/budget-friendly-things-to-do-in-costa-rica\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Budget-conscious travelers<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> planning<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/50-costa-rica-activities-worth-it\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Costa Rica activities<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> lose half a day this way. Online booking during December\u2013April removes this risk entirely.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Confirm the schedule before you go.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> While the eight-departure timetable is consistent year-round, verify timing at the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/navieratambor.com\/horarios-y-tarifas\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Naviera Tambor website<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> before your travel day, especially around major Costa Rican holidays when operations occasionally adjust.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Consider taking a domestic flight to Tambor.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> If Tambor is your only destination and you don&#8217;t need a vehicle,<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/costa-rica-domestic-flights\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">domestic flights<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> serve Tambor&#8217;s small airstrip and save time compared to the combined drive-plus-ferry route.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The 70-minute crossing is genuinely enjoyable. Most travelers find it goes quickly, so grab a drink, take the upper deck, and keep an eye on the water. The Gulf of Nicoya has an active ecosystem: dolphins appear regularly along the route, and the islands you pass are home to nesting seabirds. Don&#8217;t spend the whole crossing looking at your phone. The views are part of what makes<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/your-journey-to-tamarindo-costa-rica-a-paradise-for-sun-seekers\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">visiting Costa Rica&#8217;s Pacific coast<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> worth the trip in the first place.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Planning your Nicoya Peninsula transport?<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/rental-info\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vamos can set you up with the right vehicle<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for the roads on the other side of the crossing, and the ferry dock is easy; the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/driving-costa-rica\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">peninsula roads<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are where vehicle choice matters. For more details on ferry schedules and pricing directly from local sources,<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/nicoyapeninsula.com\/travel-info\/ferry\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">NicoyaPeninsula.com<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> keeps an up-to-date crossing reference, and<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ticotimes.net\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">the Tico Times<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> covers any service changes around major Costa Rican holidays.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-93eb659 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"93eb659\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What Destinations Can You Reach from the Paquera Ferry?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9d8f10a elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"9d8f10a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3><b>What Is Santa Teresa Like After the Crossing?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/santa-teresa-montezuma\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">world-class surf destination<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that&#8217;s evolved from a backpacker secret to an internationally known beach town. Expect consistent waves, yoga studios, boutique hotels, and a laid-back international crowd. Approximately 60\u201375 minutes (53 km \/ 33 miles) from the Paquera dock via roads that are mostly paved with some unpaved sections that benefit from 4WD in the rainy season.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>What&#8217;s in Montezuma?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The original bohemian beach village on the southern peninsula was established by European travelers in the 1960s. Known for waterfalls, artisan markets, and an authentically alternative vibe that&#8217;s resisted the resort development found elsewhere. Approximately 45\u201360 minutes (45 km \/ 28 miles) from Paquera.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>What Does Tambor Offer?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A quieter option with a sheltered horseshoe-shaped bay and the peninsula&#8217;s calmest swimming conditions. Home to the only large resort on the southern peninsula and a domestic airstrip for travelers not taking the ferry. Approximately 20\u201330 minutes (24 km \/ 15 miles) from Paquera; it\u2019s the closest major destination after docking.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>What About Cabo Blanco Reserve?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Costa Rica&#8217;s first protected natural reserve is at the southern tip of the peninsula. Hiking trails through tropical dry forest reach pristine, secluded beaches accessible only on foot. Entry requires advance reservation through<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/serviciosenlinea.sinac.go.cr\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SINAC&#8217;s booking system<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, so book before your trip since walk-in access is not guaranteed. Access from Montezuma or Mal Pa\u00eds.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For any questions about entry requirements or travel advisories when planning your Nicoya Peninsula trip, the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/cr.usembassy.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> maintains current information for American travelers.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2902c2a elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"2902c2a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" data-src=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/puntarenas-paquera-ferry-gulf-of-nicoya-costa-rica-1024x683.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-7904 lazyload\" alt=\"The Puntarenas to Paquera car ferry crossing the calm blue waters of the Gulf of Nicoya, with green mountains of the Nicoya Peninsula visible in the background\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/puntarenas-paquera-ferry-gulf-of-nicoya-costa-rica-scaled.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/puntarenas-paquera-ferry-gulf-of-nicoya-costa-rica-350x233.jpg 350w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/puntarenas-paquera-ferry-gulf-of-nicoya-costa-rica-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/puntarenas-paquera-ferry-gulf-of-nicoya-costa-rica-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/puntarenas-paquera-ferry-gulf-of-nicoya-costa-rica-2048x1365.jpg 2048w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" title=\"\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 640px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 640\/427;\">\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8c0decb elementor-widget-divider--view-line elementor-widget elementor-widget-divider\" data-id=\"8c0decb\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"divider.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-divider\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-divider-separator\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5490f80 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"5490f80\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-22dca55 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"22dca55\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3><b>How long is the ferry ride from Puntarenas to Paquera?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The ferry takes approximately 70\u201380 minutes to cross the 11 nautical miles of the Gulf of Nicoya. Including vehicle loading and unloading, expect about 1.5 hours total from arriving at the dock to driving off on the Paquera side. The Naviera Tambor vessel holds 170 cars and 700 passengers, which makes it stable and comfortable even when the Gulf is a bit choppy.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>How much is the Puntarenas to Paquera ferry?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foot passengers pay \u20a1810 CRC per adult, which is approximately $1.50\u20131.55 USD at current exchange rates. Taking a car with the driver costs \u20a111,400 CRC base plus tax, which is roughly $23\u201326 USD total depending on the exchange rate that day. Additional passengers each need their own separate ticket. A car with two adults totals approximately \u20a112,210\u201313,000 CRC one way. Always pay attention to the CRC price rather than the USD estimate since conversion rates fluctuate.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Is Paquera, Costa Rica, worth visiting?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Paquera itself is a small transit town rather than a destination, but it&#8217;s the gateway to some of Costa Rica&#8217;s best beaches. From the dock, you can reach Santa Teresa&#8217;s world-class surf breaks, Montezuma&#8217;s waterfalls and artistic community, Tambor&#8217;s calm horseshoe bay, and the Cabo Blanco Reserve. The ferry crossing itself adds scenic value to the journey, making it worthwhile rather than a chore.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>How do I get to Paquera, Costa Rica?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most practical route is taking the ferry from Puntarenas. Drive from San Jos\u00e9 (approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to the dock without traffic), purchase tickets online in advance, and cross in 70 minutes. From the Paquera dock, continue by car to your final destination. If you&#8217;re traveling without a vehicle, San Jos\u00e9 buses to Montezuma and Santa Teresa board the ferry as part of their route, but you stay on the bus through the crossing.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>How early should I arrive for the ferry?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Online ticket holders on regular days: arrive 30\u201345 minutes before departure. During weekends and the dry season (December\u2013April), arrive at least 1 hour early. Buying tickets in person during high season: arrive 1.5\u20132 hours early. During Christmas, New Year&#8217;s, and Easter week, arrive 2\u20133 hours early, as the ferry cannot accommodate all vehicles that show up, and getting bumped to the next departure means significant waiting.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>How safe is the Puntarenas to Paquera ferry?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Naviera Tambor ferry has an excellent safety record. The vessel is designed for calm gulf waters rather than open ocean, and the Gulf of Nicoya is sheltered, and crossings are smooth even on windy days. Life jackets and safety equipment are onboard, and the crew conducts briefings. The ferry operates daily in virtually all weather conditions, with cancellations reserved for rare severe events.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>What is the best time to visit the Nicoya Peninsula?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The dry season (December\u2013April) offers the best weather with minimal rain and easier road conditions for exploring. This is also peak tourist season with higher prices and busier ferries, so book early. The green season (May\u2013November) brings afternoon showers, fewer tourists, lower accommodation rates, and lusher landscapes. Surfers often favor September\u2013October for bigger Atlantic-driven swells. The ferry crossing itself is pleasant year-round.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Are ferries cheaper than flying to Tambor?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Significantly. The ferry costs \u20a1810 CRC (~$1.50 USD) per person, versus $100+ for domestic flights to Tambor&#8217;s airstrip. Even with a rental car vehicle fee (~$24\u201326 USD), the ferry remains far cheaper than flying and gives you the flexibility that the domestic flight schedule doesn&#8217;t. The ferry also accommodates surfboards, gear, and luggage without the strict 30 lb limits of domestic carriers.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-27c1ac1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"27c1ac1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/reservations.vamosrentacar.com\/Search\/Init\/Vamos\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"233\" data-src=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Cover-Vamos-Rent-a-car-1-e1752508323933.png\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-4528 lazyload\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 700px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 700\/233;\">\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Puntarenas to Paquera Ferry: What&#8217;s Covered The Puntarenas to Paquera ferry crosses 11 nautical miles (20 km) of the Gulf of Nicoya in 70-80 minutes, connecting San Jos\u00e9 travelers to Santa Teresa, Montezuma, and Tambor while cutting 4+ hours off the overland drive. Quick Facts: Crossing time: 70-80 minutes, 8 daily departures each direction (4 [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":7905,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"no","_lmt_disable":"no","footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7806","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-posts"],"modified_by":"Zachary","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7806","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/12"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7806"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7806\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7911,"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7806\/revisions\/7911"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/7905"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7806"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7806"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7806"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}