:: SCUBA DIVING

COSTA RICA INFO

Getting to Costa Rica
We recommend that you fly to San José, Costa Rica via direct flights from a major US city. Passengers using non-direct flights have experienced delays and luggage problems in Mexico City and Guatemala City. You must arrive at least one night prior to the boat´s departure date and we strongly recommend staying one night after the return, in case of any unforeseen delays.

Baggage Limitations
Pack lightly since you will be dressing for warm tropical weather. Airlines have baggage limitations that can affect divers and photographers. Domestic airlines limit passengers to two pieces of check-in luggage. International flights also have a two piece limit and a limit of 70 lbs. per bag. You will be charged for any extra bags or overweight luggage. Some airlines do not allow extra bags or overweight luggage during certain times of the year. At Customs there are no limitations on the personal equipment such as diving, camera and video equipment as well as coomputers that are for peronsal use.

Entry Requirements
All passengers must have a valid passport to enter Costa Rica. Most US, Canadian, E.U. and Japanese citizens do not need a visa, but if in doubt we recommend checking with the Costa Rican consulate to see if visas are necessary to enter the country.

Upon Arrival
Upon arrival to San Jose, you may take a taxi to your hotel. There are always taxies available at the airport, even minivans for those of you who carry a lot of gear. We can also arrange for your airport transfer as well as for accommodations at several hotels in San Jose. The night before departure an Undersea Hunter/Fiesta Tours representative will inform you at your hotel of your pick up time for transport to the vessel. Please note that we do not pick up from all San Jose hotels. The evenings onshore are at your leisure. Hotel nights and meals before and after the cruise are not included in the charter.

Transfers to and from the vessel
On the day of departure to Cocos, generally between 8 AM and 1 PM, you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred by Fiesta Tours to Puntarenas, the seaport village where you will board the vessel. The drive takes about 2.5 hours and gives you a chance to view the lush tropical forest and rich farmland of the region. On the way there will be a stop for a snack or lunch. The price of this meal is not included in the price of the trip. At the end of the trip you disembark at 8 AM and will be transferred back to your hotel in San Jose.

Other transfers
If for some reason you should need a transfer to or from Puntarenas other than the one offered by Undersea Hunter, taxi service is available. The cost of transfers other than the Undersea Hunter´s can run in excess of $65.00 per person one-way.

Land Arrangements
While you are here in Costa Rica it is certainly worth the extra time to visit other aspects of the country that truly make it a natural wonderland. Active volcanoes, white water rafting, mountain biking, pristine jungles, coffee plantations, horseback riding, visits to craft centers and of course some of the most beautiful beaches in the world are among the activities and destinations available in the country. We would be happy to arrange one day tours or longer trips to more remote areas at your request. Recommended Costa Rican companies will operate these tours.

Language
Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken within areas related to tourism.

Currency & Exchange Rate
Colones ($1 US = 415 c., Nov. 03, but devalues steadily). International credit cards and US$ are widely accepted in areas related to tourism.

Hotels and banks exchange US Dollars for Costa Rican Colones. US dollars as well as travelers checks, Visa and MasterCard are all accepted on the vessels. We do not accept American Express or personal checks onboard.

Health
There is no malaria in Costa Rica and no vaccinations are necessary. Drinking water is safe in cities and resorts.

Time Zone
Costa Rica and Cocos Island are 1 hour behind US Eastern Time during the North American winter and 2 hours during the North American summer.

Departure Tax
There is a departure tax of US$ 26 (April 03)