FerryConnect

Costa Rica

Puntarenas → Paquera

Naviera Tambor’s car ferry across the Gulf of Nicoya is the shortcut from Puntarenas to the southern Nicoya Peninsula — the road to Montezuma, Santa Teresa, Mal País and Tambor — on an 11-nautical-mile crossing.

⏱ Not published by the operator🚢 1 operator📅 8 departures daily from each side, 04:00–22:00🚗 Vehicles accepted
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Puntarenas to Paquera ferry at a glance

The ferry from Puntarenas to Paquera takes Not published by the operator across the Gulf of Nicoya, operated by Naviera Tambor. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: 8 departures daily from each side, 04:00–22:00.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-09-29.

Sources: navieratambor.com · navieratambor.com · navieratambor.com · navieratambor.com · How we verify

Return crossing: Paquera to Puntarenas

Naviera Tambor also sails Paquera to Puntarenas, taking Not published by the operator. Departures from Paquera run at the same eight times as from Puntarenas.

Puntarenas to Paquera ferry timetable & sailing pattern

8 departures daily each way

Timetable in force from 20 April 2026 until further notice.

Published departure times

  • Puntarenas: 04:00, 06:30, 09:00, 12:00, 15:00, 18:00, 20:00, 22:00
  • Paquera: 04:00, 06:30, 09:00, 12:00, 15:00, 18:00, 20:00, 22:00

Return: Departures from Paquera run at the same eight times as from Puntarenas.

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official Naviera Tambor timetable →Check prices & book on 12Go →

Source: Naviera Tambor horarios y tarifas. Verified 2026-09-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Puntarenas and Paquera

📐 11 Nautical Miles
Puntarenas⇄Paquera
⏱ Not published by the operator · 📐 11 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Naviera TamborNot published by the operatorTambor II, Tambor III, Tambor IV

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

No pet facilities

📐

Distance

11 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • The Puntarenas terminal is in Barrio El Carmen, at the western end of the Puntarenas peninsula
  • Naviera Tambor’s customer office is opposite the Puntarenas ferry terminal (08:00–17:00)

Tips for the Puntarenas to Paquera Crossing

  • Naviera Tambor sells only a limited share of each sailing online; the remaining space is sold at its ticket offices.
  • Fares are set per vehicle class (motorcycle, bicycle, light vehicle, buses, trucks); a trailer pays the same fare as the vehicle towing it.

Related Ferry Crossings

Nearby alternative crossingSierpe → Drake BayAbout 1h · Drake Bay Boat ShuttleNearby crossingPanama City → Taboga IslandAbout 30m · Taboga Express
⚓ Puntarenas Ferry Terminal guide⛴ All ferries from Puntarenas🔎 Search all routes

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Puntarenas to Paquera?
The crossing typically takes Not published by the operator. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Puntarenas to Paquera ferry sail?
8 departures daily each way. Timetable in force from 20 April 2026 until further notice. This is the pattern published in the Naviera Tambor horarios y tarifas (checked 2026-09-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Puntarenas to Paquera?
Naviera Tambor operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Puntarenas to Paquera ferry?
Yes. Vehicles are carried on this route. Book vehicle space in advance for peak dates, and check the operator’s height, length and trailer limits for campervans and larger vehicles.
Can I take the Puntarenas to Paquera ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Puntarenas to Paquera ferry?
This route has no dedicated pet facilities. Assistance dogs are normally carried, but confirm with the operator before travelling.
How far is Puntarenas from Paquera by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 11 nautical miles (roughly 20 km).