Explore Tranquil Waters: Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Costa Rica, Indonesia & Borneo
Discover a peaceful and engaging way to experience the tropical beauty of Costa Rica, Indonesia, and Borneo with our expertly guided stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) excursions. Perfect for travellers of all experience levels, this gentle activity allows you to glide across calm, warm waters, taking in the serene coastline and abundant wildlife at a relaxed pace.
In Costa Rica, paddle through sheltered bays over colourful coral reefs, while in Indonesia and Borneo, explore quiet mangrove channels and island coves where sea turtles, manta rays and dolphins are often spotted. These biologically rich regions are best appreciated from water level, where the sights and sounds of nature feel even closer.
Our SUP excursions typically cover 2.5–5 km (1–2 miles) over 2 to 4 hours, allowing ample time to pause, reflect, and enjoy the surroundings. Small paddling groups (up to 8) ensure personal attention and access to shallows and hidden areas not reachable by Zodiac.
Whether you’re drifting beneath rainforest canopies or observing life beneath the surface, paddleboarding offers a peaceful yet rewarding way to explore. While weather conditions may influence timing, your experienced guide will ensure a safe and memorable outing every step of the way.
What's Involved
We offer small, guided, intimate groups a chance to take SUP paddling to the next level. Weather permitting, we will offer daily outings with a support Zodiac. We provide waterproof day packs to carry our cameras and spare clothing to make the most of our excursions above the water and on shore.
Each group of three to eight paddlers generally visit the same wildlife or historic sites as our fellow expeditioners. However, our smaller craft (SUP) and manoeuvrability often means that we also have the opportunity to access areas that are often not accessible by Zodiacs. We will also make time to do some shore landings with the rest of the group.
Required Experience
Our Tropical trips are the perfect time to try stand-up paddleboarding for the first time. We just require you to be active in the outdoors and have an adventurous spirit.
You do not need to be an expert, however, you are required to be able to swim. For beginners, we will paddle in protected bays, over coral reefs in warmer waters, while more experienced paddlers can enjoy the larger waves on beaches.
Fitness Requirements
You should be fit enough to paddle for up to two hours at a time to take full advantage of this activity, and climb between moving Zodiacs on the water. Regular exercise is recommended, as the fitter you are the more you will enjoy the experience. The more paddles you can do before the trip, the better (we recommend at least 3 to 4 outings prior to your voyage) if you plan on taking full advantage of this complimentary activity.
Climates & Weather Conditions
In Costa Rica and Panama, April is the end of the dry season. The shoulder season begins in May, bringing increased humidity. Afternoon rain showers are possible in May with temperatures ranging from 26-36 °C (80- 96 °F). Winds are generally light at this time of year.
In Indonesia and Borneo, we visit during the drier months of October and November, when conditions are generally favourable for paddleboarding. Temperatures range from 28–32 °C (82–90 °F) with calm seas and light winds, especially in sheltered bays and mangrove-lined channels. Occasional afternoon showers may occur, but they are usually brief and followed by clear skies.
The water temperature ranges from 27 -29 °C. Surf landings are not likely, but be prepared to paddle in a small swell or wind chop, with winds up to 15 knots. We will not paddle if wind conditions are too strong and there is no sheltered area for paddling.
Price & How to Book
For our voyages in Indonesia, Borneo and Costa Rica, Stand-up Paddleboarding is a complimentary activity, pre-booking is not required!
Costa Rica | Credit: Pia Harboure
Costa Rica | Credit: Pia Harboure
FAQs
Is there an age limit?
Paddle boarders must be 14 or over.
Yes, you will be supplied with a waterproof backpack for extra clothing, binoculars and anything that needs to be kept dry. You should also carry a water bottle. You are also welcome to bring along your own 5-10 litre dry bag for personal items.
Can I bring my camera?
Yes, but we highly recommend a waterproof camera or phone, or a good quality waterproof case. You can also put a smaller camera in the waterproof back pack. These are very solid and dependable.
What equipment is included?
- SUP board, leash & paddle
- Neoprene boots
- Safety gear
- A dry bag
- PFD (Life jacket)
What if the weather changes during an outing?
We do not attempt to paddle too far away from the ship – the emphasis is on experiencing the destination rather than travelling long distances. Your guide will be in constant radio contact with our ship captain and expedition leader and if we need to return to the ship a Zodiac can be called.
What about paddling in swell?
The inflatable paddle boards are stable but in the event that wind chop or swell make paddling uncomfortable, your guide will cancel the outing or transfer boards and paddlers to a protected shoreline.
Will there be guides to assist SUP?
Our guides have many years of stand-up paddleboarding experience in the destinations we visit. The paddleboarding guide will lead the group on each excursion, explaining facts about the wildlife and other highlights we paddle across.