Welcome to Costa Rica, the land of stunning water bodies surrounded by natural beauty and landscapes! If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a boat and turning it into a business that offers tours to eager tourists—both locals and visitors—who want to explore Costa Rica’s natural wonders, you’re in the right place. Here’s guide to get you started on your boat tour adventure.

Step One – Define Your Business Structure

Before you dive headfirst into the water, you need to figure out the structure of your business. How many boats do you want to acquire or build? This will help you negotiate terms with whoever’s is selling or building your boat. Once you’ve got that sorted, decide if the boat will be part of a company and if you want to bring in any partners. This step is crucial because you’ll need to review and draft various contracts, like construction contracts, sales and purchase agreements, shareholder agreements, and the company’s articles of incorporation, depending on the structure selected. And don’t forget those annoying but important taxes, corporate obligations and compliance matters, if you choose to go the company route.

How Do Tour Companies Work?

Once you have your business structure duly established and the boat is in your possession, it’s time to tackle the permits and licenses. This is a critical phase to avoid future headaches. Permits include navigation certificates and the hilariously named “zafarrancho” (which is essentially an emergency plan) from the Directorate of Navigation and Safety at MOPT (Ministry of Transport). If you want to take advantage of the benefits of a tourism declaration, you’ll need to get that from the National Tourism Institute. And if you’ve got friends, clients, or family who love fishing, you’ll need the proper fishing license granted by INCOPESCA (fishing institute). With all these permits current and in hand, you’re ready to show off Costa Rica’s beautiful spots to your future clients.

Why Do You Need to Get Everything in Order

Running a tourist boat service in Costa Rica means you must be prepared for anything. That includes having insurance policies to cover any mishaps, internal regulations, usage regulations, boat maintenance plans, and more. This helps you avoid liabilities and ensures your clients have a safe and enjoyable experience. Remember, Costa Rica is renowned for its environmental protection and natural resources, so running your business sustainably is key. You’ll be protecting the beautiful waters and wildlife, including whales, manta rays, and dolphins, that your clients will be eager to see.

Before Undertaking This Venture

Before making any decisions, it’s super important to consult with your legal advisor to ensure you’re complying with all the necessary regulations and to minimize risks and potential issues. Also, be mindful of the associated expenses, including cleaning, maintenance, logistics, staffing, depreciation, and other related costs.

For more information, please contact André Cappella at acr@quatro.legal

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the content, laws and regulations are subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please contact our office directly. Some images may be AI generated.