We booked this fishing trip with high expectations, especially given the total cost of $1,700 for a full-day charter (7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.). Unfortunately, the experience fell short in several important areas.
When booking, we paid a 10% deposit, with the remaining balance to be paid on the day of the trip at hotel Casa del Golfo. We were told this would be the meeting point and that from there we would be guided to the boat launch for the fishing trip. Based on that explanation, we expected some form of guidance, either a person accompanying us or transportation arranged from the hotel. Instead, after paying at Casa del Golfo, we were simply given an address and left to find our way on our own. Since we are not familiar with the area, this was stressful and not what we expected for a trip at this price point. We also assumed we would be able to park at the hotel and be transported back afterward, especially since the launch is only about 12 minutes away, but that was not the case.
About one hour into the trip, a plastic bag became stuck in one of the engines, forcing us to run on only one engine at very low speed for approximately 45 minutes. This significantly reduced our fishing time early in the day. Given this delay, we expected some effort to compensate for the lost time, but later we were told the trip was already behind schedule.
Once on the boat, communication remained very limited. The captain and his brother set everything up, but nothing was explained. No overview of the plan, the fishing techniques being used, or what to expect throughout the day. After several hours without catching anything, we asked whether fishing had been slow recently. Only then were we told that the water was green due to plankton, that the wind was affecting conditions, and later that dolphins in the area had caused the fish to move away. While we understand that fishing conditions are unpredictable, these explanations were reactive rather than proactive.
The captain later mentioned he had tried different techniques, but without explaining what those techniques were. We were given two route options, and we chose the one where we might be able to stop near fishing boats or visible activity. However, we never stopped. When we asked why, we were told that nearby boats were fishing closer to shore with nets and that someone was pressuring the captain to go faster because we were running late. This explanation was only provided after we asked.
Another concern was the lack of instruction for beginners. One member of our group had never fished before. While my husband has fishing experience and helped explain some things, the captain did not provide a clear explanation of how to use the rods, equipment, or techniques at the beginning. Explaining things only when fish are already on the line is not effective for first-time participants. A detailed explanation at the start would have made a big difference.
Safety was also a concern. When booking months in advance, we specifically asked whether life jackets would be provided and were told yes. However, once on the boat, the captain never pointed them out, explained where they were located, or reassured us about safety equipment. A brief safety orientation at the beginning would have been very reassuring.
The restroom on the boat was another issue. When my husband tried to use it, it was extremely dirty, with visible waste. It appeared it had not been checked or cleaned prior to the trip. In addition, no one explained how to properly use or flush the toilet.
At the end of the trip, we agreed to have the fish cleaned and filleted. The fish was then placed only in plastic zip-lock bags. For a charter of this cost, we expected at least a basic foam cooler box with ice to keep the fish fresh. Providing only plastic bags felt very unprofessional.
Drinks were provided, including beer, but we do not drink alcohol. It would have been appreciated if guests were asked in advance at the time of booking about drink preferences or if non-alcoholic options were clearly discussed when booking.
We recognize that fishing conditions are unpredictable and that factors such as weather, water conditions, and marine life are beyond anyone’s control, which we fully understand.
Overall, we understand that fishing depends heavily on conditions beyond anyone’s control. However, communication, cleanliness, safety orientation, guest guidance, and basic equipment are all within the operator’s control. Clear explanations, a brief tour of the boat, proper instruction for beginners, a clean restroom, and adequate fish storage would have greatly improved the experience. Unfortunately, based on our experience, the trip did not meet the expectations associated with the price.