A new ferry with the plate name "San Lucas III" began operations on Friday, providing transportation from Puntarenas Beach, in Puntarenas Province to Naranjo Beach in the Nicoya Peninsula.

The ship arrived in the country in April from Piraeus Port in Greece after sailing 37 hours across the Atlantic Ocean.

According to the ferry managing company, Coonatramar, they spent $6.5 million on the ferry purchase and its transportation costs. They were financed with a loan from the Instituto Nacional de Fomento Cooperativo.

The frequency of ferry trips has increased with the increase in tourists, said Gerardo González Arias, Coonatramar manager.

Transportation rates will continue at the same price. The ticket fee between Puntarenas and Naranjo is $1.80. The fee for vehicles is $16 and the fee for motorcycles is $6.

 

The ferry includes a lounge with A/C, food and drinks available for purchase.

Authorities estimate that the transportation service between Puntarenas and the Nicoya Peninsula will increase by 25%. This figure is equivalent to the transfer of more than 400,000 people and more than 100,000 vehicles.

The 72-meter-long and 16-meter-wide ferry can transport 500 people and 110 vehicles between Puntarenas and Nicoya in a single trip.

Currently, the Naviera Tambor company also offers ferry trips from Puntarenas Beach to Paquera Port in the peninsula.

Nicoya is a large peninsula located on the Pacific Coast. It is one of the more popular tourist destinations in the country, known for its beautiful beaches, surfing spots and relaxed lifestyle.

The peninsula is home to many towns and villages, each with its unique charm and attractions. Some of the most popular destinations on the peninsula include Santa Teresa, Montezuma, Malpais, and Nosara.

The area is also known for its rich biodiversity, with several national parks and wildlife reserves located on or near the peninsula, including the Cabo Blanco Absolute Nature Reserve and the Curu Wildlife Reserve.

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