The previous poster has things about right. There are two ferry companies that criss-cross the gulf so even if you miss one it is still not that big a deal. Their schedules alternate more or less and one is never more than 90 minutes, or so, away. I believe the ticket seller actually rides in on the ferry so when you see it dock and begin to unload the ticket window will open soon after. The ticket office is not much more than a storefront across from the dock but you can't miss it...just follow the crowd. Be sure you have the right one. There is also a ferry to Naranjo, farther north on the peninsula. U.S. dollars will get you on, as long as the bills are not too large or really beat up. I have found the ticket sellers for the ferries to be both very fast and very accurate in counting out your change. You will likely see a local hustler in the area who speaks English and will promise to get you on the next ferry. He can answer your questions but will expect a buck or two to do so. They are not employees of the ferry companies but do perform a useful function in helping you navigate the system (something that the ferry companies themselves don't do). On the Paquera side things are a bit more professional, as the dock is dedicated to the ferries and there is nothing else around. Buses and taxis are plentiful whenever a ferry unloads and transport should not be a problem.

Puravidacpl and PhiloKvetch thanks for the info. I likely will have colones buy the time I get to the ferry as I will have been in C.R. for a few day. I might have enough now as I brought some back from my last trip :-). Doesn't sound like the ferry is very expensive. Just trying to compare cost with going overland. But if I have to buy two tickets on Interbus overland it would be $76 each way.

I will have one large bag (wheels and handle) and my carry on. Kind of a pain, but I'm sure I won't be the only one.

Thanks again, Jay

The ferry is pretty inexpensive. We usually pay for four people and a car and that is well under $20.00 so I can't imagine a walk-on is very costly. You will have to navigate the stairs to the upper deck but that also shouldn't be much of a problem, even with the bags.