San Andrés: Private Full-Day Boat Tour & Snorkeling Stops

Summary

San Andrés private boat day with sandbars snorkeling coral reefs

You’ll ride a private boat from San Andrés into mangroves alive with birdsong before drifting over crystal-clear sandbars like El Palito. Snorkel above coral reefs teeming with colorful fish (gear included), then relax at White Wata’s floating bars or enjoy island-style lunch with your toes in the sand. Expect laughter, fresh breezes, and moments you’ll want to remember long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

There was this soft slap of water against the hull when we first set off from San Andrés — not loud, just enough to make me realize how far from city noise we suddenly were. The sky was already that kind of blue you only get in the Caribbean, and our captain, who introduced himself as Mario but said everyone calls him “Marmow,” grinned as he handed out cold bottled water. I remember thinking it was almost too early for sunburn but not caring much.

The mangroves came first. They looked tangled and wild, like they’d been growing forever, and birds darted through them so quickly I kept missing my photos. Marmow pointed out a heron — or at least I think it was a heron; he said the name in Spanish and I probably got it wrong. The air smelled briny but sweet, and there was this quiet hum of insects under everything else. We drifted for a while before heading toward El Palito sandbar. That place is basically white sand in every direction, with water so clear you can see your own toes even if you’re awkwardly trying to balance on the boat’s edge (which I did, sorry again).

I’m not great at snorkeling but they gave us all gear and an assistant helped me figure out the mask straps (I always mess those up). Underwater it’s another world — doctor fish zipping around, flashes of yellow butterfly fish, even a ray gliding by like it owned the place. Someone spotted a puffer fish and I swear it winked at us. Lunch was at one of those local spots right on the shore — fried fish that tasted like sunshine somehow, with coconut rice and plantains. There’s something about eating with your feet still sandy that makes food better.

Later we floated at White Wata — which is basically a natural pool in the middle of seven shades of blue sea — and tried drinks from one of the floating bars. The bartender laughed when I tried to order in Spanish (I probably asked for “ice” twice). Sunset crept up behind us as we cruised back toward San Andrés island; everyone got quiet for a bit just watching the colors change over the water. I still think about that stretch of silence sometimes — not awkward, just peaceful.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore San Andrés Islands by boat

• Tour mangroves and observe wildlife
• Relax at El Palito sandbar
• Snorkel and enjoy island lunch
• Snorkel in vibrant marine world
• Visit White Wata natural pool
• Dive at coral reef and return

Top questions

Is snorkeling equipment included on this San Andrés boat tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included for all guests during the tour.

Does this private boat tour include lunch?

You’ll stop at local restaurants on San Andrés Island where you can buy lunch featuring island gastronomy.

Are drinks provided on board?

Bottled water is provided along with a refrigerator stocked with ice; additional drinks can be purchased at floating bars.

How long does the full day private boat tour last?

The tour covers a full day exploring multiple stops around San Andrés Islands by boat.

Can infants join this San Andrés private boat trip?

Yes, infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap during the journey.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are permitted aboard the boat for this experience.

What wildlife might I see during the mangrove part?

You may spot tropical birds such as herons along with other native fauna in their natural habitat.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options available close to departure points on San Andrés Island.

What’s included

Your day includes use of snorkeling equipment, bottled water chilled in an onboard fridge with ice, plus help from an assistant captain throughout your journey around San Andrés’ mangroves, sandbars, coral reefs and natural pools before returning to port after sunset.