Culebra & Culebrita: Full Day Catamaran Beach Tour with Lunch

Summary

Catamaran day trip to Culebra’s beaches with games lunch & open bar

You’ll cruise by catamaran from Puerto Rico to Culebra or Culebrita, soaking up island views before spending hours on white sand beaches. Try paddleboarding or kayaking if you want (or just nap in the sun), then refuel with lunch and drinks served right on board. Expect laughter, salty air, and those small moments that stick with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped onto the catamaran at Marina Puerto Del Rey just as the sun started warming up — not too hot yet, but you could already smell the sunscreen mixing with sea air. The captain, José, gave us a quick rundown (he joked about his “good weather dance” for calm seas), and then we were off, engines humming and El Yunque’s green peaks fading behind us. I didn’t expect how fast the Cordillera Islands would pop into view; one minute it’s open water, next you’re eyeing tiny islets and wondering who names these places. Someone nearby was already laughing over spilled soda — it felt like summer camp for grownups.

The ride took about 90 minutes, which sounds long but honestly passed in that half-hypnotized state where you’re just watching blue water and snacking. Not everyone was chatty — some people napped inside the cabin (the AC there is no joke), while others like me kept sneaking outside for that salty wind. When we finally anchored off Culebrita Beach (I think it was Culebrita? The crew picked based on conditions), everyone sort of shuffled into action at once: grabbing paddleboards, digging out towels, debating whether to kayak or just float. I tried paddleboarding for maybe three minutes before giving up and sinking into the sand instead — which is its own kind of victory.

Lunch was simple but hit the spot: hamburger for me, chicken sandwich for my partner, plus salads and fruit that tasted extra sweet after swimming. There’s something about eating with wet hair and sandy feet that makes even a veggie burger feel like a feast. The crew kept checking if anyone needed more drinks or sunscreen (or both). At one point someone started a beach game — I joined in and lost spectacularly, but no one cared. The water was so clear you could see your toes wiggle; I still think about that color sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic back home.

Packing up felt slow — nobody really wanted to leave. There was this quiet moment as we pulled away from the beach where all you could hear was water slapping against the hull and someone humming an old salsa tune under their breath. So yeah, if you’re looking for a full day trip to Culebra from Puerto Rico with just enough activity mixed in with doing nothing at all… well, this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran trip and beach day

• Depart Marina Puerto Del Rey
• Enjoy views of Cordillera Islands
• Travel 90 minutes by power catamaran
• Arrive at Culebrita or Flamenco beach
• Spend day paddleboarding and kayaking
• Sunbathe and join beach games

Top questions

How long does the catamaran trip to Culebra take?

It takes about 90 minutes each way from Marina Puerto Del Rey to reach the beach destination near Culebra or Culebrita.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Children under 6 years old are not allowed on this tour due to safety regulations.

Does this tour include snorkeling?

No, this is not a snorkeling tour. Activities focus on beach games, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

What food is included during the day trip?

The tour includes your choice of hamburger, chicken sandwich or veggie burger (one per person), plus salads and fresh fruit.

Are alcoholic drinks provided?

Yes, alcoholic beverages as well as soda are included during your time onboard.

Where does the tour depart from?

The catamaran departs from Marina Puerto Del Rey in Puerto Rico.

Is hotel pickup available?

Roundtrip transportation from San Juan is available for an additional fee if arranged at least 48 hours prior to departure.

Can pregnant women join this tour?

No, pregnant women are not permitted due to safety concerns related to boat travel and water activities.

Will we definitely visit Flamenco Beach?

The exact beach depends on water conditions; Flamenco Beach or another nearby beach may be chosen by the captain for safety reasons.

What’s included

Your day includes roundtrip catamaran transport from Marina Puerto Del Rey (with optional pickup from San Juan), all beach games plus use of kayaks and paddle boards depending on conditions, snacks throughout the journey, an onboard lunch with your choice of sandwich plus salads and fruit, as well as both alcoholic beverages and sodas served by the friendly crew before returning in the afternoon.