Culebra: Snorkeling Reefs & White Sand Beach Day by Boat

Summary

Snorkel Culebra’s reefs then unwind on soft sand beaches with lunch

You’ll spend your day snorkeling colorful reefs near Culebra Island and relaxing on powdery white sand beaches after a scenic boat ride from Fajardo. With all gear included plus a light lunch and drinks onboard, you’ll swim alongside tropical fish—and maybe spot turtles—with a local guide leading the way. It’s a full day of sun and sea that lingers long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the boat to feel so lively that early—everyone at Isleta Marina in Fajardo was half-awake but buzzing. Our guide, Luis (he kept saying “call me Lou!”), handed out snorkeling masks while cracking jokes about how the fish would judge our swimming style. The sun was already sharp even though it wasn’t even 9am yet. I remember the salty air mixing with sunscreen and that faint hum of anticipation before we set off toward Culebra.

The ride itself was about an hour, give or take—depends on the waves, I guess. You could see tiny islands popping up in the distance. When we finally stopped at the first reef, Lou gave us a quick rundown (I forgot half of it as soon as I hit the water). The coral felt close enough to touch—don’t!—and there were flashes of yellow and blue darting everywhere. Someone shouted “turtle!” and suddenly everyone’s head went underwater at once. I think I saw one too, but honestly it might’ve just been my own flipper.

Back on board there were sodas and water—no rum yet, which Lou said was for “after you survive the fish.” The second stop was this stretch of white sand that looked almost fake, like someone had Photoshopped the whole beach. Lunch was simple: cold sandwiches, fruit, chips. Nothing fancy but after all that swimming everything tasted better than it should have. Some people stayed on shore sunbathing; I wandered along the edge where little crabs kept sidestepping away from my shadow. Funny how quiet it got out there compared to the boat—just wind and distant laughter drifting over.

I still think about floating face-down in that clear water, just watching tiny fish flicker past like confetti. Something about being out there with strangers who all suddenly felt familiar by the end of the day—I don’t know, maybe it’s just what saltwater does to people.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling and beach day in Culebra

• Arrive at Isleta Marina at 8:00am
• Fill out waivers and get snorkeling gear
• Board boat when captain signals
• Depart at 9:00am to first snorkeling site
• Snorkel at first reef for 1 hour 20 minutes
• Enjoy complimentary water and sodas onboard
• Sail to second location, a crystal clear beach
• Have light lunch on the beach
• Relax on white sandy beach or snorkel nearby

Top questions

How long is the Culebra snorkeling tour?

The tour lasts about 6-7 hours depending on ocean conditions.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, all snorkeling gear is included in your booking.

Are meals or drinks included?

You get a light lunch (sandwiches, fruit) plus non-alcoholic drinks like water and sodas.

Where does the tour depart from?

The boat departs from Isleta Marina in Fajardo at 9:00am.

Can kids join this trip?

Yes, children can join if they’re at least 3 years old and accompanied by an adult.

Will I see turtles or stingrays?

You might spot turtles or stingrays while snorkeling but sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Is alcohol served during the trip?

No alcoholic drinks are served during snorkeling; only non-alcoholic beverages are provided onboard.

How many snorkeling stops are there?

You’ll visit 2 or sometimes 3 different reef sites around Culebra island during the day trip.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip boat transport from Fajardo to Culebra Island with all snorkel gear provided, plus a light lunch of cold cut sandwiches, fresh fruit, chips and dips onboard. Non-alcoholic drinks are available throughout and you’ll be guided by a local expert at each reef stop before returning in the afternoon.