Icacos Island: Beach & Snorkel Boat Tour with Food & Drinks

Summary

Icacos island boat day with snorkeling food drinks and music

You’ll board a boat in Fajardo for a short ride to Icacos Island—expect clear waters for snorkeling or floating with tropical drinks in hand. A local crew takes care of lunch and keeps things light with music and stories. Relax on white sand beaches or swim as much as you want before heading back sun-warmed and salty-skinned.

What’s the experience like?

I barely had time to finish my coffee before we were already stepping onto the Tortuga at Puerto del Rey marina in Fajardo. The crew was smiling, joking around in Spanish and English — I think someone called me “capitán” when I tripped over my own flip-flop. That quick 15-minute ride out to Icacos Island was breezy but not rough, just enough salt spray to wake you up. You could smell sunscreen and that weirdly sweet scent of fresh fruit from the cooler. Our guide, Luis, pointed out Palomino off to the side and told us about some family who lived there once — I didn’t catch all of it but he laughed when I asked if they still did.

Snorkeling at Icacos was... well, let’s just say I swallowed a lot of seawater before getting the hang of the mask. The water is so clear it almost feels fake — you can see fish darting around your ankles even when you’re just floating. There were a few folks who skipped snorkeling altogether and just bobbed on those big floating mats with rum punch in hand (I joined them after a while; no regrets). Lunch was simple but honestly hit the spot: turkey sandwiches, pasta salad, cold beans, chips — nothing fancy but after swimming it tasted like a feast. The crew kept checking if we needed more drinks or snacks, and one guy played reggaeton quietly from his phone near the bow. It felt relaxed in that way where nobody’s trying too hard.

I wandered down the beach for a bit after lunch — white sand that squeaks under your feet and tiny shells everywhere. There’s this moment where you look back at the boat anchored offshore and realize how far away everything else feels. Someone nearby was teaching their kid how to float; another couple took about fifty selfies with the island behind them (I tried too but gave up after three). Sunburn crept up on me fast — bring extra sunscreen, trust me — but floating in that bright turquoise water kind of made me forget about it.

On the way back to Fajardo, everyone looked sun-tired but happy. Luis handed out more water bottles and cracked a joke about us all being honorary Boricuas now because we survived his playlist. I still think about that view leaving Icacos — sunlight bouncing off the waves, everyone quiet for a second except for some distant laughter from the stern. Not sure I’ll ever get used to how blue that water is.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Beach and snorkeling at Icacos Island

• Depart from Safe Harbor Marina
• Boat ride to Icacos Island
• Snorkel at best marine spot
• Enjoy tropical drinks and lunch
• Relax on beach and swim
• Return to Safe Harbor Marina

Top questions

How long does the Icacos Island beach & snorkel boat tour last?

The tour includes a 15-20 minute boat ride each way plus several hours on Icacos Island for snorkeling, swimming, lunch, and relaxing before returning.

Is food included on the Icacos Island boat tour?

Yes, lunch is included—turkey sandwiches, pasta salad, bean salad, chips, cookies—as well as fresh fruit and snacks.

Are drinks provided during the Icacos beach & snorkel tour?

Complimentary local rum cocktails, soda/pop, bottled water, and other refreshments are provided throughout the day.

Do I need my own snorkeling gear for this tour?

No—snorkeling equipment including mask, snorkel, fins, and floating belts are included in your package.

Where does the boat depart for Icacos Island?

The boat departs from Safe Harbor Marina Puerto del Rey in Fajardo; free parking is available close by.

Is transportation from San Juan included?

No—ground transportation is not included; travelers must arrange their own way to Fajardo marina (about an hour from San Juan).

Are there age or health restrictions for this tour?

This tour isn’t suitable for children under 3 years old or pregnant women; not recommended for travelers with spinal or severe cardiovascular issues.

What happens if bad weather cancels our trip?

If weather or sea conditions force cancellation you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

What’s included

Your day includes free parking at Puerto del Rey marina in Fajardo before boarding your US Coast Guard certified vessel with friendly local crew. All snorkeling gear is provided along with floating devices so you can explore—or just relax—with complimentary tropical cocktails (local rum), soft drinks, bottled water plus lunch (sandwiches, salads) and snacks served right on board before heading back ashore sun-soaked and full.