Icacos Island: Catamaran Day Sail & Snorkeling from Fajardo

Summary

Catamaran sailing to Icacos Island with snorkeling lunch and Caribbean coast views

You’ll sail from Fajardo toward Icacos Island on a catamaran with local guides, swim and snorkel above bright reefs, enjoy a casual deli lunch on board, and relax with drinks as El Yunque fades into the distance. Expect soft sand underfoot, easy laughter from crew and guests alike, and one of those days that lingers long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the color of the water to hit me like that — almost too blue, like someone turned up the saturation just for us. We left Fajardo’s marina with a group that felt half asleep at first, but once the crew started joking around (Marcos handed out piña coladas before 11am — nobody complained), everyone loosened up. El Yunque’s peaks faded behind us and all you could hear was wind in the sails and someone’s salsa playlist drifting over the waves.

Landing at Icacos Island, I nearly tripped jumping off because I was gawking at the sand — it squeaks under your feet, finer than any beach I’ve been on. The guide, Li, showed us how to use the snorkel masks (“just spit in it — trust me”) and pointed out where the reef drops off. I’m not great at snorkeling but even floating near the boat you see these flashes of yellow fish darting between rocks. Someone spotted a ray. I mostly floated and watched clouds move over the little island, salty and sun-warm.

Lunch was this build-your-own sandwich thing — nothing fancy but somehow perfect after swimming. The bread was still warm from wherever they got it that morning. People sat wherever: some on deck with paper plates, some already back in the water. After eating I tried the water slide (it’s faster than it looks), then just lay back on a towel listening to kids laughing and gulls overhead. The crew kept checking if we needed more drinks or help with gear; they were easygoing but knew their stuff.

The ride back felt quieter — maybe everyone was sun-tired or just soaking it in. I remember watching Fajardo’s coastline reappear and thinking how close everything is here but how far away it feels when you’re out on that water. Still think about that view sometimes when I need a mental reset, you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran sail and island activities

• Board catamaran at Puerto del Rey marina
• Sail past El Yunque mountains and Fajardo coastline
• Enjoy drinks from the onboard bar
• Anchor at Cayo Icacos or Palominitos island
• Snorkel, swim, and beachcomb at the island
• Eat lunch buffet on the boat
• Snorkel at nearby reef or use water slide
• Sail back to Puerto del Rey marina
• Hotel transport awaits if selected

Top questions

How long does the Icacos Island catamaran day trip take?

The tour lasts most of the day, departing in the morning from Fajardo and returning midafternoon.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this Icacos Island tour?

Yes, snorkel masks, fins, floating belts, and instructions are provided for all guests.

Are meals or drinks included during the day trip to Icacos?

A deli-style buffet lunch plus beverages including rum drinks are included onboard.

Can beginners join this catamaran & snorkeling tour?

Yes, it’s suitable for beginners—guides offer snorkeling instruction if needed.

Is hotel pickup available from San Juan for this tour?

Roundtrip transportation from San Juan can be arranged for an additional fee if booked ahead.

What should I bring for the Icacos Island day sail?

A towel and swimsuit under beach clothes are recommended; all other gear is provided.

Does this tour go to Palominitos Island sometimes?

If weather conditions require, the captain may anchor at Palominitos instead of Icacos.

Are children allowed on this catamaran trip?

Children under 4 years old are not permitted on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes roundtrip hotel pickup if selected, all snorkeling equipment with instructions if you need them, floating devices and fins for swimming comfort, unlimited beverages (including rum cocktails), plus a relaxed deli-style buffet lunch served right onboard before heading back to Fajardo in the afternoon.