Icacos, Palomino & Palominito: Private Boat Tour with Snorkeling

Summary

Private boat journey to Icacos and Palomino islands with snorkeling and local stories

You’ll cruise from Fajardo across bright blue water on a private boat tour to Icacos Island for snorkeling at Tortuga Reef, then relax on white sands with fresh fruit and music. Spot sea turtles near Palomino Island and hear stories about Palominito’s vanishing sandbar before heading back salt-streaked and happy.

What’s the experience like?

We were already halfway across the water before I realized how salty my skin felt — that sticky, sun-warmed feeling you only get out here near Fajardo. The captain (I think his name was Luis?) cranked up some salsa on the speakers, and it mixed in with the wind and the occasional squawk from a gull overhead. There’s something about seeing El Yunque off in the distance, all green and misty, that makes you feel like you’re somewhere far away from emails or alarms. We passed Las Cabezas de San Juan too, but honestly I was distracted by how blue everything looked — almost fake.

First stop: Tortuga Reef at Icacos Island. Our guide handed me a snorkel mask (“don’t worry, it’s clean!” he laughed) and pointed out where the reef dropped off. I hesitated for a second — not gonna lie, I’m not exactly Jacques Cousteau — but once I dipped under, there were these flashes of yellow fish everywhere. The water tasted a bit metallic at first (maybe nerves?), but after a few minutes it was just calm and quiet down there. Back on shore, we sprawled out on the sand eating cold pineapple from a plastic container while someone else tried (and failed) to get beach tennis going.

Palomino Island came next — you can actually see these big houses tucked behind palm trees; apparently one belongs to the island’s owners? Our captain pointed out a sea turtle gliding by (I nearly missed it because I was busy trying to untangle my towel). There was talk of manta rays too, but no luck this time. Still, just floating there with my feet dangling off the side of the boat… it’s hard to explain why that sticks with me more than any postcard view.

We circled Palominito last — or what’s left of it since Hurricane Maria. It’s tiny now; sometimes it disappears altogether depending on the season. The crew told us stories about how locals used to picnic here before most of it washed away. I took too many blurry photos trying to catch the light on the water (none really did it justice). By then my hair felt stiff with salt and everyone had that sleepy sun-drunk look. We headed back toward Fajardo with empty snack wrappers rolling around our feet and music still playing low.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour to Icacos and nearby islands

• Enjoy panoramic views of El Yunque
• Stop at Tortuga Reef for snorkeling
• Relax on Icacos white sand beaches
• Explore Palomino Island and spot wildlife
• Visit Palominito Island and take photos

Top questions

Is snorkeling equipment included in this Icacos boat tour?

Yes, snorkeling gear is provided for all guests during the tour.

Are drinks or snacks available on board?

The trip includes soft drinks, water, mini snacks, fruit, and ice in a fridge.

How long does it take to reach Icacos Island from Fajardo?

The ride from Fajardo marina to Icacos typically takes about 20-30 minutes by boat.

Can we see sea turtles or manta rays during this tour?

You may spot sea turtles or manta rays near Palomino Island if conditions are right.

Is there shade or shelter on the Mako 29ft boat?

The boat has a cabin for shade as well as comfortable seating areas.

Are children allowed on this private boat tour?

The tour is suitable for most ages but not recommended for children under 2 years old.

Does this day trip include hotel pickup in Fajardo?

Transportation can be arranged based on availability for an additional cost.

Is WiFi available during the trip?

Yes, WiFi is available onboard throughout your journey.

What’s included

Your day includes use of snorkeling equipment at Tortuga Reef in Icacos, soft drinks and water plus fresh fruit snacks kept chilled in an onboard fridge, beach tennis paddles if you want them, WiFi access throughout the trip, shower facilities on board for rinsing off saltwater after swimming or snorkeling, plus free private parking at departure guarded by security staff—and personalized attention from both your captain and sailor all along the way.