Puerto Rico Islands: Private Boat Tour & Snorkel with Lunch

Summary

Private boat trip from Fajardo to Icacos Palomino Palominito with snorkeling food and music

You’ll board a private boat from Fajardo for a day trip across Puerto Rico’s east coast keys—snorkeling clear waters near Icacos Island, spotting sea turtles by Palomino, drifting past movie-famous Palominito. With music playing, sandwiches and local beer in hand, you’ll relax on quiet beaches or float beside your friends—leaving you salty-skinned and maybe a little changed by sunset.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the captain grinned when we all clambered onto the boat at Fajardo—like he’d seen a hundred groups like ours but still found it funny. The sun was already sharp, bouncing off the water in that way that makes you squint even behind sunglasses. I’d never been on a private boat tour around Puerto Rico’s east coast before, so I kept looking back at the marina as it shrank away. Our guide, José, cranked up some salsa on the Bluetooth speakers (my playlist attempts were vetoed pretty fast), and suddenly we were speeding toward Icacos Island with wind whipping past our faces. There’s something about sea air mixed with sunscreen and faint diesel that feels like summer no matter where you are.

We stopped just off Icacos for snorkeling—José handed out masks and gave us this quick pep talk about not stepping on coral (he was dead serious about that). The water was cold at first but clear enough to spot parrotfish weaving through purple fans below. My cousin tried to chase a yellow fish and got nowhere; I mostly floated, watching sunlight flicker underwater. When we climbed back in, there were sandwiches and cold Medalla beers waiting in the cooler. Someone spilled chips on the deck and nobody cared—it felt right somehow, like part of being out here. We drifted next to Palomino Island after that, scanning for sea turtles (we saw one pop up for air—tiny head, gone in a second). The beach there is quieter than I expected; soft sand underfoot and just a couple of other boats anchored nearby.

Palominito is barely an island now—José pointed out where Pirates of the Caribbean filmed some scenes but most of it’s underwater these days. We anchored anyway and messed around with those giant floating noodles they keep onboard. At one point my aunt tried to say “Palominito” in her best Spanish accent; José laughed so hard he almost dropped his sandwich. I think that moment sticks with me more than any postcard view. The ride back was slower, everyone tired and salty-skinned, music softer now. It’s weird how quickly you settle into the rhythm of sun, sea, snacks—and then it’s over before you’re really ready.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private boat tour and snorkeling

• View El Faro de San Juan from ocean
• Snorkel at Icacos Reef area
• Relax at Icacos beach
• See sea turtles near Palomino Island
• Relax at Palomino beach
• Visit Palominito Island filming location

Top questions

How long does the private boat tour last?

The experience typically lasts several hours depending on your group’s pace and preferences.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

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

Are food and drinks included?

Sandwiches, chips, soft drinks like Coca-Cola and Sprite, bottled water, plus local beers are all included.

Can children join this tour?

Yes—infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller onboard.

Where does the tour start?

The private boat departs from Fajardo on Puerto Rico’s northeast coast.

Do we share the boat with other groups?

No—the boat is exclusively for your group only.

Are there shaded areas on the boat?

Yes—the boat has a sun shade for comfort during your trip.

What islands do we visit?

You’ll visit Icacos Island (Cayo Icacos), Palomino Island, and see where Palominito Island once stood.

What’s included

Your day includes private boat charter from Fajardo with an experienced captain guiding you between Icacos Reef for snorkeling sessions and sandy beaches at Palomino Island. There’s snorkeling gear for everyone plus floating mats and jumbo noodles if you want to lounge in the water. All along you’ve got sandwiches, chips, soft drinks like Coca-Cola or Sprite, bottled water—and yes—local beers chilled in the cooler until it’s time to head back home salty-haired but happy.