Grace Bay: Private Boat Charter & Snorkel with Iguana Island

Summary

Grace Bay private boat day snorkeling Half Moon Bay iguanas lunch

You’ll board your own private boat at Grace Bay Beach with a local guide who keeps things relaxed and personal. Snorkel vibrant reefs teeming with fish, walk barefoot on Half Moon Bay’s soft sand alongside curious iguanas, and sip rum punch as the sky shifts colors—all with snacks, lunch, open bar, and hotel pickup included.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the water around Grace Bay really does look like those photos—almost too blue. We met our guide, Marcus, right on the sand (he’s from Provo and knows everyone, it seems). The boat felt just right for our group—no crowds, just us and a cooler full of drinks. As we pulled away from shore, I caught this salty breeze that made me forget every email I’d ever sent. Marcus pointed out a couple of villas owned by people I’ll never meet and then we were off toward the reef.

I’m not a strong swimmer but they handed me a snorkel vest and made sure I was set before we slid into the water. The reef was alive—parrotfish crunching coral, flashes of yellow and purple everywhere. My nephew tried to chase a fish (no chance) while my sister floated quietly above the sea fans. After about 45 minutes we clambered back up, salty and happy, and someone handed me a cold ginger beer. That hit different after swimming.

Next stop was Half Moon Bay—Iguana Island if you ask locals—which is this long stretch of pale sand with limestone edges that look like they’ve been sun-bleached forever. We wandered barefoot, toes sinking into warm powdery sand. Marcus showed us where the rock iguanas hang out; one blinked at us from under a bush like he owned the place (maybe he does). There’s something about holding a rum punch in one hand and watching your family try to pronounce “Caicos” properly that just sticks with you.

We could’ve added tubing or done more stops but honestly, just drifting there with nowhere to be felt perfect. The sky kept changing color over Grace Bay as we headed back—soft pinks mixing into blue—and I remember thinking I’d probably forget half my passwords but not this afternoon. So yeah, if you’re looking for a private boat charter in Turks & Caicos that feels easy and real, this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private boat cruise and beach visit

• Cruise along Grace Bay
• Snorkel at Third Largest Reef
• Visit Half Moon Bay/Iguana Island
• Stretch legs on secluded beach
• See rock iguanas
• Stroll beach and limestone cliffs
• Relax with rum punch and swim

Top questions

How long is the private boat charter from Grace Bay?

The half-day private boat charter lasts approximately 4 hours.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on the tour?

Yes, all snorkeling equipment is included for guests.

Does the tour include hotel pickup in Providenciales?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are both included in Providenciales.

Can small children join the Grace Bay private boat tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join—the tour accommodates strollers or prams.

What is included for food and drinks on the charter?

The tour includes snacks, lunch, unlimited drinks (open bar), plus water and sodas.

Are there stops at Iguana Island or Half Moon Bay?

Yes, you’ll stop at Half Moon Bay (also called Iguana Island) to explore and see rock iguanas.

How many people can join one private charter?

The price covers up to 8 passengers but boats can accommodate groups up to 30 people total.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Providenciales, all taxes and fees covered upfront, use of snorkeling equipment for exploring the reef near Grace Bay Beach, unlimited drinks from an open bar (including rum punch), snacks along the way plus lunch served on board or at anchor—all led by a local guide who handles everything so you don’t have to think about logistics.