Turks & Caicos: Private Boat, Snorkeling & Iguana Island Lunch

Summary

Private boat day in Turks & Caicos with snorkeling lunch

You’ll spend your day exploring Turks & Caicos by private boat with a local guide—snorkeling at Emerald Reef, relaxing on Fort George Cay with a fresh seafood lunch, spotting iguanas on Little Water Cay, and drifting past the La Famille ghost ship. Expect laughter, salt air, and moments you’ll want to replay long after you’re back on land.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the hush of the water under our boat as we left Grace Bay behind—just that soft slap against the hull and the wind picking up my hair. Our captain, Marcus, grinned and handed out snorkel masks. He told us Emerald Reef was his favorite spot for a reason. I didn’t expect the water to be so clear it almost looked fake. When I slipped in, the coolness hit me first, then all those darting fish—yellow flashes everywhere. My friend tried to name them all but gave up after three.

We drifted toward Fort George Cay next. The sand there is this pale gold that sticks to your feet no matter how much you brush it off. Marcus started prepping lobster on a little grill right on the beach—smoke curling up while we poked around for shells (I found one shaped like a tiny ear). Lunch was messy and perfect: grilled seafood, cold beer, and rum punch that tasted way too easy in the sun. I think I laughed more in that hour than I have in weeks.

After lunch, we headed for Little Water Cay—locals call it Iguana Island. The rock iguanas are everywhere, just lounging like they own the place (which honestly, they do). Our guide pointed out their tracks in the sand and told us about their rescue efforts; he seemed proud of it all. There was this quiet moment where everyone just watched an iguana blink at us—no one said anything for a bit. Then someone spotted the La Famille ghost ship off in the distance and we piled back onto the boat to check it out before heading home. I still think about that lazy afternoon light on the water—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private boat tour with snorkeling and islands

• Snorkel at Emerald Reef
• Relax and hunt shells at Fort George Cay
• Enjoy barbecue seafood lunch with drinks
• Visit Iguana Island to see rock iguanas
• Visit the La Famille ghost ship

Top questions

How long is the private boat tour in Turks & Caicos?

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Is snorkeling equipment provided during the trip?

Yes, snorkeling gear is included for all guests.

What islands or stops are included on this day trip?

You’ll visit Emerald Reef for snorkeling, Fort George Cay for lunch and beach time, Little Water Cay (Iguana Island), and see the La Famille ghost ship.

Is lunch included on this private boat tour?

Yes, a barbecue seafood lunch (with lobster as an option) is prepared fresh on Fort George Cay.

Are drinks provided during the tour?

The tour includes local beer and rum punch throughout the day.

Does this tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?

Yes, pickup and drop-off at your location are included.

Can infants or small children join this private boat trip?

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

Is WiFi available on the vessel during the trip?

Free WiFi is available on board for guests.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off at your location, all snorkeling equipment provided by your local guide, free WiFi onboard to share photos instantly with friends back home, snacks throughout the day plus a freshly prepared barbecue seafood lunch (lobster if you want), local beer and rum punch always within reach—and plenty of time exploring beaches and cays before returning in comfort.