Turks & Caicos: Private Outer Islands Boat Tour with Snorkeling

Summary

Swim with dolphins snorkel clear waters and explore Iguana Island by private boat

You’ll float across turquoise water with a local guide, snorkel among bright fish, snack on fresh sandwiches and fruit, and watch wild iguanas up close on Iguana Island. Dolphins might join you for part of the ride — or maybe you’ll just remember how good that rum punch tasted as the sun drops behind the islands.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I thought the whole “private boat tour” thing in Turks & Caicos might be a bit much for us — but after that first salty breeze hit my face, I was pretty much sold. Our guide, Marcus, greeted us at the dock like we were old friends (he even remembered my partner’s name from the booking). The water was that unreal blue you see in postcards, except it actually smelled like sea grass and sunscreen. We set off toward the outer islands, rum punch already in hand — not too sweet, thankfully.

The first stop was snorkeling just off a quiet little cay. I’m not usually great with a mask but Marcus tossed me a tip about fogging it up first (who knew?), and suddenly I could see these tiny electric-blue fish darting everywhere. There was this moment when everything got really still except for the sound of my own breathing and the faint clicking of something under the water — maybe shrimp? Afterward, we dried off on deck with sandwiches and fruit. The bread was soft enough to squish between your fingers. No one rushed us; honestly, time felt kind of sideways out there.

We cruised over to Iguana Island next. It’s wild how bold those iguanas are — one tried to climb into my bag looking for snacks (Marcus just laughed: “They’re regulars here”). On the way back we spotted dolphins swimming alongside us for a few minutes. I didn’t expect to feel so giddy about that at my age but… there it is. Sun started dipping low by then and everything turned gold and quiet except for our little group chatting about nothing much. Still think about that light sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Half day boat tour and snorkeling

• Board private boat
• Visit outer islands
• Swim with dolphins
• Explore Iguana Island
• Snorkel in turquoise waters
• Enjoy snacks and drinks onboard
• Return from tour

Top questions

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this private boat tour?

Yes, all snorkeling gear is included during your Turks & Caicos private boat excursion.

Are snacks and drinks included in the price?

Yes, your tour includes gourmet sandwiches, snacks, rum punch, beer, soft drinks, bottled water, and some fruit.

Can we swim with dolphins during this tour?

You may have the chance to swim near dolphins if they appear during your cruise around the outer islands.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; you meet at the dock for departure.

How long does this Turks & Caicos boat tour last?

The standard option is a half-day tour; full day options may also be available.

What islands will we visit on this day trip?

You’ll visit outer cays including Iguana Island as part of your private boat trip.

Is this suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, this private boat excursion is suitable for all physical fitness levels.

What’s included

Your day includes a half-day private boat cruise around Turks & Caicos’ outer islands with snorkeling stops, visits to Iguana Island, gourmet sandwiches and snacks onboard plus rum punch, beer, soft drinks, bottled water, and fresh fruit before returning to shore whenever you’re ready.