Luxury Private Tour to Fajardo KeysSnorkeling & Island Adventure

If you’re looking for a quick, yet memorable escape on Puerto Rico’s east coast, the Luxury Private Tour to Fajardo Keys offers a great way to soak up the sun and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. While this tour isn’t for those seeking a full-day adventure, it packs in enough beauty and activity to make a short trip feel like a special getaway.

What we really appreciate about this experience? First, the personalized nature of a private group, which means more flexibility and fewer crowds. Second, the beautiful virgin beaches at Icacos or Palominos Islands, which are often pristine and less commercialized.

A potential consideration is the self-guided snorkeling — it’s great for independent explorers but might not suit those wanting guided instruction or more advanced equipment. Still, for travelers craving an authentic, scenic, and relaxing half-day, this tour offers good value and genuine island charm.

This tour is perfect for couples, small groups, or families who want a quick escape, enjoy snorkeling, and have a taste of Puerto Rico’s stunning coastline without a long commitment.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Tour: Only your group on a boat, offering a more intimate experience.
• Flexible Destinations: Captain chooses between Icacos or Palominos based on weather.
• All-Inclusive Comforts: Snacks, cold drinks, snorkeling gear, and float noodles are provided.
• Short & Sweet: About 4 hours, ideal for travelers with limited time.
• Snorkeling & Relaxation: Around three hours on the beach or in water, with optional snorkeling.
• Cost & Capacity: $795 per group, up to 6 people, making it a potentially good value for a private outing.

An In-Depth Look at the Fajardo Keys Snorkeling & Island Adventure

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins at the Sunbay Marina in Fajardo, a convenient spot for travelers staying on the east coast of Puerto Rico. From there, you can expect a roughly 25-minute scenic boat ride along the coast before reaching your island destination. The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, making it an ideal half-day activity that leaves plenty of time for other adventures or relaxing back at your hotel.

The Destination: Icacos or Palominos Island

The captain makes the call on the day, based on weather and sea conditions. The chosen spot is either Icacos Island or Palominos Island, both known for their unspoiled beaches and clear waters.

Icacos, in particular, is famous for its sandy shoreline and vibrant coral reefs, which are perfect for snorkeling. Palominos tends to be equally beautiful, offering more secluded spots where you can lounge or snorkel.

While the tour doesn’t include guided snorkeling, equipment is available for use, and floating noodles are provided to help relax in the water. You’ll get around three hours on the beach or snorkeling, giving enough time to cool off and explore the underwater world.

Onboard Amenities and Food

The boat is equipped with a restroom for comfort, and there’s a cooler with bottled water, Coke, and snacks—including a platter of cold cuts and fresh fruits. These little touches enhance the experience, especially when you’re out in the sun for several hours.

Travelers can bring their own alcoholic beverages, but red wine isn’t permitted. Keep in mind that WiFi isn’t available onboard, so it’s a true unplugging experience.

Snorkeling and Water Activities

While snorkeling is included, it’s described as self-guided, which means you’ll explore at your own pace rather than with a guide leading the way. This can be a plus for confident snorkelers who prefer independence but might be a drawback if you’re new to snorkeling or want a guided experience.

Some reviews mention equipment quality — one user noted that the snorkeling gear wasn’t very good and resulted in sucking water, which can be frustrating. However, others appreciated the flexibility and the chance to explore coral reefs at leisure.

Family and Accessibility Considerations

The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, and service animals are allowed. However, as one reviewer pointed out, there’s no access to the cabin, so very young children or those with special needs might find it less comfortable. The tour is designed more for those looking to relax on the beach or snorkel rather than for travelers seeking guided instruction or luxury amenities.

Group Size and Pricing

Limited to six people per boat, the private nature of the tour offers a more exclusive experience than larger group trips. The price of $795 might seem steep, but when divided among six, it becomes quite reasonable for a private, all-inclusive outing. It’s best to book at least 15 days in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak season.

What Travelers Are Saying

With a 3.5-star rating from three reviews, opinions are mixed but generally positive. One traveler, Cristina, gave a full five-star review, highlighting that they “still had a blast,” praising the captain’s friendliness and the beauty of the beach. Her only complaint was about the lack of access to the cabin, which made it difficult when traveling with an infant, and that the snorkel gear was not optimal.

This feedback points to the tour’s strengths in stunning scenery and personable service, but also hints at areas for improvement, especially regarding comfort and equipment quality.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying the Tour

• Book early to ensure availability, especially if you’re traveling during busy months.
• Bring your own snorkel gear if you’re particular about equipment quality.
• Pack sunscreen, a hat, and waterproof camera to capture the scenery.
• Arrive at Sunbay Marina a little early to get ready and avoid feeling rushed.
• Consider your children’s needs — no cabin access and limited facilities could be a concern.
• Bring your own alcoholic beverages if you want to toast after a swim, but avoid red wine.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This private tour best suits adventurous couples, small families, or friends seeking a relaxing yet active day on the water. If you’re comfortable with self-guided snorkeling and want the privacy of your own boat, this is a good choice. It’s especially appealing if you value quiet beaches and personalized service over a large, crowded tour.

Those with young children or who prefer guided snorkel instruction might want to look for other options, or prepare to bring your own gear and snacks to maximize enjoyment.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This private Fajardo Keys snorkeling and island tour offers a great balance of comfort, privacy, and natural beauty. For a group of up to six, it provides a personalized day out, with plenty of time to relax, snorkel, and enjoy Puerto Rico’s stunning coastline.

The value lies in the intimacy and flexibility — you won’t be part of a crowd, and the chances are you’ll have a beautiful, less commercialized beach all to yourselves. It’s ideal for travelers who want a quick but authentic taste of Puerto Rico’s offshore paradise, especially if they appreciate the freedom of self-guided snorkeling.

However, if you’re after guided instruction, luxury facilities, or a longer day, you might find this tour somewhat limited. Still, for those looking for a scenic, private, and reasonably priced half-day adventure, it’s a solid choice with plenty of authentic island charm.

FAQ

How many people can participate in this tour?
Up to six people per boat, making it ideal for small groups or families looking for a private experience.

What is included in the price?
Snacks, bottled water, Coke, snorkeling gear (self-guided), floating noodles, a cooler with ice, and a restroom on board.

Can I bring alcohol?
Yes, you’re allowed to bring your own alcoholic beverages, but red wine is not permitted.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about 4 hours, including the boat ride, beach or snorkeling time, and return.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Sunbay Marina in Fajardo and ends back there as well.

Is snorkeling equipment high quality?
One review mentioned that the gear was not very good, leading to some water ingestion. You might consider bringing your own mask and snorkel if you’re particular.

Is there WiFi onboard?
No, WiFi isn’t available, so it’s a good chance to disconnect and enjoy nature.

What if the weather is bad?
The captain will decide on the destination based on maritime conditions, so plans might shift to ensure safety and the best experience.

In all, this private boat tour offers a wonderful way to experience Puerto Rico’s east coast in a relaxed and personal style. While it has some minor drawbacks, its exclusivity, beautiful scenery, and ease of access make it a worthwhile option for those craving a brief island escape.