San Andres: Private Boat Trip with Aquarium and Beach Stops
If you’re looking to escape the crowds and explore San Andrés Island from a more intimate perspective, this private boat trip offers a fantastic way to see the highlights at your own pace. For $304 per group (up to 4 people), you get six hours of cruising around the island’s most photogenic spots, including stops at Rose Beach, Haynes Cay, and an aquarium. Led by a friendly skipper, this experience balances fun with a chance to relax and soak up the tropical scenery.
What we really appreciate about this tour is the flexibility it offers — playing your favorite tunes as you glide over the water makes it feel like your own private party on the waves. Plus, the stops at key locations give you real opportunities to swim, take photos, and enjoy the local vibe away from crowded beaches.
That said, a potential consideration is the weather — since the trip depends on good conditions, you might find your plans influenced by rain or wind. Also, keep in mind that the boat isn’t a high-speed vessel, which can mean a slower ride but more comfort.
This experience is best suited for friends or small groups seeking a personalized, relaxed day on the water. Couples, families, or groups of four looking for an upscale, yet casual adventure will find this trip fits well with their desire for a memorable, flexible outing.
Key Points
- Private and personalized: Tailored for small groups, making your day more exclusive.
- Multiple stops: Visit iconic beaches, aquariums, and scenic spots like Rose Cay and Haynes Cay.
- Flexible itinerary: Swim, take photos, buy drinks, and enjoy lunch in tranquil settings.
- Wildlife and nature: Encounter stingrays, colorful fish, and birds along the mangroves and reef areas.
- Comfortable ride: The boat is noted for being comfortable, though not especially fast.
- Weather-dependent: The trip relies on good weather; plans may shift if conditions turn adverse.
Exploring the San Andres Private Boat Experience
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Setting Off from Muelle de la Policia
Your journey begins at the main pier, a busy hub filled with local boats and the scent of salt air. Boarding your private vessel, you’ll quickly notice how spacious and comfortable the boat is, ready to carry you on this half-day adventure. The skipper, who speaks both Spanish and English, will set the tone for a relaxed cruise, playing your favorite tunes as you head out to explore.
Navigating the Coastline and Mangroves
The first part of the trip takes you along San Andrés’ shimmering coast. We loved the way the boat smoothly glided over calm waters, giving us unobstructed views of the vibrant shoreline. A highlight here was passing through the mangrove reserve, where we saw exotic birds and fish darting beneath the surface. This quiet, natural part of the tour offers a peaceful start and a chance to appreciate the island’s ecological beauty.
Stop 1: El Palito Floating Tiki Bar
Our first bathing stop was at El Palito, a floating tiki bar that’s become somewhat legendary on the island. We could purchase a cocktail, take a seat in the water, and enjoy the unusual experience of drinking while floating. It’s a quirky, fun way to start your snorkeling adventure. As one reviewer noted, the boat is not the fastest, but it’s comfortable, and the relaxed pace allows you to truly savor each moment.
More Great Tours NearbyStop 2: Aquarium Visit and Snorkeling at Haynes Cay
The aquarium stop provides a chance to see some of the local marine life up close — stingrays and colorful fish are common sightings. We loved the clarity of the water and the chance to snap photos of the vibrant underwater scene. Visiting Haynes Cay afterward offers a peaceful retreat where you can swim and bask in the sun, with options to buy drinks or snacks from local vendors.
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Stop 3: Rose Beach and the Hidden Gems
Rose Beach, with its pristine sands and tranquil setting, is perfect for a relaxed swim or a shoreline walk. This spot is known for its scenic beauty and fewer crowds. We appreciated the opportunity to buy lunch or souvenirs nearby, making it more than just a quick swim. The intimate setting here allows for some genuine downtime, away from the busier tourist spots.
Stop 4: White Watta and Floating Bars
Our final dive was near White Watta, close to famous floating bars like Ibiza and Franz. These bars are known for lively atmospheres and drinks, but entry comes with an extra fee. Although we didn’t visit them, we enjoyed watching the lively scene from the boat. The calm waters around White Watta make it a perfect last stop for relaxing before heading back.
Returning to Muelle de la Policia
The ride back is a gentle cruise, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights. We loved sitting back, enjoying the views, and listening to the local stories from our skipper. The entire trip provides a mix of adventure, relaxation, and discovery, tailored to your interests.
Why This Tour Offers Good Value
Compared to larger group tours or crowded beaches, this private trip emphasizes personalized attention and comfort. The price includes your skipper, a cooler with ice, and a waterproof phone bag — essentials that make your experience more enjoyable. While food and drinks aren’t included, the stops for buying drinks or lunch mean you can tailor your culinary experience to suit your tastes without rushing.
The flexibility to swim, take photos, or just lounge makes this tour particularly good for travelers who want control over their day. Plus, the chance to encounter local wildlife and hidden beaches is a major plus. However, the weather plays a key role; rough seas might mean rescheduling or cautious planning.
For those who want a relaxed, intimate way to see San Andrés’ best spots, this private boat trip hits the sweet spot between adventure and comfort. It’s especially suitable for small groups seeking a more exclusive day on the water, with the freedom to choose how much time they spend at each stop.
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
Starting at Muelle de la Policia
Your adventure kicks off at one of San Andrés’ main piers, a lively spot buzzing with activity. Expect to meet your skipper here, who will introduce the boat and give a brief rundown of the day. This meeting point is central and easy to find, making it a convenient starting point for your private tour.
First Stop: Cruising and Mangrove Exploration
The initial cruise takes you along the coast, offering views of the island’s lush shoreline dotted with colorful homes and resorts. Passing through the mangroves, you’ll see the ecological importance of these habitats and get a glimpse of local birdlife. We loved the peaceful vibe here, a perfect introduction to the island’s natural beauty.
El Palito Floating Tiki Bar
Floating just off the coast, El Palito is a fun, relaxed stop. You can purchase a cocktail, float in the water, and enjoy the lively yet laid-back atmosphere. The reviewer Stephan noted, “the boat is not fast, but comfortable,” which is perfect for a leisurely swim or snack break.
Aquarium and Haynes Cay
The aquarium visit is brief but rewarding — you may see rays and reef fish, with water clarity offering excellent viewing. Afterward, Haynes Cay provides a more tranquil setting, perfect for swimming or lounging. The island’s marine life is vibrant, and you’ll enjoy the chance to spot colorful fish and even some stingrays.
Rose Beach and Hidden Gems
This small, secluded beach is a highlight. It’s quiet, scenic, and ideal for a relaxed swim or shoreline walk. You can also explore local vendors, buy snacks or souvenirs, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
White Watta and Floating Bars Scene
The last stop at White Watta provides a lively backdrop with floating bars nearby. While entry costs extra, the scene is lively and fun, making for great photos and a lively end to the day.
Return Journey
The ride back to the pier is a gentle cruise, allowing you to unwind and soak in the final views of the island. The entire route gives a comprehensive look at San Andrés’ coastal beauty and marine life, all within a flexible, private setting.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This private boat trip is ideal for couples, small groups, or families who want a personalized, relaxed day on the water. It suits travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and opportunity to explore hidden spots without the chaos of large tours. If you’re a nature lover or enjoy snorkeling and wildlife sightings, this tour checks those boxes.
However, if you’re seeking a fast-paced party vibe or are sensitive to weather, you might want to consider weather conditions before booking. Since food and drinks aren’t included, those wanting a gourmet experience should plan to bring their own snacks or explore local eateries nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, giving plenty of time for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing at each stop.
What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat, a skipper, a cooler with ice, and a waterproof phone bag. Food and drinks are not included, and you will need to pay the docking tax separately.
Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
While generally comfortable, it may not be suitable for people with mobility impairments or pregnant women, as the activity involves boat boarding and swimming.
Do I need to bring anything?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat. You might also want to bring cash for drinks, snacks, or the optional docking fees at floating bars.
Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the skipper. However, the itinerary is designed to cover key scenic spots and wildlife encounters.
What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, you might need to reschedule or cancel with full refund if done 24 hours in advance.
In essence, this San Andrés private boat trip offers a laid-back, customizable way to see the island’s best coastal sights, marine life, and hidden beaches without the crowds. It’s perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, flexible adventure with a touch of luxury in a stunning setting.
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