All Inclusive Snorkel and Slide Boat Tour: Icacos or Vieques

A Complete Guide to the All-Inclusive Snorkel and Slide Boat Tour: Icacos or Vieques

If you’re looking for a day filled with sun, snorkeling, and a dash of adventure, this boat tour from Fajardo offers just that. For around $135 per person, you’ll spend about five hours exploring some of Puerto Rico’s most captivating coastal spots—either Cayo Icacos or Vieques, depending on whether you choose the afternoon or morning option. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable staff, you’ll enjoy a full day of swimming, viewing marine wildlife, and relaxing with good food and drinks.

What sets this tour apart? We love the all-inclusive setup—gear, lunch, soft drinks, and local rum are all on the house. Plus, the water slide and beach time add a playful touch that makes it suitable for families and those wanting a relaxed, fun day. Our one concern? The boat can get a little crowded, which might detract from the comfort if you prefer more space. Nevertheless, this tour suits travelers eager for a lively, well-organized experience that combines adventure with plenty of downtime.

Ideal for first-time snorkelers, families, or anyone craving a taste of Puerto Rico’s lively marine environment, this tour’s flexibility and friendly guides make it a great choice. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want a memorable day on the water, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Comfort: Equipment, lunch, drinks, and a waterslide included for a hassle-free day.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable staff help identify marine species and enhance your experience.
• Beautiful Destinations: Explore the scenic Cayo Icacos or Vieques, with stunning beaches and excellent snorkeling.
• Flexible Schedule: Options for morning or afternoon tours, accommodating different travel plans.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, although not recommended for children under 6 or pregnant women.
• Weather-Dependent: Tour operates only under favorable conditions, with options for rescheduling or full refund.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins at Marina Puerto Chico in Fajardo, where you meet your guides about 30 minutes before departure. Many reviewers appreciate the free parking and showers at the marina, making logistics straightforward—even when coming from nearby San Juan. If you opt for the included transportation, the driver will contact you the day before to confirm pick-up details, ensuring a smooth start.

Traveling from San Juan? Expect about an hour’s drive, and note the minimum passenger requirement of six people—so it’s wise to book early if you’re traveling solo or in a small group. Be prepared for a lively boat ride, often about 35-45 minutes to the snorkeling site, with views of the Fajardo Lighthouse and El Yunque National Forest along the way—a scenic prelude to your underwater adventure.

The Snorkeling Itinerary

Once on the boat, the crew’s enthusiasm is infectious. The trip usually covers 35-45 minutes to the designated snorkeling site, depending on ocean conditions and the specific island visited (Icacos or Vieques). Many reviewers praise the friendly guides like Chris, Amanda, and Captain Joe, who help identify marine creatures and ensure everyone feels confident in the water—even first-timers.

The full snorkeling gear—mask, fins, and floatation devices—are included, meaning you don’t need to worry about bringing your own. Expect to see a range of sea life, from sea turtles and stingrays to an array of colorful fish. Several guests mention how clear the water is, making it easier to spot the underwater wonders. As Alicia states, “The crew was so fun and friendly! Definitely recommend this tour,” highlighting the overall positive vibe.

The Highlights at Cayo Icacos or Vieques

The specific destination depends on the time of day—Cayo Icacos in the afternoon or Vieques in the morning. Both are celebrated for their beautiful beaches and vibrant coral reefs. The reviews indicate that marine life sightings are common, with some guests mentioning the joy of seeing sea turtles and stingrays. However, as one reviewer noted, “Some people didn’t see the turtles; it just comes down to luck.” Still, the experience of floating over colorful reefs is often described as unforgettable.

The Post-Snorkeling Relaxation

After about an hour of underwater exploration, you’ll return to the boat for a light lunch, served with soft drinks and local Puerto Rican rum. The meal, often praised as fresh and tasty, is designed to refresh you after your swim and keep the energy high. Andrea mentioned, “The crew was energetic, friendly, and knowledgeable,” and the lunch and drinks are part of what makes the value feel so good.

Following lunch, guests generally have time to relax on the beach, use the onboard waterslide, or take a stroll along the shore. Many reviewers love the scenic views and the chance to just soak up the sun and sea breeze before heading back to Fajardo.

The Return and Overall Atmosphere

The boat ride back often offers a different perspective, with some guests describing it as calm and scenic. The crew tends to be lively and eager to share stories or recommend local spots. The tour wraps up after roughly 4.5 to 5 hours, making it a full-day adventure but not an exhausting one.

What Travelers Say

Most reviews are glowing. Alicia describes her experience as “amazing,” praising the “great team,” and Andrea emphasizes “worth every penny.” Many mention how friendly, energetic guides like Mike, Chris, and Dante made all the difference—adding extra warmth and safety to the trip. The value for money is clear when you consider everything included—gear, lunch, drinks, and the fun onboard slides.

However, a few mention the crowd size as a drawback. One reviewer noted, “Reduce the number of people in this trip will make it better,” pointing out that the boat can get crowded, which might impact comfort. For those who prefer quieter, more intimate tours, this could be something to consider.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Bring sunscreen without oxybenzone (to protect the reefs), a hat, and perhaps a long sleeve shirt for sun protection.
• Have a good breakfast—the day is packed with activity, and hunger can strike quickly.
• Prepare for water activities—a waterproof camera or phone case is recommended but avoid valuables.
• Motion sickness? Consider taking medication beforehand, especially since some reviews mention intense boat movement.
• Children under 6 are not permitted, and pregnant travelers are advised to skip this tour.
• Weather can impact the tour—if conditions are poor, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled with the option for a full refund.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This boat tour is ideally suited for those eager for a fun-filled, lively day of snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing. Families with children over age 6 find it engaging, especially with the waterslide and beach time. First-time snorkelers will appreciate the guides’ patience and support, making marine exploration less intimidating. It also works well for celebrations or group outings—the onboard bar and friendly crew help create a joyful atmosphere.

Travelers looking for a well-organized, all-in-one experience that balances adventure with comfort will get good value here. Just keep in mind the crowd size—if you prefer a quieter, more bespoke experience, you might want to consider smaller tours or private options.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

1. Meet and Greet at Marina Puerto Chico

Expect to arrive at least 30 minutes early. The marina offers free parking and showers, which are appreciated after traveling. The friendly staff will check you in and give a quick safety overview.

2. The Boat Ride to the Destination

The short boat ride (around 35-45 minutes) offers scenic views of Fajardo’s coastline, the Fajardo Lighthouse, and El Yunque in the distance. Many guests mention how enjoyable this part is, especially with the ocean breeze and anticipation building for snorkeling.

3. Snorkeling at Cayo Icacos or Vieques

Once you arrive at the reef, your guides will assist with fitting gear and provide safety instructions. The snorkeling itself usually lasts about an hour, with plenty of opportunities to glimpse sea turtles, stingrays, and colorful reef fish. The crystal-clear waters make the marine life stand out vividly—a must for underwater photography.

4. Lunch and Drinks

Post-snorkel, you’ll step back onto the boat for lunch—a simple, refreshing meal that many reviews describe as “delicious” and “well-prepared.” Soft drinks and local Puerto Rican rum are available, adding a festive touch. Many guests note that the friendly crew makes the experience even better, often mentioning their helpfulness and enthusiasm.

5. Beach, Waterslide, and Relaxation

After eating, there’s time to sunbathe, walk the shore, or try the onboard waterslide—a favorite among kids and adults alike. Some reviewers comment on how the scenery and calm waters create a perfect backdrop for a relaxing afternoon.

6. The Return Journey

The boat ride back offers a chance to reflect on the day, with many mentioning the beautiful coastal views and friendly chatter with guides. Expect to arrive back at the marina after roughly 4.5 to 5 hours.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This tour offers a comprehensive, fun-filled day that combines snorkeling, beach relaxing, and onboard entertainment at a reasonable price. It’s a fantastic choice for families, first-timers, or anyone looking to enjoy Puerto Rico’s marine beauty in a lively, social environment. The all-inclusive nature simplifies planning; gear, lunch, and drinks are sorted, allowing you to focus on having fun.

While it can feel a bit crowded, the friendly guides and well-organized itinerary help make up for it. If you’re after a relaxed, intimate experience, you might prefer smaller, private tours. But if you want an engaging, lively day with plenty of opportunities to snorkel and play, this tour is hard to beat for the value and overall enjoyment.

FAQ

What is the cost of the tour?
It’s $135 per person, which includes snorkeling gear, lunch, soft drinks, and rum. It’s a solid value considering all that’s included.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about five hours, including boat rides, snorkeling, lunch, and beach time.

Where does the tour start?
Meet at Marina Puerto Chico in Fajardo. The tour provider offers transportation from San Juan, but you should confirm pickup details in advance.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen (without oxybenzone), a waterproof case for electronics, and any personal medications. A light jacket or long sleeve for sun protection is also helpful.

Are children allowed?
Not for children under 6, and pregnant travelers are advised against participating. The experience is generally suitable for most travelers who are comfortable with water activities.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent—if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll have the option for a different date or a full refund.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides provide assistance and gear, making it accessible even for first-timers, though some reviews mention it requires a decent swimming ability.

Can I see marine animals like turtles?
Marine life sightings, including turtles and stingrays, are common but can’t be guaranteed—they depend on luck and conditions.

What about the boat crowd?
Some review mention the boat can get crowded, which may impact comfort. If you prefer a quieter outing, consider earlier or smaller-group options.

Is there a water slide?
Yes, the boat features a waterslide, adding a playful element to the trip. It’s a hit with families and kids.

In essence, this snorkeling and boat tour offers a lively, well-organized day exploring Puerto Rico’s beautiful coastlines. With friendly guides, ample amenities, and stunning underwater sights, it appeals to travelers looking for fun, relaxation, and a taste of island adventure—all at a fair price. Just remember to bring your sun protection, be prepared for the crowd, and keep your expectations realistic about the marine sightings—sometimes, it’s all about the fun of being on the water.