Private Island Boat Tours in Fajardo with Encanto Boat Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, including families and older adults, with activities mostly involving light swimming and beach walking.
Overview
Discover the East Keys off Puerto Rico’s coast with Encanto Boat Tours. Private boat trips lead you to sheltered beaches, snorkeling hotspots, and sea turtle sightings in a tailored, crowd-free experience.
Details
Off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico lies Fajardo, a vibrant maritime hub known for its gateway to pristine islands and crystal-clear waters. Encanto Boat Tours offers tailored private boat excursions that open the door to the East Keys’ most captivating marine landscapes, making it easy to connect with the region's Caribbean charm and underwater wonders. Whether you choose a sunset cruise, a private half-day, or a full-day two-boat tour, each experience centers on personalized service and immersive encounters with nature.
The tours chart courses to Cayo Icacos, Isla Palominos, and Palominitos, three iconic spots famed for their white sand beaches and exceptional snorkeling. The water here is an unbroken spectrum of vibrant blues, offering glimpses of coral reefs and sea turtles gliding beneath. Onboard, captains like Carlos and Yamil provide a seamless blend of expert navigation and hospitality, ensuring groups from kids to seniors feel safe and comfortable. Reviewers consistently highlight the attentive hosts, local snacks and beverages, and kid-friendly extras like floating mats that enhance every stop.
Each island on the itinerary presents something unique: Cayo Icacos delivers quiet beach walks and coral snorkels; Palominos offers turtle sightings and azure shallows perfect for swimmers of all abilities; Palominitos, partially submerged, holds historical significance and offers an intriguing glimpse into local heritage. The private nature of these tours lets guests avoid crowded public charters, crafting moments of genuine connection with the sea and its rhythms.
This blend of pristine environments, knowledgeable guides, and flexible scheduling makes Encanto Boat Tours a standout option for anyone looking to experience Puerto Rico’s marine playground on their own terms. Whether the goal is wildlife encounters, beach time, or simply cruising under a Caribbean sunset, these tours deliver an authentic, well-paced journey into the East Keys’ marine highlights.
Adventure Tips
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Protect your skin without harming coral reefs during snorkeling and beach stops.
Wear water shoes
The rocky shoreline at some islands can be sharp; water shoes make wading safer.
Stay hydrated onboard
Even with provided drinks, bring a refillable bottle to stay hydrated in tropical sun.
Secure personal items
Use dry bags or lockers to protect valuables from saltwater splashes during the trip.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- The hidden underwater sandbar near Palominitos Island
- Secluded coves on Cayo Icacos less frequented by tourists
Wildlife
- Caribbean sea turtles
- Parrotfish and other tropical reef species
History
The East Keys were traditional fishing grounds for Taíno communities before Spanish colonization, and today they remain vital ecological zones.
Conservation
Encanto Boat Tours practices sustainable tourism by limiting group sizes and encouraging reef-safe products to protect coral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Island shorelines for sunrise shots
- Onboard deck facing west during the sunset cruise
- Underwater reef sections during snorkeling
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin while preserving the delicate marine ecosystem.
summer specific
Snorkel gear
Though often provided, bringing your own mask and snorkel ensures comfort and hygiene.
Quick-dry swimwear
Dries fast for comfort on boat and beach.
summer specific
Water shoes
Protects feet on rocky or coral-strewn shorelines.