Top Puerto Rico Cruises & Sailing

There are plenty of high-quality cruises in Puerto Rico. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• From Fajardo: Icacos Deserted Island Catamaran & Picnic Cruise
• Icacos Island All-Inclusive Snorkel and Boat Tour
• Full-Day Icacos Island Catamaran Sail from Fajardo
• San Juan Sunset Harbor Boat Ride
• Culebra Island Snorkel with Turtles Adventure - Ferry Tickets Include

Yes, Puerto Rico’s consistent trade winds, diverse coastline, and sailing facilities make it an excellent destination for sailing. The island—itself home to calm protected bays and warm water year-round—offers a variety of sailing experiences, from cruising along the picturesque main island to exploring the remote offshore islands such as Culebra, Icacos, and Vieques on day sails and snorkeling trips.

Inclusions really vary from tour to tour, though snorkeling tours will usually come complete with all the gear required (mask, snorkel, and fins), as well as a guide. Many catamaran cruises even include drinks and snacks, as well as live music or entertainment. Meanwhile, private charters come with their own dedicated captain and crew. However, you should check your chosen listing carefully in advance for more information.

That depends. The cost of sailing and cruising experiences in Puerto Rico can vary greatly depending on the type of boat and excursion. For example, there are affordable boat tours ranging from US$75–100 per person, while luxury chartered yachts can reach upward of US$5,000 for a group. On the whole though, Puerto Rico offers diverse sailing and boating options to suit any budget, from casual cruises to premium private yacht experiences.

Puerto Rico cruises and sailing tour prices vary depending on duration and inclusions. If you’re looking for high-quality experiences on the lower end of the price range, these are the best tours to book now:

• San Juan Bay Day Sail With Drinks Included
• San Juan Historical Bay Daytime Sailing Tour
• San Juan Sunset Harbor Boat Ride
• Historical San Juan Bay Sunset Sailing Tour
• Fajardo Afternoon Snorkeling Adventure Tour

The dry season months of December through April are best for boat and snorkeling tours in Puerto Rico. You’ll have less chance of encountering large swells, and the temperatures aren’t as high as during summer. This is also when you might have the opportunity to see whales migrating in the area. These months can be busy with tourists though, so book your excursion as early as possible.

Yes, popular tours can sell out quite far in advance, especially for holiday weekends and in peak season—especially if a cruise ship has come into dock in Old San Juan. Trips that head out to Icacos and Culebra also tend to sell out quite quickly, so if you have specific dates in mind, book well in advance—at least a few weeks out from your trip.

No, most Puerto Rico boat and sailing tours don’t provide round-trip transportation. Instead, you’ll typically need to meet your captain at the dock or marina specified on the listing, typically in Fajardo if you’re headed out to one of the islands or Old San Juan if you’ve chosen a bay sail or sunset cruise. Double check the departure point in advance and make sure you arrive on time, as boat tours won’t wait for latecomers.

Yes, absolutely—sailing tours in Puerto Rico can accommodate families or private groups. While you can grab some spots on a catamaran party cruise, San Juan bay sail, or family-friendly Icacos snorkeling trip, booking a private charter offers greater flexibility and privacy for larger groups or those looking to celebrate something special.

No, Puerto Rico remains a US territory, so you don’t require a passport to board a Puerto Rico boat tour. However, you may need to present some form of ID when booking or boarding; typically, a government issued photo ID will suffice. You will only have to present your passport if the boat tour from Puerto Rico is taking you to a different (non–US) country, such as the Dominican Republic or the British Virgin Islands.

Casual summer attire and bathing suits are the norm for Puerto Rico cruises, with most passengers choosing to board dressed and ready to take a dip or go snorkeling. For footwear, go for something easy to slip on and off, though make sure any sandals you choose have plenty of grip—you don’t want to slide around the deck. You should also make a note to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat too, as well as a towel and a change of clothes for once you’re finished in the water.

There are many different kinds of boat tours in Puerto Rico. Think about whether you’re looking for a high-adrenaline adventure or a more relaxed sunset sail. Some party boats include snacks and drinks, so consult the tour details before booking. Snorkeling tours typically provide gear, but check before you set sail. Finally, Puerto Rico boat tours usually don’t include hotel pickup, so make note of the departure location before booking.

Arrive early for your boat tour so you don’t miss the departure; most group tours will not wait for stragglers. If you tend to get seasick, consider taking medication before your tour. Some boat tours offer drinks and snacks for purchase, so bring your bank card or some cash (small bills preferred!)—having cash on hand is also a good idea so that you can tip the captain and crew as needed. Finally, be prepared to get wet, even if you don’t plan on swimming—you are on a boat, after all!

There are tons of fun tours and excursions in Puerto Rico aside from boat tours. According to previous travelers, these are the best activities to book for your next trip:

• Jet Ski Rentals
• Swim With Dolphins
• Private Drivers
• 4WD Tours
• Day Trips