With Puerto Rico's sparkling clear waters and beautiful coral reefs it is no wonder that snorkeling is a favorite activity among tourists. The northeastern and eastern coasts are home to many snorkeling tour boats. While varying in price almost all offer a sail, picnic, basic snorkeling instruction, and a bottomless cup of rum punch.
I went on my first snorkeling excursion near the end of my stay in Puerto Rico. Based on this I recommend, especially for first time snorkelers, to go as early in your trip as possible since you may enjoy it so much that you want to go again before you leave.
My experience with snorkeling started in Fajardo. Once aboard the catamaran, complimentary snacks and the first of a never ending cup of rum punch were offered. Wanting to keep the customers happy, the captain and crew kept the platters stocked and the cups full.
The day was clear and cloudless. It seemed like we could see forever. While we couldn't see quite that far, we did see the island of St. Thomas which was approximately 40 miles away. We sailed the Caribbean to a spot where the captain intended to have us snorkel. Unfortunately there were too many jellyfish in the water and the captain didn't feel it was safe to put a group of tourists in the middle of them. We sailed on to the uninhabited Icacos Island where we had lunch, and more rum punch, on board and then explored the island.
On Icacos Island I collected shells and bits of coral from the shore. The water was warm and many enjoyed a swim before returning to the catamaran. After we reboarded our cups were once again filled and we listened to our captain tell tales of piracy on the high seas.
Upon reaching our snorkeling destination we were given masks coated with toothpaste to prevent fogging, snorkels, and flippers. We were told to keep the snorkels above water, that we had about an hour to spend in the water, and to have fun.
The clear water made everything look closer than it really was. This led to more than one mouthful of salt water before I learned my limitations. I saw various types of fish and coral during my snorkeling adventure, but my most memorable moment was when I almost ran into a jellyfish. I was swimming along looking at the scenery below me when I looked up and almost collided with a mass of clear jelly edged in purple with the purple outline of a shamrock in the center. As I looked around I saw more of these creatures and decided that it was time to go back to the boat.
Once I reboarded the ship I was hosed down with fresh water and I gratefully accepted a new cup of rum punch before settling down to enjoy the scenery. And I started planning my next Puerto Rico snorkeling trip!
This first-hand account of Puerto Rico adventure was brought to you by Jennifer Flood.
After your glorious expedition, you will be glad to snuggle down into a comfy bed in your luxurious condo. Or you can head back to your Puerto Rico villa and ready yourself for a night of clubbing. Or maybe you want to just get some more rum punch...