Icacos or Palomino? Choosing the Right Island for Your Private Yacht Day
The best part of a private yacht day is the moment you stop checking the time. Shoes come off, the shoreline gets smaller, and the only decision that matters is whether to swim now or stay on deck a little longer.
That easy feeling starts with one choice before you reach the marina: where you want to spend the day. Every Puerto Rico Charters trip is built around one destination, so you spend your hours in the water instead of moving between stops. Here is how to pick the right one for your group.
Icacos: the crowd favorite
Icacos is about 20 to 25 minutes from our marina in Fajardo. The water is calm and clear, the sand is soft, and there is plenty of room to anchor, swim, snorkel and float. It is the easiest choice for first-timers, families and celebrations, and the short ride means more time at the beach.
Palomino: a close alternative
Palomino sits in the same group of small islands off Fajardo and is just as quick to reach. It is a great pick when you want a slightly different setting, or when you have been to Icacos before and want something new. Like Icacos, it suits a relaxed day of swimming, snorkeling and lounging on board.
Culebra or Vieques: worth it for a longer day
Culebra and Vieques are farther out, about an hour or more each way. They carry an added cost for the extra fuel and distance, so they work best on a 6- or 8-hour charter. Our 47' Intrepid is the most budget-friendly yacht for these trips. See per-yacht pricing in our Charter Guide.
How long should your charter be?
Four hours works for a quick swim and a few drinks. Six hours is the sweet spot for most groups: enough time to settle in, eat, swim and relax without rushing. Choose eight hours for Culebra or Vieques, or if you simply never want the day to end. On peak dates there is a 6-hour minimum.
Planning tips
- Pick your destination first, then the yacht and the length of the day.
- Bring your own food and drinks, or let our concierge partners handle provisions, a private chef and decorations.
- Your charter is a bareboat vessel rental. Captain, crew and fuel are not included in the yacht rate and are paid directly on the day of your trip. We share our list of qualified captains and help you arrange everything.
- Each yacht carries up to 13 guests. Larger groups can book two yachts that travel together.
- A 25% deposit holds your date.
Ready to plan your day?
Not sure which island fits your group? Tell us your date, group size and the vibe you want and we will recommend the best fit. See our yachts and book online, or send us a message.