REVIEW · SAN JUAN
Icacos: Luxury Sailing Catamaran All Inclusive Beach and Snorkel
Book on Viator →Operated by Sail Getaway · Bookable on Viator
A big boat day with real Puerto Rico food. This luxury catamaran setup mixes guided snorkeling with serious comfort—shaded spots, private restrooms, and all the water toys—and keeps the crowd in check with a 49-guest limit. I like that the crew runs it like a plan, not chaos, and that you get time both for snorkeling and for plain old beach time. One thing to consider: the water can get choppy when the weather shifts, so if you’re sensitive to motion, plan for it.
You start in the morning from Fajardo (200 Ave Marina Vw) and spend about six hours on the Getaway Too, with unlimited drinks and an authentic lunch built for appetite. A lot of the fun is simple: slides, swings, mats, and lounging, plus a guided snorkeling clinic that works for beginners and for kids.
In This Review
- Key things I’d pack for this catamaran day
- Why this feels like a luxury day, not just a boat ride
- What you get for $195: the value math that matters
- Morning logistics: the Fajardo meetup and getting onboard smoothly
- The actual day at sea: how the time usually flows
- Snorkeling for beginners: gear, clinic, and what to expect
- Water toys: slides, swings, mats, and the all-ages fun factor
- Lunch that actually tastes like Puerto Rico
- Drinks and bar reality: what’s unlimited and what costs extra
- The crew experience: Captain Gabriel and the service tone
- Comfort and crowding: why 49 guests changes the feel
- Weather notes: when this day goes sideways
- Who should book Icacos, and who might want a different vibe
- Should you book this catamaran day in Puerto Rico?
- FAQ
- How long is the Icacos luxury sailing catamaran experience?
- Where does the cruise start?
- What time does the tour begin?
- Is snorkeling included, and do I get instruction?
- What drinks are included?
- What’s included for lunch?
- Is beer or a premium bar included?
- What should I bring and how early should I arrive?
Key things I’d pack for this catamaran day

- Sunscreen you’ll actually reapply (you’re on the water and the sun does not play nice)
- Swimsuit under beach clothes plus a towel
- A motion plan if you get queasy in waves (choppy water is possible)
- A light day-bag for your phone and a dry set of basics for after swimming
Why this feels like a luxury day, not just a boat ride

This is the kind of outing where the boat itself is part of the experience. The Getaway Too is a 54-foot catamaran with shaded areas and private restrooms onboard, which sounds like a small detail until you’re out there all morning and you suddenly realize you’re not doing everything “the hard way.” With a maximum of 49 travelers, it also avoids that squeeze-you-in feeling that can happen on bigger cruises.
And then there’s the vibe: music, an open bar focus (more on that in a second), and a long stretch of time to swim. If you’re the sort of person who likes having options—snorkel now, lounge later—this design fits.
There’s also a clear Puerto Rico flavor to the meal. You’re not just getting generic sandwich fare. You’re getting a real lunch spread with pork, roasted chicken, and sides like vegan pigeon peas and several salads.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in San Juan.
What you get for $195: the value math that matters

At $195 per person, you should judge the day by what you’re not paying for. Here, the big cost drivers are handled:
- Unlimited water, soda, and fruit juice
- Unlimited tropical rum beverages served during and after lunch
- Lunch: a full authentic Puerto Rican meal (not just snacks)
- Water toys: water swings and water mats
- Snorkeling gear and a guided snorkeling clinic
So you’re basically buying a full-day floating resort experience plus food plus drinks. What’s not included matters too: beer and anything listed as a premium bar cost extra. If beer is your go-to drink, that’s a small budget caveat. If you’re happy with the included rum beverages, it’s easier to feel like you got your money’s worth.
In short, this works best when you plan to use the included perks: swim, snorkel, eat, and drink. If you only want the boat and plan to snack lightly, the price may feel steeper.
Morning logistics: the Fajardo meetup and getting onboard smoothly
The meeting point is 200 Ave Marina Vw, Fajardo, Puerto Rico, and the start time is 8:45 am. You’ll want to arrive one hour early, because arriving late means you’ll be marked as a no-show with no refund.
Bring a towel and a swimsuit underneath your beach clothes. That’s not just convenience advice; it directly affects how quickly you can jump into the water when the first swim opportunity comes. Also keep an eye on the weather: the tour operates with good conditions in mind, and the water can be choppy even when it’s otherwise a good day.
One more practical note: animals, including service animals, are not permitted on board.
The actual day at sea: how the time usually flows

This cruise is about six hours total and ends back at the same meeting point. The day is built around a rhythm: sail, swim/relax, eat a proper lunch, then more water time and a return sail.
A common pattern you can expect is that snorkeling happens on the first beach stop, then you shift into beach time at the next stop. The way the boat is set up makes both modes easy. You’re not trying to “beach-huddle” in a crowded space, and the crew helps manage the flow so you can spend your energy on swimming and enjoying the water.
There’s also a fun return moment some groups talk about: a boat race on the way back that adds a playful end cap. Even if you’re not racing anyone, it’s a good morale boost as the ride wraps up.
Snorkeling for beginners: gear, clinic, and what to expect

Snorkeling is included, including equipment plus a guided snorkeling clinic for all ages. That’s a big deal if you want to feel comfortable in the water without guessing what to do.
This is also the part of the day that can vary depending on conditions and how much time you personally want to spend in the water. Some people come for serious snorkel time, and if you’re expecting it to feel like a long reef expedition, you might feel the snorkeling is more of a taste than a full-on deep session. The good news: the guided clinic keeps it accessible.
If you’re a first-timer, that guided approach is where the value lives. You’ll learn how to handle the gear, how to float, and how to keep things calm so you can actually enjoy looking at what’s around you.
Water toys: slides, swings, mats, and the all-ages fun factor

This is not a sit-and-watch type of outing. The boat has water swings, water mats, and space for floating and lounging. There’s also a water slide mentioned as part of the onboard fun.
What I like about this setup is that it’s optional. You can be the person on the swing, or you can be the person on a mat with a drink and a phone that’s finally not in your hand every five minutes. The seating areas and covered spots mean you’re not stuck in the sun the entire day either.
If you’re traveling with kids or a mixed-age group, these toys are a built-in peace treaty. Everyone has something to do without you having to micromanage an entertainment schedule.
Lunch that actually tastes like Puerto Rico

This is one of the standout parts of the day: authentic Puerto Rican lunch. The menu includes pork, roasted chicken, vegan pigeon peas, fresh green salad, bean salad, and pasta salad.
That matters because it’s easy to end up on cruise-style outings where lunch is edible but forgettable. Here, the meal is treated like the main event, and the sides give you options. If you want something hearty, you’re covered. If you prefer salads and beans, that’s included too.
A sweet finish also comes along—there’s a coconut and passion fruit treat on the return sail, and some departures include ice cream cones. It’s the kind of small detail that makes the day feel complete.
Drinks and bar reality: what’s unlimited and what costs extra

Included drinks are straightforward:
- Unlimited water, soda, and fruit juice
- Unlimited tropical rum beverages served during and after lunch
Some people specifically call out piña coladas in the unlimited mix, which fits the overall tropical bar vibe. What’s not included is beer, and premium bar drinks cost extra.
Also pay attention to the timing: unlimited tropical rum beverages are served during and after lunch, so you don’t have to wait until the afternoon to start ordering. If you want a steady drink plan, you’ll likely be happy with the included bar.
The best part, practically speaking, is the service style. Many visitors emphasize that the crew keeps drinks coming and helps you avoid long waits.
The crew experience: Captain Gabriel and the service tone
One name that comes up again and again is Captain Gabriel, who is praised for being professional and knowledgeable. Some groups also mention Stephanie as part of the leadership team, with an emphasis on their professionalism and attention.
Crew warmth shows up in the day-to-day details: keeping things running smoothly, helping with snorkeling, refilling drinks, and making sure people aren’t stuck waiting around. When you’re spending hours on a boat, this is more than personality. It’s safety, pacing, and comfort.
If you’re the type who hates feeling like you’re on your own, this crew style is a big reason people feel the day went well from start to finish.
Comfort and crowding: why 49 guests changes the feel
A maximum of 49 travelers is a sweet spot. It’s big enough for energy and group fun, but small enough that you don’t feel swallowed by the crowd. With shaded spaces and private restrooms, you’re also not forced to keep your entire day organized around basic needs.
In plain terms: you should feel comfortable moving around. You should be able to find a spot to lounge without stepping over people every five seconds. And because it’s a catamaran with open deck space, it generally feels spacious even when you’re all out there at once.
Weather notes: when this day goes sideways
This trip depends on good weather. Even when it’s operating, the water can be choppy due to weather conditions.
If you have a sensitive stomach, plan ahead. If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider bringing what usually works for you. And if you’re traveling with people who get uncomfortable in waves, this is the moment where your expectations should be realistic.
If the operator cancels due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Who should book Icacos, and who might want a different vibe
Book it if:
- You want a luxury catamaran day with real food and drinks included
- You like options: snorkel at one stop, relax at another
- You’re traveling with family or friends and want shared fun (slides, swings, mats)
- You’re a beginner or an easygoing swimmer who wants guidance
You might reconsider if:
- You want an all-day reef expedition and expect very extensive snorkeling time
- You get strongly seasick and aren’t willing to plan for choppy conditions
- You’re set on beer or premium drinks (those cost extra)
Should you book this catamaran day in Puerto Rico?
Yes, if you want a smoother, more comfortable water day than the typical group boat. The value stacks quickly: unlimited non-alcoholic drinks, unlimited tropical rum beverages tied to lunch and after lunch, a full authentic Puerto Rican meal, plus included snorkeling gear and a clinic. The 49-guest limit is also a practical win.
I’d book it with one mindset: this is about enjoying the water and the onboard fun, not about squeezing the most intense snorkeling session possible. If that matches your style, you’ll likely have a very satisfying day.
FAQ
How long is the Icacos luxury sailing catamaran experience?
It lasts about 6 hours.
Where does the cruise start?
It starts at 200 Ave Marina Vw, Fajardo, Puerto Rico.
What time does the tour begin?
The start time is 8:45 am.
Is snorkeling included, and do I get instruction?
Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included, and there is a guided snorkeling clinic for all ages.
What drinks are included?
Unlimited water, soda, and fruit juice are included. Unlimited tropical rum beverages are served during and after lunch.
What’s included for lunch?
Lunch is an authentic Puerto Rican feast including pork, roasted chicken, vegan pigeon peas, fresh green salad, bean salad, and pasta salad.
Is beer or a premium bar included?
Beer is not included, and premium bar drinks cost extra.
What should I bring and how early should I arrive?
Bring a towel and a swimsuit (wear it under beach clothes). Arrive at least 1 hour before departure, or you’ll be marked a no-show with no refund.
If you want, tell me your group ages (and whether anyone gets motion sick) and I’ll help you decide if this is the best fit for your Puerto Rico plans.








