There are a number of snorkel boat tours that leave out of Fajardo and visit reefs and the out-islands. The boats are all very similar, follow a similar schedule, serve a similar lunch and beverages, go to the same snorkel spots, and are the same price - give or take a few bucks. Some of the boats are newer than others, some have water slides, some are larger(so there are more people per trip), etc. But rest assured, you will have a fun time no matter which one you choose.

Most of the operators have catamaran sailboats, but depending on the wind and water conditions, they may motor to the destinations. Some are high-speed catamaran motor boats that get you to and from the snorkel spots much quicker. Being that they are all catamarans, they rock less, so sea-sickness is usually not an issue.

We went on the East Island sailboat - East Wind. It was Christmas day and we had a wonderful time. The drinks start as soon as they launch - pina coladas or rum punch (both with or without rum).

The sail over to the first snorkel site was lovely, and they pull right up to a beautiful white sand island. The crew gives a quick lesson on snorkeling, gets you set up with snorkel gear that will fit you, and let you off. You can snorkel or beach comb or just hangout on the boat. Find out where the best snorkeling is - it is usually further out - away from where all the people are standing on, and damaging, the coral. The other snorkel boats all show up about the same time, so there are lots of people trying out the snorkeling all at once. My advice - wait a little bit, after people get tired and return to the boat and then go snorkel, or go out right away and swim further out, away from the others.

Lunch is served on the boats - a nice lunchmeat buffet with lots of fresh fruit. The boats leave this first stop after lunch and make a quick move to another snorkel spot. This second spot is usually in open water - it was kind-of deep water, but they supply floaties to help you float if you are not confident of swimming.

You are at the first site for about 2 hours, the second site for about 45 minutes, and then you have to head for home. It is a nice relaxing day, enjoying the blue water and sealife of Puerto Rico.

Reservations are required and the cost is about $59 - $69 per person. Some operators will provide transportation from your hotel - contact the tour operator directly.

Most leave at 10:00am and get back to the marinas at about 3:30pm

Barefoot IV from Castillo Tours, (787)791-6195 or (787)726-5752, 45 people max, leaves from Villa Marina

Salty Dog, (787)717-6378 or (787)717-7259, www.saltydreams.com, leaves from Villa Marina

Traveler, (787)863-2821 or (787)396-0995, www.travelerpr.com, 48 people max, leaves from Villa Marina

Spread Eagle II, (888)523-4511, www.snorkelpr.com, 49 people max, leaves from Villa Marina

East Island Excursions, (887)-WE R 4 FUN, (787)409-2485 or (787)860-3434, www.eastwindcats.com, 78 people max, leaves from Puerto del Rey Marina

All of these boats go out of 1 of 2 marinas - either Villa Marina or Puerto del Rey. Double check which one, because these marinas are in different locations in Fajardo.

For Villa Marina - Highway 3 to Fajardo. Pass the Kmart and once past the overpass, turn left at the Route 194 gas station . Follow this road an few miles - continue straight through the light and a few miles more . Turn right at Villa Marina Shopping Center. Turn left on the street after the shopping center. Park on the street by the gated marina entrance (they may let you park inside) .

For the Puerto Del Rey Marina - Highway 3 to Fajardo. Stay on 3 until the road becomes Route 53. Take the first exit (it is marked Puerto Del Rey). Go under the highway. Go through 2 traffic lights and the marina entrance is on the left. Park inside the marina - there’s plenty of parking.

Both marinas are about a 30-45 minute drive from our vacation rental in Rio Grande.