So sorry for your frustration at the moment you can book an excursion with Island Ventures out of Caja de Muertos from La Guancha. He once fell in love with a Basque lady when he visited Curaao. The only other way to get there is by private boat. Porta Caribe (South) The staff is extremely friendly and helpful. I am a notorious seasick traveler and took Dramamine about 1 hour before departure. History Porta Antillas (East) This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Wander through the stunning Old Town (aka The Historic Zone) Check out Ponce's famous castle. Playa Pelicano is the most popular and accessible beach on the island and located on the west side between the dock and Cerro Morillo. Uninhabited, the island aims at preserving its natural flora and fauna and is thus protected by the Reserva Natural Caja de Muertos. Besides, it looks like it may be too rough to swim on the east side due to sea conditions. What are departure and return times? Tour Pet friendly, View all hotels near Isla de Caja de Muertos on Tripadvisor, View all restaurants near Isla de Caja de Muertos on Tripadvisor. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Fruit and cookies were served shortly before departure. I felt a little taken advantage of. Budget The island was beautiful and ship was fun! There youll find amap with a route to follow on the submarine trail. Island Venture is the one and only ferry that takes the public to and from Caja de Muertos. $212. We assure you quality service and excellence aboard our all-inclusive trips. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experiences start time will not be accepted. Most visitors dont realize that Puerto Rico is an archipelago with offshore islands and cays. The trails are packed dirt with limestone rocks sticking up everywhere, so make sure you wear sturdy, closed toe shoes. The beautiful scenery that this small island offers is amazing. The beautiful scenery that this small island offers is amazing. Discover the best oceanfront resorts in Puerto Rico and enjoy some beach time. They no longer allow you to bring beach chairs, umbrellas or coolers on the boat, but they have chairs, umbrellas, kayaks and SUPs for rent now also. Embrace the beauty of Puerto Rico on a half-day catamaran tour to Caja de Muertos. These beaches are not ideal to swim at for the most part because of the rough seas. GET THE BEST OF PUERTO RICO DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. There may be the occasional trip at a later time. This natural wonder is ideal for visitors looking to reconnect with nature away from the city noise. The most convenient way to enjoy the offshore islands of Puerto Rico is to stay at a resort/hotel on the east coast. Beer and soft drinks were provided free of charge. To enjoy a Nature Reserve called Playa Pelicano. I would recommend this trip. Question: how deep would you say it is and is it quite calm? Copyright 2007-2023 PuertoRicoDayTrips.com . The hike to the lighthouse takes 25-30 min each way. We drove from Condado and it took about 90 minutes each way on a very good 4 lane highway with tolls. These beaches have particularly high standards and are concerned about hygiene, conservation, and amenities. Vibrant shades of green, tranquil hues of blue and the fresh sea breeze make for a lovely combination. We started at a port, rode the boat to the island, and had several hours on the island itself. that you cannot enjoy the sounds of nature unless you are very far away from them, the staff was nice and they offer snacks, drinks, kayaks and snorkeling equipment but it's still such a waste of money. Always on weekends (Fri/Sat/Sun) and holidays/holiday weeks during year. 2023 Discover Puerto Rico. The waters were clear and I did see some fish while snorkeling. Don't be deterred by the name: Caja de Muertos is coffin-like only in shape. Upon arrival there was someone there prepping the boat and eventually someone, I think Charlie was his name, arrived and had a list so I spoke to him. The island is home to five beaches: Pelcan Beach, Ensenadita Beach (Pocitas), Larga Beach, Guardia Costera Beach (also known as Blanca Beach) and Chica Beach. Points of Interest & Landmarks Lighthouses. Caja de Muertos Island is a very secluded natural treasure visited by few travelers and ready to amaze you. Caja de Muertos is a haven for endangered turtles, birds, and sea life. We were the only boat at the island so there was no overcrowding at the beach. Caja de Muerto is 1.5 long and 1.2 miles wide, 412.22 acres of dry arid land. The company that used to own and run the old ferry boat was call Island Ventures, now East Island has taken over, has a new, fast boat but has kept the name. Hours of operation, prices, and contact information may have changed since this article was published and/or printed. Bathed by the transparent waters of the Caribbean Sea and located in one of the driest and most arid areas of Puerto Rico, Caja de Muertos Island treasures a diversity of natural resources framed in a spectacular panorama. I had heard that Isla Caja de Muertos (or Coffin Island) was lovely, but I think it has been kept a secret just how fantastic it is! Whether you want to play or get away, you'll find the perfect spot in Puerto Rico. Is Island Adventures the only way to reach Caja de Muertos? Once we got close enough to see the color of the water, we knew that it would be a great day. Beach Vieques, Art The ferry was full and most people brought their own chairs and coolers. Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information. General We work directly with tour providers to bring you great deals! distance 34mi. That part of the trail was, also, just less than 1 mile. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. What hotels are near Isla de Caja de Muertos? The drive from the San Juan area takes about 1 hour. 0. If you get sea sick, medicate! I wish they would advertise more information about how to arrange a trip to this island. Looking to plan a trip in two weeks. Other options are to coordinate your visit through a local tour operator or to book a private boat. 93% of travelers recommend this experience. Reservations are required. It looks like a beautiful island to visit and hoping I can make the "trip" from boat to shore :). Island Venture takes you to the island of Caja de Muertos aboard a 65' power catamaran the "Island Flyer". Did You Know? Enter your email address to subscribe to Vmonos Tours and receive notifications of new posts by email. It takes approximately 45 minutes in a speedboat catamaran to get to Pelicano Beach. 0. Caja de Muertos is one of Puerto Ricos Nature Reserves, a municipality of Ponce. Isla Caja de Muertos is an island located 8 miles off the coast, south of Ponce (which in turn is located on the south coast of Puerto Rico). It's also wonderful for hiking and kayaking. I hear the ferry goes out twice a week. I have tried several times these last 2 years to visit this island. 0. Captain Jose and the crew were outstanding. To reach this island, you'll need to coordinate your visit through a local tour operator such as East Island Excursions, take the ferry based out of La Guancha in Ponce, or book a private boat charter. Please contact us for more details or call at 1-888-366-6121 ext. Playa Pelicano is a small beach with calm waters perfect for a long swim across and for children to play. This island is only 1/2 mile in width (at the widest part) and 1 1/2 miles in length. I dont believe DRNA has given any company permits to take visitors over. And food/drinks are included in the trip. Hike Las Bocas Canyon to Cascada Grande Waterfall, Sample Locally -Brewed Beer at Brew!!! If you dont have a waterproof bag your gear (including towels, shoes, phone, sunglasses, etc will get soaked, not wet, soaked! One of Puerto Rico 's offshore islands, Caja de Muertos, or "Coffin Island" (so named for its shape), is an eight-mile boat ride from Ponce's docks. Being an island, the only way to get there is via boat. So take a couple of trash bags with you and carry all waste back to the ferry. This was our best day ever! You must bring closed and comfortable shoes, insect repellent, water and sunscreen. Launching from La Guancha, the dock was easy to get to and there was plenty of parking. It cost $17 per person for the round trip. (check google maps for directions). It takes approximately 45 min to get there. Wear swim shoes if you have them. They gave me a flotation belt that even allowed me to go snorkeling and again, I can't swim! The boat was clean and maintained, the staff was friendly and helpful. Caja de Muertos, its beaches and its keys has been rediscovered by tourists as an isolated paradise since the government began assigning park rangers from the department of natural resources to supervise visitors to the island and protect this island. A Day Away on Caja de Muertos. Had a wonderful time! Dept of Natural Resources has folks on site and they have authority to fine you if you leave trash behind or litter in the premises. Full-Day Tour by Catamaran to Caja de Muertos Island 2023 - Puerto Rico Book online or call: (888) 651-9785 Chat now Home Things to do in Puerto Rico Puerto Rico Tours Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises Tours by Duration Day Trips Full-Day Tour by Catamaran to Caja de Muertos Island 80 Reviews Salinas, Puerto Rico 6 hours (approx.) Travel Alerts/Advisories Lots of information about the island. If there arent, there are signs or you can ask someone at a restaurant for info. How to get there: Caja de Muertos is a haven for endangered turtles, birds, and marine life. He indicated to me that the 8:30 am was completely booked but they happened to be making a second trip at 10:30 am. Stay at this 4.5-star luxury resort in Ponce. We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location. Puerto Rico Travel Guide Puerto Rico Islands Puerto Rico Ferries. Call 787-842-8546 (office) for more information (they take calls Monday to Saturday 9am-6pm) or to make a reservation. And would love to go again. They usually only make 1 trip per day departing from Salinas Marina at 9:30am sharp and departing from the island at 3:30pm. Had an amazing time with the company!! The top places where you can experience the history of the Island. There were only about 40 people on the island that day, so there was plenty of room everywhere. If you drive to the south region of the island you can do a day trip to Caja de Muertos off the town of Ponce by a private ferry. Playa Pelicanowas named after the pelicans that hang out by the beach on the boulders and the stilts that remain from an old pier. 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This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Land-based activities include hiking, a museum visit, and, of course, lounging on Playa Pelicano. Puerto Rico Puerto Rico Islands Isla Caja de Muertos, Experience the pleasures of an uninhabited island with aquamarine waters, rugged hiking trails with celestial views, a pirates cave, and underwater treasures. Is there good snorkeling there? The island has no fresh water/bathrooms so make sure to bring all your supplies with you to last from 9am until 3:30pm (ferry's departure time). Taller Experimental, Witness History at the Battle of 1797 Reenactment, Open Your Mind at an Art Museum in San Juan. Caja de Muertos, one of the islands of Puerto Rico just 4.8 miles off the central southern coast of the island and a 1.5-hour drive from the capital city of San Juan. All the employees were very helpful and kind., Professional & on-time crew, that keeps all beach amenities needed right onboard! The trip to Caja de Muertos takes between 30 and 40 minutes depending on weather conditions. Puerto Rico is a real-life,choose-your-own-adventure islandand the story is yours to write. Ferrys called Island Ventures # 787-842-8546 or 787-843-0148 spanish only for info or reservations. Nestled on the highest pointof the island you can visit a historic 1887 lighthouse. He checked and he said we were lucky as there was enough room to get a spot on the second sailing that they don't always do. Their website is the following: http://islandventurepr.com/en. This picturesque island is ferry ride off the coast of Ponce. As part of the Caja de Muertos Nature Reserve, it's home to beautiful reefs, marine life and greenery. Aguas. There is a great map of the island, and some informational signs placed throughout the park explaining the island, its history, and some of the flora that you will see. Taxi cost from Catano ferry terminal to Bacardi Rum Distillery: $3. If you want to visit one of Puerto Rico's most pristine beaches, then head over to Pelcano Beach at Caja de Muertos Island in Ponce. To enjoy a Nature Reserve called Playa Pelicano. Worth every penny. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. I just need beach and sun. Caja de Muertos Island offers an educational hiking trail with very rewarding views when you reach the top as well as ruins from a lighthouse. Enjoy some refreshing, cold coconut water while in Piones. When you visit, you'll find that spirit in yourself, too. People can go to the lighthouse but is not recommended to go inside the structure because it was built in the 1800's and the building is in extreme decay. Didn't need anything else. To get to Gilligans Island, there is a small private passenger ferry that operates 7 days a week. We went in February, and it was not crowded. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. The drive was gorgeous through the mountains. You must check-in at the marina in Salinas at 9:00 am as the speedboat catamaran departs at 9:30 am. If your mother or that little voice in your head tells you that Alternatively, contact us to book a full day or multi-day excursion with us or visit our www.touroldsanjuan.com page. You can get to the island by ferry, book a private boat or coordinate your visit through a local tour operator. The reserve also includes the cays of Cayo Morrillito and Cayo Berberia. The first trip leaves to Gilligans at 9 am and the last pick up at Gilligans is at 5 pm. Each review states that there is a ferry. Hotels near Eugenio M. De Hostos Airport (MAZ), Hotels near F.L. East Island Excursions also offers day trips. There are other beaches on the east side of the island, but they are roped off during turtle-nesting season. Met lots of people. Loved it so much I wanted it to last all day. 2023 Vmonos Tours | All Rights Reserved, Tentative opening for our island tour bookings may begin in December 2021. If its canceled due to poor weather, youll be offered a different date or a full refund. The reserve possesses fauna and flora only found here. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experiences start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded. The island measures approximately 2.75 km. PuertoRicoDayTrips.com assumes no responsibility regarding the information contained in this article. Everyone was nice and friendly and very helpful. Take a day to explore the area, which is a designated nature reserve with a lighthouse built in 1887, a cave, and trails, or to simply relax on its white-sand beaches. All rights reserved Isla Caja de Muertos in Ponce is a beautiful beach to enjoy. We got two of each and it was more than enough food for the two of us. As soon as the ferry gets near Caja de Muertos, you'll see the beach cove and feel its call with its mesmerizing colors. Sale and Rental of Water Sports Equipment. The bad: This is essentially a "booze cruise" lasting 45 min each way. I just put my cellphone in a plastic bag. We didn't realize it but we could have used the ticket to get beverages on the ferry ride over. Here, you can set off on one of the impressive hiking trails . At Gilligans, you can spend the day swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking. Here, you can set off on one of the impressive hiking trails through the undisturbed forest, which leads to an interesting old lighthouse and even a pirates cave. During the regular high season for tourists from Dec. April, you may be enjoying the island without crowds. Highly recommend this trip. The legend that surrounds this island has to do with a pirate named Jos Almeida. How much are tickets for the ferry? That will be on the boat. Please contact us for more details or call at 1-888-366-6121 ext. Explore the entire list of places to visit in Ponce before you plan your trip. San Juan Metro Trips to Isla Caja de Muertos depart from Salinas waterfront park/marina. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experiences start time. About a 1.5-hour drivefrom San Juan, you can hop on the ferry in Ceiba to the sleepy islands of Vieques & Culebra. Don't get me wrong, it's a beautiful place but I could've done something much more fun, in an amazing place for a lot less than 140$ for 2 people! This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. It is the Ferry or the other. If you want to travel to Vieques or Culebra on a weekend or around a holiday, be prepared for large crowds and long wait times. Would definitely recommend! Yes, I suppose Island Venture is the only way you can reach Caja de Muertos. Love this? From tropical beaches to the cobblestoned streets of Old San Juan, the Island gives filmmakers the opportunity to bring many different stories to life. Cunto hay qu pagar? This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. Puerto Rico has transformed into a foodie paradise over the years, incorporating different influences and traditions to create exciting dishes and cocktails. They say you need reservations but we just walked up. Driving directions from the San Juan area: Take Route 52 south to exit onto RT 1 . Costs: Per adult 20.33 tax includid kids 11 under 14.98 tax includid. Ponce, Puerto Rico 00716, High Season (May to August) Restaurants near Isla de Caja de Muertos: 99% of travelers recommend this experience. Is island venture the only boat that takes you to caja de muerto? During your trip, you will be able to enjoy a sumptuous deli-style lunch buffet and refreshments aboard the catamaran. Reviewed 26 August 2015. Dubbed as one of the top enchanting attractions in Puerto Rico, Caja de Muertos is a secluded and uninhabited nature reserve with one of the most pristine settings that youll find on the island. For the explorer who wants to experience Puerto Rico Sunshine via all their senses, check out these hot spots across the Island to feel the warmth. At Caja de Muertos you can walk, bird watch, explore the lighthouse ruins, or just relax in the sun. Alternatively, contact us to book a full day or multi-day excursion with us or visit our, New Requirements for entering Puerto Rico. But you do pass Carrucho Point, which is a grave yard for conch shells. We have so much fun., My boyfriend and I were in PR August 2017. Isla Verde Beach in Carolina, located just east of San Juan. Your worry of where to stay in Ponce is sufficed by bunch of interesting and comfortable lodging options in the Ponce like Hotel Melia Ponce, Ponce Plaza Hotel & Casino and Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort. Once in the island, there are kayaks, paddle board, chairs and beach umbrellas rentals . Please don't hesitate if we can be any further assistance. The chicken skewers are large meaty and covered in bbq sauce. Take a ferry to Caja de Muertos. Puerto Ricans have voted in five referendums on the issue of statehood, in 1967, 1993, 1998, 2012 and 2017. This nature reserve off the coast of Ponce hosts unique flora and fauna and is often visited by leatherback, hawksbill, and green sea turtles. I dont know how to swim at all and I am worried that I will be stuck on the boat all day because of that. Various scuba diving charters can take you to explore the world beneath. It is native to various turtle species, and thus of great natural importance. A ferry can take you to the island, and once there, it is as if you have stepped away from the world into a different land. Soak up the sun, ride the waves, explore underwater life, and find your favorite beach. Liquor drinks were cash bar. A beautiful beach with clear calm waters perfect for swimming. The good: the boats left on time, the island itself is beautiful, the kabobs were okay. There are no ferries going to the little island/cays of La Parguera Nature Reserve. The hiking trails on the island take you among other places to the old lighthouse, which has a wonderful platform for a perfect view of the island. It was relaxing. If you had more time youll have more beaches to explore with their own uniqueness and beauty. The boat trip takes about 40 minutes. I would recommend you take the trip. Street #12 Paseo de los Caballeros Final off the coast of Ponce, Ponce 00716 Puerto Rico. Hours Everyday: Open 24 hours. Site by Ray Bentz. For $28 roundtrip (as of 12/16), it was a value excursion! It departs from the Salinas Marina at 9:30 am and departs from Isla Caja de Muertos at 3:30pm, but you need to be on-board earlier. This area has bars and restaurants, and is popular year-round on the weekends. For those arriving at Caja de Muertos by catamaran, we advise you to stay at Pelicano so you can make the most of your time on the island. Please use common sense! Tour operators offer transportation to Lajas from popular tourist areas and the additional knowledge they have about the reserve elevates the experience. We highly recommend you fly from. activities described in this article. I dont want to do the excursiones. Flavors of San Juan walking Tour in Old San Juan. long and 1.85 km. I am traveling with a 6 pound dog. No other options. Peak season is in the summer months, weekends, and holidays with a local crowd of visitors. My only complaint is that I wish I would have been told that the museum and island was closed. BE PREPARED!!! The service was amazing. Beer, soda and water were all ticket each. This platform is located right on top of the Almeida Cave. You can contact them at islandventurepr. It is native to various turtle species, and thus of great natural importance. There are 25 educational stations along the trail indicating the species that abound in the area as well as other endangered species. Please re-confirm this information directly with the attraction or tour operator. });
. Or use their website for info and a calendar to see what dates are available and to make reservations . In Playa Larga theres a unique submarine trail(Vereda Submarina), created a few years ago. When I was child I visited Caja de Muerto with my family, and it was one of the most amazing experiences of my childhood, I always remember it because it was so beautiful and breathtaking, and it was only 15$ per person. Be part of our collaborators supporting to keep Boricua OnLine alive when making a small donation. Looks great for swimming, should we bring our snorkel gear? On the southern coast of Puerto Rico, you can spend a splendid day at Caja de Muerto Island, a nature reserve where you can enjoy a beautiful beach, snorkel, hiking trails with amazing views, and relaxation under the sun. If you want to get away for the day, it is worth the trip. Music Learn about the Islands climate and find resources to help you enjoy our natural wonders safely. As an adult I found out that the price had gone up to 30$ p/p and after hurricane Maria it went up to 70$ p/p, I still went beacuse I wanted that beautiful experience from my childhood, only to find out that, the beach is not the same since the hurricane, the water may seem blue but you cannot see anything in it, the shore is full of rocks and the waves can crash you into them, it's just like any other beach, most of the trails are closed to the public until they say otherwise, and they put the music so loud in the boat and ON THE BEACH! We booked the "deluxe" tour which included food and beverag for $53.50. There is no fresh water available on the island. That's just stealing money! In Puerto Rico, we call ourselves Boricua, a unique name honoring our Island heritage and the vibrant spirit of our people. Getting from the boat to shore was not a chore except for the rocks. 1122 Ashford Ave, San Juan, 00907, Puerto Rico, Sailing Catamaran Icacos Beach & Snorkel Tour, $79 Rainforest Nature Walk Adventure (Pandora), Caja de Muertos Island has a beautiful and pristine white sand beach called, Nestled on the highest point of the island you can visit a historic. Porta del Sol (West) Cruise Ship Visitor We used Trip Advisor and decided to venture to Isla Caja de Muertos. Island Venture Water Excursions ofrece Viajes a la Reserva Natural Isla Caja de Muertos.. About Us It was a wonderful experience. Nestled deep in the waters off the coast of Puerto Rico is a tiny isle by the name Caja De Muertos. Physical address: Bask in the city's unbelievable views. We arrived at the ferry dock promptly at 7:30 and were boarded just after 8 am. Ferry departs at 8:30am sharp from La Guancha pier in Ponce. Island Ventures. 96% of travelers recommend this experience. During the high season by tourists from December to April. The Ferry provides the large umbrellas. During your trip, you will be able to enjoy a sumptuous deli-style lunch buffet and refreshments aboard the catamaran. Great way to get out to an island and spend a day on the beach, hiking, snorkeling and relaxing. We signed up for an island adventure through Island Venture and were very satisfied with the experience. It is currently administered by the Puerto Rico Department of Environmental Resources. Island Venture lo lleva a la isla de Caja de Muertos a bordo de un cmodo catamarn equipado con refrigerios y otros servicios que estarn disponibles durante todo su viaje y estada. About. The reserve also includes the Cayo Morrillito Cay and Cayo Berberia Cay keys. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Water shoes may be helpful at the beach because there is a row of rocks at the shore that you have to walk on to enter the water. The crew and experience on the island were fantastic. [Email or Call in advance during the day before 4:00 pm as you will want to have a reservation for this trip]. I can't swim and I had a great time. But we can Provide assistant with a kayak to help you to reach the shore. Corals serve as nurseries for a diversity of species of underwater animals and protect the coasts by slowing down the water.