Found just west of the US Virgin Islands, Vieques and Culebra (collectively know as the Spanish Virgin Islands) are geographically part of Puerto Rico. Separated from the hustle-bustle and commercialism of the Puerto Rico mainland by a 90-minute boat ride, the islands offer stunning natural vistas that are so far completely unspoiled by commercialism.
Vieques:
Between 1941 and 2003 the majority of the island of Vieques was closed off by the US Navy, who used the area as a training range. As a result, Vieques remained almost entirely undeveloped for tourism and it is this lack of development that is now considered to be a key attraction. Even during peak season you will be lucky to spot another group of tourists on the beach within 50 yards.
Following the withdrawal of the US Navy, Vieques was classified as a “Fish and Wildlife refuge”. It is now promoted as an ecotourism destination that offers unspoiled beaches famous for their wild horses, which roam freely around several areas of the island.
Vieques is home to one of the most spectacular natural phenomena found in the Caribbean. The bioluminescent bay in Puerto Mosquito has officially been declared the brightest in the world. The luminescence is caused by billions of tiny micro-organisms which give a neon-blue glow whenever the water is disturbed.
Snorkeling on the island is excellent, especially at Blue Beach (Bahía de la Chiva) and Sun Bay, while for the evenings Vieques offers some of the finest food in Puerto Rico, including the famous carne guisada puertorriqueña (Puerto Rican beef stew).
Culebra:
The smaller of the two main Spanish Virgin Islands, Culebra is a great destination for nature lovers. With shallow waters and magnificent reefs full of tropical fish, Culebra’s quiet bays are perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. The island is well-known for its beautiful countryside and offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, bicycling and horseback riding.
One of the most popular places for both locals and tourists to eat on the island is the Dinghy Dock bar. Dinghy Dock offers an unlimited salad bar and specializes in locally caught fresh fish such as swordfish and snapper.
It is impossible to leave Culebra without a visit to Flamenco Beach, which is home to many different species of Caribbean Sea fish including parrotfish and blue tang. Flamenco Beach is a very popular surfing destination due the waves created when the surf breaks on the reef a quarter mile out to sea.
One of our favorite yachts available for charter in Puerto Rico is the Lagoon 45 Crewed Catamaran MISS KITTY, with accommodation for up to 4 guests in 2 queen cabins. MISS KITTY offers a wide variety of watersports and toys and is perfect for a romantic vacation or time spent with close family.
For more information on chartering a yacht in Puerto Rico please have a look at our recent blog post on Luxury Yacht Charteres in Puerto Rico or our Puerto Rico Yacht Charter Guide. Alternatively, you can send an enquiry email to [email protected].