Mariarosa |
Apr 20th, 2001 09:32 AM |
Hi Deborah! Cool Wiz has given you good advice for snorkeling from the shore. Vieques and Culebra have the most beautiful beaches in Puerto Rico, and I love them. The bio bay in Vieques is truly spectacular, and one of my favorite eperiences. However, be advised that the best beaches in Vieques are in the Navy's land and there's a some unrest right now as the Navy has been bombing the island repeatedly for the last 25 years, and the Navy recently (1 year ago) killed a local in an "exercise." The people of Vieques, Puerto Rico, and many Americans concerned about the environment have been trying to get the Navy out of Vieques. I don't think the Navy is allowing people into their land to go to the best beaches. Esperanza is not on Navy's property and you can always visit it and snorkel there, but you may not have access to the other wonderful beaches. <BR> <BR> Another option is to take one of the catamaran day cruises that depart from the Fajardo marina. I think they cost about $55 for the day if you meet the cat in Fajardo, or about $65-70 is they pick you up in San Juan. I've done this trip twice and both times we had a lot of fun. They take you sailing to some reefs near the cays off Fajardo that are only reachable by boat. The reefs have many colorful fish, brain coral, colorful fans, etc. They give you a light lunch (sandwiches, salads, fruits) and there's unlimited rum punch on board (if you want, if you don't there's water, soda, etc.). In the afternoon you can snorkel some more or they will drop you at one of the cays, if you just want to lounge, so it's a good option for diverse parties in which some people wan to snorkel, and some don't. When you get to the airport, there will be someone from the tourism office in a booth (dressed in green). Ask this person about the snorkeling catamarans from Fajardo, and you will be given brochures, which you can call. Or, the different cat cruises advertise in the back of the free Que Pasa magazine, also available at the booth. <BR> <BR>Enjoy your vacation!
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