United States

Puerto Rico is an archipelago consisting of the main island by the same name, two inhabited islands of Vieques and Culebra, Desecheo, Mona Island, Caja de Muertos and hundreds of reefs, and islets protected as nature reserves. A gorgeous coastline, marinas, offshore treasures to explore, and plenty of interesting places and attractions to visit inland, make Puerto Rico popular destinations for sailors.

As night falls on certain beaches around the world, the waves glow with an eerie blue light: tiny, neon dots that make it look as though stars are washing up on shore.

The surreal scene arises not from magic, but from plankton that have evolved to glow in order to startle or distract fish and other potential predators. Some scientists call it the “burglar alarm effect”: by lighting up, the plankton draw even larger predators that, in turn, eat the animal threatening them. The phosphorescence only occurs when the microorganisms, which exist worldwide, are agitated – such as when the water crashes onto the shore, someone steps on the wet sand or a paddle hits the waves.

The phenomenon’s effects can vary depending on time of year and weather, so sightings cannot always be predicted. Even so, here are three spots where you’re most likely to see the sea shine with its own light.

There are actually three bioluminescent bays in Puerto Rico. Of the three in Puerto Rico, Mosquito Bay in Vieques is the largest and most impressive, can also find bio bays in Fajardo (Laguna Grande) and Lajas (La Parguera). The bioluminescent bay in Lajas is the only one that allows swimming.

Vieques is a Caribbean island off Puerto Rico’s eastern coast that is home to one of the seven wonders in the world for this year, 2020. Scientists say that, thanks to the large amount of plankton that emits a blue-green colored light when the water is disturbed, Mosquito Bay has one of the brightest bioluminescent waters in the world. Mosquito Bay on the island of Vieques has the nickname of Bioluminescent Bay (often called Bio Bay) for the bright plankton that illuminates the water.  

In Vieques, in addition to Mosquito Bay there are two more bioluminescent bays, but Mosquito Bay presents unique characteristics due to its specific natural composition. Mosquito Bay is famous not only for the amount of plankton it has but also for its unique location and history. It attracts many tourists from all over the world that come to enjoy a phenomenon.

Vieques and Culebra

Vieques and Culebra are two nearby islands you should definitely add to your list of places to see. Vieques, known as la Isla Nena, is located 15 nautical miles from Fajardo, on the east side of Puerto Rico. Culebra is 19 miles from the coast. Both islands have some of the most beautiful beaches you’ll find anywhere and are frequently included on lists of the world’s best beaches. 

La Parguera-Lajas

A trip to La Parguera in Lajas might be a two-and-a-half-hour journey from San Juan, but it is definitely worth it. Located on the southwestern side of Puerto Rico, the village has many reasons to visit. Eat local food and drink an authentic Puerto Rican cocktail in the Malecón, a waterfront area with colorful souvenir shops and beautiful views. If you are an adventurer, you can snorkel in the nearby bioluminescent bay, experience some of the Island’s best scuba diving, go hiking, biking, or birdwatching. Find different species of birds and sea creatures in Caracoles, Mata la Gata, or Cayo Enrique. If you stay for a while, you might even be able to catch a glimpse of a dolphin or manatee.

Experience the bioluminescent bay in Mosquito Bay (Vieques), walk around the small towns, or simply relax and enjoy the laid-back vibe.

WEATHER

Puerto Rico’s tropical climate keeps the temperature warm all year round with the hottest temperatures occurring in June (average of 27C) and the coldest is January (average of 24C). May tends to be the wettest month with an average rainfall of 152mm. July has an average of 12 hours of sunlight every day and the sea temperature averages 29C.

Climb aboard, and join the crew. As a member of the crew, you’ll be expected to participate in daily activities necessary to keep everything shipshape. Getting to grips with the ropes and sheets, basic navigation skills and yacht maintenance, setting out the day’s aims according to the weather conditions and the schedule.

PASSAGE

San Juan – Puerto Del Rey Marina (Fajardo Ceiba) – Isla de Culebra – Vieques (Mosquito Bay) – Puerto de Jobos – Lajas (La Parguera) – Aquadilla – San Juan

DATES

20 Jan – 26 Jan 2025

27 Jan – 02 Feb 2025

COSTS

£1,200 pp all inclusive (food on board, fuel, marina fees,) 

PASSPORT AND VISAS

Please note, your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into US. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit:

https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/usa/entry-requirements

https://www.estaapplication.us/en/form/

https://uk.usembassy.gov/visas/tourism-visitor/required-documents/