I booked online about two weeks prior through East Island because of the reviews and recommendations. The tour also included snacks, lunch (sandwich bar with many sides), rum drinks (after snorkeling), non alcoholic drinks, snorkel gear, floats, and more. The day before the tour they called me to confirm, and let me know there would be slight rough waters and to bring sea sick meds if needed.
The entire excursion was slotted from 8:30am until 3pm. We had to show up by 7:15 (about 30 mins from our hotel in Rio Grande). Once we parked we took the shuttle to the ticket counter to check-in (they will email you all of this information as well as maps). Once you check in, they give you colored wrist bands (ours were yellow) and you'll be divided up by your colors and tours. After check in, they have a small cafe inside which has a coffee bar and some pastries and sandwiches. Around 8am they started calling us to grab our snorkel gear and to start loading on the boat.
Inside the boat you're grouped into separate areas. Inside seating is prioritized for families and in the order of booking, so we had a table for the five of us. Once we were all seated they handed out granola bars and water for snack/breakfast.
The boat ride there was about 45 minutes. It was a little rough for a bit as mentioned. We were okay though. If you get sea sick, I would suggest taking something about an hour before if you need it. I also like to bring a portable handheld fan just incase. There are two bathrooms on the boat if you need it, and the crew also has vomit bags just incase (I prefer these from Amazon though).
The first stop was snorkeling. The water was about 40 feet deep. They have floating belts for everyone who wants or needs one, as well as the snorkeling mask and fins. I have a fear of large bodies of water and not being able to touch the ground so I went in for a quick second and came back out lol. The kids and Frankie had a blast snorkeling. At this time they also prepare and serve lunch.
They provide a sandwich bar with all the meats, cheeses, etc. They also have sides like chips, bean salad, chicken salad, etc.
The second stop was Flamenco beach. We pulled up to a spot with other East Island catamarans and other companies as well. You could swim, go on the beach, or whatever you wanted to do. The crew was amazing. They basically catered to everyone.
After Flamenco beach, they prepared a fruit bar for snacks. The ride back was smooth!
I would 100% recommend this tour and company. We had a lot of fun and this was the highlight of our trip. The crew was very informative and hospitable. We had Jesibel, Naher, and Carlito - plus the captain. Definitely check East Island Excursions out if you're headed to the island.
Check out the video I made on this HERE.
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