If you’re dreaming of sailing crystal-clear waters, discovering remote beaches, and experiencing the untouched beauty of the Spanish Virgin Islands, a 7-day sailing itinerary through Culebra and Vieques is the perfect Caribbean escape. These two gems off Puerto Rico’s eastern coast offer the ideal mix of adventure, tranquility, and culture. Whether you’re chartering a catamaran or monohull, skippered or bareboat, this route is designed to help you make the most of your week on the water.

In this guide, we’ll outline a day-by-day itinerary with highlights, anchorage tips, and must-see spots to help you plan the perfect Puerto Rico sailing vacation.

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Why Choose Culebra & Vieques?

These islands form part of the Spanish Virgin Islands, offering a quieter, less commercialized sailing experience than the U.S. or British Virgin Islands. Known for their biodiversity, pristine anchorages, and bioluminescent bays, they’re easily accessible from Fajardo on Puerto Rico’s east coast—home to most charter fleets.

– **Sailing distance**: Manageable daily hops (1–3 hours)
– **Anchorages**: Well-protected bays and moorings
– **Highlights**: Snorkeling, wildlife, uncrowded beaches, and charming island towns

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🗓️ 7-Day Culebra & Vieques Sailing Itinerary

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**Day 1: Departure from Fajardo → Isla Palomino**
– **Distance**: 8 NM / ~1.5 hours
– **Highlights**: Calm waters, paddleboarding, beach lounging

Begin your journey from Marina Puerto del Rey in Fajardo. After boat check-in and provisioning, set sail to nearby **Isla Palomino**—a great spot to ease into the trip. This small island offers protected waters, soft beaches, and beautiful sunsets. It’s perfect for paddleboarding or a family beach picnic.

**Anchorage Tip**: Anchor on the west side for the calmest conditions.

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**Day 2: Isla Palomino → Culebra (Ensenada Honda)**
– **Distance**: 17 NM / ~3 hours
– **Highlights**: Snorkeling, local restaurants, island town vibe

Sail east to **Culebra**, dropping anchor in **Ensenada Honda**, one of the Caribbean’s best natural harbors. Dinghy into town for local eats and grab supplies if needed. Culebra town is charming and laid back—perfect for families and couples.

**Dining Tip**: Check out Dinghy Dock Restaurant or Zaco’s Tacos for casual island meals.

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**Day 3: Explore Flamenco Beach + Tamarindo Beach**
– **Distance**: 3–5 NM via dinghy or short sail
– **Highlights**: Top-rated beach, WWII tank, snorkeling

Spend the day anchored or moored while you explore **Flamenco Beach**, often ranked among the world’s most beautiful. Just a short dinghy ride or land taxi from Ensenada Honda, it offers white sands, surf-friendly waves, and iconic photo ops with a rusted WWII tank. **Tamarindo Beach** nearby is a turtle haven and great for snorkeling.

**Pro Tip**: Bring snacks and shade gear—limited services available on weekdays.

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**Day 4: Culebra → Culebrita (Uninhabited Islet)**
– **Distance**: 5 NM / ~1 hour
– **Highlights**: Natural jacuzzis, lighthouse hike, remote anchorage

Sail to the stunning **Culebrita**, a remote island known for its crystal-clear waters, tide pools (“Jacuzzis”), and scenic hiking to an old Spanish lighthouse. It’s a favorite among sailors looking for true Caribbean solitude.

**Anchorage Tip**: West Beach offers calm and stunning conditions. Arrive early to grab a good spot.

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**Day 5: Culebrita → Vieques (Esperanza)**
– **Distance**: 18–22 NM / ~4 hours
– **Highlights**: Island nightlife, restaurants, sunset cocktails

Set course for **Vieques**, dropping anchor near the town of **Esperanza**. This lively port has a boardwalk, beach bars, and colorful culture. It’s a nice change of pace after remote Culebrita.

**Evening Highlight**: Enjoy cocktails at Duffy’s or El Quenepo and a stroll along the Malecon.

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**Day 6: Bioluminescent Bay + Sun Bay**
– **Distance**: 1–2 NM
– **Highlights**: Glowing waters, beach day

Anchor near **Sun Bay**, then take a guided night tour into **Mosquito Bay**, one of the brightest bioluminescent bays in the world. Paddle through glowing water caused by microscopic dinoflagellates—a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

**Booking Tip**: Book your tour in advance with a certified guide (motorboats not allowed in the bay).

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**Day 7: Vieques → Fajardo Return**
– **Distance**: 25–30 NM / ~5–6 hours
– **Highlights**: Final sail, open water cruising

Rise early for the return sail to Fajardo. Depending on wind and sea conditions, the trip can take 5–6 hours. Enjoy open-ocean sailing, reflect on your trip, and start planning your next voyage!

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Essential Tips for Sailing Culebra & Vieques

– **Best time to go**: December to May (dry season, steady trade winds)
– **Navigation**: Charts and GPS are reliable, but reef awareness is critical
– **Provisioning**: Stock up in Fajardo; Culebra and Vieques have limited grocery options
– **Fuel & water**: Top off in Ensenada Honda if needed
– **Charter base**: Most trips depart from Puerto del Rey or Sunbay Marina in Fajardo

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Family and Group Travel Considerations

– **Kids aboard**: Choose catamarans for extra stability; include snorkeling and beach time
– **Group travel**: Ensure enough cabins for comfort and privacy
– **Skippered vs. bareboat**: First-timers should consider hiring a skipper to navigate confidently

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Sample Packing List for a 7-Day Sail

– Reef-safe sunscreen
– Water shoes & flip-flops
– Light layers & rash guards
– Snorkel gear (or check if included)
– Reusable water bottles
– Waterproof dry bags for shore trips
– Insect repellent (especially for Vieques)

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Final Thoughts

A 7-day sailing itinerary through Culebra and Vieques is the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and Caribbean magic. From world-famous beaches to hidden coves and glowing bays, this route delivers something for everyone—whether you’re a couple seeking romance, a family craving nature, or a group of friends looking for unique experiences.

Charter your catamaran or monohull in advance, plan your anchorages, and prepare to fall in love with the Spanish Virgin Islands.

**Ready to set sail? Contact SailCaribe to book your skippered or bareboat yacht and start planning your Puerto Rico sailing vacation today!**