Loading...
Caja de Muertos (Coffin Island) Boat Charter from Ponce, Puerto Rico
Charter a boat from Ponce to an uninhabited island nature reserve with pristine beaches, a 19th-century lighthouse, and some of Puerto Rico's best snorkeling
Charter a boat to Caja de Muertos (Coffin Island) from Ponce on Puerto Rico's southern coast — a 45-minute crossing into the Caribbean Sea. Full-day charters start at approximately $2,000. This uninhabited island nature reserve offers pristine white-sand beaches, excellent snorkeling with sea turtles and coral reefs, and a hiking trail to a beautifully restored 19th-century lighthouse with panoramic Caribbean views. Unlike the heavily visited north coast islands, Caja de Muertos is genuinely off the beaten path — one of Puerto Rico's last untouched island treasures.
Why Should You Charter a Boat to Caja de Muertos?
Caja de Muertos offers something no other Puerto Rico day trip can: pristine beaches, a historic lighthouse hike, and world-class snorkeling — all on an uninhabited, protected island that most tourists never reach. A private charter from Ponce gives your group exclusive access without the constraints of public ferry schedules.
- Pristine white-sand beaches on a protected, uninhabited island — among the most unspoiled in all of Puerto Rico
- Hike to the restored Faro de Caja de Muertos — a 19th-century lighthouse with 360° Caribbean panoramic views
- Protected marine reserve with healthy coral reefs, excellent visibility, and diverse marine life
- Regular sea turtle sightings — hawksbill and green turtles feed in the seagrass beds surrounding the island
- Truly off the beaten path — most visitors to Puerto Rico never reach the southern coast islands
How Do You Get to Caja de Muertos by Boat?
Unlike most Puerto Rico day-trip destinations that depart from San Juan or Fajardo, Caja de Muertos departs from Ponce on the southern coast. The crossing takes approximately 45 minutes heading due south into the Caribbean Sea. The southern coast waters are typically calmer than the Atlantic side, making for a comfortable crossing. Charter operators handle any required DRNA nature reserve visit permits.
Departure Point
Ponce marina area, southern coast of Puerto Rico
Approximately 45 Minutes
From Ponce; Caribbean Sea crossing to the south
Beach Landing
Anchor in clear water and wade to a pristine beach — no dock needed
Unlike most Puerto Rico day-trip destinations that depart from San Juan or Fajardo on the north and east coasts, Caja de Muertos departs from Ponce on the southern coast. The crossing takes approximately 45 minutes heading due south into the Caribbean Sea. The southern coast waters are typically calmer than the Atlantic side, making for a comfortable crossing. Your captain anchors in the clear shallows off the main beach (Playa Pelícano), where you wade to shore. Note: charter operators typically handle any required DRNA (Departamento de Recursos Naturales y Ambientales) visit permits.
What Does a Day Trip to Caja de Muertos Look Like?
1
8:00 AM
Depart Ponce Marina
Board your charter in Ponce and head south into the Caribbean Sea. Coffee and breakfast are served as the crew navigates toward Caja de Muertos. The island's distinctive silhouette becomes visible within 20 minutes.
2
8:30 AM
Caribbean Sea Crossing
The crossing is typically smooth — the southern coast is sheltered from Atlantic swells. Watch for flying fish, frigate birds, and the occasional pod of dolphins as you approach the island.
3
8:45 AM
Arrive at Playa Pelícano
Anchor in the crystalline shallows off Playa Pelícano — the main beach on the island's western side. Wade to shore through knee-deep turquoise water to a wide beach of white sand backed by sea grape trees.
4
9:00 AM
Snorkeling the Reef
Snorkel the coral reef directly off the beach — healthy elkhorn and staghorn coral, schools of tropical fish, sea fans, and regular sea turtle sightings. The water visibility averages 60–80 feet, some of the clearest in Puerto Rico.
What Should You Bring for a Caja de Muertos Boat Trip?
For a boat trip to Caja de Muertos, bring closed-toe hiking shoes for the lighthouse trail, extra water (the island has no freshwater), and reef-safe sunscreen for the pristine marine reserve. Here's the complete packing list:
- Closed-toe hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers — the lighthouse trail has rocky sections and is exposed to sun
- Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+) — apply generously before the hike and snorkeling; the island has minimal shade
- Extra water (at least 1 liter per person) — the island has no facilities or freshwater; the hike is hot
What Are the Best Boats for a Caja de Muertos Charter?
The southern coast crossing to Caja de Muertos is typically calmer than north coast routes. Yachts and catamarans offer the most comfort for the 45-minute crossing and provide ample deck space for a beach-day charter. Speedboats reduce transit time for groups that want to maximize island time.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Caja de Muertos?
Peak Season (December – April)
The driest months with calm Caribbean seas and excellent snorkeling visibility (60–100 feet). Sea turtle sightings are consistent year-round. The lighthouse hike is more comfortable in the cooler winter months. Book 2–3 weeks in advance during holiday periods.
Off-Peak Season (May – November)
Warmer water (82–85°F), virtually empty beaches, and excellent sea turtle activity (nesting season is April–November). Afternoon rain showers are possible but usually brief. The southern coast is more sheltered than the north, so crossings remain comfortable.
Pro tip: Visit during sea turtle nesting season (April–November) for the best chance of seeing turtles on the beach and in the water.
Caja de Muertos — Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the lighthouse hike?
The trail to Faro de Caja de Muertos is moderate — approximately 30 minutes each way with some elevation gain through dry coastal forest. The path is well-marked but exposed to sun with little shade. Bring water, wear closed-toe shoes, and start early before the midday heat. Children ages 6+ can manage the hike with breaks.
Can I go inside the lighthouse?
The exterior and grounds of Faro de Caja de Muertos have been restored and are accessible. Interior access varies — the lighthouse is occasionally open for visitors, but this depends on DRNA staffing. Even without interior access, the hilltop location provides stunning 360° panoramic views of the Caribbean and Puerto Rico's southern coast.
Do I need a permit to visit Caja de Muertos?
Caja de Muertos is a protected nature reserve managed by the DRNA (Departamento de Recursos Naturales y Ambientales). A visit permit may be required depending on the season and group size. Charter operators familiar with the island typically handle permit arrangements as part of the trip — confirm this when booking.
Book Your Caja de Muertos Day Trip
Discover Puerto Rico's hidden island gem — pristine beaches, a 19th-century lighthouse, sea turtles, and some of the clearest snorkeling water in the Caribbean. Charter from Ponce for a day trip you won't find in any guidebook.