The Most Unique Spots in the Caribbean Only Accessible By Boat

From vibrant colors and scenic landscapes to majestic wildlife and historical landmarks, the Caribbean is filled with post-card worthy views - some that can only be reached via boat. These locations attract thousands of travelers every year, and for a good reason. You will have the opportunity to take incredible photos that embody everything that the Caribbean has to offer and immerse yourself in the culture. Since the Caribbean consists of 7,000+ islands, narrowing down where to go can be challenging. Check out our collection of one-of-a-kind destinations that are only accessible by boat to inspire your Caribbean travels.

1. Pig Beach, Bahamas

At the top of our list is Pig Island Beach - an uninhabited island located in the Exumas home to the famous swimming pigs. Interestingly enough, no one is quite sure how the pigs ended up on Pig Island Beach. Some believe that sailors left them there, while others say the pigs swam to the island from a nearby shipwreck. A visit to Pig Beach is a bucket list experience for many travelers and, of course, is one of the most Instagram-able spots in the Bahamas. Enjoy feeding and swimming with these adorable animals in the crystal clear waters of the Exumas. With Getmyboat, you can easily book a private cruise with a captain who can bring you to this amazing location since it’s only accessible by boat.

2. Compass Cay, Exuma

On the way to Pig Beach, some of our charters stop at Compass Cay, a famed location in the Bahamas where you have the opportunity to swim with docile nurse sharks. Compass Cay Marina owners refer to the nurse sharks as their pet sharks. Nurse sharks can live up to 25 years, and a grown adult shark can grow up to 10-feet long and weigh anywhere from 200-300 pounds. After a dip in the water with these incredible animals, you can soak up the sun on the white sand beach or go for a swim in the turquoise waters. Looking to keep the excitement going? Grab some snorkel gear and explore the coastal area to see wildlife in their natural habitat. The pristine water and high visibility make Compass Cay an excellent spot for snorkeling. Don’t miss out on this popular attraction that over 5 million tourists visit each year.

3. La Famillie Express Shipwreck, Turks & Caicos

La Famille Express is a historical landmark located in Turks and Caicos, about miles off Long Bay Beach. This grounded shipwreck is easily accessible by boat or jet ski and possible to get to by experienced kayakers and paddle boarders as well. This historical landmark traces back to the Soviet Union in 1953, where it started as an oil rig service ship. In 1999, the vessel was acquired by Panama and renamed La Famille Express. In 2004, Hurricane Frances caused the boat to drift into the Caicos Banks, where it has been permanently stranded since. Tourists can come to this hot spot and enjoy diving around the shipwreck or jumping off the boat, which is about 25-ft high.

4. Bioluminescent Bays in Puerto Rico

Did you know that sometimes water glows in the dark? In Puerto Rico, the phenomenon of bioluminescence can be observed in several bays in different locations around the island. Bioluminescence is caused by dinoflagellates, single-celled organisms that are essentially glow-in-the-dark algae. These tiny organisms can be found in high quantities in these bays, making it possible to see their glowing effect. There are several bioluminescent bays around Puerto Rico, and the best way to see them is on tour by watercraft.

Rent a kayak and paddle through the glowing waters of Laguna Grande in Fajardo at night. Take a boat to La Parguera, the only bioluminescent bay that motorized boats can enter. This one is located in the southwest corner of Puerto Rico in Lajas. Exploring these incredible glowing waters is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, one not to be missed if you're exploring Puerto Rico.

5. Pace Picnic Island, Miami

Welcome to Miami! Your first stop should be a boat trip to Pace Picnic Island. Pace Picnic Island is a part of a small group of uninhabited islands in Biscayne Bay. Boaters come here to cool off at the sandbar and lounge on the white-sand beaches. Pace Picnic Island is accessible by boat and jet ski, and Getmyboat has you covered with plenty of rental options in the area. Plus, you'll get incredible views of the Miami skyline from the bay. If you’re looking for a day on the water in Miami to relax and enjoy the Florida sun, Pace Picnic Island is your go-to spot.

6. Rendezvous Bay, Montserrate

Rendezvous Bay is one of the best-kept secrets in Montserrate and the island’s only white sand beach. The island is known for its pristine coral reef, exceptional wildlife, and the Soufriere Hills volcano. The sparkling turquoise waters make for a remarkable snorkel or dive experience. After exploring beneath the surface, you can relax and sunbathe under the towering cliffs that line the beach. For an added adventure, visit the Bat Cave, home to a colony of Antillean bats. The Bat Cave consists of two caves, one that holds the female bat and their offspring and the other that keeps the male bats. If you’re lucky, you may even see some bats flying around from the bay! If you’re interested in getting a better view of the volcano, the island has a few vantage points such as Bay Hill, Montserrat Volcano Observatory, and Garibaldi Hill. Since the island has no facilities, we recommend bringing your own food and drinks. The remote island is only reachable via boat, so be sure to check out what boat rentals are available at Getmyboat. Nature lovers need to add this stop to their Caribbean itinerary.

7. Watermelon Cay, St John

Watermelon Cay is a breathtaking snorkel destination in St. John that needs to be added to your bucket list. This location attracts so many travelers due to the diverse marine life and tropical backdrops. The island is said to be one of the most picturesque spots in St. John. Watermelon Cay is situated in the middle of a gorgeous coral reef, so snorkeling is a must! If you’re lucky, you can see turtles, stingrays, conch, starfish, and so much more. This iconic island is only accessible by boat, which is no problem thanks to Getmyboat. If you’re an avid snorkeler, you do not want to miss out on this snorkel destination.

8. Caves of Norman Island, St Johns

Craving an adventure? Head to the Norman Island Caves - a world-famous snorkeling destination on the British Virgin Island. Legend has it that pirates buried their treasure inside the Caves of Normal Island. The uninhabited island is also said to be the inspiration for the well-known book Treasure Island. Since this location is only accessible by boat, we recommend hiring a private charter so that the captain can take care of the navigation and logistics of the trip. The calm, crystal clear waters make this the perfect place for snorkeling. There are a series of three caves that you can explore. Be on the lookout for aquatic life such as tropical fish, coral, turtles, and stingrays. After you’ve built up an appetite, you can head over to the floating restaurant and bar, The Willy T, for lunch and drinks. Don’t miss your chance to go snorkeling in one of the most popular spot in the Caribbean.

Book Your Caribbean Boat Adventure Today

Prepare to experience some of the Caribbean’s most enchanting islands with our 3,864 boat rentals and water experiences. We’ve got you covered since many hot-spot destinations are only reachable by boat. So grab your camera and swimsuit, and let Getmyboat take care of the rest. Start searching for the perfect aquatic adventure in the Caribbean today!