If you’re looking for a Caribbean experience like no other, head over to the nearby island of Puerto Rico and explore their magnificent bioluminescent bays. Not only is Puerto Rico just a short jaunt from the U.S. mainland, but no passport is required.
What is a bioluminescent bay?
Imagine the dark, calm waters of a serene bay in the evening, surrounded by lush tropical settings. Suddenly, a splash of the water or even a strong gust of wind seems to light the water on a neon blue fire; the ripple effect it has looks as if hundreds of glow sticks beneath the water’s surface have suddenly switched on, and that seemingly lonely and empty bay is now full of life.
These bays contain microscopic plankton (also known as dinoflagellates) that, when disturbed in any way, will turn an otherwise dark bay into a glow-in-the-dark spectacle with a shimmering color that produces a sight that is quite captivating.
Bioluminescent bays in Puerto Rico
Bioluminescence is a beautiful phenomena that you may encounter in various parts of the world, but there are only five bodies of water that are officially classified as bioluminescent bays, with three of them being in Puerto Rico. One is located in La Parguera, and another is in Laguna Grande. While both of these bioluminescent bays can offer any visitor a memorable experience, don’t skip the third in Mosquito Bay—located on Puerto Rico’s Vieques Island—to experience the brightest bioluminescent bay in the whole world. Although Vieques Island is a somewhat remote island and the lack of noise pollution makes for a much more brighter viewing of the bio bay, you’ll want to time your trip when there’s a new moon, so you can see the glowing plankton in all its glory.
Exploring the bio bays in Puerto Rico
Tours typically offer two options for exploring the bioluminescent bays: you can choose to kayak, or if you’re feeling a little more adventurous, you can choose a tour that allows you to swim instead. The plankton is completely harmless to interact with, so feel free to dive in without worry.
Looking down at the illuminated bio bay is quite a sight that will take your breath away—but when you look up, you’ll also be in awe. On a clear evening in Vieques Island, you’ll be delighted by the endless amount of twinkling stars. When the weather is really cooperating, you’ll spot planets, the Milky Way, orbiting satellites and perhaps even a shooting star (don’t forget to make a wish).
If you’re traveling to Puerto Rico for an anniversary or honeymoon, you’ll see just how romantic the secluded and peaceful Mosquito Bay in Vieques Island is.
Chartering a plane to Vieques Island, Puerto Rico
In addition to seeing the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world, Vieques Island makes a fabulous choice for your next vacation if you’re looking for luxury and isolation.
One way to get to Vieques Island from the main Puerto Rico island is by ferry, but this tends to be time consuming and inconvenient. Instead, fly straight to Antonio Rivera Rodriguez Airport, located directly on Vieques Island.
To learn more about how you can charter a plane to Vieques Island or any other part of Puerto Rico, contact Luxury Aircraft Solutions today!
