Top 10 Liveaboard Marinas in Puerto Rico: Your Guide to Waterfront Living

Puerto Rico is known as “Isla del Encanto” (Island of Enchantment), with the island overflowing with tropical beauty, historic treasures like Old San Juan, and world-class marinas. The liveaboard marinas in Puerto Rico offer front-row access to everything that makes the Caribbean special. The island benefits from warm tropical weather year-round, calm waters, and beautiful islands to visit, with temperatures averaging near 85°F in lower elevations.

Because of its US affiliation, you’ve got all the creature comforts and supplies a boater could need, plus easy access to the paradisiacal islands of Vieques and Culebra, with the Virgin Islands just a short sail away. The island sits between the Atlantic Ocean on its northern and eastern shores and the Caribbean Sea on the southern and western coasts, creating diverse cruising grounds for every preference.

Table of Contents

• Safe Harbor Puerto Del Rey – Fajardo, PR
• San Juan Bay Marina – San Juan, PR
• The Yacht Club Marina – Humacao, PR
• Club Náutico de San Juan – San Juan, PR
• Marina Pescadería – Cabo Rojo, PR
• Marina Puerto Real – Cabo Rojo, PR
• Villa Pesquera – Ponce, PR
• Marina de Salinas – Salinas, PR
• Marina Boquerón – Cabo Rojo, PR
• Marina Puerto Chico – Fajardo, PR
• Your Perfect Floating Home in Paradise
• FAQs – Liveaboard Marinas in Puerto Rico

Safe Harbor Puerto Del Rey – Fajardo, PR

When you’re shopping around for a place to call home in Puerto Rico, Safe Harbor Puerto Del Rey in Fajardo deserves serious consideration as the Caribbean’s largest marina. Think of it as the ultimate basecamp for cruisers – it’s got everything you need and then some.

The sheer capacity here is impressive, with over 1,200 wet slips that can handle vessels up to 180 feet. There’s also more than 400 drystack spaces spread across 50 acres. The marina sits in a naturally protected bay with a massive breakwater that’s been keeping boats safe through storms for over 25 years.

You’re perfectly positioned on Puerto Rico’s northeastern coast with direct access to both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The Spanish Virgin Islands, Vieques, and Culebra are practically in your backyard.

Pros:

• Full liveaboard facilities including concierge service, laundry, gym, business center, free WiFi, and cable TV
• On-site convenience store, marine store, restaurants, and car rental
• Full-service boatyard with 165-ton haul-out capability and repair contractors on-site
• Golf cart shuttle service throughout the massive facility
• Backup 1500kw generator for reliable power

Cons:

• No pool facilities
• The marina’s size can feel overwhelming initially
• Higher pricing is typical of premium full-service marinas

San Juan Bay Marina – San Juan, PR

If you’re looking to blend the liveaboard lifestyle with easy access to urban conveniences, San Juan Bay Marina sits right in the heart of the Caribbean’s most vibrant capital city. You’re just five minutes from the historic Old San Juan district with its colorful colonial architecture, Fort San Felipe del Morro, and vibrant shops and restaurants. It’s like having the best of both worlds – your floating home in a secure harbor and the pulse of city life at your doorstep.

The marina has been providing service for over 60 years and can accommodate yachts up to 250 feet at their T-dock. With around 125 slips total, it’s considerably smaller than some of the mega-facilities on the island, which gives it a more intimate feel. It’s also an official port of entry with US Customs and Immigration on-site, making it super convenient for international arrivals.

The location really can’t be beat. You’ve got quick access to supermarkets, pharmacies, banks, and restaurants, and both Fernando Ribas Dominicci Airport and Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport are nearby. They offer ultra-low sulfur fuel at some of the best prices in the Northern Caribbean, available right at your berth.

Pros:

• Prime location in San Juan Harbor with easy access to Old San Juan’s attractions
• The only marina in the metropolitan area with haul facilities up to 65 feet and dry stack capability
• Competitive fuel prices with in-slip diesel service
• Walking distance to restaurants, shops, and cultural sites

Cons:

• Facilities show age, with maintenance issues reported in bathrooms and showers
• No laundry facilities available despite online listings
• Strong currents make arrivals challenging in windy conditions## SunBay Marina – Fajardo, PR

SunBay Marina is a full-service facility in Fajardo with 282 slips offering 110 and 220-volt shore power. They can accommodate vessels from 15 to 250 feet with a 14-foot dock depth, making it a solid option for liveaboards who want good amenities without the overwhelming scale of some mega-marinas. The facility sits in the heart of one of Fajardo’s most developed waterfront stretches, so you’re not isolated, but you’re also not dealing with the chaos of Old San Juan.

The marina provides 24-hour security, which is something I never take for granted when considering a long-term stay. They’ve got clean restrooms and showers, a fuel and gas station, laundry facilities, ice, a convenience store, cable TV, wireless internet, and sewage pump-out service. There’s also an on-site marine store, plus numerous additional marine stores nearby for when you need parts or gear.

The staff here is known for being friendly and helpful, though you’ll find mixed reviews about management. The marina’s location means you’ve got easy access to a variety of dining options, shopping opportunities, including boutiques and markets, and vibrant nightlife when you’re in the mood. They also offer car rentals at reasonable prices, which is handy since you’ll likely want to explore beyond the marina.

Pros:

• 282 slips with full power hookups and comprehensive amenities, including laundry and WiFi
• 24-hour security provides peace of mind for long-term stays
• Affordable pricing compared to other Fajardo marinas
• Very clean bathroom facilities and good boat care

Cons:

• Some complaints about management style and customer service
• Smaller than Puerto Del Rey with fewer on-site services
• Downtown Fajardo itself has limited nightlife and entertainment options

The Yacht Club Marina – Humacao, PR

The Yacht Club Marina is the only state-of-the-art marina in Puerto Rico that’s linked to a complete resort community – the renowned Palmas del Mar. If you’re looking for a family-friendly liveaboard experience where your boat slip comes with access to golf courses, restaurants, and resort amenities, this could be your sweet spot. The marina has 162 slips and explicitly allows liveaboards, accommodating vessels up to 175 feet.

What sets this place apart is the resort integration. You’ll find a beautiful pool, full concrete docks, an on-site seafood restaurant called Ladi’s, a boutique called Coco’s at The Yacht Club, a chandlery store, a business center, and laundry facilities. They provide complimentary golf cart transportation from your vehicle to your vessel, which is a nice touch when you’re hauling provisions. Security is taken seriously with 24/7 coverage, including a manned gate at the resort entrance, a manned marina gate at night, and full staff during the day.

The location offers easy access to great fishing, sailing, and cruising – you’re only 15 miles to Vieques, 25 miles to Culebra, 37 miles to the US Virgin Islands, and 60 miles to the British Virgin Islands. The staff here gets consistently praised for being friendly and professional, with many cruisers returning season after season.

Pros:

• Unique resort integration with golf courses, restaurants, and family activities
• Comprehensive security with gated resort and marina access
• Excellent staff service with complimentary golf cart transport and pump-out service
• Family-oriented environment in a relaxed, secure setting

Cons:

• Some infrastructure is still showing damage from Hurricane Maria, including pool maintenance issues
• Reports of strong swell conditions that can stress dock lines
• Premium pricing reflects resort amenities

Related: Top 9 Liveaboard Marinas in Mississippi

Club Náutico de San Juan – San Juan, PR

Established in 1930, Club Náutico de San Juan offers the prestige and outstanding service that comes from nearly a century of tradition. With its unique ambiance reminiscent of a traditional European yacht club, this marina stands as an outstanding landmark in San Juan. If you’re looking for a premium liveaboard experience with a touch of old-world elegance, this could be your spot.

The marina features 117 wet slips accommodating vessels from 30 to 250 feet in the crystalline waters of San Antonio Channel and San Juan Bay. They offer 24-hour guarded security, controlled automobile access with key access to docks, giving you serious peace of mind. Power options include 120, 240, and 480-volt capacity with premium ultra-low sulfur fuels by PUMA available with in-slip diesel service.

The location can’t be beat if you want urban access. You’ve got quick access to supermarkets, pharmacies, banks, restaurants, and amenities. From the marina, you can easily reach Playa El Escambrón and Old San Juan’s historic landmarks, including Castillo de San Cristóbal – the largest Spanish fort in the Americas. The fashionable Condado neighborhood is nearby, lined with world-famous boutiques, fine dining restaurants, and beachfront casino hotels.

The club has a rich history of hosting thrilling regattas and prestigious fishing tournaments, with a historic clubhouse that serves as a symbol of maritime heritage. They also offer excellent options for corporate meetings, seminars, and private gatherings, making it a social hub as much as a marina.

Pros:

• Nearly a century of tradition and prestige since 1930
• Comprehensive security with 24-hour guards and controlled access
• Premium in-slip diesel service and multiple power options up to 480 volts
• Prime location for Old San Juan attractions and vibrant city life

Cons:

• Premium pricing reflects the prestige and location
• Only 117 slips means availability can be limited
• Urban setting means less of the peaceful, remote marina feel

Marina Pescadería – Cabo Rojo, PR

Located on Puerto Real Bay in Cabo Rojo, Marina Pescadería sits in a beautiful, well-protected bay where your boat barely moves in the slip. If you’re a fishing enthusiast looking for a liveaboard spot on Puerto Rico’s west coast, this is your gateway to some world-class waters. The area’s known for marlin fishing expeditions at renowned locations like El Pichincho and Isla Desecheo.

The marina has 97 slips with depths up to 9 feet, all equipped with dock boxes and electricity up to 100 amps. They’ve got a diesel and gasoline service station with pumpout on the center dock. The marina is now a Blue Flag certified facility and serves as an official US Port of Entry as part of the CBP ROAM program, so you can handle customs right there instead of traveling to Mayaguez.

What really makes this place special is the service. Jose, the general manager, and his staff provide exceptional customer service – meeting boats at the dock, helping with lines, and coordinating marine technicians for engine work, electronics, rigging, and more. They’ll even accept Amazon packages before you arrive, and Jose is a certified West Marine dealer who can order what you need.

The liveaboard community here is friendly and welcoming, meeting up at the on-site bar every Monday when it’s otherwise closed. Within 20 minutes, you’ve got access to Sam’s Club, Walmart, Home Depot, pharmacies, and banks.

Pros:

• Prime location for world-class fishing at Pichincho, Desecheo Island, and Mona Island
• Outstanding customer service from Jose and staff – the best many cruisers have experienced
• Blue Flag certification and official US Port of Entry status
• On-site restaurant, bar, mini market, fishing/diving shops, and boat electronics

Cons:

• A 9-foot depth may limit larger deep-draft vessels
• Not a flashy resort-style marina – more service-based and simple
• A remote west coast location means longer drives to major cities

Marina Puerto Real – Cabo Rojo, PR

Marina Puerto Real is the Blue Flag-certified, full-service marina on Puerto Rico’s west coast in Cabo Rojo. Formerly known as Marina Pescadería, this facility sits in the same well-protected Puerto Real Bay location that’s made it popular with liveaboards seeking a serene west coast environment. The marina holds Blue Flag certification and serves as an official US Port of Entry through the CBP ROAM program.

The marina has 97 slips with liveaboard access and power options, including 30A, 50A, and 100A hookups. The entrance channel has depths between 15-20 feet, with the bay itself at 10-15 feet leading to the marina. As part of their full-service offering, they provide personalized concierge services to help with everything from provisioning to exploring the west and south coasts.

The marina features security gates on all docks with a security guard at night, plus an on-site restaurant called A Tu Gusto and a fresh fish market. Several big grocery stores are just 15 minutes away by car, and there’s a good bakery less than a mile from the marina. Cruisers rave about having the cheapest laundry facilities in the entire eastern Caribbean.

The location gives you access to pristine beaches and incredible cruising grounds. You can explore Combate and Boquerón Beaches, the cays at La Parguera, and launch fishing expeditions to El Pichincho and Isla Desecheo. It’s also perfectly positioned for those planning to cross the Mona Channel to the Dominican Republic.

Pros:

• Blue Flag certification demonstrating environmental and quality standards
• Official US Port of Entry – handle customs on-site
• Exceptional value with the best laundry prices in the Eastern Caribbean
• Well-protected bay in a relaxed fishing village atmosphere

Cons:

• Shallow entrance (15-20 feet) requires a careful approach
• West coast location means longer travel to San Juan
• Smaller facility with limited slips compared to East Coast marinas

Related: Top 7 Liveaboard Marinas in South Carolina

Villa Pesquera – Ponce, PR

Villa Pesquera is a seafront fishing village in the barrio Playa in the municipality of Ponce, reorganized and inaugurated in 1992. This isn’t your typical full-service marina – it’s an authentic fishing village experience that offers boat slip rentals for those seeking a rustic, community-oriented liveaboard lifestyle. The facilities are owned by the Municipality of Ponce but operated by the fishermen themselves.

Located on Puerto Rico’s southern Caribbean Sea shores on Avenida Padre Noel in barrio Playa, this spot offers something completely different from the polished resort marinas elsewhere on the island. The village features a boardwalk as part of its docking facilities, which was reconstructed in 2013. You’ll be docking alongside local fishing boats in an area that’s maintained its working waterfront character.

Nearby, Ponce is known as the “Pearl of the South” – a major cosmopolitan and cultural hub with architecturally rich districts and several museums worth exploring. The village itself has become one of the tourist attractions in Ponce, with local restaurants serving fresh seafood right off the boats. It’s worth noting that the area has experienced sediment problems requiring dredging projects, which have affected depths in parts of the harbor.

This is ideal for liveaboards who want to immerse themselves in authentic Puerto Rican fishing culture rather than living in a conventional marina setting. You’ll be part of a tight-knit community of working fishermen, experiencing the island’s maritime traditions firsthand.

Pros:

• Authentic fishing village experience with a genuine local community
• Located in Ponce, a major cultural hub on the south coast
• Rustic, affordable alternative to resort-style marinas
• Boardwalk facilities and tourist-friendly atmosphere

Cons:

• Ongoing sediment and depth issues requiring dredging
• Limited amenities compared to full-service marinas
• Fishermen-operated facility may have less predictable services
• Not ideal for those seeking resort-style amenities

Marina de Salinas – Salinas, PR

Located on Puerto Rico’s southern coast, Marina de Salinas lies in a bay of the Caribbean Sea protected by a natural barrier of keys and mangroves that create a unique maritime-terrestrial landscape. If you’re after tranquility, this is your spot. The marina has 103 slips in a well-protected bay lined with mangroves, and many sailors use this bay as a “hurricane hole”.

The facility has been fully renovated and is trained to accommodate over 100 vessels. You’ll find a newly renovated 32-room Marina Hotel on-site with single, double, balcony, and master suites, all fully equipped with air conditioning, mini refrigerators, cable TV, free WiFi, and access to the swimming pool. They also have a snack bar and restaurant serving international cuisine. The Marina Restaurant offers exquisite Caribbean cuisine with waterfront views, while the Jalan Sunset Bar features live music by local island musicians and bands.

The marina has depths of about 6.5 feet, so deeper draft vessels should check ahead. One thing to note is that on weekends, you might experience noise from motorboats and jet skis passing by. However, for liveaboards seeking a peaceful atmosphere most of the time, this protected bay offers excellent security.

Salinas itself is known for its beautiful mangrove cays and excellent harbors. The area has a relaxed, low-key vibe that’s perfect for cruisers who want to escape the busier East Coast scene while still having access to good facilities.

Pros:

• Well-protected bay considered a “hurricane hole” by many sailors
• Newly renovated facilities, including a hotel, restaurant, and pool
• Natural mangrove and key barriers create a beautiful, serene setting
• On-site restaurant with Caribbean cuisine and sunset bar with live music

Cons:

• Shallow 6.5-foot depth limits larger vessels
• Weekend noise from passing motorboats and jet skis
• Limited maneuvering room at the fuel dock for larger boats
• More remote southern coast location

Marina Boquerón – Cabo Rojo, PR

Marina Boquerón, also known as Club Náutico de Boquerón, sits in the laid-back village of Boquerón within Cabo Rojo on the southwest coast. The village hugs a gorgeous crescent-shaped coastline that shelters one of Puerto Rico’s best beaches, with a pretty marina and fantastic dive sites. If you’re looking for picturesque surroundings with a relaxed vibe, this spot delivers.

Boquerón Bay has two entry points – Canal Sur to the south (marked by a flashing green light and offering the deeper passage) and Canal Norte to the north. A large shoal called Bajo Emmedio sits in the center of Boquerón Bay, and you can anchor behind it for protection with depths around seven feet. Fuel is available in the northwestern corner through Capitol Gasoline (sometimes reachable on VHF Channel 68), though you’ll need to arrange this ahead of time with Club Náutico de Boquerón.

The village itself has real character. You’ll find the main street and waterfront boulevard, Poblado de Boquerón, lined with rustic restaurants in wooden shacks, street food stalls under brightly colored umbrellas, and atmospheric evening bars and clubs. The local Boquerón Beach has been awarded Blue Flag Beach status and is rated as one of the best on the island.

Nearby attractions include the iconic Cabo Rojo Lighthouse with breathtaking coastal views, the pristine Playa Sucia beach, and the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge. La Parguera in nearby Lajas has one of the few remaining bioluminescent bays in the world.

Pros:

• Stunning crescent-shaped coastline with scenic views
• Blue Flag Beach status beach – one of Puerto Rico’s best
• Charming village atmosphere with rustic restaurants and lively nightlife
• Easy access to natural attractions, including a lighthouse, beaches, and a wildlife refuge

Cons:

• Requires careful navigation due to shallow shoals in the bay
• Fuel arrangements must be coordinated ahead through a third party
• Limited marina infrastructure compared to full-service facilities
• A small marina size may limit availability

Marina Puerto Chico – Fajardo, PR

Marina Puerto Chico is a small marina in Fajardo – hence the name “chico” (small in Spanish) – but it’s an excellent facility. It’s part of the Grand Caribbean Marinas group located on Sardinera Bay at State Road 987 km 24. If you want a welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere without the overwhelming scale of Puerto Del Rey, this could be your sweet spot.

The marina is very comfortable and safe, with a restaurant on-site plus showers and laundry facilities. Amenities include boat repair services, a fuel dock, and dining options, making it a convenient stop for boaters. As part of Grand Caribbean Marinas, you also have access to two boatyards offering repair facilities, a slipway, and travelifts. The location puts you close to some of the best island-hopping in Puerto Rico.

The marina is close to Palomino Island and Cayo Icacos, and you’ll find charter and tour businesses running trips out of Puerto Chico. On land, you’ve got a couple of good restaurants nearby, including Pasión por el Fogón and Pescadería Don Candi. The facilities also offer kayaking tours to the bioluminescent bay, snorkeling, and beach exploration.

Marina Puerto Chico is known for its care in protecting your yacht from harsh weather and has solid ratings among boaters. The friendly atmosphere here makes it feel more like a community than just a place to dock your boat. It’s that middle ground between the intimate fishing village marinas and the massive resort-style facilities – professional service with a personal touch.

Pros:

• Comfortable, safe marina with a friendly, welcoming environment
• Access to Grand Caribbean Marinas’ facilities, including two boatyards and travelifts
• Prime location near Palomino Island and Cayo Icacos for island-hopping
• On-site restaurant, showers, and laundry facilities

Cons:

• A smaller size means limited slip availability
• Fewer amenities compared to mega-marinas like Puerto Del Rey
• Only one or two other marinas are in the immediate area
• Can get busy on weekends with charter operations

Your Perfect Floating Home in Paradise

Choosing the right liveaboard marina in Puerto Rico depends on your priorities. The east coast marinas – Puerto Del Rey, SunBay, and Puerto Chico – offer excellent access to the Spanish Virgin Islands and island-hopping adventures to Vieques and Culebra. South coast options like Marina de Salinas provide tranquil, protected waters with authentic Puerto Rican character. West coast facilities in Cabo Rojo deliver world-class fishing access, while San Juan locations put you in the heart of cultural attractions.

Consider your budget, required amenities, and hurricane protection when making your decision. Premium marinas offer comprehensive services, while smaller facilities provide excellent value and community atmosphere. The tropical climate means year-round cruising, and US status keeps logistics simple. Visit a few marinas, talk to the liveaboard communities already there, and you’ll discover your ideal spot to call home.

FAQs – Liveaboard Marinas in Puerto Rico