The Ballestas Islands, a stunning wildlife encounter at sea.
Just outside the sheltered waters of Paracas Bay, the unassuming rocky islets of the Ballestas Islands offer some of the richest wildlife encounters on Peru’s coast. They can be reached by shared boats, private boats or chartered yachts.
This is the classic shared departure for guests who want the essential Ballestas experience in a concise morning. The route begins from a private pier in Paracas, pauses for the Candelabro, then continues around the islands for sea lions, Humboldt penguins and guano birds.
It is the most direct way to see the wildlife without turning the morning into a production. We recommend it for travelers who want a polished shared excursion with easy pier-side logistics.
Private premium boats make the wildlife feel less rushed, with more room for timing, comfort and the mood of the sea.
For guests who want privacy without moving all the way into yacht territory, the premium motorboat is the sweet spot. The experience begins privately from a Paracas pier, with a more comfortable vessel designed for bay exploration and a fuller Ballestas ride.
The boat includes ten seats, a sun deck at the bow, an indoor relax area, restroom, removable awning and a trained captain in constant radio communication. It gives families and small groups more space, flexibility and control over the rhythm of the morning.
The yacht changes the tone entirely: the same protected islands, but with privacy, drinks, seafood bites and a slower sense of occasion.
The luxury yacht is the most exclusive way to visit the Candelabro and the Ballestas Islands. The route keeps the essential wildlife encounter but changes the atmosphere: more privacy, more space, and a gentler pace as the desert cliffs and island life move past.
The vessel is a Sea Ray 52 Sedan Bridge, a 52 foot long vessel with a more gracious sense of scale for the bay. On board, guests can enjoy a welcome drink, wine, beer, soft drinks and light seafood-based dishes, with chef and bartender service included.
A private two-hour experience by premium motorboat to Atenas Beach, with an explanation of scallop collection and a natural scallop tasting on board.
Champagne Bites
A two-hour yacht cruise around Paracas Bay toward the Candelabro, focused on scenery, sparkling wine, seafood bites and an easy social atmosphere rather than a full Ballestas landing route.
Yacht Full Day
A six-hour yacht journey around Paracas, usually including the Candelabro, Ballestas Islands, Blanca Island and Paracas Bay, with drinks, seafood-based bites, chef and bartender service.
The yacht and Candelabro together: the most elegant expression of Paracas by water, with desert, geoglyph and Pacific held in one frame.
Privately Arranged
The right boat depends on sea conditions, privacy, timing and the kind of morning you want to remember. We help choose the version that fits your pace and comfort.
