About Us
La Paseadora del Río Espíritu Santo is a family-operated boat tour that offers an intimate journey along the Espíritu Santo River Natural Reserve in Río Grande, Puerto Rico. This is a truly unique experience, as the Espíritu Santo River holds the distinction of being the only navigable river in Puerto Rico.”La Paseadora” provides a tranquil and educational adventure for the whole family.
Each boat can accommodate up to 15 people, and with two boats available, they can host a good number of visitors while maintaining a personal feel. The tours, which typically last around 1.75 to 2 hours, allow guests to immerse themselves in the rich flora and fauna of this natural reserve. Guides share insights into the local ecosystem, along with captivating stories and legends of the region.The family business has been operating for many years, offering a special perspective on this natural treasure.
The Espíritu Santo River is born in El Yunque and flows into the Atlantic Ocean, and the reserve protects a vital part of its journey. This is an excellent option for groups, families, or couples seeking a peaceful and immersive experience in nature.Tours are offered at four different times throughout the day: 9 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM.
Mission
To continue our family legacy by showcasing and preserving Puerto Rico’s only navigable river, located in the Espíritu Santo River natural reserve, through unforgettable experiences for the whole family.
Vision
To become one of Puerto Rico’s most important ecotourism destinations, with accessible facilities so that everyone, regardless of physical limitations, can enjoy the experience of navigating with us.
Values
- Commitment to the client – Every visitor is part of our family.
- Respect for nature – We love and care for our environment.
- Teamwork – Together we achieve more.
- Flexibility and adaptability to change – Always ready to serve better.
- Environmental responsibility – We protect what surrounds us.
- Professionalism – Service with excellence and passion.
- Punctuality – We value our clients’ time.
- Quality in pursuit of excellence – We strive in every detail.
History
The history of “La Paseadora del Río Espíritu Santo” is a heartwarming testament to a family’s deep passion for nature and a legacy that has spanned generations. This venture didn’t begin with a conventional business plan, but rather from the unconditional love for the river by its founder, Juan García.It was sometime between 1970 and 1980 when Juan, while enjoying a fishing trip with a friend, first journeyed along the Espíritu Santo River. Completely captivated by the unique beauty of Puerto Rico’s only navigable river, he fell in love with it, and right there, the idea for a river tour was born.
He spent countless hours exploring every corner of the Espíritu Santo River, learning its depths and its secrets. With his pioneering boat, “La Viticuev,” Juan was the first to offer tours, laying the groundwork for what “La Paseadora” is today. The name “La Viticuev” itself is a special family touch, with Juan choosing the first two letters from the names of his four beloved daughters: Vicky, Tita, Cuca, and Evelyn. From the beginning, these four daughters were an active and crucial part of this family adventure.
Although Juan’s original business had a pause, the flame of his passion never extinguished. It was his daughter, Evelyn García, who decided to rekindle it in 2010. Honoring her father’s legacy, Evelyn resumed the operation of “La Paseadora,” dedicating herself to restoring the unique experience her father had started. Juan had the immense joy of working alongside Evelyn as captain for ten years, witnessing his dream flourish in his daughter’s hands.
Today, the story of “La Paseadora” continues to evolve with the third generation. Evelyn’s son, Juan Oscar Santana García, has proudly joined the operation, bringing new energy and ensuring the family tradition remains vibrantly alive. Alongside his family (Valerie and Jaziel), Oscar helps ensure that the beauty and stories of the Espíritu Santo River continue to be shared with visitors. While Evelyn leads the day-to-day operation, the family support is unwavering. Cuca, with her fabulous stories and poems, remains an essential part of the team, welcoming all staff with her warmth and art. Vicky and Tita also provide their steadfast support at all times, ensuring that the strong family spirit endures. Even Captain Castillo, the García sisters’ first cousin, joins the crew, making it truly a multi-generational family effort.“La Paseadora” is more than just a boat ride; it’s a living family legacy that celebrates a deep, enduring connection with nature, a beautiful testament to three generations of the García family who have dedicated their lives to sharing this natural treasure of Puerto Rico.