Arusun Catamaran Sail with Snorkeling in Aruba

If you’re considering a way to see Aruba’s coast from a different angle, this Arusun catamaran cruise might just be your ticket. With glowing reviews and a reputation as a friendly, fun-filled experience, it offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and spectacular scenery that appeals to many travelers. We love how the ship’s spacious design ensures comfort and space to unwind, and the inclusion of snorkeling at top sites like the Antilla Shipwreck elevates it beyond a simple boat ride. That said, if you’re after a peaceful, quiet cruise with little noise and no music, this isn’t your ideal choice — loud party vibes are part of the package.

This trip caters well to those who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere mixed with natural beauty. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want easy access to snorkeling equipment, good value for drinks and snacks, and a crew that’s genuinely friendly. Ideal if you’re a small-group enthusiast or cruise passenger looking for an engaging way to explore Aruba’s waters, it’s a well-rated, dependable option.

Key Points

• Spacious and Comfortable: The 65-foot catamaran offers plenty of room for up to 35 guests, with shaded seating and nets for lounging.
• Snorkeling at Top Sites: Stops at Antilla Shipwreck and Catalina Bay promise memorable marine life encounters, including sea turtles and vibrant fish.
• All-Inclusive Drinks and Snacks: An open bar featuring whisky, rum, vodka, juices, soda, and water, plus snacks, provide great value.
• Friendly and Knowledgeable Crew: Reviews consistently highlight the crew’s professionalism, friendliness, and sense of humor.
• Flexible Booking and Easy Check-In: Confirmations are immediate, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Ideal for Small Groups and Cruise Passengers: The intimate setting with fewer than 35 guests creates a semi-private vibe, perfect for those wanting personalized service.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Booking and Meeting Point

Starting at the Aruba Watersports Center in Palm Beach, the process is straightforward. You check in and then hop onto a zodiac boat that whisks you to the larger catamaran. This short transfer adds a little adventure right from the start, especially if you’re arriving by cruise ship or local accommodation nearby.

The Vessel: Spacious and Well-Designed

The Arusun is a 65-foot (approximately 20 meters) vessel designed to maximize comfort. Its size means there’s plenty of space for everyone, whether you prefer to soak up the sun, relax in the shade, or lie on the nets up front. Many reviews emphasize how the boat feels uncrowded, often with fewer than 20 guests, sometimes even fewer, giving it a semi-private feel.

The Itinerary: Snorkeling at Aruba’s Best Spots

The cruise typically includes two snorkeling stops. First, at the Antilla Shipwreck, a site known for its intriguing sunken vessel teeming with marine life. Many reviewers highlight how impressive the wreck looks underwater, with some noting the presence of sea turtles and colorful fish. One guest mentioned, “the second stop had a bunch of sea turtles—impressed!” which underscores why this site remains popular.

The second stop is at Catalina Bay, offering calmer waters and more marine life. It’s an ideal spot for those who want to relax and explore coral and fish at a leisurely pace. Even if conditions aren’t perfect, reviews suggest that snorkeling is still enjoyable and full of surprises. One review states, “even with less-than-ideal conditions, we still managed to see fish and shipwrecks,” showing that the staff is skilled at making the best of the day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The friendly crew is repeatedly praised for their professionalism, humor, and attentiveness. Guests like Sundy_F shared: “the crew was very friendly and interacted with passengers,” making the experience more personal and fun. The crew’s approachability extends to helping with equipment and safety, ensuring everyone feels confident in the water.

Food and Drinks: A Key Highlight

An open bar is a major selling point. Featuring whisky, rum, vodka, juices, soda, and water, it keeps guests refreshed throughout the cruise. Many reviews emphasize how the drinks were not watered down, and the snacks—such as wraps and fruit—are appreciated for their quality and variety. One guest said, “The drinks weren’t watered down and the snacks were really good wraps.” It’s a good value for the price, especially considering the inclusive nature of the drinks and snacks.

Overall Duration and Group Size

The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes—a comfortable length that offers enough time for sailing and snorkeling without feeling rushed. The maximum group size is 35, which is small enough for personalized attention but large enough to foster a lively atmosphere. Many guests appreciated the smaller group setting during reviews, which enhanced their overall experience.

What to Expect in Terms Comfort and Safety

Guides are attentive and safety-conscious, providing clear instructions and equipment assistance. The boat has shaded seating, so you can opt for a cool spot or bask in the sun. The nets at the front are a favorite among guests for sunbathing and relaxing, making the cruise both fun and restful.

The Pros and Cons

The Advantages

• Excellent value for money: With snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and a friendly crew included, it’s hard to beat the price.
• Small-group intimacy: Many rave about the personalized service and relaxed atmosphere, especially when groups are small.
• Spectacular snorkeling sites: Shipwrecks and bays loaded with marine life make for a memorable underwater experience.
• Lively, friendly crew: Reviews highlight crew members’ humor and attentiveness, making everyone feel welcome.

Considerations to Keep in Mind

• Party atmosphere: If you’re looking for a tranquil, quiet cruise, the lively music and social vibe might not be your ideal setting.
• Weather dependency: As with all outdoor water activities, weather can impact the experience. If conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled.
• Limited mobility: The review mentions that the snorkeling spots involve some currents and shallow depths, so it might not suit people with limited mobility or small children.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, social outing with plenty of opportunities to snorkel at Aruba’s top spots. It’s especially good for those who appreciate good value, friendly service, and a lively atmosphere. If you’re a cruise passenger or part of a small group seeking an engaging marine adventure, you’re likely to find plenty to love here.

It’s less suited for those seeking peace and quiet, a private charter, or a very family-oriented experience with small children or mobility concerns. Still, the positive reviews suggest that most guests come away feeling they’ve had a fun, memorable day on the water.

The Sum Up

The Arusun Catamaran Sail with Snorkeling in Aruba offers a well-rounded experience that combines the natural beauty of Aruba’s waters with the camaraderie of a friendly crew. Its spacious design, excellent snorkeling sites, and inclusive drinks and snacks make it a solid investment for anyone looking to enjoy the ocean from an insider’s perspective.

The consistent praise for the crew’s professionalism and humor helps set this tour apart, ensuring that both adventure seekers and laid-back travelers feel well taken care of. While it’s lively and social, that’s part of the charm—perfect for those who enjoy a bit of a party atmosphere with their marine exploration.

If you love snorkeling, good company, and a good value, this cruise is likely to be a highlight of your Aruba trip. Just remember to bring sunscreen, and you’ll leave with great memories of sun, sea, and camaraderie.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to meet at the Aruba Watersports Center in Palm Beach.

What is the total duration of the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, including time for sailing and snorkeling.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of 35 travelers can join this tour, often resulting in a semi-private, relaxed experience.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, all snorkel gear is included. The crew helps with equipment and safety instructions.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, there are snacks and an open bar offering whisky, rum, vodka, juices, soda, and water.

Can I choose a morning or afternoon departure?
Yes, depending on the schedule, you can select a time that best fits your plans.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While children are welcome, the tour involves some water activities that may not be suitable for very young or mobility-limited travelers.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. In case of poor conditions, the activity may be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund possible if canceled.

How do I confirm my booking?
Booking confirmation is immediate upon reservation, and you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled time.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from the Aruba Arusun Catamaran Snorkeling Tour. We believe it offers fantastic value and memorable experiences for those eager to explore Aruba’s waters in a lively, friendly setting.