Boomerangs Best of Anguilla: Swim with Turtles Adventure

If you’re dreaming of soft sands, crystal-clear waters, and a relaxed Caribbean vibe, this tour promises a full day aboard a spacious catamaran exploring the best of Anguilla. While we haven’t personally set sail with Boomerang Boat Charters, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of a memorable, well-organized experience that many have rated 5 stars. Whether your idea of fun is lounging on powdery beaches, snorkeling among vibrant reefs, or simply soaking up the sun with a drink in hand, this tour hits all those marks.

Two things we love about this trip? First, the variety of stops—each beach and cove offers something different, from turtle sightings at Little Bay to pristine sands at Shoal Bay. Second, the food and drink aspect, with a BBQ lunch and unlimited cocktails, makes it feel like a true Caribbean feast on the water. The only thing to consider is that, as with many boat trips, you’ll want to be comfortable with a full day at sea and a group size that can feel lively but not overwhelming.

This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a balance of adventure and relaxation. Families, couples, or groups of friends who appreciate good food, scenic views, and a lively crew will find plenty to enjoy. It’s less ideal if you’re hoping for an ultra-luxury experience or if you’re not keen on snorkeling or boat travel, but overall, it’s a fantastic way to see Anguilla’s highlights.

Key Points

• Scenic Beaches and Crystal Waters: Discover some of the Caribbean’s most gorgeous beaches with ample time to relax, swim, and snorkel.
• Diverse Stops: Visit four different spots, each offering unique underwater sights, wildlife sightings, and beach atmospheres.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Enjoy an open bar, BBQ lunch, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and snacks—all on a comfortable, stable catamaran.
• Family-Friendly and Fun: Suitable for most travelers, including those with children, thanks to safety gear and flexible activities.
• Authentic Caribbean Vibes: Experience the relaxed island charm, great food, and lively crew that keep the day vibrant.
• Limited Spots, Great Value: With a full 8-hour itinerary for $179, it offers good value considering the variety and inclusions.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off at the Sint Maarten Police Station in Simpson Bay, a location close to public transportation and easy to reach. The meeting time is 8:30 am, giving you plenty of time to get settled and start your day with anticipation. The group typically stays under 55 travelers, making it intimate enough to feel friendly without being crowded.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Little Bay
Accessible only by boat, Little Bay is a quiet, nearly secretive hideaway. This location really shines because of its calm waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities, with a chance to spot turtles—something many reviews highlight as a highlight. It’s also a spot for cliff jumpers and curious explorers, though the main draw is the chance to swim in tranquil waters and enjoy gentle underwater sights. Reviewers mention that the anchorage here is very calm, making it a safe and pleasant first stop.

Stop 2: Shoal Bay
Famous for its powdery white sands and turquoise waters, Shoal Bay is often called one of the Caribbean’s best beaches. Here, the snorkel gear gets pulled out to explore vibrant coral reefs. The calm waters mean swimming is easy, and the scenery is picture-perfect. Several reviews speak highly of the beauty and tranquility of this spot, often describing it as a place you’d gladly spend hours relaxing or snorkeling.

Stop 3: Prickly Pear Cays
A short trip north takes you to these uninhabited islands, which host a couple of restaurants and friendly wildlife. Snorkeling around Prickly Pear offers the chance to see colorful reefs and explore the tiny islands on foot. Some reviews mention that the visit here is a favorite, with quiet, pristine beaches and the opportunity to meet local wildlife.

Stop 4: Meads Bay
The last stop delivers on the promise of one of Anguilla’s most beautiful beaches. The turquoise waters and soft, feather-like sand make it an ideal spot for a relaxed swim or a walk along the shoreline. It’s a fitting end to a day filled with scenic beauty and underwater adventures.

Snorkeling, Water Toys, and Wildlife

Snorkels, paddleboards, floaties, noodles, and a floating lily pad are all included, making it easy to spend hours floating or exploring beneath the surface. Reviewers repeatedly mention the chance to see turtles and colorful fish—that’s a real treat for anyone interested in marine life. Some have noted that snorkeling might not be the highlight for everyone, with a few mentioning that they saw only one turtle or limited fish, but most rave about the clear waters and vibrant reefs.

Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere

The BBQ lunch is a major highlight, featuring jerk and curry chicken skewers, garlic shrimp, Greek pasta salad with feta, and fresh bread. Many reviews comment on how delicious and satisfying the meal is, especially considering it’s served on a boat in the middle of the Caribbean. The open bar keeps the good times flowing, with cocktails, beers, sodas, and water available throughout the day. Reviewers note the crew’s efficiency and friendliness, making the whole experience feel lively yet well-organized.

Practical Details and Value

For $179 per person, this tour offers a full day of diverse activities, scenic beauty, and good food and drinks. The price seems fair considering the inclusions—multiple stops, a meal, and unlimited drinks. Keep in mind the $25 port fee—cash only—and that towels and private transportation are not included. The tour does not provide Wi-Fi, so be prepared to disconnect for the day.

The Crew and Safety

Many reviews praise the crew for their professionalism, friendliness, and attentiveness. From diving into the water to retrieve lost sunglasses to keeping the drinks flowing and the music playing, the crew adds a lively, safe, and attentive touch to the day. Life jackets, noodles, and safety gear are provided, making it suitable for most ages.

Weather and Flexibility

The tour is weather-dependent. If the seas are too choppy, the itinerary might change, as some reviewers have noted. The tour offers a full refund or rescheduling if canceled due to bad weather, which adds peace of mind.

Length and Pacing

Eight hours might seem long, but with four stops, snorkeling, a hearty BBQ, and plenty of time for relaxing on the boat, most travelers find it well-paced. Some reviews suggest that a slightly shorter tour might be ideal, but overall, the length allows you to see a good portion of Anguilla’s highlights without feeling rushed.

What Real Travelers Say

Reviews consistently highlight the stunning scenery, the delicious food, and the fun, friendly crew. Many mention that this trip surpasses expectations, with glowing comments about the “picture-perfect” beaches and “awesome” snorkeling. Several reviewers point out that the tour is a great value for the price, particularly considering the variety and quality of the stops, food, and drinks.

A few critics wish for longer stops or more snorkeling, but these are minor compared to the overall positive impressions. The safety and professionalism of the crew also receive high praise, with many mentioning they felt well taken care of.

The Sum Up

This “Best of Anguilla” catamaran tour balances adventure and relaxation beautifully. It showcases the island’s most breathtaking beaches, offers ample snorkeling with chances to see turtles, and wraps it all up with hearty local-style BBQ and all-day drinks. Its lively crew and well-organized schedule make it an easy choice for anyone wanting a fun, authentic Caribbean day.

It’s ideal for travelers who value good food, scenic waters, and a lively atmosphere, especially if you’re traveling with family, friends, or a couple seeking a memorable day on the water. While not a luxury cruise, it offers excellent value for a full-day experience filled with natural beauty, underwater wonders, and Caribbean charm.

If you want to see Anguilla’s highlights in one day, enjoy a hearty meal, and sip cocktails while cruising in comfort, this tour is a strong contender. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure and a towel!

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and safety gear like life jackets is provided for both adults and children. It’s a family-friendly option, especially if your kids enjoy swimming and being on the water.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling equipment is included, so you can just enjoy exploring the reefs. However, if you have your own mask and fins, you’re welcome to bring them for extra comfort.

How long are the stops at each beach?
Stops are around 1 to 1.5 hours each. This allows plenty of time to swim, snorkel, relax, or explore on land.

What is the food like?
The BBQ lunch features Jamaican jerk and curry chicken skewers, garlic shrimp, Greek pasta salad with feta, and bread. Many reviews highlight how tasty and satisfying it is.

Is there a bar onboard?
Absolutely. The open bar includes assorted beers, liquors, sodas, and juices, with signature cocktails served throughout the day.

Are towels provided?
No, towels are not included, so it’s best to bring your own if you want to dry off or lay on the beach.

What about privacy or group size?
The tour caps at around 55 participants, maintaining a friendly, lively environment without feeling crowded.

Are there any hidden costs?
You’ll need to pay a $25 port fee in cash. Everything else, including food, drinks, and equipment, is included in the ticket price.

In the end, this trip offers a lively, scenic, and flavorful way to spend a day in Anguilla. With stunning beaches, fun water activities, and a welcoming crew, it’s a well-loved choice for travelers seeking Caribbean charm combined with good value.