Morning Snorkeling or Sunset Sail to Boca Catalina With BBQ

Imagine sailing along Aruba’s shimmering coast on a sleek, comfortable catamaran, with the warm Caribbean sun overhead and a cold drink in hand. That’s what this tour promises, combining scenic sailing, intriguing snorkeling spots, and a relaxing sunset cruise, all topped with a tasty BBQ and unlimited drinks. It’s a lively way to see the island’s highlights from the water, and from the reviews, it seems to deliver on many fronts — especially if you enjoy a friendly crew, good snorkeling, and a laid-back vibe.

We’re fans of how this experience balances adventure with comfort. The open bar keeps spirits high, and the variety of snorkeling sites offers a good mix of calm waters and underwater surprises. Plus, the sunset sail adds a romantic touch to an already memorable day. But, like any adventure, it’s not perfect for everyone — some reviewers mention late starts or loud music. Still, if you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and well-organized day on the water, this tour comes highly recommended.

This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of relaxation, fun, and stunning scenery. If you’re comfortable on a boat, enjoy snorkeling, and love a good barbecue with drinks, you’ll likely find this tour a highlight of your Aruba trip. Those expecting a quiet, intimate sunset might want to consider their preference for lively atmospheres. It’s a great option for families, couples, or groups wanting a lively day out in the Caribbean.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience: Combines sailing, snorkeling at multiple sites, and sunset views.
• Good value: Includes BBQ, unlimited drinks, and SUP boards, making it an all-in-one trip.
• Small boat intimacy: Typically around 20 passengers, fostering a friendly atmosphere.
• Varied snorkeling sites: Shipwreck, turtle encounters, and reef stops.
• Lively environment: Expect loud music, open bar, and a festive vibe.
• Potential drawbacks: Late departures, loud music, and the possibility of delays or disorganized starts, according to some reviews.

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Setting Sail: Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off at the Renaissance Marina, a convenient and recognizable meeting spot across from Renaissance Mall. Expect to gather around 12:30 PM if you’re doing the afternoon cruise, which lasts approximately 4.5 hours. The cruise includes about an hour of sailing along Oranjestad’s coastline, giving you great views of the city and coastline.

The boats are equipped with snorkeling gear, including full face masks and fins, and even stand-up paddleboards (SUP) for those eager to explore on their own. With a smaller group size — often around 20 people — the atmosphere tends to be more relaxed and less crowded than larger catamarans. This means more space to relax, chat, and enjoy the scenery without feeling lost in a crowd.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Actually Do

1. Sailing in Oranjestad
Your journey begins with a leisurely hour of sailing, taking in the sights of Aruba’s coast. During this time, you can enjoy your first drinks, perhaps a cocktail or a cold beer, as the crew sets a friendly, upbeat tone. This initial leg is a chance to acclimate, snap photos of the colorful shoreline, and prepare for the snorkeling adventures ahead.

2. Boca Catalina Beach
The first snorkeling stop is at Boca Catalina, a pristine stretch of white sand and clear water. Here, you’ll have about 75 minutes to swim and explore. This site is especially notable for the chance to see sea turtles, which many reviewers mention as a highlight. One guest said, “We had a great time swimming with turtles and seeing many fish at the shipwreck.” The calm waters make it accessible for swimmers of all levels, and the shallow reef offers plenty to see just beneath the surface.

3. Tres Trapi Beach
Next, about 45 minutes are spent at Tres Trapi Beach. This stop is primarily a snorkeling site, offering a quieter spot to enjoy the underwater world. While less mentioned in reviews, it provides another opportunity to observe marine life and enjoy the scenic coastline.

4. Antilla Shipwreck Snorkeling
The highlight for many is the stop at the Antilla Shipwreck, a WWII-era vessel lying just offshore. With about an hour here, snorkelers get an up-close view of the ship’s ghostly remains teeming with fish. Several reviewers describe snorkeling at the wreck as “amazing,” and some mention seeing a variety of tropical fish and even octopuses. The wreck’s close proximity to shore makes it a manageable and exciting underwater feature.

5. Return to Oranjestad at Sunset
As the tour winds down, the sail back to the marina coincides with the golden hour of sunset. The boat’s atmosphere becomes even more relaxed, with everyone enjoying drinks and the scenery. Many reviewers rave about the sunset views, describing them as “beautiful” and “dreamlike.” The cruise concludes with a gentle sail back, leaving you with photos, good memories, and a pleasant buzz after a day of adventure.

Food and Drinks: BBQ and Unlimited Beverages

One of this tour’s major draws is the included BBQ lunch, served at Boca Catalina. Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the food, especially the ribs and chicken. A guest remarked, “The BBQ was really tasty,” and many appreciate that vegetarian options are available. The BBQ is served at the beach stop, allowing you to enjoy your meal with a view before swimming again or relaxing on the sand.

The open bar is unlimited — expect a steady flow of beer, cocktails, wine, and spirits. You’ll find the crew friendly and attentive, keeping drinks coming as long as you want. Several reviews mention the crew’s care and professionalism, with one guest noting, “The staff was amazing and kept the drinks flowing.” For families or anyone not keen on drinking excessively, the open bar offers plenty of options to keep you refreshed without pressure.

Equipment and Extras: Snorkel Gear and SUP Boards

The snorkel equipment supplied includes both full face masks and traditional masks, catering to different comfort levels. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, the crew is helpful and eager to assist. The SUP boards add another layer of fun, allowing guests to paddle around and explore the water at their own pace. Reviewers report that the crew is friendly and supportive, making beginners feel comfortable.

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The Crew and Atmosphere: Small, Friendly, and Lively

Most reviews highlight the small group size, which fosters a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere. With around 20 passengers, you won’t feel lost among crowds. The crew, often mentioned by name, receives praise for their friendliness, professionalism, and attentiveness. Captain Jordan, in particular, has been singled out for being “absolutely wonderful,” going the extra mile with communication and snorkeling assistance.

Expect a lively environment with upbeat music, but some reviews note that it can get quite loud, especially under deck. If you prefer a quieter experience, you might find the music a bit overwhelming at times but can always move to quieter spots on the boat.

Value for Money: What’s Included and How It Adds Up

This tour covers a lot of ground — sailing, multiple snorkeling stops, a delicious BBQ, unlimited drinks, and SUP boards — all in about four and a half hours. The price reflects this comprehensive experience, and many guests say it offers good value for what they get. The small boat, friendly crew, and variety of activities enhance its appeal.

The all-included nature means you don’t need to worry about additional costs during the trip, making it a hassle-free way to enjoy Aruba’s waters. Some reviews mention the quality of the food and drinks as a pleasant surprise, and the small group size means a more personalized experience.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While most feedback is positive, a few guests mention issues such as delays in departure and loud music, which could impact those seeking a tranquil sail. One reviewer noted a late start and poor communication, which can be frustrating if you’re on a tight schedule. There are also mentions of disorganized check-ins or delays, so arriving early and being patient might be wise.

A minority of reviews express disappointment with the dinner, describing it as “takeout” or “cold ribs,” which might not meet some expectations for a gourmet BBQ on the water. Also, the loud music might be too much for travelers who prefer a quiet sunset or a more subdued environment.

The Sum Up: Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This snorkeling and sunset cruise on Aruba’s coast is perfect for those who love a lively, social atmosphere combined with stunning scenery. If you’re after a well-organized tour with a friendly crew, you’ll find plenty to love here. The mix of underwater exploration, beautiful views, and good food makes it a standout choice, especially for families, couples, or groups of friends.

The inclusive drinks and SUP boards add a fun, relaxed element that enhances the overall value. However, if you’re seeking a peaceful, quiet sunset with minimal noise, this might not be your ideal outing. It’s better suited for travelers ready to enjoy the lively side of Caribbean waters, with plenty of opportunities to relax, eat, drink, and appreciate Aruba from the water.

FAQ: Practical Questions About the Tour

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour begins at Renaissance Marina, across from Renaissance Mall, at the coordinates 12.518218994140625, -70.03881072998047. It’s a straightforward location, but arriving a bit early ensures you have plenty of time to check in.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 4.5 hours, including sailing, snorkeling, and the sunset cruise. The actual snorkeling stops vary from 45 minutes to about an hour each.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, the BBQ lunch includes vegetarian options, so vegetarians won’t go hungry. The main BBQ features ribs and chicken, with vegetarian choices also offered.

Is there a minimum group size?
Most trips are small, with around 20 passengers, which creates a more personal and relaxed environment. The small size is often praised by guests for its intimacy.

What should I bring with me?
Towels and sun protection are recommended. Since the tour involves snorkeling and beach stops, packing sunscreen, a waterproof camera, and a hat is wise.

What if I don’t snorkel?
Snorkeling is optional, and the crew is helpful in assisting beginners. Even if you prefer not to snorkel, you can still enjoy the sailing, scenery, and sunset views from the boat.

This Aruba catamaran tour offers a lively, scenic, and well-rounded day at sea, with enough variety to keep everyone entertained. Whether you’re snorkeling with turtles, marveling at a shipwreck, or just relaxing with a drink during sunset, it’s a memorable way to experience the island’s waters.

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