Private Aruba Snorkeling Excursion with Rum Punch

When it comes to exploring Aruba’s underwater world, this private snorkeling tour with Octopus Snorkeling, Sailing & Sunset Tours promises a personalized experience designed to avoid the crowds and maximize your fun. Instead of being herded onto a large boat with dozens of strangers, you and your group get the whole vessel—just 26 feet of Bayliner—making it a more intimate, relaxed, and flexible outing.

If you’re a traveler who loves close-up marine encounters, values customized itineraries, or simply prefers avoiding the chaos of group tours, this experience might be exactly what you’re looking for. What we really love about this trip is how it balances comfort with authenticity—plus, the friendly guides seem genuinely eager to make your Aruba snorkeling memorable. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include food, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry afterward.

This tour is ideal for families, first-timers, or groups seeking a quiet escape on the water. The price—$140 per person—may seem steep compared to larger group outings, but many reviews highlight the good value for a private, tailored experience filled with vibrant marine wildlife and relaxed, expert guidance.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Perfect for those who want exclusivity and flexibility.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance safety, comfort, and fun.
• Marine Life: Expect close encounters with turtles, fish, and possibly sting rays.
• Comfort and Convenience: Pickup, drop-off, bottled water, and rum punch included.
• Clear Itinerary: Two snorkel stops, customizable to your preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for all levels, including beginners.

Starting Point and Ease of Access

Your adventure begins at Octopus Aruba’s meeting point on J.E. Irausquin Blvd 87, in Palm Beach, conveniently near popular resorts and public transportation. If you’re staying at a high-rise hotel, the tour offers free pickup, saving you the hassle of transportation. If not, there’s a small fee ($10 per person) for pickup and drop-off, which still makes it straightforward to join the trip.

The check-in process is smooth, with helpful staff like Marina making sure you’re set for the water. Once aboard, you’ll notice the boat’s size—just enough for your private group, giving you ample space to relax, chat, or sunbathe.

The Itinerary: Flexible, yet Focused

Unlike typical large-boat tours that stick to crowded, well-trodden spots, this adventure emphasizes privacy and customization. The main stop is Catalina Bay, renowned for its shallow waters filled with diverse marine life. Just 150 feet south of Boca Catalina, this location offers an ideal environment for snorkelers of all skill levels.

You’ll get to snorkel in calm, shallow waters where angel fish, damsel fish, and other colorful species swim close enough to touch—the perfect scene for beginners or families with children. Many reviewers mention seeing sea turtles, sting rays, urchins, crabs, and schools of fish, making it a treasure hunt of sorts.

What Makes Each Stop Special?

• Catalina Bay: An easy entry point with vibrant coral and plentiful marine activity, often free of crowds. Reviewers highlight how most trips to this spot are not crowded, making for a peaceful experience.
• Customizable Locations: You can request to visit a coral reef or even a shipwreck, adding variety to your underwater exploration. The guide’s flexibility is a real plus for those wanting a tailored trip.

The Marine Wildlife: Close Encounters

The reviews confirm what makes this tour stand out: proximity to marine creatures. One guest happily reports, “We saw about 10 sea turtles and their babies—almost swam into one!” Another mentions schools of fish, sting rays, and even crabs. The guides are often praised for their knowledgeable commentary, sharing interesting facts about the local wildlife and helping snorkelers spot hidden gems beneath the surface.

Comforts and Extras

Included in the price are snorkeling equipment, bottled water, soft drinks, and rum punch—a nice touch that elevates the trip from simply functional to fun. Many reviews mention how the rum punch and refreshing drinks add a festive vibe, perfect after a few moments of underwater awe.

The boat itself is described as well-maintained and comfortable, with enough space to spread out. Since trips are private, you won’t feel rushed or crowded, which many previous travelers find a huge plus.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Friendly

Throughout the reviews, the guides consistently earn high praise. Guests mention Captain Lex and Boi, noting their friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable approach. One reviewer said, “Lex was very organized, safety-conscious, and a lot of fun.” Others highlight how guides took the time to explain the terrain, share local history, and help beginners feel confident.

This personal touch makes all the difference, especially for first-timers or families with children. Several guests appreciated how guides taught them about marine life and made snorkeling accessible, even for those who initially felt nervous.

Value for Money

At $140 per person for approximately 2 hours of private, tailored snorkeling, many reviewers agree that this experience offers excellent value. The exclusivity, personalized guidance, and quality marine encounters justify the cost for most. When considering the inclusions—equipment, drinks, and a souvenir octopus—the trip’s overall worth seems well rated.

Some guests felt that avoiding crowded boats and having the freedom to choose snorkeling spots was worth the price alone. The small-group experience means more attention, better safety, and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Tips for a Great Experience

• Bring sun protection: Sun cream, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended since you’ll be exposed on deck.
• Towels are a must: After snorkeling, you’ll want something dry to wrap up in.
• Prepare for the weather: The tour is weather-dependent; poor weather may lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
• Consider timing: Booking the early morning trip helps you dodge the crowds and enjoy calmer waters.

This private Aruba snorkeling tour is especially suited for families with kids, first-time snorkelers, or small groups seeking a calm, intimate experience. If you value personalized attention and want to avoid the chaos of larger boats, this trip will tick your boxes. The guides’ friendliness and expertise make it a safe choice for beginners, while the flexibility appeals to seasoned snorkelers looking for specific spots or marine encounters.

It’s also an excellent fit if you’re after a relaxed, no-pressure environment, with enough time to explore, relax, and take photos. Budget-wise, it’s a good investment if you’re after a more curated, private experience rather than a crowded, tour-bus style outing.

For travelers seeking an authentic, tailored snorkeling adventure in Aruba, this private tour offers a rare blend of personal service, flexible itinerary, and vibrant marine life. The knowledgeable guides and focus on comfort shine through, creating a memorable experience without feeling rushed or crowded.

While it may be pricier than some group tours, many reviews confirm that the value is well worth it, especially for those who appreciate a private, relaxed environment and the chance to see sea turtles, rays, and colorful fish up close. The inclusion of drinks, snorkeling gear, and a souvenir octopus adds nice touches of hospitality that elevate the trip.

If you’re traveling with family, want a beginner-friendly adventure, or simply seek quiet, high-quality snorkeling with a guide who genuinely cares, this tour should be high on your list.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is suitable for all levels, including beginners. Guides are experienced in helping guests feel comfortable in the water.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 2 hours, offering sufficient time for two snorkel stops and some relaxation.

Are drinks included?
Yes, bottled water, soft drinks, and rum punch are included, making the trip more enjoyable and festive.

Can I customize the snorkeling spots?
Absolutely. The guide has the flexibility to adjust the itinerary to your preferences, including visiting coral reefs or shipwrecks if requested.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, free pickup is available from most high-rise hotels. If your hotel isn’t listed, a $10 round trip fee applies.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a towel, and your camera. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.

Are children allowed?
Yes, the tour is suitable for all ages, including children, as long as they are comfortable in the water.

What marine animals might I see?
Guests have reported seeing turtles, sting rays, crabs, and schools of fish, among other marine creatures.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I book?
Booking is straightforward online, and confirmation is provided immediately unless booked within 24 hours, in which case it’s given as soon as possible.

This Aruba snorkeling tour delivers a blend of intimacy, adventure, and marine encounters—perfect for making your vacation truly memorable.