Set Sail in Aruba: Jolly Pirate Cruise with Snorkel Adventure

Imagine cruising on a sturdy, teak schooner that looks like it’s straight from a pirate movie, complete with a lively crew, great food, and snorkeling in some of Aruba’s best spots. That’s exactly the kind of experience you get with the Jolly Pirate Cruise, a top-rated half-day adventure that’s perfect for those seeking a mix of fun, relaxation, and a touch of maritime adventure.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the way it combines the authentic charm of a pirate ship with the practicality of included snorkeling gear and delicious food. Plus, the chance to see a World War II shipwreck is a real highlight. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to get yourself to MooMba Beach.

This experience is ideal for active travelers, families, or groups of friends who want a lively day on the water without breaking the bank. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy Aruba’s coastline, marine life, and a bit of pirate-themed fun—all in one memorable outing.

Key Points

• Unique Pirate Ship Experience: Enjoy a lively cruise aboard an 85-foot teak schooner with a fun, engaging crew.
• Multiple Snorkeling Stops: Visit three prime locations, including a WWII shipwreck, with all gear provided.
• All-Inclusive Food & Drinks: Savor a tasty BBQ lunch and unlimited drinks from the open bar.
• Family-Friendly & Social: Suitable for most ages; a great outing for families and groups.
• Good Value for Money: At $108, you get a 4-hour adventure packed with activities, food, and drinks.
• Memorable Highlights: Swimmers rave about seeing sea turtles and vibrant marine life; the rope swing is a crowd favorite.

An Authentic Aruba Adventure on the High Seas

If you’re looking for a more lively, less touristy boat tour, the Jolly Pirate cruise ticks all the boxes. Its reputation as a top activity in Aruba is well earned, with over a thousand enthusiastic reviews rating it a flawless 5.0 out of 5. Travelers praise the professional yet fun crew, the beautiful snorkeling locations, and the generous barbecue lunch.

The tour begins at MooMba Beach, a lively spot with easy access to the boat. Boarding the 85-foot teak schooner, you immediately get a sense of stepping into a maritime adventure. The ship’s classic design, combined with its lively crew, sets the tone for a day of exploration and relaxation.

The Itinerary: Snorkeling, Shipwrecks, and Sun

The cruise includes three snorkeling stops, each offering a different experience.

• The first stop at Malmok is shallow and perfect for swimming with tropical fish in calm waters. It’s an ideal spot if you want to get your bearings and enjoy the marine life without feeling overwhelmed.
• Next, at Boca Catalina, you’ll find a protected cove with excellent visibility. Here, you’ll see fish like yellow-striped grunts and angel fish, and the waters are so tranquil you might forget you’re in the Caribbean.
• The third highlight is the SS Antilla, a WWII German shipwreck in 60 feet of water, with its hull and masts still visible. Snorkelers often describe this as the most memorable part, with marine creatures slowly taking over the wreck as a home. Several reviewers, like Leslie, have swum alongside sea turtles here, making it a truly special encounter.

The Food and Drinks: A Tasty Break

The barbecue lunch is a standout feature—think ribs, chicken, Caribbean rice, and more. Several reviews highlight how generous and flavorful the meal is, offering good value for the tour price. Alongside the food, the open bar keeps the drinks flowing—rum punches, beers, sodas, and water. Travelers often mention that the drinks are “endless,” and the crew ensures everyone stays refreshed.

You can work on your tan on deck or enjoy the shaded areas, while the rope swing adds a dose of adrenaline for the adventurous. Many reviews rave about how fun and exhilarating this part of the cruise is—“the rope swing was a total rush,” as one guest put it.

The Crew: Professional, Friendly, and Entertaining

From multiple reviews, it’s clear that the crew makes the experience. They’re described as helpful, fun, energetic, and attentive, making everyone feel welcome and safe. They go out of their way to show you the best spots, share interesting facts, and keep the atmosphere lively.

The guide’s knowledge, combined with their friendly attitude, adds a layer of authenticity that makes this more than just a boat ride. Expect a good mix of storytelling, music, and humor to keep the energy high.

Practical Details: What to Know Before You Book

• Duration: About 4 hours, making it manageable for most travelers without feeling rushed.
• Price: At $108 per person, it offers a lot of value—snorkeling gear, food, drinks, and activities included.
• Meeting Point: MooMba Beach Bar & Restaurant, easily accessible but not hotel-inclusive, so plan accordingly.
• Group Size: Up to 65 travelers, so it’s lively but not overcrowded.
• Booking: Mobile tickets make it easy to reserve; just remember the tour is weather-dependent—if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll get a full refund or reschedule.

What Travelers Love Most

Almost universally, guests praise the friendly crew and the variety of snorkeling sites. Many mention the spectacular marine life, including sea turtles and colorful fish, making the snorkel stops feel special. The food and drinks consistently receive high marks, with descriptions like “delicious,” “huge portions,” and “the best rum punch.” The rope swing is often highlighted as a highlight, providing fun for all ages.

Potential Considerations

One thing to keep in mind is that hotel pickup is not included, so you’ll need to make your way to MooMba Beach on your own. Also, the tour recommends a moderate physical fitness level, especially since it involves snorkeling and some jumping or swinging from the boat. Children are welcomed but must be accompanied by adults, and the minimum drinking age is 18.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is perfect for adventurous families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a lively day on the water in Aruba. If you enjoy snorkeling, good food, lively crew, and a bit of pirate-themed fun, this is hard to beat. It’s also a good choice if you want a full yet manageable half-day activity that combines sightseeing with relaxation.

If you’re seeking a more relaxed, less active experience, you might prefer calmer boat trips or a different type of tour. But if you want fun, social energy, and a dose of Aruba’s underwater beauty, this cruise delivers.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, transportation to MooMba Beach is not included, so plan to get there on your own.

How long is the cruise?
Approximately 4 hours, from departure to return.

What’s included in the price?
A professional guide, BBQ lunch, unlimited drinks from the open bar, snorkeling gear, a rope swing, and access to two onboard restrooms.

Can I snorkel at the shipwreck?
Yes, the SS Antilla shipwreck is a highlight, and many guests enjoy swimming around and inside the wreck, observing marine life that has moved in.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult; the tour is suitable for most ages, but guests should be comfortable with water activities.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling equipment?
No, snorkeling gear is provided; however, you can bring your own if preferred.

What kind of food is served?
A hearty BBQ lunch including ribs, chicken, Caribbean rice, potato salad, fruit, and bread.

Is there alcohol on board?
Yes, an open bar with unlimited drinks, including rum punch, beers, and soft drinks.

What should I wear?
Swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended. You might want to bring a towel and a change of clothes for after snorkeling.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Jolly Pirate Cruise in Aruba offers a fun, lively way to explore the island’s waters. Its blend of snorkeling, shipwreck viewing, and pirate-themed antics makes for an engaging experience that appeals to a wide range of travelers. The professional crew, delicious BBQ, and unlimited drinks ensure you’ll stay happy and well-fed while soaking up Aruba’s stunning marine environment.

This tour is best suited for those who want a social, active, and memorable day at sea. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a fun outing, it’s likely to leave you with stories to tell and memories of swimming alongside sea turtles and swinging from the rope.

For a well-rounded, affordable, and lively adventure on Aruba’s waters, the Jolly Pirate cruise is a sure bet. Just don’t forget your sunscreen and your sense of humor—pirates love a good laugh too.