Swim and Snorkel with Sea Turtles

Imagine floating in warm Caribbean waters, with gentle sea turtles gliding beside you, their shells shimmering in the sunlight. That’s the promise of the popular Swim and Snorkel with Sea Turtles tour in Willemstad, Curacao. While we haven’t had the chance to try it ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary offer a compelling glimpse into what makes this experience stand out for travelers.

What we love about this tour are two things: first, the personalized boat-less snorkeling directly on the beach, which offers a relaxed and intimate encounter with marine life, and second, the free high-quality photos taken by the guide, allowing you to relive the magic long after the water has calmed.

One potential consideration is the crowd factor—some reviews mention the presence of multiple groups and travelers at the same snorkeling spots, which might diminish the feeling of having the place to yourself. If avoiding busy scenes is your priority, this is worth considering.

This tour is perfect for families, couples, solo travelers, or anyone eager to see sea turtles in their natural habitat without the hassles of boat rides or tricky logistics. It offers a blend of wildlife, island scenery, and cultural insights that make for a well-rounded day on Curacao.

Key Points

• Beach Snorkeling, No Boat: Snorkel right from the beach with guides in the water, avoiding crowded boat tours.
• Close Encounters: Expect to see several turtles swimming around you, with many reviews describing turtles swimming close enough to touch (without touching, of course).
• Photos Included: High-quality pictures and videos are taken by your guide and emailed afterward, providing lasting memories.
• Island Highlights: The tour includes visits to scenic beaches, flamingo lakes, and cultural commentary, enriching the experience.
• Comfortable Transportation: Pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics simple and stress-free.
• Value for Money: At $99 per person, the combination of wildlife, scenic stops, and free photos makes this a strong value for a half-day adventure.

An Honest, Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting with the logistical basics, this tour lasts roughly 4 hours and includes hotel or port pickup, which simplifies planning. Arriving at the tour site, you’ll find a small, intimate group—generally no more than 15 travelers—which keeps the atmosphere friendly and manageable. You’ll be transported in a private vehicle, so no noisy buses or crowding, and the ride itself is often filled with engaging stories about the island’s history and culture, as our reviews highlight.

The itinerary kicks off with a beach-based snorkeling session where you’ll get your gear, including snorkel masks, vests, and fins. The key highlight is the opportunity to swim alongside sea turtles. No boats mean you’re directly on the shoreline, which significantly lowers the barrier for less experienced swimmers. Expect calm, shallow waters—around 8 feet deep—that are perfect for beginners or those who prefer gentle currents.

Reviewers describe this part as magical: “Turtles swam right over to Patrick, the guide, and stayed with us for about 45 minutes,” a guest recounts. Guides are often in the water with you, making sure everyone stays safe and comfortable. The presence of a guide in the water is a big plus, providing reassurance, especially if you’re new to snorkeling.

After an hour of water fun, the tour moves on to a secondary beach stop, usually for about 15 minutes with flamingos. This isn’t just a throwaway visit; it’s a genuine wildlife encounter on its own. Many guests mention how special it is to see flamingos in the wild and to photograph them in their natural habitat.

The tour guides—notably Patrick and Eddy—are repeatedly praised for their extensive knowledge and friendly demeanor. Guests appreciated the way guides enriched the experience with island stories, cultural insights, and local history. As one review notes, “Patrick and Sexy Eddie gave a good history lesson on the way to Turtle Beach,” which added depth to the trip beyond just snorkeling.

The quality of the snorkeling gear is another plus. Guides utilize high-grade equipment that’s easy to use and in excellent condition, enhancing comfort and safety. The free photos, taken with a GoPro 11, are a standout feature. Guests consistently mention how fantastic the pictures are, capturing close-up shots of turtles, fish, and happy snorkelers. Many reviews say they received over 200 photos and videos, a value-added bonus that costs no extra.

The final stretch of the tour involves relaxing at a picturesque beach, with options to lounge, swim, or explore further. Some guests mention that this is a more typical beach experience, but the highlight remains the underwater encounters.

What Sets This Tour Apart

While there are many wildlife and snorkeling excursions in Curacao, this one has carved out a niche by focusing on direct beach access—no boats, no fuss. The small group size allows for a more personalized experience, and the guides’ professionalism keeps safety and fun equally prioritized.

The photos are often cited as the best part—high-resolution, candid shots of turtles swimming close, captured by someone dedicated to making memories. It’s a simple but very thoughtful bonus that differentiates this tour from others where photos are an added cost or not offered at all.

The cultural stops—like the flamingo lake and scenic viewpoints—add a layer of depth, turning the trip into more than just a snorkeling adventure. Travelers report that their guides’ stories gave them a greater appreciation of Curacao’s natural beauty and history.

Price-wise, at $99, this experience offers excellent value, especially considering the quality of the wildlife encounters and the included photos. For those who want a memorable, authentic wildlife experience without the hassle of long boat rides or crowded beaches, it’s a solid choice.

Authentic Visitor Perspectives

From glowing reviews, it’s clear that many travelers leave feeling awe-struck. “This is one of the best turtle experiences we’ve ever had,” one guest says, describing how turtles swam close enough to touch. Others praise the guides: “Patrick and Eddy did a great job,” and “Patrick is the Turtle Whisperer,” which perfectly captures how natural and unforced the interactions are.

A few reviews mention the early morning logistics—pickup can sometimes be a bit complicated if you’re the first stop—but most agree that the effort is worth it for the experience. A consistent theme is the personal touch guides offer, making everyone feel comfortable and well-informed.

However, a few negative reviews touch on issues like crowding, especially at the turtle spots, and some logistical hiccups with pickup timing. These seem to be the exception rather than the rule, but it’s worth being aware that the most popular spots can get busy.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This snorkeling adventure is best suited for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking an authentic encounter with Curacao’s marine life. It’s particularly appealing if you appreciate guided experiences, want to avoid boat rides, and love having professional photos to take home.

While the tour offers plenty of wildlife and cultural value, it’s also about relaxation and easy access—you don’t need advanced swimming skills, and the shallow waters make it accessible for many. If you’re looking for a memorable, well-organized, and affordable adventure with knowledgeable guides and plenty of wildlife, this tour ticks all the boxes.

On the flip side, if you prefer less crowded, more secluded spots, or are nervous about sharing with many other groups, you might want to consider visiting early in the day or seeking options with fewer people. But overall, the combination of marine encounters, island scenery, cultural insights, and free photos makes this experience a standout for anyone visiting Curacao.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers of all ages can participate, especially since the waters are shallow and calm, making it accessible for kids and beginners.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch isn’t included. Guests usually bring snacks or plan for a meal afterward.

What is the max group size?
Most tours are limited to around 15 travelers, keeping the experience personal and manageable.

Are the photos really free?
Yes, high-quality photos and videos taken with a GoPro are emailed to you after the tour at no extra charge.

How long is the actual snorkeling time?
The guided snorkeling around the sea turtles lasts about an hour—plenty of time to enjoy the underwater spectacle.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps some water shoes as advised by some guests. The gear is provided, but comfortable footwear helps on the beach.

Is pickup from the hotel or cruise port guaranteed?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included, and the guides coordinate to ensure everyone is picked up on time.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll be offered to reschedule or receive a full refund. It’s best to check the forecast before booking.

In essence, this tour offers an accessible, friendly, and wildlife-rich way to experience Curacao’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a snorkeler or a wildlife admirer, you’ll walk away with unforgettable memories and plenty of photos to prove it.