3H or 4H | Private Boat Trip with Snorkeling and Swimming

A Private Boat Trip in Curaçao: Snorkeling, Swimming, and Customizable Fun

If you’re looking for a flexible, intimate way to explore Curaçao’s stunning east coast, this private boat tour offers just that. For around $550 per group (up to 8 people), you get approximately 3 to 4 hours of personalized cruising, snorkeling, and beach time with your own crew. The tour focuses on Spanish Waters and Caracasbaai, two of the island’s most scenic spots, with options to tailor your experience—whether you prefer more time snorkeling at Tugboat wreck, relaxing at Fuik Beach, or sightseeing along the coast.

What we really love about this experience is how the guides, Bettina and Marc, make it feel like a day out with friends. Their flexibility and local knowledge shine through, and you’ll appreciate the chance to set your own pace. Plus, the small group size ensures a very personal vibe, which means more attention and less crowding.

A potential consideration? The tour’s limited availability for the longer 4-hour option means planning ahead is a good idea. Also, since the tour involves swimming and snorkeling, some basic physical fitness and comfort in water are recommended. The tour is great for those who want a relaxed, tailored experience rather than a cookie-cutter cruise. If you enjoy being in control of your day, this tour might be perfect.

This private boat trip is ideal for couples, families, or small groups who want a personalized, scenic adventure with flexible stops and knowledgeable hosts. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to snorkel at famous wreck sites and explore quiet beaches away from busy tourist spots.

Key Points

• Customized Experience: You can choose to focus on snorkeling, sightseeing, or beach relaxation.
• Small Group Privacy: Up to 8 guests ensures an intimate, personalized outing.
• Expert Guides: Bettina and Marc are praised for their flexibility, knowledge, and friendly approach.
• Stunning Locations: Snorkeling at Tugboat wreck and relaxing at Fuik Beach are highlights.
• Flexible Duration: The 3-hour tour is more common, but the 4-hour option allows more time at stops.
• Includes Essential Gear: Use of snorkeling equipment, water, and soda are provided, enhancing value.

Exploring the Private Boat Experience in Curaçao

When considering a private boat tour, the question isn’t just about getting on a boat—it’s about what kind of day you want to craft for yourself. This tour’s strength lies in its personalized approach. You’re not herded onto a large cruise with preset stops; instead, Bettina and Marc ask about your interests and tailor the voyage accordingly. This flexibility is often reflected in reviews, where travelers mention how their day was “tailored to our group’s preferences,” making the experience feel more genuine.

Locations Visited & What They Offer

Spanish Waters is a tranquil area with marinas and calm waters, perfect for a relaxing sightseeing cruise. We loved the way the guides navigate through this area, pointing out local sights and sharing stories of the island’s maritime life. It’s an ideal intro to Curaçao’s east coast—less crowded than the busy harbor area.

Tugboat Wreck is often the star of the trip—and for good reason. It’s one of Curaçao’s most famous snorkel spots. The wreck sits shallow enough that snorkeling is accessible for most swimmers, and the colorful marine life surrounding it makes for a memorable underwater experience. According to reviews, “the snorkeling was amazing,” and many noted the guides’ attentiveness in ensuring everyone was comfortable and safe.

Fuik Beach offers a longer, peaceful stop where you can just unwind. During weekdays, the bay is very quiet, with crystal-clear waters and soft sands—perfect for a swim or simply soaking up the sun. The route along the coast showcases Curaçao’s impressive cliffs and turquoise waters, making it a scenic highlight.

What to Expect on the Tour

From the moment you meet at the Kima Kalki Marina in Willemstad, the experience feels tailored from start to finish. Bettina and Marc are described as “amazing hosts,” who bring ice and requested drinks and are happy to customize your stops. The boat itself, about 30 feet long, offers enough space for comfort and easy movement, with safety equipment and snorkel gear included.

The tour’s duration means you get a good balance: enough time to enjoy two or three stops without feeling rushed. The 4-hour option offers even more flexibility, perhaps allowing longer snorkeling sessions or extra beach lounging.

Authenticity and Value

Many reviews emphasize the value of this private experience. For $550, you’re paying for exclusivity, flexible scheduling, and knowledgeable guides—something you can’t get on larger, more commercial tours. Customers frequently highlight the guides’ friendliness and their willingness to share local tips and stories, adding a layer of authenticity to your island experience.

What Travelers Are Saying

One reviewer praised the “laid-back” vibe and mentioned they’d happily return. Others appreciated how Bettina and Marc “tailored the trip” and navigated windy weather with ease, showing their skill and flexibility. Several reviewers also noted how the guides’ local knowledge turned a good tour into a memorable one, with recommendations for other sights and restaurants.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour operates Tuesday through Sunday for the 3-hour option, with the 4-hour tour available Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday. It’s important to book about a month in advance, especially if you want the longer experience, as it’s quite popular. The boat trip is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, but not for non-swimmers or people with mobility issues, given the need to climb a small ladder from the water.

You’ll need to bring your own snacks or lunch if you want a full meal, but drinks and snorkeling gear are provided. Be aware that alcoholic beverages are not included, and you’ll need to arrange transportation to the starting point in Willemstad.

A Well-Balanced Choice for a Personalized Island Adventure

This private boat tour offers a relaxed, customized day on Curaçao’s waters. Its biggest draw is the ability to decide how much time you spend snorkeling, relaxing, or sightseeing, all with a crew that makes you feel like a guest rather than just another ticket holder. The scenic stops—especially Tugboat wreck and Fuik Beach—are genuinely memorable, and the small group setting enhances the sense of discovery and comfort.

If you’re a traveler who values local insights, flexibility, and a more intimate experience, this tour will hit the spot. It’s perfect for small groups, families, or couples who want a tailored day on the water rather than a cookie-cutter cruise. Just remember to plan ahead, especially for the 4-hour option, and be prepared for a moderate physical level if snorkeling and swimming are involved.

FAQ

Can I choose how I want to spend my time during the tour?
Yes, you can decide whether to focus on snorkeling at Tugboat, relaxing at Fuik Beach, or sightseeing along Spanish Waters. The guides are flexible and will tailor the experience based on your preferences.

What is included in the price?
Use of snorkeling equipment, bottled water, soda, the boat, and a guide are included. You’ll need to bring your own snacks or lunch if desired, and alcohol is not provided.

How long is the tour?
The standard tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with an option to extend to about 4 hours. The longer option gives you more time at each stop or for beach relaxation.

How many people can join?
Up to 8 guests per group, which keeps the experience intimate and personalized.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
It’s not recommended for non-swimmers or those who are affected by obesity or have mobility issues, due to the need to climb a small ladder from the water. Moderate physical fitness is expected.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Kima Kalki Marina in Willemstad. Transportation to the meeting point is your responsibility.

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

In summary, this private boat trip in Curaçao offers a blend of personalized service, stunning scenery, and memorable snorkeling experiences. It’s best suited for those who value flexibility, intimacy, and authentic island exploration. Whether you’re looking to snorkel at a famous wreck, relax on a quiet beach, or enjoy a scenic sightseeing cruise, this tour adapts to your wishes—making it a worthwhile choice for small groups seeking a genuine Curaçao adventure.