Aruba Afternoon Snorkel Sail aboard Palm Pleasure Catamaran

Imagine gliding through clear Caribbean waters aboard a spacious, well-maintained catamaran, with the warm sun on your back and a drink in hand. For many travelers, this Aruba snorkeling tour offers a perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and stunning scenery. For just $85 per person, you get about three hours of sailing, snorkel stops at the famous Antilla shipwreck, and the chance to enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks from an open bar. Plus, if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, there’s an upgrade option to try Snuba, which lets you breathe underwater without scuba certification.

What makes this trip stand out? We love the friendly, knowledgeable crew who genuinely seem to enjoy sharing their marine tales and making sure everyone feels comfortable. The snorkeling spots are top-tier—Antilla, with its coral-encrusted sunken WWII ship, is a visual highlight, and the open bar adds a laid-back, fun vibe. On the downside, if you’re not a confident swimmer or prefer solitude, the crowded snorkeling areas might feel a little hectic, especially since reviews mention the area can get congested with multiple boats.

This tour is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a straightforward, all-in-one adventure—beautiful underwater sights, good food, lively atmosphere, and a scenic sail. If you’re after a relaxed yet lively outing with plenty of marine life and a friendly crew, this is a good match.

Key Points

• Well-Organized Experience: Smooth check-in, good communication, and clear instructions make the day easy.
• Beautiful Snorkeling Spots: Antilla shipwreck and Boca Catalina offer vibrant marine life and historical interest.
• Friendly Crew: Guides are knowledgeable, approachable, and helpful—many will even assist in the water if needed.
• Good Value for Money: All equipment, snacks, drinks, and instruction are included, plus the optional Snuba experience.
• Comfort & Convenience: Spacious catamaran with plenty of room to relax, sunbathe, or sit in shaded areas.
• Excellent Customer Feedback: Consistently high reviews for fun, professionalism, and memorable underwater encounters.

When we think of Aruba, we picture clear turquoise waters, vibrant marine life, and a lively yet laid-back atmosphere. This Afternoon Snorkel Sail aboard the Palm Pleasure catamaran zeroes in on those stunning features, offering a manageable 3-hour escape that makes the most of Aruba’s best snorkeling sites.

Setting the Scene: Boarding and Departure

The adventure begins at De Palm Pier, conveniently located on J.E. Irausquin Blvd between major resorts like the Riu and Hilton. Most travelers appreciate the easy access and the opportunity to enjoy some scenery before setting sail. Boarding the luxurious 70-foot catamaran feels like stepping into a floating lounge, with plenty of deck space for lounging, sunbathing, or finding shade.

At around 2:00 pm, the boat departs, kicking off the trip with a relaxed vibe. As you leave the shore behind, you’ll love the way the boat’s large nets are perfect for lying flat and soaking up the sun, while the open bar begins to flow with a variety of drinks, including Virgin options for non-drinkers. The crew sets the tone with friendly chatter and safety instructions, making everyone feel at ease.

The Snorkeling Stops: The Heart of the Trip

The main highlight is snorkeling at Antilla, the largest shipwreck in the Caribbean. This German freighter from WWII has become an underwater playground, covered in coral and attracting an array of marine life. Several reviews mention the vivid colors of the coral and the large schools of fish that gather around the wreck. One traveler even caught a glimpse of a sea turtle, a real treat for marine enthusiasts.

The second snorkeling stop is Boca Catalina, known for its calm, clear waters and abundant fish. Here, the water is often tranquil, making it suitable for less experienced snorkelers or those who prefer a more relaxed experience.

What you can expect: The crew provides all snorkel equipment and offers guidance on how to best enjoy the underwater scenery. Many reviews praise the guides’ knowledgeable and approachable manner, with some mentioning guides will get in the water to help or assist first-timers.

Crowded or crowded? Some reviews note that the snorkeling area can get a little congested, especially with multiple boats in the same area. If you’re particular about privacy or less crowded conditions, this might be a minor drawback.

The Optional Snuba Experience

For those eager to go beyond snorkeling, the Snuba upgrade is a big draw. It offers the chance to breathe underwater without scuba certification and explore up to 20 feet beneath the surface. Several travelers shared that the Snuba guides are reassuring and professional, making first-timers feel safe and excited.

Interestingly, it appears you may find this experience sold out during peak times, but if available, it’s worth considering—many say it’s the highlight of their trip. The reviews specifically mention swimming next to the shipwreck at 20 feet and seeing marine life up close as unforgettable.

Sailing & Atmosphere

The sailing portion offers sweeping views of Aruba’s coast—ideal for taking photos or simply relaxing and enjoying the scenery. The boat’s spacious layout means you’re not cramped, and there are plenty of shaded areas if you want to escape the sun for a bit.

The vibe onboard is described as lively but relaxed. Many reviews note the crew’s friendly attitude and the fun, energetic atmosphere. The snacks—hot dogs, sandwiches—offer enough to stave off hunger after some water activity, but don’t expect gourmet cuisine.

Food, Drinks & Amenities

The complimentary snacks and open bar are consistently praised. Reviews mention the “good drinks,” “delicious food,” and the fact that no one restricts how much you can indulge. It’s a relaxed way to wind down after snorkeling, and many travelers appreciate the casual, friendly environment.

Facilities on the boat include restrooms, adding to the comfort of the experience. The size of the vessel means there’s ample room to spread out, lie on the nets, or sit in shaded areas.

Duration & Practical Details

At three hours, this tour hits the sweet spot—long enough to enjoy two snorkel sites and some sailing without feeling rushed. The tour starts at 2:00 pm and involves hotel pickup (if booked in advance), making logistics straightforward.

Keep in mind, transportation is not included if you’re driving yourself to the pier. It’s worth arriving at least 30 minutes early for check-in, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

If you’re looking for a fun-filled, laid-back way to explore Aruba’s underwater life, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for families with kids as young as three, couples, or groups of friends who want to enjoy a lively atmosphere combined with natural beauty. Marine life lovers will appreciate snorkel stops that showcase coral and fish, and the optional Snuba experience makes it appealing for those wanting a bit more adventure.

It’s also a great value considering the all-inclusive nature—equipment, snacks, drinks, and guides are covered—making it easier to relax without worrying about extra costs. The friendly and professional crew consistently earns high marks, creating a welcoming, safe environment that’s ideal for newcomers or those who want to feel confident in the water.

For travelers seeking an enjoyable, hassle-free way to experience Aruba’s vibrant underwater world and scenic sailing, this Palm Pleasure snorkel cruise offers excellent value. The friendly crew, beautiful shipwreck, and relaxed atmosphere make it a memorable choice, especially if you enjoy lively social settings with plenty of marine sights.

If you’re after a balanced mix of adventure and comfort—with the added bonus of snacks and drinks—it’s hard to find a better deal at this price point. Families, honeymooners, or solo travelers who want to meet fellow explorers in a friendly environment will likely find this trip hits their sweet spot.

Just remember, if you’re a very experienced snorkeler or prefer solitude, the sometimes crowded snorkeling sites might be less ideal. But for most, this tour is a fantastic, easy way to enjoy Aruba’s seas—an adventure you’ll talk about long after you’ve returned home.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, most major hotels are offered for pickup and drop-off, with the option to specify your hotel during booking.

What if my hotel isn’t listed for pickup?
You can select “I will select my pickup location later” and then contact the local operator at the provided phone number to arrange pickup.

Can I participate if I drive myself to the pier?
Absolutely. The boat departs from De Palm Pier, which is accessible via a sidewalk near the Riu and Hilton. Arrive at least 30 minutes early for check-in.

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Not typically, since the schedule doesn’t align with most cruise arrivals. It’s best for travelers staying in Aruba hotels.

What snorkeling sites will I visit?
You’ll snorkel at Boca Catalina and the Antilla Shipwreck, giving you a chance to see coral, tropical fish, and possibly turtles.

What should I wear and bring?
Wear your swimsuit under your clothes, bring a towel, reef-safe sunblock, and comfortable walking shoes. The crew provides all snorkeling gear and instructions.

Are restroom facilities available?
Yes, the catamaran is equipped with restrooms for passengers’ convenience.

This Aruba snorkeling tour offers a lively, friendly environment with plenty of marine beauty and comfort. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned snorkeler, the combination of scenic sailing, vibrant coral, and excellent crew makes it a worthwhile addition to your island adventures.