Aruba Morning Snorkel Sail aboard Palm Pleasure Catamaran

Aruba Morning Snorkel Sail aboard Palm Pleasure Catamaran

Imagine gently sailing over crystal-clear waters, with the warm Caribbean sun overhead, sipping a tropical cocktail, and watching a colorful array of fish swim beneath you. For around $124 per person, you can do just that on this half-day snorkeling adventure aboard the Palm Pleasure, a spacious 70-foot catamaran operating in Aruba. The tour lasts about four hours, taking you to three prime snorkeling sites, including the famous Antilla Shipwreck, with plenty of opportunities for relaxation, fun, and interaction with Aruba’s vibrant marine life.

What we love about this tour is how it balances adventure and comfort — lounging on the sun deck while enjoying the scenery or slipping below the surface to explore reefs teeming with life. The delicious lunch and open bar of tropical drinks and beer** easily elevate the experience from a standard boat trip to a memorable day at sea. However, one thing to consider is that this tour isn’t suitable for cruise ship passengers due to scheduling, so plan accordingly if you’re in port.

It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy snorkeling, good food, and relaxing on the water. Families with children aged eight and above will find it especially accommodating, and those curious about shipwrecks and marine life will find plenty to marvel at. If you’re after a lively crew, stunning vistas, and a well-organized trip, this tour hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Comfortable Catamaran: Spacious boat with shaded and sunning areas, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
• Three Snorkel Stops: Including the notable Antilla Shipwreck, Boca Catalina, and Arashi reef—diverse and rich in marine life.
• All-Inclusive Dining & Drinks: Tasty buffet lunch and an open bar with beer and tropical drinks.
• Family-Friendly & Guided: Suitable for ages 3 and up, with knowledgeable crew offering insightful commentary.
• Weather-Dependent: Tour may be canceled in bad weather, with full refunds or rescheduling options.
• Limited Cruise Ship Access: Not recommended for cruise passengers due to scheduling constraints.

An In-Depth Review of the Aruba Snorkel Adventure

Setting Sail on the Palm Pleasure

From the moment we arrived at De Palm Pier, the atmosphere was lively but organized. You’re greeted by friendly staff and given clear instructions, making check-in smooth. The boat itself is impressively large, measuring 70 feet long and 40 wide — plenty of room for everyone to spread out comfortably. Onboard facilities include restrooms, which is a thoughtful touch after a swim or during the ride back.

The Itinerary: Three Snorkeling Stops and Scenic Views

The tour kicks off at Adventure Sports Aruba, where you get about 30 minutes to explore the Antilla Shipwreck. This is a highlight — a large, coral-encrusted wreck that attracts sea turtles and a variety of tropical fish. One reviewer raved, “The snorkeling with the sea turtles was great, and the shipwreck was cool.” It’s a site that offers both visual interest and underwater photo opportunities.

Next, the boat proceeds to Boca Catalina, a calm, sheltered cove known for its clear, shallow waters, perfect for relaxing and spotting fish. Here, you’ll have another 30 minutes to snorkel or simply bask in the sun. Many reviews mention the beautiful water clarity and abundance of fish “especially the colorful ones,” making it a favorite stop.

The final snorkel site is Arashi Reef, famous for its vibrant coral and aquatic life. This is where you might encounter sea turtles, as some reviews describe, and marvel at the underwater coral formations. The timing at each stop—about 30 to 45 minutes—allows enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

Snorkeling and Optional SNUBA

For those wanting a bit more undersea action, there’s an upgrade option for SNUBA, a hybrid of snorkeling and SCUBA that requires no certification. Participants as young as eight can join with an instructor, descending to depths of 20 feet. It’s a fantastic way to see more without the bulk of heavy gear, especially appreciated by families.

The Crew and Experience

Reviews consistently praise the friendly, professional guides—with names like Caesar and others—who are attentive, humorous, and eager to share their knowledge. One reviewer exclaimed, “Cesar was a hoot and made the trip fun!” The crew’s lively commentary and helpful attitude add a lot to the experience, making everyone feel safe and engaged.

Food, Drinks, and Relaxation

After the snorkeling, you’ll enjoy a delicious buffet lunch prepared by top chefs, featuring items like fresh grouper and tropical fruits. Multiple reviewers mention the quality of the food, describing it as “top-notch.” The open bar is a highlight, offering beer and tropical cocktails, which many consider a perfect way to unwind and toast the day’s adventures.

The sun deck is the ideal spot for some relaxation — soaking up rays or simply enjoying the stunning views of Aruba’s coastline and turquoise waters. Many folks mention how the atmosphere onboard is fun and lively, with music, dancing, and camaraderie.

Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

What’s refreshing about this tour is how it combines organized fun with authentic Aruba scenery. The marine life is vibrant, and the shipwreck is a real wreck, not a staged attraction. The guides do a good job of explaining the significance of the sites, enriching your underwater experience.

What Could Be Better?

One point to keep in mind is weather dependence. While the tour is generally well-organized, it can be canceled in case of storms or rough seas, which some travelers found disappointing. Also, cruise ship guests should plan carefully, as the tour doesn’t align with most ship schedules, limiting options for those arriving by cruise.

Price and Value

At $124, the cost includes three snorkel stops, lunch, drinks, and use of equipment. Considering the professional crew, the quality of the snorkeling sites, and the all-inclusive meals and drinks, many reviewers feel it offers excellent value. It’s a comprehensive experience that covers everything from scenic sailing to underwater exploration and hearty food, making it worth the investment.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This adventure suits families, couples, or solo travelers eager for a relaxed yet active day on the water. Those interested in marine life, shipwrecks, or simply enjoying Aruba’s beautiful coast will find plenty to love. It’s also ideal for anyone who appreciates good food and drinks while cruising.

Final Thoughts

The Aruba Morning Snorkel Sail aboard Palm Pleasure provides a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and culinary delight. The well-organized stops, friendly guides, and stunning underwater scenery make it a standout choice for exploring Aruba’s marine environment.

Travelers who enjoy snorkeling, scenic boat rides, and hearty meals will find this tour hard to beat. The price reflects a comprehensive experience — from the fun crew to the delicious buffet — especially considering the multiple snorkel sites and inclusive drinks.

If you’re in Aruba and eager to see its underwater world while enjoying the comfort of a spacious catamaran, this trip is certainly worth considering. It’s a great option for families, couples, or solo adventurers looking for a memorable day on the water. Just remember to book in advance, keep an eye on the weather, and prepare to relax, explore, and indulge.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the Palm Pleasure Morning Snorkel Adventure?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at most major hotels are included. When booking, just select your hotel or specify later by contacting the local operator.

What if my hotel isn’t listed during booking?
You can choose a nearby hotel or select “I will select my pickup location later” and then contact the operator to coordinate pickup details.

Can I participate if I drive myself to the departure point?
Absolutely. The boat departs from De Palm Pier, located between RIU and Hilton Resort. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to check in at the Coconuts retail store.

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Generally, no, because of scheduling conflicts. It’s best suited for travelers staying in Aruba rather than those arriving on cruise ships.

What snorkel sites will we visit?
You’ll snorkel at Boca Catalina, the Antilla Shipwreck, and Arashi Reef, each offering unique underwater sights and marine life.

What should I wear and bring?
Wear your swimsuit under your clothes, bring a reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, and comfortable shoes for walking on the pier.

Are there restrooms onboard?
Yes, the catamaran features restroom facilities for your convenience during the trip.

Whether you’re after vibrant coral reefs, a fun day out with family, or simply a relaxing cruise with good eats and drinks, this Aruba snorkeling tour promises a memorable and well-rounded experience.