Aruba Private Luxury Boat Tours – Sail, Snorkel, Fishing and More

Aruba Private Luxury Boat Tours – Sail, Snorkel, Fishing, and More

Imagine cruising along Aruba’s stunning coastline, stopping at secret beaches, exploring a WWII shipwreck, and snorkeling with sea turtles—all in the comfort and privacy of your own boat. Priced at around $256 per person, with options to rent the vessel for 2 to 8 hours, this tour offers a flexible, intimate way to enjoy Aruba’s water and beaches. Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides like Gino and Jonathan, it’s a favorite for those celebrating a birthday or special event, or simply looking for a quieter, more personalized adventure.

What we love most? First, the customizable itinerary means you can tailor your day to your interests—whether that’s snorkeling, fishing, or just relaxing in secluded spots. Second, the small group size (up to 10 people) ensures you’ll avoid crowded tourist spots, making your experience more authentic and private. A possible drawback? Given the focus on privacy and flexibility, some travelers might find the schedule a bit loose or wish for more structured activity options.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy personalized experiences, value local knowledge, and want to explore Aruba’s coast without the hustle and bustle of larger tour boats. It suits families, couples, or groups of friends eager to create their own island adventure in a relaxed setting.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: Tailor the trip to your interests and schedule.
• All-in-one water fun: Snorkeling, fishing, beach stops, and sightseeing.
• Secluded beaches and wrecks: Explore Arashi Beach, Boca Catalina, and a WWII shipwreck.
• Great value for small groups: Personalized service and fewer crowds.
• Guides you can trust: Friendly, knowledgeable captains like Gino and Jonathan.
• All amenities included: Drinks, snorkeling gear, and life jackets.

The Experience: A Deep Dive into Aruba’s Coastline

Starting Off: Flexibility and Personalization

When we first looked at this tour, what struck us was its flexible nature. For around $256 per person, you’re not just getting a boat ride—you’re getting a personalized adventure. Whether you want a quick two-hour cruise or an extended eight-hour voyage, the boat is yours to shape. Most travelers enjoy cruising along Aruba’s coast, stopping for snorkel and swim sessions, and visiting a few beaches or even trying their hand at fishing. The tour’s private setting means no strangers crowding your space, which makes for a much more relaxed vibe.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The tour includes several stopping points—each with its own charm and appeal. We found that these stops are well-chosen for their scenic beauty and fun activities, like snorkeling or exploring wrecks. Here’s what to expect:

Eagle Beach

Your journey begins with a cruise along Eagle Beach, one of Aruba’s most famous stretches of white sand and turquoise waters. It’s a perfect introduction, showcasing Aruba’s natural shoreline. Many reviews highlight how this beach looks even more spectacular from the water, with some calling it the best to see from a boat.

Arashi Beach

Next, you’ll visit Arashi Beach, located on the northwest coast. It’s a serene, unspoiled spot with a west-facing view—a fantastic place for tranquil swimming and snorkeling. With its 700-meter stretch, it’s perfect for a peaceful break. Several guests appreciated this stop, with one reviewer calling it a “beautiful, quiet beach” that offers great photo opportunities.

Boca Cataavlina

The tour then ventures to Boca Catalina, a prestigious residential area with a west-facing beach. From here, you get a spectacular view of the southern Caribbean Sea, and you might even spot some marine life while snorkeling. The reviews describe it as a less crowded, peaceful locale, ideal for families or travelers looking for exclusivity.

WWII Shipwreck: The Antilla

One of the big draws is the Antilla Wreck, a WWII ship sunk off Aruba’s coast. The ship is approximately 400 feet long, and the shallow waters near the front third are great for snorkelers. Multiple reviews rave about snorkeling here—some even say it feels like swimming in an underwater museum due to the ship’s intriguing structure and marine life. It’s a highlight for many, especially those interested in history or underwater photography.

Tres Trapi Steps and Malmok Beach

Other stops include Tres Trapi Steps, known for its coral wall, and Malmok Beach, a quiet, shallow spot perfect for snorkeling and relaxing. These locations are praised for their tranquility and clear waters, giving you plenty of options to swim, snorkel, or simply lounge.

Water Gear and Refreshments

All snorkeling and fishing gear is provided, which saves you the hassle of renting or bringing your own. Soft drinks like bottled water, iced tea, and Coca-Cola are included, ensuring you stay refreshed during your time on the water. Many reviewers appreciated the attention to comfort, with some noting how helpful and friendly the crew was, even jumping into the water to assist or rescue a guest.

The Ambience: Private and Relaxed

What makes this tour stand out is its intimate, relaxed atmosphere. The boat’s size (up to 10 people) keeps it cozy, making it easy for guides to cater to your wishes. Many reviews mention how friendly and accommodating the guides are, with some even sharing fun experiences like catching fish with their hands or learning about local marine life.

The Crew: Knowledgeable and Friendly

Reviews repeatedly praise guides like Chris, Jonathan, Sergio, and Gino for their professionalism, friendliness, and local knowledge. You’ll find that your guides are eager to share insights about Aruba’s beaches, marine animals, and history. Several guests appreciated how helpful guides were, even during unexpected delays or when adjusting the itinerary on the fly.

Possible Drawbacks and Things to Consider

While most reviews are glowing, some mention initial communication issues—like difficulty figuring out where to meet or poor prior info. However, once on the boat, the experience tends to shine. Also, the tour’s flexibility might mean some stops are brief or less structured, which could be a downside if you’re expecting a fixed schedule.

Another thing to keep in mind: not ideal for seasick travelers. The waters around Aruba are generally calm, but if you are sensitive to motion, it’s worth considering. Also, since the tour is weather-dependent, bad weather might force rescheduling or cancellation, with full refunds offered if that happens.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a private, flexible experience with personalized stops, this is your best bet. Families with kids, couples celebrating a milestone, or friends wanting a relaxed, authentic Aruba adventure will thrive here. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy snorkeling, beach lounging, or exploring shipwrecks without the crowds.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This private boat tour offers a balanced blend of adventure and relaxation. It’s a great value considering the personalized attention, all gear included, and the chance to visit some of Aruba’s most scenic spots in a relaxed setting. Many guests mention how guides like Chris and Jonathan make the experience memorable, and the chance to snorkel near a WWII wreck is a real highlight.

For travelers who enjoy small-group experiences, the freedom to customize your day, and the thrill of discovering Aruba’s underwater world, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s perfect for those seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path moments that you can’t get from larger, more commercial excursions.

However, if you prefer a very structured or guided tour with fixed stops, or if seasickness is a concern, you might want to consider other options. But for anyone craving a personalized, laid-back day on the water, this private boat tour really delivers.

FAQ

How long can I rent the boat?
You can charter the vessel for anywhere from 2 to 8 hours, depending on your preferences and schedule.

What’s included in the price?
All snorkeling and fishing gear, soft drinks (bottled water, iced tea, Coca-Cola), life jackets, and an experienced captain and guide are included.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not recommended for those prone to seasickness. The reviews show families with kids enjoying the trip, especially when the crew helps make it fun and safe.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Yes, many guests bring their own food and wine to enjoy during the trip, especially at stops or on the sandbar.

What if the weather is bad?
Your booking is fully refundable if canceled more than 24 hours in advance due to weather. The tour provider will offer a different date or a full refund if the weather prevents the trip.

Are there any hidden fees?
Nope, what you see is what you get. The price covers the boat, gear, drinks, and guides.

Is there a set itinerary?
No, the itinerary is customizable, and guides are happy to suggest and adapt stops based on your interests.

How crowded will it be?
Since it’s a private tour for up to 10 people, you won’t be dealing with large crowds—just your group and the guides.

How do I get to the departure point?
Pickup is offered, or you can meet at the designated pier in Palm – Eagle Beach. Clear communication with the company helps ensure smooth logistics.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for an authentic, flexible, and intimate way to experience Aruba’s coast, this private boat tour is a strong choice. It’s ideal for small groups eager to snorkel, fish, and relax in a personalized setting with friendly guides. The excellent reviews attest to its quality, making it a standout option for travelers wanting more than just a generic cruise—an experience crafted just for you on Aruba’s beautiful waters.