Aruba Sunset Cruise plus Seaside Dinner

Aruba Sunset Cruise plus Seaside Dinner: A Complete Guide to a Perfect Evening

When you think of Aruba, picture bright blue waters, golden beaches, and sunsets that seem to set the sky on fire. For travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty and relaxed luxury, the Aruba Sunset Cruise plus Seaside Dinner offers a well-rounded experience. Priced at $122 per person for roughly 3 hours, this tour combines the thrill of sailing with the calm of a seaside dinner, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy Aruba from both sea and land.

What makes this outing particularly appealing? First, the catamaran cruise offers spectacular views of Aruba’s coast, with many reviewers mentioning the breathtaking sunset that turns the sky into a canvas of fiery oranges and pinks. Second, the dinner at Pelican Nest Restaurant provides a delicious seafood experience right on the water, with outside seating that enhances the waterfront vibe.

One possible consideration is that the dinner is a set seafood menu, which may not suit everyone’s tastes, especially if you’re expecting a more diverse or casual buffet. Plus, some reviews note that the timing of the cruise might feel a little tight for daylight viewing, as sunset times vary and the cruise runs from 5:30 p.m. to about 8 p.m.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate scenic vistas, good food, and a touch of tropical party atmosphere. It’s especially ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating a special occasion, like a birthday — as one reviewer happily shared their memorable experience celebrating amid the Caribbean sunset.

Key Points

• Scenic sailing along Aruba’s coast on a comfortable catamaran.
• Watching the sunset from the water provides memorable photo opportunities.
• Delicious seafood dinner served seaside at Pelican Nest, with waterfront views.
• Open bar and snacks on board enhance the relaxed, fun vibe.
• Flexible options for drinks and a lively atmosphere at the Pelican Bar after dinner.
• Good value considering the included cruise, dinner, drinks, and scenic experience.

A Detailed Look at the Aruba Sunset Cruise plus Seaside Dinner

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The experience begins at Pelican Pier in Noord, where you’ll meet your crew at 5:30 p.m. This is a smart time to arrive, especially if you want to maximize your sunset viewing (the cruise runs from 5:30 to approximately 8 p.m.). The initial moments are filled with anticipation as the crew welcomes you aboard a comfortable catamaran, designed for relaxed sailing and unobstructed views.

Once aboard, the open bar kicks in with snacks to nibble on while the boat starts its gentle glide along Aruba’s coastline. The crew, including friendly folks like David, Sam, Sal, and Jayden (according to reviews), takes care to make everyone feel at home, offering drinks, music, and some lively commentary. The music playlist is curated to appeal to a broad crowd, though a few guests noted they’d prefer a more diverse selection. Still, the overall vibe is one of casual fun, especially once the sun begins its descent.

As you sail, be sure to keep your camera ready. The fiery sunset that erupts as the sun dips behind the horizon is truly something to behold — a spectacle that many reviewers describe as “breathtaking” and “more beautiful than expected.” It’s the perfect time for a selfie or a romantic shot with Aruba’s coastline in the background.

The Sunset: A Moment to Savor

The sunset usually occurs around 6:10 p.m., but this varies depending on the time of year. Many guests find that the cruise offers just about enough time to capture the last light, enjoy a drink, and soak in the scenery. As one reviewer noted, “The sunset cruise was spectacular,” and they appreciated the expert crew’s knowledge of the area, which added context to the views.

Some guests mention that a half-hour earlier departure might give more daylight time, but overall, the focus remains on the stunning color show in the sky. The atmosphere on board is lively, with some describing it as a “party boat,” especially when the DJ spins tunes that keep the energy high.

Post-Cruise Seafood Dinner at Pelican Nest

After the cruise, you’ll arrive at the Pelican Nest Restaurant, located at the end of Pelican Pier. Here, the waterfront setting truly shines. The restaurant’s thatched roof and outside seating create a relaxed Caribbean ambiance, perfect for unwinding with a glass of wine and some fresh seafood.

Guests consistently praise the quality of the food, calling it “excellent” and “delicious.” The dinner is typically a set seafood menu with options to choose other items if you’re willing to pay extra. Many reviews highlight the generous portions and the hot, well-prepared dishes, making it a satisfying way to finish the evening. One guest noted that the dinner at Pelican Pier was over the top, with large portions and great service.

The Atmosphere and Additional Options

Once you’ve finished your meal, the fun can continue at the Pelican Bar, where tropical cocktails flow and music keeps the party lively. This is a great spot for those who want to linger and soak up the vibrant island energy.

While most guests find the experience to be relaxing and enjoyable, a few mention that the boat could be livelier, or that the music playlist could feature more diverse selections. Also, some reviews point out that the timing of the cruise might be tight for those wanting longer daylight viewing — so planning accordingly is wise.

The Value and Overall Experience

At $122 per person, this experience offers a good mix of scenic beauty, great food, and lively entertainment. The inclusion of the cruise, dinner, and open bar means you’re getting a lot for your money, especially considering the quality of the seafood and the picturesque setting.

Many reviews emphasize how fun and friendly the crew is, which makes a difference in creating an inviting atmosphere. The waterfront dinner at Pelican Nest adds a touch of elegance, yet remains casual enough for everyone to feel comfortable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for couples celebrating romance or special occasions, small groups wanting a lively, social night out, or anyone eager to see Aruba from a different perspective. If you’re keen on stunning sunset views, excellent seafood, and a relaxed, festive vibe, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

However, if you prefer more flexible schedules or a broader menu, you might want to consider other options. It’s worth noting that not all reviews are glowing—some guests felt the dinner experience could be improved or that timing was slightly tight.

FAQs about the Aruba Sunset Cruise plus Seaside Dinner

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 5:30 p.m., with check-in at Pelican Pier. Arriving on time ensures you get the most out of the sunset.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, from 5:30 p.m. until about 8 p.m., giving ample opportunity to enjoy the sunset and the sea breeze.

Is food included in the price?
Yes, the dinner is included, featuring a custom seafood menu served seaside at Pelican Nest. Additional menu items can be ordered at extra cost if desired.

Are drinks included?
The cruise features an open bar and snacks, with one beverage served during dinner (wine or soda). You can continue enjoying tropical cocktails at Pelican Bar afterward, but those are at your own expense.

Can I book this tour if I don’t have a hotel transfer?
Yes, the meeting point is Pelican Pier in Noord, and no hotel pickup is included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. Non-drinkers can enjoy the cruise and dinner just as much, though the lively atmosphere might be more suited to those comfortable with a festive vibe.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

As a balanced review, the Aruba Sunset Cruise plus Seaside Dinner offers a memorable way to see the island from the water, enjoy a beautiful sunset, and relax over a delicious seafood meal. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy scenic sailing, lively atmospheres, and waterfront dining. While not perfect for everyone—especially if you’re after a more quiet or varied menu—it provides a fun, authentic Aruba experience that many guests rave about. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a lovely evening out, this tour hits many of the right notes for a memorable Caribbean night.