Aruba Sunset Jolly Pirate Sail with Open Bar

A Sunset Sail with a Pirate Twist in Aruba – An Honest Look

Imagine cruising along Aruba’s coast on a pirate-style schooner, watching the sky turn fiery as the sun dips behind the horizon. For $70 per person, this 2-hour sunset cruise offers a lively blend of scenic views, fun activities, and unlimited drinks. You’ll find yourself at MooMba Beach, where a colorful pirate ship awaits to ferry you into a memorable evening.

What we love about this experience is the unique atmosphere—the teak decks, the gentle breeze, and the crew’s lively spirit make you feel like you’ve stepped into a pirate adventure. Plus, the rope swing over the water is a real crowd-pleaser, giving everyone a chance to splash into the Caribbean.

On the flip side, some travelers note that the cruise doesn’t spend much time sailing; about 15 minutes before anchoring, then hanging out for the swing and swimming. If you’re hoping for a lengthy sail or detailed commentary on Aruba’s sights, this might not be your ideal voyage. Still, it’s an excellent option for those craving a fun, social evening with plenty of drinks and activities.

This tour suits families, groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers eager for a lively, informal experience. It’s especially perfect if you’re looking for something that combines beautiful scenery with interactive fun.

Key Points

• Fun pirate-themed ambiance with teak decks and a rope swing
• Unlimited drinks from the open bar, including cocktails and sodas
• Stunning sunset views combined with island scenery
• Family-friendly activity with options for swimming and swinging
• Good value considering the drinks, entertainment, and scenery
• Possible emphasis on the swing and social vibe rather than long cruising or sightseeing

A Detailed Look at the Aruba Sunset Jolly Pirate Sail

If you’re visiting Aruba and want a relaxed, engaging way to watch the sunset, this tour offers a lively alternative to traditional boat rides. It’s operated by Jolly Pirates Sailing Cruises & Snorkeling, a name associated with fun and friendly crew. At $70 per person, it’s a reasonably priced outing that includes unlimited drinks, a rope swing, and onboard restrooms, making it practical for most travelers.

The Starting Point and Boarding Process

The adventure begins at MooMba Beach, a popular hub for water activities. The meet-up is straightforward with near public transportation, but some reviews mention confusion over exact meeting instructions—so it’s wise to confirm your meeting point beforehand. The boat is large and colorful, decked out to look like a pirate ship, immediately setting a playful tone.

Once aboard, you’ll find cushioned seating near the bar and spacious teak decks to stretch out and take in the surroundings. The crew, as many reviews praise, are friendly, engaging, and energetic. They circulate quickly with drinks, making sure everyone has a chance to enjoy the unlimited bar.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The cruise starts with a gentle sail along Aruba’s western coast, offering views of the shoreline, the treasured coastal scenery, and the pleasure of being out on the water. The first highlight is the chance to enjoy the breezy trade winds and the sound of island music as the boat gently moves.

When the sky begins to turn, the real magic happens—photos of the sunset are a must, especially from the teak decks or the bow netting. You’ll want to have your camera ready for the changing colors and the twinkling lights of Aruba emerging in the dusk.

The Main Attractions: Swinging and Swimming

The rope swing is the star of the show, according to many reviews. It’s an adventurous and joyful way to splash into the Caribbean waters. Many travelers describe it as a must-do; some mention it as the reason they’d return. The swing can be used repeatedly, and it adds a playful, carefree element to the evening.

If you’re in the mood for a quick swim, the crew facilitates safe and fun opportunities for jumping into the water. The boat also provides restrooms onboard, a thoughtful touch for comfort during the trip.

Entertainment, Drinks, and Atmosphere

The crew members are often highlighted in reviews for their good humor, helpfulness, and enthusiasm. Music plays a key role in creating a lively atmosphere, with many guests praising the playlist—though some mention the music could be more varied for a more personalized vibe.

As for drinks, unlimited is the key word—including cocktails, soda, juice, and water. While some reviews note that the open bar is limited to pre-mixed drinks and soda, most agree that the flow of beverages keeps the mood cheerful. Some wished for more variety like beer or wine, but for the price, the value is solid.

Duration and Group Size

The cruise lasts around 2 hours, a perfect length for a relaxed yet lively outing. The maximum group size is about 40 travelers, ensuring a social but not overcrowded environment. The moderate physical activity involved in swinging and swimming makes it accessible to most, but those with mobility concerns should consider the boat’s deck conditions, especially on windy days.

What Some Travelers Love (and Don’t)

Many reviews highlight the crew’s positive energy and the stunning sunset views as the biggest draws. “Johnny, Jose, and Oscar were fantastic,” one reviewer said, praising their entertainment and safety skills. The friendly atmosphere and the mix of fun activities—from dancing to swinging—are frequently mentioned as highlights.

However, not everyone is enamored. Some reviewers point out that the cruise spends more time anchored than actually sailing, which might disappoint those expecting a long cruise or detailed sightseeing. One guest noted, “This is not a sunset sail; it’s more about the swing and swimming.” So if your priority is sightseeing or a longer sail, consider that this tour leans more toward fun and socializing.

Practical Considerations

• Booking and Cancellation: The tour is non-refundable, so confirm your plans before booking. Weather-dependent, the cruise may be canceled for storms or high winds, but full refunds or rescheduling options are available.
• Age Restrictions: The minimum drinking age is 18, but children are welcome if accompanied by an adult. Many reviews mention kids enjoying the swing and the fun atmosphere.
• Physical Fitness: A moderate level is recommended as the deck can be slippery when windy, and jumping or swinging involves some physical effort.
• No Hotel Pickup: You need to make your way to MooMba Beach, but the location is convenient nearby.

Who This Experience Is Best For

This cruise is ideal for adventurous travelers looking for a fun, social, and relaxed evening. If you love being on the water, enjoy interactive activities like swinging and swimming, and want unlimited drinks in a lively setting, this is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or groups of friends who appreciate a casual, entertaining environment.

If you’re after longer cruising, detailed commentary, or a romantic sunset experience, you might find this tour a bit too focused on activity and fun rather than sightseeing. Still, for pure entertainment and scenic views, it hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You need to meet at MooMba Beach at the designated time.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise runs approximately 2 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the sunset, the swing, and some swimming.

Are drinks really unlimited?
Yes, there’s an open bar with unlimited drinks, including cocktails, soda, and water. Some reviews note the drinks are pre-mixed, and there’s limited beer or wine.

Can kids participate?
Children are allowed if accompanied by an adult, but the minimum drinking age is 18. Kids particularly enjoy the swing and the lively atmosphere.

Does the cruise sail continuously?
Not exactly. Many reviews mention that the boat sails for about 15 minutes before anchoring and then spends a significant amount of time hanging out at the anchor point, mostly for swinging and swimming.

What should I bring?
Bring swimsuits, towels, and a change of clothes—especially since the swing often results in a splash. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera are also recommended.

Is there seating available?
Yes, the boat has cushioned seating near the bar and space on the teak decks for lounging.

Will I be able to see the sunset clearly?
Absolutely. The best views are from the top deck or the bow netting as the sky turns shades of orange and red.

Can I expect a detailed commentary about Aruba’s sights?
No, this tour focuses more on fun activities and socializing than on sightseeing commentary.

Final Thoughts

The Aruba Sunset Jolly Pirate Sail with open bar offers a relaxed, joyful way to spend an evening on the water. Its highlight features—the rope swing, unlimited drinks, and vibrant crew—make it a memorable experience suited for those seeking fun and camaraderie. It’s a value-packed option that combines scenic beauty with lively entertainment.

While it might not satisfy travelers craving longer sails or detailed island commentary, it excels as a casual, interactive outing that people of all ages can enjoy. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to unwind with a fun group, this cruise promises a colorful, lively sunset and plenty of good vibes.

In short, if you’re after a spirited, social adventure with plenty of water fun and island scenery, this tour is hard to beat. Just remember to wear your swimsuit, bring your sense of humor, and prepare for a boatload of fun.