Aruba Sunset Sail with Open Bar: A Scenic Experience Worth Saying Yes To

If you’re looking for a memorable way to unwind in Aruba, a Sunset Sail on a luxurious catamaran might just be what you need. For about $112 per person, you get roughly two hours of sailing along Aruba’s coast, with unlimited drinks, light snacks, and some of the best views the island has to offer. Meet the friendly crew at the De Palm Pier around 5:30 pm, grab a drink from the open bar, and settle in for a relaxing, scenic journey into the Caribbean evening.
What we love about this experience is the combination of beautiful scenery and laid-back vibe. The views of the coastline and sunset are stunning, and the music and drinks create a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Plus, the boat’s spacious layout and comfortable deck make it easy to find a spot to unwind. The only potential downside? It’s not designed for cruise passengers, so if you’re on a cruise, you’ll need to consider other options. Otherwise, this cruise suits couples, small groups, or anyone who enjoys good company, scenic beauty, and a bit of celebration on the water.
Key Points

- Spectacular Sunset Views: Watch the sun dip below Aruba’s horizon, offering picture-perfect moments.
- Open Bar & Snacks: Enjoy unlimited drinks and light bites, making the experience both refreshing and satisfying.
- Comfortable & Spacious Boat: The catamaran’s layout provides plenty of room to relax and take in the scenery.
- Informative & Friendly Crew: Guides and staff make the outing enjoyable with their professionalism and warmth.
- Ideal for All Ages: Suitable for couples, families with kids over 3, or groups looking to mingle.
- No Cruise Ship Access: Not recommended for cruise passengers due to scheduling and capacity constraints.
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The Full Experience: What to Expect on Aruba’s Sunset Sail

Meeting Point and Departure
Your adventure begins at the De Palm Pier on J.E. Irausquin Blvd, a well-known attraction near Aruba’s upscale resorts. Ensure you’re there by 5:30 pm—the boat departs promptly—to maximize your time on the water. The check-in process is straightforward: just arrive at the Coconuts retail store at least 30 minutes early to secure your boarding pass.
Boarding the Luxury Catamaran
Once onboard, you’ll be greeted by a friendly captain and crew, who set the tone for a relaxing evening. The vessel itself is spacious and designed for comfort, with ample seating and lounging areas. You’ll love the way the boat feels both intimate and lively, with enough space to stretch out or gather with others.
Starting the Cruise: Drinks, Snacks, and Scenic Views
Before setting sail, head to the open bar—offering a variety of unlimited beverages including cocktails, soft drinks, and local drinks. The reviews consistently praise the quality and variety, noting that “drinks were amazing” and “the drinks kept flowing.” Light snacks are also served, and many reviewers mention how they appreciated the “perfect” snacks and “plenty” of food.
As the boat cruises along Aruba’s coast, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture photos of the coastline, rugged cliffs, and the approaching sunset. Some reviews highlight the magnificent views, with Beth calling it her “best sailing cruise” and noting how the views were on point.
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The Golden Hour: Sunset and Photo Opportunities
As the sun begins to set, the deck transforms into a perfect spot to soak in the Caribbean’s iconic sunset. Feel the wind in your hair and the last warm rays on your skin while you sip your drink or simply enjoy the scenery. Many travelers comment on how breathtaking and photogenic this moment is—”absolutely beautiful” and “just breathtaking” are common sentiments.
Relaxing or Dancing
Once the sun dips below the horizon, you can choose to relax on the deck, stretch out on the netting between the hulls, or duck below decks for a breather. Some guests mention the lively music and the chance to dance the evening away, creating a fun and upbeat atmosphere that strikes the right balance between relaxation and celebration.
Return to Shore
After approximately two scenic hours, the boat returns to the pier, leaving you with a feeling of having experienced a true Caribbean sunset. Many reviews mention how well-paced the trip is, giving plenty of time to enjoy the views without feeling rushed.
Why This Tour Is a Great Value
At $112, this sunset sail offers a fantastic value considering everything included. You’re getting a luxury experience, with a friendly crew, refreshing drinks, light snacks, and breathtaking scenery—all packed into two hours. The unlimited drinks keep the mood lively, and the small group size (max 80 travelers) makes for a more intimate experience, avoiding the crowds often found on larger tours.
Authenticity and Quality
Reviews repeatedly mention the knowledgeable guides, good service, and high-quality drinks and snacks. Beth praises the crew’s “amazing” service, while Matthew calls it a “fabulous night,” highlighting the overall positive atmosphere. The crew’s attentiveness ensures that everyone feels comfortable and well taken care of.
Suitability for Different Travelers
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, want a romantic evening, or just need a fun way to unwind after a day of exploring, this cruise is versatile. It’s especially popular among couples, with many reviews suggesting it as a romantic sunset experience. Families with children over 3 also seem welcome, given the relaxed and family-friendly environment.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Arrive early to ensure smooth check-in.
- Wear light, comfortable clothing and flat shoes.
- Bring a camera for sunset photos.
- Remember, transportation isn’t included, so plan to get to the pier on your own.
- The tour isn’t suitable for cruise ship guests due to scheduling.
Final Thoughts: Is the Aruba Sunset Sail Right for You?

This sunset sail offers more than just scenery; it’s a relaxing yet lively way to enjoy Aruba’s natural beauty. The combination of stunning sunsets, friendly staff, and good value makes it an appealing choice for travelers looking to indulge in a memorable evening on the water. If you love being outdoors, savoring drinks with friends or a loved one, and capturing breathtaking photos, this cruise will check all those boxes.
It’s particularly ideal for couples seeking romance, small groups wanting a lively yet relaxed experience, or families with older children who enjoy scenic boat rides. Keep in mind, it’s not suited for cruise passengers or those with mobility issues, as the boat departs from a specific pier and requires some walking.
The Aruba Sunset Sail with Open Bar delivers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, informal fun, and authentic island charm—a memorable way to end a day in paradise.
FAQs

Can I participate if I am arriving on a cruise ship?
This tour is not recommended for cruise passengers because it does not align with cruise ship schedules.
Are restroom facilities available onboard?
Yes, the catamaran is equipped with restrooms for guest convenience.
Can I drive myself to the departure point?
Absolutely. The boat departs from De Palm Pier, located between RIU and Hilton Resort. Just check in at least 30 minutes early at the Coconuts retail store.
What should I wear?
Light clothing and flat, comfortable shoes are best—think casual daytime wear suitable for being on the water.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 3 years, making it accessible for families with small children.
How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, offering ample time to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included, so plan your arrival accordingly.
What happens in bad weather?
This tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time.
In essence, the Aruba Sunset Sail with Open Bar stands out as a well-rounded, enjoyable experience that combines phenomenal views, friendly service, and good value. It’s a wonderful choice for those wanting to add a touch of Caribbean magic to their Aruba adventure.
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