Banana Adventure Catamaran Shipwreck Snorkel and Turtle Swim

Discover Aruba’s Underwater Treasures with Banana Adventure’s Catamaran Snorkel Tour

Imagine sailing along Aruba’s stunning coastline on a luxury catamaran, feeling the soothing trade winds as you glide over crystal-clear waters. For about 3 hours, you’ll explore two of Aruba’s most captivating snorkeling sites—the Antilla shipwreck and Tres Trapi—while enjoying delicious snacks and refreshing drinks. For a reasonable price of $65 per person, this tour offers a wonderful blend of relaxation, adventure, and a touch of history, making it a solid choice for families, couples, and groups seeking a genuine Caribbean experience.

What we especially love about this tour are the friendly, professional crew who go out of their way to make every guest feel comfortable, and the variety of activities onboard—from relaxing on shaded decks to swinging off the rope swing and diving into vibrant underwater worlds. The fact that most reviewers rave about seeing sea turtles and colorful fish really speaks to the tour’s quality.

A potential consideration is the water conditions, which can be a bit rough during certain times of year, making some stops less ideal if you’re sensitive to choppy seas. Also, since the shipwreck can be hard to see clearly due to depth and crowding, some might find this site less spectacular than expected. Still, if you’re after authentic marine encounters and a peaceful sailing vibe, this experience suits most travelers well.

If you enjoy well-organized trips with attentive guides, love being on the water, and want to see Aruba’s marine life with a friendly crew, this tour is likely to meet your expectations.

Key Points

• Comfortable, stable sailing on a multihull yacht offers a smooth ride.
• Two main snorkeling stops: the historic Antilla shipwreck and Tres Trapi with turtles.
• All-inclusive amenities: snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and a safety briefing.
• Small group sizes—often just your family or a few guests—provide a more personal experience.
• Friendly, knowledgeable crew enhance the trip with tips, safety, and storytelling.
• Flexibility and customization: even on quiet days, the crew stays committed to providing a memorable outing.

An In-Depth Look at the Banana Adventure Catamaran Tour

Setting Sail from Hadicurari Fishermen’s Pier

Starting at the Hadicurari Fishermen’s Pier, this tour is easy to access, located conveniently near the Marriott Surf Club. If you’re staying nearby or have transportation arranged, the meeting point is straightforward. The tour includes private transportation, which means you won’t have to fret over logistics—just arrive and get ready for a relaxed day on the water.

The Sailing Experience

Once aboard the spacious, comfortable catamaran, you’ll immediately notice the smoothness of the ride. The multihull design ensures stability, so even if the seas are a bit choppy, you’ll be less likely to feel seasick. The crew’s friendly attitude and attentiveness shine here—many reviews mention how the captain and crew make everyone feel welcome and safe.

Guests love the laid-back vibe, with plenty of shaded areas and ample deck space for sunbathing, socializing, or just soaking in the scenery. As the boat cruises along Aruba’s rugged coastline, you’ll be treated to views of pristine beaches and rocky outcroppings—a perfect backdrop for snapping photos or simply enjoying the breeze.

The Highlights: Shipwreck and Turtles

The main attractions of this tour are the Antilla shipwreck and Tres Trapi. The Antilla, a World War II cargo ship that sank over 80 years ago, remains remarkably intact and accessible to snorkelers. It’s considered one of the Caribbean’s best wrecks, with plenty of marine life inhabiting its nooks and crannies. However, some reviews mention that seeing the shipwreck can be challenging due to its depth and the crowd of other boats.

One reviewer noted, “The shipwreck was neat,” but also pointed out it was a bit far down and crowded, which made visibility less than perfect. Still, the chance to see something so historically significant underwater makes it a worthwhile stop.

The second snorkel site, Tres Trapi, is renowned for the chance to swim with Aruba’s sea turtles. Many guests describe the experience as “amazing” and “relaxing,” with some even saying they saw multiple turtles. The crew is helpful, often pointing out marine creatures and making sure everyone gets a good look. One guest summarized, “Swimming with the turtles was simply amazing,” which captures the essence of this part of the trip.

Food and Drinks: A Tasty Complement

A light lunch is included—think fresh fruit, sliders, and local pastries—perfect fuel after your underwater adventures. The open bar offers a variety of liquors, mixers, soft drinks, juices, and bottled water, though beer is not included. Many reviewers appreciate the generous beverage service and how it adds to the relaxed, festive atmosphere.

Additional Amenities and Activities

Besides snorkeling, guests can enjoy access to a rope swing and diving platform, adding a splash of fun and adventure. The crew is often praised for their helpfulness and friendliness, with some even engaging in light storytelling or providing background on the sites visited.

Group Size and Personal Attention

Most trips are capped at 36 travelers, but many reviews highlight how smaller groups or even private trips are available or happen naturally when fewer guests book. For example, one reviewer described their trip as “like a private outing,” which significantly enhances the experience.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour is ideal for families with children, as it is safe, fun, and relaxed. Couples looking for a romantic yet adventurous outing will also find it perfect, especially with the chance to snorkel with turtles. Groups or friends seeking a more intimate, personalized experience will appreciate the smaller boat size and attentive crew.

Practical Details to Keep in Mind

• Duration is approximately 3 hours, which is a good length for those wanting a quick yet fulfilling adventure.
• Price at $65 per person offers great value considering all included amenities—snacks, drinks, gear, and transport.
• Booking is simple with mobile tickets and optional pickup, reducing logistical worries.
• Weather dependent: the tour will be canceled if the weather turns poor, with full refunds or rescheduling options.
• Group size is limited, making it suitable for those who prefer a more relaxed, less crowded atmosphere.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re eager to see marine life, including turtles and colorful fish, and enjoy historical shipwrecks, this trip hits those marks. It’s perfect for travelers who value friendly service, comfort, and good food. Those who appreciate small groups and personalized attention will also find it particularly charming. Keep in mind that the water can be rough at times, which might affect some stops, so comfort with sea conditions is helpful.

Final Thoughts

This Banana Adventure Catamaran tour offers a well-rounded taste of Aruba’s underwater world with a friendly, professional crew ensuring your safety and enjoyment. For just over two hours in the water, you get not only a chance to swim with turtles and explore a historic shipwreck but also the comfort of a smooth sailing experience with snacks and drinks to keep you energized.

The genuine reviews reflect a trip that’s both fun and memorable—whether you’re an avid snorkeler or a first-timer. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or small groups who want to enjoy Aruba’s marine treasures without feeling rushed or overcrowded.

If you’re looking for an authentic, relaxed, and reasonably priced Caribbean adventure, this tour should be on your shortlist.

FAQ

How long is this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you plenty of time to snorkel, relax, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour offers private transportation to and from the meeting point, making logistics easy.

What’s included in the price?
For $65, you get snorkeling equipment, a light lunch, open bar, and access to the boat’s amenities like the rope swing and diving platform.

Can I see sea turtles?
Many guests report swimming with Aruba’s turtles at Tres Trapi, making it a highlight for animal lovers.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Absolutely. It’s family-friendly, with a relaxed atmosphere, manageable group sizes, and plenty of fun activities for kids and adults alike.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather dependent. If poor weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In summary, the Banana Adventure Catamaran offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and value. It’s a fantastic way to tick off Aruba’s top snorkeling spots, enjoy the sea breeze, and learn a bit about local history—all with a crew that genuinely cares about your experience. Whether you’re a snorkeler, a history buff, or just looking for a beautiful day on the water, this trip is worth considering.