A Relaxing Yet Exciting Day on the Water in Aruba
When we think of Aruba, we picture clear blue waters, vibrant coral reefs, and the gentle hum of the Caribbean breeze. The Premium Catamaran Afternoon Sail offers all that and more—sailing along the coast in a sleek 40-foot trimaran, exploring two top snorkeling spots, and enjoying a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing or snapping some photos.
This was great – our captain Martin & his crew were helpful & fun to spend the afternoon with. Very knowledgeable about the area & its history. They had tons of varieties of alcohol & mixers & frequent snacks so the booze doesn’t hit you too hard. Will absolutely go again!
I had a great time! relaxing, passed out lots of good. the only thing I was was better was the music. I wish it was more exciting & upbeat, maybe caribbean music. it was a bit boring. otherwise it was nice.
It was an amazing experience. The snorkeling is great and the drinks kept flowing. I also let them know ahead of time about my family doesn’t eat pork and there were 12 of us. They made sandwiches specifically for us to enjoy. And you get to keep the cup when you leave.
The tour departs from Palm Beach, a lively area with plenty of nearby resorts and beaches, making it an easy choice if you’re based nearby.
For $74.99 per person, this three-hour adventure combines gentle sailing with underwater discovery, topped off with a delicious lunch and unlimited drinks.
Two standout features for us are the chance to see the famous shipwreck ‘Antilla’—a hauntingly beautiful relic from WWII—and the opportunity to snorkel in Malmok Reef, renowned for its vivid marine life. The tour is ideal for travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic day with some underwater adventure thrown in.
One thing to keep in mind is that this tour can get quite popular, so booking in advance is recommended. Also, if snorkeling isn’t your main focus, or if you’re traveling with young children who aren’t confident swimmers, this might be more of a relaxed scenic cruise with some fun in the water rather than an intense snorkeling expedition. Overall, it’s a good fit for those who value good value, friendly guides, and a comfortable, social atmosphere.
This experience made our article of The 15 Best Boat Tours & Cruises In Aruba.
- Key Points
- The Details of the Tour: What You Can Expect
- Meeting Point and Boarding
- The Sailing Experience
- Snorkeling at 'Antilla' Shipwreck
- Second Stop: Malmok Reef
- Food and Drinks
- End of the Trip
- Why This Tour Is Worth Considering
- Who Will Love This Tour?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts
- The Best Of Aruba!
- More Lunch Experiences in Aruba
- More Boat Tours & Cruises in Aruba
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Key Points
- Stunning Coastal Views: Sail along Aruba’s coastline, capturing picture-perfect scenes of the Caribbean Sea.
- Historical Underwater Sites: Explore the famous shipwreck ‘Antilla,’ an intriguing WWII relic full of marine life.
- Vibrant Marine Life: Snorkel at Malmok Reef, spotting fish, octopuses, and coral in calm, shallow waters.
- All-inclusive Comfort: Enjoy unlimited drinks from the open bar and a simple, satisfying lunch during your trip.
- Professional Guides and Safety: The crew are well-trained, ensuring your safety and offering helpful instruction.
- Relaxed Group Size: With a maximum of 34 travelers, the atmosphere remains intimate and friendly.
👉 See our pick of the We Rank The 10 Best Workshops & Classes In Aruba
The Details of the Tour: What You Can Expect
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Aruba
Meeting Point and Boarding
Your adventure kicks off at Octopus Aruba Sailing, Snorkeling, Sunset & Private Tours at J.E. Irausquin Blvd 87, Palm Beach. We appreciated how smooth check-in was—just 30 minutes before the 1:00 pm departure, and a quick 98-foot shuttle boat takes you from the beach hut to the catamaran. The shuttle is spacious, comfortable, and the ride is calm—perfect for anyone prone to seasickness or just looking for a relaxed start.
The Sailing Experience
Once aboard, you’ll appreciate the stability and comfort of the trimaran, which is designed for smooth sailing. As the boat gently cuts through the water, you’ll enjoy ample space to lounge or take photos of Aruba’s coastline, which stretches out in vivid colors. The crew, often praised as friendly and attentive, will provide safety life jackets and snorkeling instructions, making sure everyone feels prepared.
Great sailing experience but not good snorkeling. The boat was almost to capacity so there were seats for everyone. The various snacks and the cocktails were fine. The captain and crew were absolutely fabulous. I highly recommend this activity if you are not focused on the snorkeling.
It maybe difficult people to manage the boat ladders Food & drinks ok. More instruction for people that have not snorkeled before ……………………..
My first time out in the water an I took a chance snorkeling I had a great time I was a little scared
Snorkeling at 'Antilla' Shipwreck
The first snorkel stop at the shipwreck 'Antilla' offers a hauntingly beautiful scene—an intact 1939 German freighter sunk during WWII. Spending about 45 minutes here, you'll see vibrant marine life swirling around the sunken vessel, which is now a favorite for underwater photographers. Reviewers like James and Roger said the shipwreck was "fabulous" and "the best experience," with one calling it “like diving into a fishbowl.” It’s an accessible, shallow site, making it suitable for snorkelers of various skill levels.
Second Stop: Malmok Reef
Next, the boat heads to Malmok Reef, located in Catalina Bay, where the waters are shallow and calm. This is a great spot for observing angel fish, damsel fish, octopuses, and coral. The shallow depth allows even beginners or less confident swimmers to enjoy the underwater scenery comfortably. Reviewers like Angie and Deliah appreciated the snorkeling, calling it "very beautiful" and "unforgettable."
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Aruba
Food and Drinks
Throughout the trip, guests can sip unlimited drinks from the open bar, which includes cocktails, soda, and water—an appreciated touch after some time in the water. The lunch service is simple but satisfying: a sandwich and some snacks, with many reviewers noting the quality was good and the service friendly. One reviewer, Molly, said the drinks and food "flowed throughout the day," making it feel like a floating party.
End of the Trip
The adventure wraps up back at the starting point, with many guests praising the crew's attentiveness and the overall relaxed vibe. The souvenir octopus adds a fun keepsake of your Aruba adventure.
Why This Tour Is Worth Considering
The value for money is quite good for a half-day tour that includes transportation, snorkeling gear, lunch, and drinks. The mixture of sailing, historical sights, and marine life gives a well-rounded experience that appeals to a wide variety of travelers. The small group size (max 34) keeps the experience intimate, allowing for personalized attention from the crew.
What travelers love most, according to reviews, are the knowledgeable and friendly guides and the spectacular underwater scenery. Many mention how the crew made them feel comfortable, especially first-time snorkelers. The on-board music and casual atmosphere make it a fun social outing, though some found the playlist a bit subdued and wished for more upbeat Caribbean tunes.
A potential drawback is that snorkeling at the shipwreck isn't always perfect—some reviews note the coral and fish are beautiful but the snorkeling experience can vary depending on conditions. Also, the lunch is modest, more akin to snacks than a full meal, so if you're expecting a hearty lunch, you might want to bring extra snacks.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience suits travelers who want a relaxed day on the water with excellent snorkeling and friendly guides. It’s perfect if you’re interested in historic shipwrecks and marine life, but not looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure. It’s also ideal for families, couples, or groups who appreciate a social, laid-back atmosphere and good value.
If you’re a first-timer, you'll find the crew accommodating and helpful, making snorkeling accessible and fun. Those with limited time in Aruba will appreciate how much you get in just three hours—including coastal views, underwater sights, and a pleasant onboard vibe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 1:00 pm and ending back at the meeting point.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Octopus Aruba beach hut on J.E. Irausquin Blvd in Palm Beach and returns there at the end of the trip.
Is the snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkel gear and instructions are included, and the crew is helpful in guiding first-time snorkelers.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
No, the tour includes unlimited drinks from the open bar and a provided sandwich lunch. Outside food or drinks are not permitted onboard.
What is the weather policy?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you'll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Are there any age restrictions?
The minimum drinking age is 18 years. Snorkeling is suitable for most ages, but always consider comfort in water.
Is there a group size limit?
Yes, a maximum of 34 travelers ensures a relaxed, personalized experience.
What should I bring with me?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, and possibly a hat or sunglasses for sun protection. The waters are calm and warm.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations less than 24 hours before are non-refundable.
Final Thoughts
The Premium Catamaran Afternoon Sail in Aruba offers a balanced mix of sailing, history, and marine exploration, all with a relaxed Caribbean vibe. It’s a great way to enjoy Aruba’s coast without feeling rushed, especially if good company, scenic views, and underwater beauty are your priorities. The crew's friendly attitude and the well-planned stops make it a popular choice among visitors, many of whom say it’s one of their best days in Aruba.
If you’re looking for a value-packed, scenic, and social outing that combines gentle adventure with comfort, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suited to those who want to relax, enjoy good drinks and food, and see some of Aruba’s most iconic underwater sights. Just remember to book early, prepare for some modest snacks, and be ready for a memorable Caribbean day on the water.
