Swim with Turtles at Turtle Bay, Curacao: Boat, Blue Room Cave

Swim with Turtles at Turtle Bay, Curacao: Boat, Blue Room Cave

Picture this: a half-day adventure where you hop on a boat to Curacao’s Turtle Bay, snorkel among wild sea turtles, explore the mysterious Blue Room Cave, and unwind at a beautiful beach—all for roughly $98 per person. This tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours, making it a manageable yet exciting way to experience some of the island’s top highlights.

What really draws us in are two standout features: first, the opportunity to swim with wild sea turtles, which is not something you find everywhere, and second, the chance to visit the Blue Room Cave, a partially submerged cavern that offers a unique, almost otherworldly swim. These experiences are carefully curated to keep everyone engaged—whether you’re a snorkeler, a beach lover, or an adventure seeker.

One thing to keep in mind, though, is that some reviews mention rough seas and choppy boat rides, which might be challenging for those prone to seasickness or with back issues. Also, while the tour promises multiple stops, some travelers have found the actual time at each location can be shorter than expected, especially if the boat encounters mechanical issues or rough waters.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who love a bit of thrill, don’t mind getting a little wet and sandy, and appreciate the chance to see Curacao’s marine life and stunning landscapes firsthand. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo—but be prepared for some adventure!

Key Points

• Authentic Wildlife Encounters: Swim with sea turtles in their natural habitat at Playa Piskado.
• Unique Cave Experience: Explore the Blue Room Cave, a hidden gem accessed via underwater swim.
• Scenic Beach Stop: Relax at Daaibooi Beach, known for its powdery white sands and lush surroundings.
• All-Inclusive Equipment: Snorkeling gear is provided, with some reviews noting the gear is limited—bring your own if possible.
• Adventure Level Varies: Expect a bumpy ride and possibly rough seas; good for active, adventurous travelers.
• Variable Experiences: Depending on weather and sea conditions, the quantity and quality of turtle sightings and cave visits may differ.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Departure and Meeting Point

Starting at Marichi Pier in Willemstad, the tour kicks off promptly at 9:00 am. This location is conveniently near public transport and parking, which is a real plus for travelers not renting cars. However, some reviews point out that finding the meeting spot can be tricky, especially with ongoing construction or lack of clear signage. A few guests mention almost missing the boat due to confusion, so arriving a little early or asking locals for directions can save a headache.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Stop 1: Playa Piskado (Turtle Bay)

This is the highlight for many travelers. Known locally as Turtle Bay, Playa Piskado is renowned for wild sea turtles that swim freely in the clear waters. We loved the way the tour guides emphasize respecting the animals—no touching or harassing the turtles, which is crucial for their well-being. Several reviews highlight this stop as the core reason to book the trip, with Kelly mentioning that “it was worth every penny,” despite fewer turtles than expected.

You can expect about 45 minutes here, giving plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling. Some reviews note that the water can be murky, often due to local feeding of the turtles, which attracts them but also makes photo-taking tricky. Still, seeing these gentle creatures up close is unforgettable.

Stop 2: Blue Room Cave

Next, the boat heads to the Blue Room Cave, a stunning underwater cavern accessible via a brief underwater swim. You’ll love the play of sunlight filtering through the water, creating an almost surreal glow inside the cave. It’s a bit of a thrill—you need to be a strong swimmer to reach it comfortably, and the water can be rough and challenging, especially if the sea is choppy. According to various reviews, the cave is a must-see, but not everyone is comfortable with the swim or the conditions.

There’s some variability here; some travelers, like Julia, describe the Blue Room as “incredible,” while others, like Daniela, warn that it can be intimidating if you’re not confident in your swimming skills. Expect about 45 minutes at this stop, though weather or water conditions may shorten this window.

Stop 3: Daaibooi Beach

The last stop is Daaibooi Beach, renowned for its soft white sands and lush surroundings. Several guests mention it as one of the prettiest beaches on the island—Kelly called it “gorgeous,” and Wendy appreciated the calm, scenic setting. Here, you can relax, soak up the sun, or take a quick swim. The stop lasts about 45 minutes, but be aware that if the weather is windy, the surf can be lively, making it more of a fun splash zone than a peaceful lounge.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour includes all fees, taxes, and snorkeling equipment (masks and snorkels). Some reviews mention that gear is limited—no fins or life vests are provided, so bringing your own or planning accordingly might be wise. The tour also offers complimentary alcoholic drinks, including Rum, Whiskey, and Vodka for 18+ travelers, which adds a fun, relaxed vibe—though be cautious about drinking before swimming.

The Boat and Sea Conditions

Most of the trip involves a lively boat ride, often described as adventurous, with some reviewers comparing it to a rollercoaster. The boats are zodiac-style, small and fast, which means expect some splashing and bumping. If you’re not comfortable with rough seas or high waves, this might not be your favorite trip. Some travelers, like Britt, mention feeling uncomfortable due to the seasick-inducing waves and strong currents.

The boat crew, particularly guides like Captain Sam, are praised for their helpfulness and professionalism. They do their best to navigate safely through choppy waters and keep everyone informed.

Challenges and Drawbacks

There are some consistent concerns worth noting. Several reviews mention mechanical or logistical issues, such as engine troubles or delays, which can cut the experience short or cause frustration. Others highlight poor communication, especially regarding pickup points or timing adjustments. For example, one guest almost missed the boat because of confusion and a lack of signage, emphasizing the importance of arriving early.

A few travelers also expressed disappointment over shortened stops and murky waters at the turtle site, which can lessen the quality of the wildlife encounter.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active, adventurous travelers who enjoy a good boat ride, snorkeling in open water, and exploring caves. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable in rough seas and have a strong swimming ability—especially for the cave swim. Families with older children or teenagers who love aquatics and thrill rides will likely find this very rewarding.

If you prefer calmer waters, shorter boat rides, or more relaxed beach days, you might find this tour a bit too vigorous. It’s also worth noting that not everyone may see turtles or visit the Blue Room Cave, depending on weather and sea conditions.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour offers a solid mix of adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty. The chance to snorkel with sea turtles in their natural environment, combined with exploring the Blue Room Cave, makes it stand out among typical Caribbean excursions. The value for money is strong, especially considering all the sites visited and the inclusion of snorkeling gear and drinks.

However, the adventurous nature of the ride and the often unpredictable sea conditions mean it’s best for confident swimmers and thrill-seekers. If you’re ready for a bit of a rollercoaster in the open water and don’t mind shorter stops, you’ll find plenty to love here.

This tour is an authentic, energetic way to see parts of Curacao most visitors miss. It’s perfect for those wanting a memorable, active day filled with wildlife encounters, stunning views, and a true taste of island adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, the tour includes snorkeling masks and snorkels. However, some reviews mention limited gear—no fins or life vests are generally provided, so bringing your own gear might be wise if you want fins or extra comfort.

What is the best swimmer’s skill level for this trip?
You should be a strong swimmer if you plan to visit the Blue Room Cave, as it involves a brief underwater swim. The boat ride can be rough, so a good comfort level with open water and waves is recommended.

How long are the stops at each site?
Most stops—Turtle Bay, the Blue Room Cave, and Daaibooi Beach—are about 45 minutes each. Nonetheless, actual timing can vary depending on weather, sea conditions, and boat issues.

What is the weather like during the tour?
The trip is weather-dependent. Calm days provide a more relaxed experience, while rough seas can make the boat ride bumpier and the cave swim more challenging. The tour is canceled in poor weather, with options for a different date or full refund.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially for children who are good swimmers and enjoy active water adventures. However, the boat ride is lively, and the cave swim requires confidence, so younger or more cautious travelers should evaluate their comfort level.

How do I find the meeting point?
The tour departs from Marichi Pier in Willemstad, which can be tricky to locate due to ongoing construction or limited signage. Arriving early and asking locals for directions is advised.

In essence, if you’re seeking a thrilling, wildlife-rich day on the water with some cave exploration and beach relaxation thrown in, this tour offers a mix that can make for a truly memorable trip to Curacao. Just prepare for some adventure and a few unpredictable moments—and you’ll be rewarded with stunning sights and stories to tell.