West Coast Full-Day Tour with Beaches, BBQ and Blue Room

A Full Day of Coastal Exploration, Snorkeling, and Beachside Delights in Curacao

If you’re seeking a way to see the best of Curacao’s coast without the hassle of planning every detail, this West Coast Full-Day Tour with beaches, BBQ, and the Blue Room might just fit the bill. For around $140 per person, you get approximately nine hours of sailing, swimming, exploring caves, and enjoying tasty food and drinks aboard a comfortable double-decker catamaran. The tour departs from the Caracas Bay area and takes you on a journey along some of the most iconic spots on the island’s west coast.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are: first, the variety of stops that include snorkeling at Kokomo Beach and Cas Abao Beach, and the Blue Room Cave, which offers a chance for a memorable underwater adventure. Second, the all-inclusive meals and drinks—you’ll enjoy a hearty BBQ lunch and a selection of alcoholic beverages, making this a relaxing, stress-free day.

One aspect to consider is the bus ride back to the starting point, which some reviews mention can be long—over an hour of bumpy ride through traffic. So, if you’re looking for a quiet, seamless day, this might be a minor inconvenience to weigh against the overall fun.

This tour appeals most to active travelers who enjoy snorkeling, scenic boat rides, and beach hopping, as well as those who appreciate good food and a lively atmosphere. If you’re traveling with friends, family, or even solo and want a well-organized way to see multiple sights in one day, this trip offers great value and memorable moments.

Key Points

• Multiple stops along the west coast for snorkeling and sightseeing
• All-inclusive meals and drinks make for a hassle-free experience
• Blue Room Cave offers a unique underwater and cave exploration opportunity
• Comfortable group size (up to 50 guests) allows for social fun without overcrowding
• Long bus ride can be a drawback; plan accordingly
• Suitable for most travelers, including those with limited boating experience

Exploring the Curacao Coast in Comfort and Style

This full-day tour delivers a well-rounded taste of Curacao’s west coast, balancing sightseeing, snorkeling, relaxation, and delicious food. It’s a smart choice if you want to pack a variety of experiences into one day, especially if you prefer a group setting that keeps costs manageable.

Starting at the Irie Tours marina at Jan Thiel around 8:30 am, you’ll meet your crew, board your double-decker catamaran, and set sail on a journey that showcases the island’s rugged shoreline lined with pristine beaches and intriguing caves. The boat itself is spacious, with both sunny and shaded areas, so you can choose your preferred spot for lounging or sightseeing.

Itinerary Breakdown and Highlights

Jan Thiel Beach Viewpoint: Your day begins with a quick view of this popular beach, giving you a first glimpse of the coast’s natural beauty. No formal stop here—just a scenic pass-by.

St. Anna Bay and Pontoon Bridge: Passing by, you’ll see these iconic features from the boat, offering a sense of the local vibe and engineering marvels.

Blue Bay Beach View: Another quick pass that lets you admire this lovely stretch of sand and turquoise water.

Kokomo Beach (45-minute snorkeling stop): This is a favorite among snorkeling enthusiasts. You’ll have time to swim and explore the underwater world, with included gear so you don’t need to bring your own. One reviewer called it an “extraordinary snorkeling experience,” though some mention you might wish for more fish or coral compared to other places. Still, the crystal-clear waters make it worthwhile.

Cas Abao Beach (2-hour stop): Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch buffet featuring tenderloin skewers, grilled chicken, pork chorizos, pesto pasta salad, greens, and garlic bread. The two-hour window provides plenty of time to swim, relax, and soak up the sun. Many reviews praise the quality of the food, calling it “really good,” and appreciate the relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Blue Room Cave (45-minute stop): One of the tour’s crown jewels, this is a chance to snorkel into a stunning underwater cavern. Visitors describe it as “magical,” though some mention that entering can be a little tricky or “messy,” requiring some swimming skill or flotation devices. Our reviews show that staff is attentive and helpful in navigating this unique experience.

Klein Knip, Groot Knip, and Playa Forti Views: The boat passes these beaches quickly, offering scenic views but no stops—perfect for a scenic sightseeing moment without delay.

Playa Kalki (15-minute stop): Disembarking here, you’ll hop onto a brightly colored open-air bus for a fun, lively ride back to Willemstad. This is a highlight for many, as it adds an authentic local vibe and a chance to see more of the landscape.

Return to Caracas Bay: The trip concludes with a scenic bus ride back, with some reviews noting it’s a bit long and bumpy but worth the experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Your ticket covers most essentials, including breakfast sandwiches, coffee/tea, a BBQ lunch, fresh fruit snacks, and an open bar with rum, vodka, beer, white wine, rosé, cocktails, sodas, and fruit punch. The snorkeling gear—masks and snorkels—are provided, so no need to pack your own.

However, there’s a $15 pickup fee if you opt for hotel or resort pickup—something to consider if you value convenience. The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, giving some peace of mind if your plans change.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Feedback

Reviews paint a mostly positive picture, emphasizing the friendly crew, the beautiful scenery, and the delicious food. Many travelers highlight how the Blue Room Cave felt special and memorable, with some describing it as “magical” and “an experience you will never forget.”

The snorkeling is often described as enjoyable, but not necessarily the best coral or fish compared to other Caribbean destinations. Still, the crystal-clear waters and the chance to see flying fish, dolphins, and underwater caverns make up for it.

Food receives high praise, with many noting the BBQ is tasty, and the drinks are plentiful. Some reviews mention that the beaches visited are stunning, and it’s a great way to see parts of Curaçao that might otherwise require multiple separate trips.

The long bus ride back is a common point of critique. It’s over an hour and can be bumpy, especially if you’re tired after a full day in the sun. If you’re staying near Willemstad, consider the pickup option to avoid a long return journey.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for active travelers who enjoy snorkeling, sightseeing, and beach hopping but prefer not to organize individual outings. It suits those who appreciate good food and drinks in a relaxed environment, and are comfortable on boats with some exposure to sun and water.

It’s also perfect if you want a social atmosphere—reviews mention fun vibes, lively music, and friendly crew members. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation, this tour offers excellent value.

Final Thoughts

This West Coast Full-Day Tour offers a balanced mix of scenic views, underwater adventures, beach relaxation, and delicious food, making it a top choice for those wanting to experience Curacao’s coast in a single day. The all-inclusive nature ensures you won’t be caught off guard by hidden costs, and the variety of stops keeps the day interesting.

While the bus ride back can be lengthy, most travelers find the overall experience more than worthwhile. It’s a good fit for adventurous, social, and curious travelers eager to see the island’s highlights from the water and enjoy a fun, relaxed day.

FAQ

What is the tour duration?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, including sailing, snorkeling, beach stops, and the return bus ride.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, masks and snorkels are included, so you don’t need to bring your own.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, breakfast, BBQ lunch, fresh fruit snacks, and a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are all included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before departure, with a full refund.

What are the main stops?
Highlights include Kokomo Beach, Cas Abao Beach, and the Blue Room Cave, plus scenic views of several beaches and coastlines.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
If you’re comfortable in water and with snorkeling gear, you’ll enjoy the cave and beach stops. Non-swimmers can still enjoy the scenery from the boat.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a towel, and optional water shoes for the Blue Room Cave entrance. Towels are available on board.

Is pickup included?
Not automatically; there is a $15 fee for hotel or resort pickup. It’s recommended if you want to avoid a lengthy bus ride back.

Are there age or health restrictions?
Most travelers can participate; however, strong swimming skills are recommended for cave entry, and those with health concerns should consider their comfort with boat travel.

All in all, this tour offers a lively, well-organized way to explore Curacao’s stunning coast, combining adventure, relaxation, and good eats. Perfect for those wanting a fun, social day out on the water without breaking the bank.