Arusun Catamaran Sail with Snorkeling in Aruba

The Antilla Shipwreck is the star of this Aruba outing. You sail aboard the 65-foot Arusun, stop at the wreck and Catalina Bay, and use the supplied snorkel gear. I like the roomy catamaran and the open bar with real snacks, not just a bowl of chips. I also like the small maximum of 35 people, which gives you room to move around.

The main thing to consider is the mood. This is a social sail with music, drinks, and a lively crew, not a quiet nature trip. Snorkeling conditions can change, the Antilla can be busy, and you reach the catamaran by a small zodiac boat, so this suits you best if you have moderate fitness and feel steady getting on and off boats.

Key points to know before you book

• The 65-foot Arusun gives you choices: Sit in the sun, find shade at the back, or stretch out in the forward nets.
• Two snorkel stops add variety: The Antilla Shipwreck offers a striking underwater wreck, while Catalina Bay is shallower and often good for fish and turtles.
• The open bar is included: Drinks include whisky, rum, vodka, juices, soda, and water, with snacks served during the sail.
• The crew sets a friendly, playful tone: Captains and first mates including Amanda, Ronnie, and Gabriel are praised for safety help and personal service.
• Small groups are possible: The listed maximum is 35 people, but some departures have had only 8 or 9 aboard.
• The total time is well judged: At about two and a half hours, you get sailing, snorkeling, food, and relaxation without giving up a full day.

Sailing out from Palm Beach on the Arusun

You meet at the Aruba Watersports Center on J.E. Irausquin Boulevard 81-B in Noord. From there, a zodiac rubber boat carries you from the pier out to the Arusun. That short transfer is part of the adventure, but it also means you should be ready for a boat-to-boat move rather than a simple walk up a dock.

The Arusun is a 65-foot catamaran with room for up to 35 people. That capacity matters. A snorkeling boat can feel cramped when everyone is fighting for a seat or standing in line for equipment. Here, you can spread out between the shaded rear area, the sunny deck, and the nets at the front.

I like that the boat gives you more than one way to spend the sailing time. You can watch Aruba’s coast from the deck, sit in the shade with a drink, or stretch out over the water in the nets. If you want the best mix, claim a shaded seat early and move around once the boat is underway.

Morning and afternoon departures are available. The right choice depends on your plans and how you handle the sun. Either way, bring sunscreen and take the shade seriously. Aruba’s breeze can make the heat feel mild while the sun continues to work on you.

Two and a half hours with a social mood

The Arusun is not just transportation to a snorkeling site. The sailing itself is a major part of the outing. The captain and first mate serve drinks, offer snacks, help with gear, and keep the group informed about safety and water activities.

The crew members named in recent trip details include Captain Amanda, first mate Ronnie, and Captain Gabriel. Their style is friendly and involved. Ronnie is noted for checking in with people around the boat, while Amanda is described as both informative and funny. That kind of attention is useful when you are new to snorkeling or unsure about the equipment.

The atmosphere is generally cheerful and energetic. Music and the open bar can make the trip feel like a floating social gathering. That will be a plus if you want a fun afternoon with drinks and conversation. It may be less appealing if your ideal sail involves quiet water, soft conversation, and long stretches without music.

I would not book this expecting a private charter or a silent coastal cruise. I would book it if you want a relaxed party-boat feel balanced with two genuine opportunities to get in the water.

The Antilla Shipwreck stop

When conditions permit, the first snorkeling stop is the Antilla Shipwreck. The wreck is one of Aruba’s best-known underwater sights, and it gives the trip a clear focal point beyond swimming in open water.

You can expect to see the remains of the ship along with fish and coral. The wreck is the deeper and more dramatic of the two stops, making it especially memorable for confident snorkelers. Several people have also seen sea turtles in the area, though wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.

The practical catch is that the Antilla can be busy. Other swimmers, snorkelers, and scuba divers may be in the water at the same time. You should keep aware of the people around you and listen closely to the crew’s instructions before entering the water.

Water conditions also matter. Wind, current, and visibility can change the experience from one departure to another. One useful point is that the crew may still make both water stops even when conditions are not perfect, but you should not expect the same visibility every day.

If you are a first-time snorkeler, the wreck can feel intimidating at first. The crew helps with equipment and safety, and you can use the fins for extra control. Take a moment to get comfortable breathing through the mask before swimming far from the boat.

Catalina Bay and the second chance to see marine life

The second stop is Catalina Bay, also referred to as Boca Catalina in the trip details. It provides a different setting from the Antilla. The water is described as shallower, with reef areas, schools of fish, and colorful parrotfish.

This change in scenery is one of the strongest parts of the schedule. The wreck gives you structure and scale. Catalina Bay gives you a more open look at reef life and can feel less demanding if you are still getting used to snorkeling.

Sea turtles have been seen here, including one spotted just as the boat was preparing to leave. That is a reminder to keep watching until the last minute, but do not book this expecting a turtle encounter. Fish are the more dependable sight, while turtles depend on timing and luck.

The second stop also helps the tour work for mixed groups. A confident snorkeler can explore farther, while a less experienced swimmer can stay closer to the boat and still see plenty. The crew assists with fins and masks, but you should have a moderate level of fitness and be comfortable in the water.

Snacks and the included open bar

At $63 per person, the food and drink package adds real value. The open bar includes whisky, rum, vodka, juices, soda, and water. Trip details also mention rum punch and a captain’s special, along with light wraps, sandwiches, and fruit.

This is not a full meal. Think of it as enough to keep you going through a two-and-a-half-hour outing. The wraps and fruit are more useful than a small snack after time in the water, especially if you choose a morning departure and have not eaten recently.

Vegetarian food is available, but you need to request it when booking. That is a small detail worth handling early. The drink service is generous, but I would pace yourself. Alcohol, sun, wind, and swimming are a poor combination when taken too quickly.

Water and soda are included, so you can keep the day balanced. I would drink water before snorkeling and continue with it between alcoholic drinks. You want to remember the wreck, not spend the ride back feeling overheated.

Why the $63 price makes sense

The price sits in a useful middle ground for an Aruba water excursion. You are paying for about two and a half hours aboard a large catamaran, two snorkeling stops, equipment, snacks, and an open bar. There is no hotel pickup or drop-off, so you need to arrange your own way to Palm Beach.

The value is strongest if you plan to drink, snack, and use both snorkeling stops. Buying those items separately would quickly add up, and the boat itself provides a more comfortable base than a smaller craft.

The value is weaker if you do not drink, dislike group activities, or mainly want a quiet sail. In that case, part of the price goes toward features you may barely use. You are also paying for a social atmosphere, not just access to the water.

Cruise ship passengers can reach the beach by cab, and the departure point is near public transportation. One practical note from the trip details is that a taxi back to a cruise ship can be arranged from the taxi stand near the Hilton next door. Leave enough time for the ride back to your ship and do not treat the scheduled end time as permission to cut it close.

Who will enjoy the Arusun most

I would choose this trip for couples, families with older children, friends, and solo visitors who like meeting people on the water. It also works well for a mixed group where some want to snorkel and others mainly want to sit in the sun, enjoy a drink, and watch the coast.

Older children can have a great time, especially if they already feel comfortable in the water. The boat has enough room for people to spread out, and the crew keeps the mood light. Very young children may find the zodiac transfer, boat movement, and snorkeling setup tiring.

This is not the best pick for anyone with limited mobility. You need to board the small zodiac and move between boats. The activity also calls for moderate physical fitness. If getting into the water or climbing back aboard is difficult, a beach-based snorkeling option may be a better fit.

It is also a poor match for anyone seeking a silent or highly private outing. The music, open bar, and friendly banter are central to the experience. The boat may feel peaceful during the sail, but the overall tone can become lively, especially on a full departure.

Useful tips for a smoother outing

Bring sunscreen, a swimsuit, and a cover-up for the ride between stops. The boat has shade, but you will still spend time exposed to Aruba’s strong sun.

Use the fins. They make a real difference when you are swimming against a current or trying to return to the boat. If snorkeling feels strange at first, stay calm, adjust the mask, and practice breathing slowly before heading toward the wreck.

Ask the crew for help with the equipment. They are there to assist, and a properly fitted mask can make the difference between enjoying the fish and constantly stopping to clear water.

If you want a quieter spot, head toward the shaded rear section. If you want the most open view and a chance to stretch out, try the forward nets when available. You can move around during the sail, so you do not need to spend the entire trip in one place.

Book at least 24 hours ahead if your plans could change. Cancellations made at least 24 hours before the start time receive a full refund. Inside that window, changes and refunds are not accepted. Poor weather or failure to meet the minimum number of people can also lead to a rescheduled trip or full refund.

Should you book the Arusun?

Book it if you want a well-rounded Aruba outing with two different snorkel sites, a roomy catamaran, snacks, and drinks included. The Antilla Shipwreck gives the trip its memorable feature, while Catalina Bay adds reef fish and a possible turtle sighting.

Skip it if you want a quiet, private sail, dislike music, or have trouble transferring between boats. For most people who want a fun half-day on the water without paying for a full-day cruise, the Arusun offers a strong mix of activity and downtime for $63.

FAQ

Where does the Arusun catamaran tour start?

The activity starts at the Aruba Watersports Center, J.E. Irausquin Boulevard 81-B in Noord, Aruba.

Where does the tour end?

The activity ends back at the original meeting point.

How long does the Arusun sail last?

The experience lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

What snorkeling locations are included?

The planned stops are the Antilla Shipwreck and Catalina Bay, also called Boca Catalina in the trip details. The Antilla stop depends on conditions.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

What drinks are included?

The open bar includes whisky, rum, vodka, juices, soda, and water. Rum punch and a captain’s special may also be served.

Is food included?

Yes. Snacks are included, with light wraps, sandwiches, and fruit described as part of the food service. A vegetarian option is available if requested when booking.

Is hotel transportation included?

No. Hotel pickup and hotel drop-off are not included. You must make your own way to and from the meeting point.

What happens if the weather is poor?

If the trip is canceled because of poor weather, you can choose a different date or receive a full refund. You can also receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.