Iconic Aruba Sail and Snorkel Experience

Snorkel at Aruba's famous Antilla Shipwreck and Catalina Bay on a 2.5-hour catamaran cruise with Pelican Aruba. Departing from Pelican Pier on Palm Beach, this afternoon sailing trip combines two snorkeling stops with an open bar, light snacks and time to relax on deck.

It's a good choice for visitors who want to see Aruba's underwater attractions without spending an entire day on a boat.

Pelican Aruba's Iconic Sail and Snorkel Experience takes you along the island's coastline to two very different snorkeling locations.

At Catalina Bay, you'll have the opportunity to swim in clear Caribbean water and look for tropical fish around the reef. The second highlight is the Antilla Shipwreck, a large World War II-era wreck that has become one of Aruba's best-known snorkeling sites.

Between stops, enjoy the catamaran's shaded seating, coastal views, music and drinks from the open bar. The crew provides snorkeling equipment and guidance, so you don't need to bring your own gear.

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes and departs from Pelican Pier in the Palm Beach hotel area.

Tour Highlights

• Snorkel at Catalina Bay and the historic Antilla Shipwreck.
• Enjoy a 2.5-hour catamaran cruise along Aruba's coastline.
• Visit two snorkeling locations with different underwater scenery.
• Relax on deck with an open bar serving alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks.
• Enjoy light snacks during the excursion.
• Use the provided snorkeling equipment.
• Receive assistance and instructions from Pelican Aruba's crew.
• Depart conveniently from Pelican Pier on Palm Beach.

The biggest advantage is the combination of Catalina Bay and the Antilla Shipwreck in one relatively short excursion.

Catalina Bay offers a reef snorkeling experience where you can look for colorful fish, while Antilla adds the opportunity to see a historic shipwreck beneath the water.

You also get time to enjoy the boat itself. The catamaran has shaded areas where guests can relax between snorkeling stops, and drinks and snacks are included.

Unlike a snorkeling-only excursion, this trip is designed to be enjoyable both in and out of the water.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is particularly appealing to couples, groups of friends and visitors who want a mix of sightseeing, snorkeling and a relaxed afternoon at sea.

It's also worth considering if you're staying around Palm Beach, since the departure pier is within walking distance of several nearby resorts.

However, the Antilla snorkeling area can experience stronger currents and choppier conditions than Catalina Bay. Travelers who are uncomfortable swimming in open water should discuss conditions with the crew and can choose to remain on board.

Departure from Pelican Pier

Your excursion begins at Pelican Pier, beside the Pelican Nest Restaurant on Palm Beach.

The scheduled departure is at 2:00 PM, with check-in at approximately 1:30 PM. Arrive early enough to check in and board without rushing.

Snorkeling at Catalina Bay

Catalina Bay, also known as Boca Catalina, is a popular snorkeling area on Aruba's northwest coast.

Here, you can explore the underwater environment and look for tropical fish around the reef.

Water conditions and visibility vary, but this location often provides a more sheltered snorkeling experience than the exposed shipwreck area.

Exploring the Antilla Shipwreck

The Antilla is one of Aruba's most recognizable underwater landmarks.

The German cargo ship was scuttled during World War II and now attracts snorkelers and divers interested in its history and marine life.

From the water's surface, snorkelers may be able to see sections of the wreck, depending on visibility and sea conditions.

The area can be choppier than Catalina Bay, so follow the crew's instructions and only enter the water if you're comfortable with the conditions.

Sailing Back Along Palm Beach

After snorkeling, return to the catamaran for the cruise back to Pelican Pier.

Enjoy drinks from the open bar, light snacks and views of Aruba's coastline before the excursion finishes at approximately 4:30 PM.

• Approximately 2.5 hours aboard a catamaran
• Two snorkeling stops: Catalina Bay and Antilla Shipwreck
• Snorkeling equipment
• Professional guides and crew
• Unlimited drinks from the open bar
• Alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages
• Light snacks

Not included: Hotel pickup and drop-off. Guests must arrange their own transportation to Pelican Pier.

Meeting point: Pelican Pier / Pelican Nest Restaurant, J.E. Irausquin Boulevard 230, Noord, Aruba.

Check-in: Approximately 1:30 PM

Departure: 2:00 PM

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

Return: Approximately 4:30 PM, at the same pier

The pier is located on Palm Beach, between the Holiday Inn and Playa Linda Beach Resort.

Confirm the meeting instructions and departure time on your booking confirmation.

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and a waterproof case if you want to take photographs.

Snorkeling equipment is included, but you're welcome to check with the operator if you prefer using your own mask.

The Antilla Shipwreck is in open water, where currents and waves can vary. If you're traveling with children or inexperienced swimmers, ask the crew about conditions before entering the water.

The excursion is not recommended for travelers with serious cardiovascular conditions.

Accessibility: The current Viator listing states that the tour is not wheelchair accessible, although strollers are permitted. Contact Pelican Aruba directly if you have specific accessibility requirements.

This is a strong option if you want to combine two of Aruba's best-known snorkeling locations with a comfortable catamaran cruise.

The included drinks, snacks and equipment make it convenient, while the 2.5-hour duration leaves plenty of time for other activities.

Its main limitation is that snorkeling conditions at the Antilla Shipwreck can be more challenging than at Catalina Bay. If you're looking for exclusively shallow, sheltered snorkeling, a different excursion may be a better fit.

For visitors who want both reef snorkeling and a shipwreck experience, Pelican Aruba offers a convenient way to enjoy them in one afternoon.

Price: From approximately $65 per person. Rates vary by date and availability.

Where does the Pelican Aruba sail and snorkel tour depart?

The tour departs from Pelican Pier, beside Pelican Nest Restaurant on Palm Beach, at J.E. Irausquin Boulevard 230 in Noord.

What time does the tour start?

The scheduled departure is 2:00 PM, with check-in at approximately 1:30 PM. Confirm the time when booking.

How long is the Iconic Aruba Sail and Snorkel Experience?

The excursion lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Where do you snorkel on this tour?

The tour visits Catalina Bay, also known as Boca Catalina, and the Antilla Shipwreck.

Can you see the Antilla Shipwreck while snorkeling?

Yes, sections of the wreck may be visible from the surface, depending on water clarity and conditions. You do not need to scuba dive to participate in this snorkeling excursion.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is provided, along with guidance from the crew.

Are drinks and food included?

Yes. The excursion includes an open bar with alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, plus light snacks. It is not advertised as a full lunch.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Guests arrange their own transportation to Pelican Pier.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?

Some beginners may enjoy the Catalina Bay stop, but the Antilla area can experience stronger currents and waves. Ask the crew about conditions and stay on board if you're uncomfortable entering the water.

How much does the tour cost?

Prices start at approximately $65 per person, depending on the selected date and current availability.

Can I cancel my booking?

The advertised cancellation policy allows a full refund when canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. Check the terms attached to your booking.

Who operates this snorkeling excursion?

The tour is operated by Pelican Aruba.

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