Shipwreck snorkeling on a breezy catamaran. On the 65-foot Arusun, you sail Aruba’s coast, then snorkel Antilla Shipwreck and Catalina Bay with gear included, while the crew serves snacks and pours from an open bar. It’s a simple, fun mix of sea time and underwater time without needing to plan a thing.

My favorite part is the deck setup: there’s space to spread out, plus shade if you want a break. I also like how the crew keeps things friendly and active, and that this is limited to about 35 people. One thing to consider: if you want a super quiet, mellow ride, note that at least one departure was reported with loud club-style music.

Key things you should know before you go

• 65-foot catamaran, only up to 35 passengers so it doesn’t feel packed
• Snorkel two sites: Antilla Shipwreck first (conditions permitting), then Catalina Bay
• Snorkel gear and open bar included, with drinks like rum, whisky, and vodka
• Zodiac transfer from the pier to reach the catamaran, which keeps the start interesting
• Lounge zones galore, from sun spots to shaded seating and nets up front

Meet the Arusun: what the catamaran experience really feels like

This isn’t a tiny boat where you feel squeezed. The Arusun is a 65-foot, 20-meter catamaran, and that size shows fast. You can actually move around—grab a spot on deck, watch the coastline roll by, then switch places when the sun gets too serious.

I love how the boat gives you options. There are open sun areas for that classic Caribbean “no plans, just breeze” feeling. When you want relief, you can head to shaded seating on the catamaran. And there are lounging nets up front, which are the kind of setup that makes you stop checking your phone and start enjoying the water.

Even better, you’re not sharing the trip with a huge crowd. The cap is 35 travelers, which helps the crew keep their rhythm without turning it into a cattle call. Some trips have even felt small enough to feel semi-private.

Palm Beach area to the boat: the zodiac transfer you’ll notice

Your meeting point is the Aruba Watersports Center on J.E. Irausquin Blvd 81-B in Noord. The experience starts and ends back there. After check-in, you don’t just walk straight onto the catamaran. You first ride in a zodiac rubber boat that takes you out to the Arusun.

This part matters more than you’d think. If you’re someone who gets a little uneasy on short water rides, plan to take it easy during the transfer and focus on your footing. If you’re comfortable on water, it’s a quick, fun intro to the day—kind of a mini adventure before the main sailing begins.

Also keep in mind the timing. You’re looking at about 2 hours 30 minutes on the water (approx.). That’s long enough for two snorkel stops and a relaxing cruise, but it’s not an all-day event. You’ll come back with that Aruba tan glow and still have time for dinner plans.

The snorkel plan: Antilla Shipwreck plus Catalina Bay

You get two snorkeling moments, and the spacing between them is the sweet spot. It’s not one long, exhausting water session. It’s more like: get set up, see something special, then switch locations for a different vibe.

Stop 1: the Antilla Shipwreck

The first snorkeling stop is the Antilla Shipwreck. It’s scheduled as the first stop conditions permitting, so weather and water conditions can shape the day. When conditions are favorable, this is the headliner.

What makes the Antilla so memorable is the mix of structure and life. People describe it as a spot where you can see fish activity around the wreck. In many conditions, it’s clear enough that you’re not just chasing shapes—you’re getting a real look at the underwater scene.

There’s also a reality check. The wreck can be popular, so you might share the water with other snorkelers or divers. That doesn’t ruin it. It just means you should focus on your own pacing and safety rather than expecting solitude.

Stop 2: Catalina Bay (Boca Catalina)

After the Antilla, you head to Catalina Bay, sometimes called Boca Catalina. This second site tends to feel like the contrast to the wreck. If the Antilla is about the structure and the story, Catalina Bay is about the reef and the movement of sea life in a more open swim area.

I love that this stop can deliver the kind of underwater surprises people hope for in Aruba: clear water, lots of fish activity, and—when luck and timing line up—sea turtles. Turtle sightings aren’t guaranteed, but the chances here are clearly part of why people book.

One more practical thing: currents can be a factor. Some snorkelers have noted stronger water movement at times. You don’t need to be an olympic swimmer, but you do want reasonable comfort in open water and being able to follow the crew’s instructions.

Snacks and drinks: how the open bar makes the value work

At $63 per person for about 2.5 hours, the math makes a lot more sense because food and drinks are included. You’re not paying extra for sodas, juices, or the casual “vacation treat” factor.

Here’s what’s in the unlimited open bar:

• whisky
• rum
• vodka
• juices
• soda
• water

So yes, you can keep it light with water and juice, or go all-in with classic rum punch style drinks if that’s your thing. Either way, it’s part of the day’s vibe, and the crew keeps the service flowing.

Snacks are included too, and people describe them as satisfying—often wraps or similar easy bites. This matters because you’re doing snorkeling. You’ll feel better if you’ve got a snack in your stomach before and between swims.

Practical note: alcohol is included, so be smart. I’d treat drinks as part of the fun, not something that wrecks your focus for snorkeling.

Crew energy and safety: the two-person team effect

The Arusun experience stands out for one reason: the crew style is personal. The boat carries up to 35, and you’ll feel like the captain and first mate actually manage the flow of the trip rather than just giving generic instructions.

In the names that come up, you’ll see pairings like Captain Amanda with first mate Ronnie, and in other instances Captain Gabriel alongside Ronnie. Regardless of the names, the pattern is a tight crew team that handles safety, equipment help, and the fun energy.

What I appreciate is that the crew is described as both friendly and safety-focused. They help you with snorkel equipment so you’re not fighting it underwater. They also keep an eye on the pace, which matters when water conditions change.

If you’re new to snorkeling, this is the kind of trip where you can get set up properly and stop overthinking it. The first few minutes underwater can feel strange, but once you get the breathing and positioning down, it gets much easier.

Practical reality check: what to bring and how to be comfortable

This trip includes snorkeling equipment, but you still want to show up prepared like it’s a real water day.

A few practical tips based on what people say consistently:

• Bring sunscreen. It’s a sail day, and you’ll be out in the sun.
• Use the fins if they’re provided with your gear. One snorkeler specifically recommends it, and fins make a bigger difference than most people expect.
• Expect a learning curve if snorkeling is new. Some people say it feels scary at first, but once they’re comfortable, they end up loving it.
• Bring a towel if you have one, since you’ll be getting wet and then drying off on deck.
• If you’re sensitive to sound, remember that some departures have had loud music. You can’t control that, but you can plan your comfort by choosing your deck spot early (shade can make it feel calmer).

Also, the experience calls for moderate physical fitness. That doesn’t mean you need to be a fitness athlete. It does mean you should be comfortable enough for getting in and out of the water and handling typical snorkeling movement.

Who should book this catamaran with snorkeling in Aruba?

This is a great fit if you want:

• a value-heavy Aruba activity (snorkeling + snacks + open bar for one set price)
• a relaxing sail with enough structure to make the snorkeling time count
• two different underwater vibes: wreck structure first, reef life second
• a small-to-midsize group experience instead of a huge tour bus situation

It’s also a good choice for couples and friend groups who want a fun atmosphere, not a quiet library vibe.

But it may not fit you if:

• you need a very quiet outing, and loud music would stress you out
• you have limited mobility or you’re not comfortable with getting in the water and back on board
• you’re traveling with very young kids (some people recommend skipping if you want easy logistics)

If you want sea life and you can handle a bit of movement in the water, this is exactly the kind of Aruba day that feels like time well spent.

Should you book the Arusun Catamaran Sail with Snorkeling?

Yes—if you’re looking for a straightforward Aruba experience where the best parts are included. You get the Antilla Shipwreck and Catalina Bay snorkeling, plus the deck sailing time, plus snacks and an unlimited open bar. For $63 and roughly 2.5 hours, that’s strong value for a vacation day that isn’t just driving to a viewpoint.

I’d book this especially if you like fun crew energy and you want to snorkel without bringing your own gear. Just do two things before you go: protect your skin with sunscreen and pick your comfort spot early in case you’re sensitive to music levels.

If quiet is your top priority, you might still enjoy it—but go in with eyes open, because the ride can swing toward a more party-style soundtrack on some departures.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point and when does the tour end?

You meet at Aruba Watersports Center, J.E. Irausquin Blvd 81-B, Noord, Aruba. The activity ends back at the same meeting point.

How long is the Arusun catamaran and snorkeling experience?

It runs about 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.).

What snorkeling spots are included?

You snorkel at the Antilla Shipwreck first (conditions permitting), and then you visit Catalina Bay for a second snorkeling stop.

Are snacks and drinks included, and what’s in the open bar?

Snacks are included, and there is an unlimited open bar. The drinks listed include whisky, rum, vodka, juices, soda, and water.

Is snorkeling equipment included, and is there a vegetarian option?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is included. There is also a vegetarian option available if you let the provider know when booking.

What happens if weather is bad or you need to cancel?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.