Snorkeling without the boat-chaos is a big deal. This private charter takes just your group aboard a 26-foot Bayliner to Aruba’s shallow-water spots near Catalina Bay for an easygoing, fish-filled snorkel with time to choose what you want to see.

What I like most is the private setup. You avoid the typical Aruba scene of crowded boats, and you can move at your pace instead of following a strict group schedule.

One thing to think about: the best Malmok-area entry can be rocky. When you get in, it’s a small beach with lots of stones, so plan for a slightly tricky first step into the water.

Key Things That Make This Charter Worth It

• Private boat for your group so you’re not squeezed onto a big head-count craft
• Shallow snorkeling around Catalina Bay where beginners have an easier time
• Malmok beach near Boca Catalina is a top snorkel area that’s often uncrowded
• Rum punch + soft drinks included (18+ for alcohol)
• Captains like Lex, Boi, and Lux are praised for safety, clarity, and keeping things fun
• Two-hour timing that works with plenty of water time and minimal rushing

Why A Private 26-Foot Bayliner Boat Changes Your Snorkel Day

Most Aruba snorkeling trips feel like an assembly line. This one doesn’t. Your group goes out on a smaller 26-foot Bayliner, which changes everything about comfort and control.

You can steer the day. If you want more time at a spot with fish, you can usually do that. If conditions are better in one area than another, the captain can work with what’s happening.

It’s also a better match for kids and first-timers. People have done it with younger kids—plus beginners who were a little nervous at first. The vibe stays calm, and you’re not trying to learn snorkeling skills while surrounded by strangers.

Price, Timing, and Value From the Real-World Angle

This tour costs $140 per person for about 2 hours on the water. At first glance, that sounds like more than a group trip. The value is the private part: your group doesn’t have to share the boat, the attention, or the best-snorkel minutes.

It’s also unusually “all-in” for a snorkel outing. You get snorkeling gear, bottled water, rum punch, and soft drinks. You even get an octopus souvenir. Food isn’t included, but the drink + water coverage helps you avoid the usual snack hunt while you’re already on a schedule.

Two hours is the sweet spot. Long enough to hit real snorkeling time, short enough that you’re not exhausted or bored when you’re finally ready to relax.

Where You Meet and How Pickup Works (Without the Headache)

You’ll start at Octopus Aruba Sailing, Snorkeling, Sunset & Private Tours, at J.E. Irausquin Blvd 87, suite 227, Palm Beach, Aruba, Noord. The trip ends back at the meeting point, so you’re not dealing with a drop-off mystery.

Pickup is part of the plan. There’s free pickup for high rise hotels listed for this tour. If your hotel isn’t on the list, pickup and drop-off is available for $10 per person round trip.

Bring the basics: a towel, sun cream, and sunglasses. And since alcohol is included as rum punch, the minimum drinking age is 18.

One small practical tip: since the trip depends on weather, don’t plan anything tight right before or after. This kind of outing runs best when you can roll with the day.

Catalina Bay and the Shallow-Water Snorkel That Helps Beginners

The main snorkel area is Catalina Bay. This matters because shallow snorkeling is easier to manage. You can get used to breathing, floating, and looking for marine life without the stress of going deep fast.

The water here is known for marine life you can actually spot. Expect to look for fish like angel fish and damsel fish, plus plenty of other reef-friendly species. The big win is that you spend time watching, not just surviving.

You’ll likely get instructions on how to search for wildlife. In the past, captains like Lex and Boi have been praised for clear, step-by-step guidance—especially for first-time snorkelers. That kind of coaching makes snorkeling feel doable instead of intimidating.

Malmok Beach Near Boca Catalina: Rocky Entry, Great Wildlife

Right about 150 feet south of Boca Catalina is Malmok beach. It’s small, and yes, it can be a rocky entry with plenty of stones when you step in. That’s the drawback.

The upside is big. This area has a strong reputation as one of Aruba’s best snorkeling spots, and it’s often not crowded. If you like snorkeling with less noise and fewer bodies blocking your view, Malmok is a smart target.

Because of the stones, I’d plan your entry like it’s a mini obstacle course. Good footwear helps your feet feel confident right away. Once you’re in, you can focus on what you came for: marine life.

In past experiences, people have spotted turtles, plus things like urchins, crabs, sting rays, and schools of fish. Some groups have also seen a shipwreck nearby, which can add a whole new level to the snorkeling visuals when conditions line up.

Onboard Comfort: Drinks, Gear, and Captain Guidance

This trip includes snorkeling equipment, plus bottled water. That’s a big quality-of-life thing. You’re not spending energy tracking down gear on vacation, and you’re not waiting for a last-minute rental shop decision.

Drinks are also part of the deal. You’ll have rum punch and soft drinks onboard. If you’re under 18, skip the rum punch and stick to the soft drinks—because the drinking age is explicitly 18.

What really separates a great snorkel day is how the captain runs it. Names like Lex, Lux, Boi, Captain Boyd, and Captain Shaka show up in strong feedback. The common thread is safety, clear communication, and keeping the trip organized so you’re not guessing what comes next.

Also, the boat ride isn’t just time passing. Some captains share Aruba history and point out other beaches while you’re traveling between spots. That turns the “drive time” into part of the experience.

Getting the Most Out of a Two-Hour Private Charter

You’re on a schedule, but it’s not a rushed one. With a private charter, the time tends to go where it’s most useful: snorkeling, then relaxing.

In practice, many groups do two snorkeling locations. That gives you variety—one spot may be better for turtles, another may be better for fish and coral. If one area is clearly working, you may also have flexibility to spend more time there or just enjoy the ride afterward.

Here’s how to think about it: you’re not just booking snorkeling. You’re booking a short, focused window where the captain can take you to the spots that make sense for your group that day. That’s why the private format is more than a luxury—it’s practical.

Who This Trip Suits Best (And Who Might Want to Pick Another Option)

This is ideal if you want beginner-friendly snorkeling. The shallow-water approach and the coaching style from the captains make it less intimidating. It’s also a strong family choice. There are examples of snorkelers bringing kids as young as 6, and the private setup helps keep everyone comfortable.

It also fits friends who want a calmer water experience. Smaller group time means fewer interruptions and less crowd pressure. And some snorkelers specifically liked that bigger party boats can affect how sea life behaves—small-group snorkeling tends to feel less disruptive.

If you’re the type who hates any rocky entry at all, then Malmok’s stone-studded start might be a downside. That’s not a reason to avoid the trip entirely, but it’s a reason to plan your entry carefully.

What to Know Before You Go Underwater

Plan for sun and salt. Even if the snorkeling is short, Aruba sun is serious. Sun cream matters, and a towel helps once you’re back onboard.

Bring your patience for wildlife searching. The best snorkeling often comes from slow looking. The captain can guide you to places with fish and sea life, but your job is to watch what’s right in front of you.

Also, remember that food isn’t included. You’ll want to be fed before you start, or save your meal for after. You’ll have water and drinks, but you won’t have a lunch plan built in.

Finally, expect weather to matter. This experience requires good weather, and if it gets canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Should You Book This Private Aruba Snorkeling Excursion?

I’d book it if you want no crowds, beginner-friendly shallow-water snorkeling, and a captain-led experience that focuses on comfort and marine life. If you care about turtles, lots of fish, and the chance to see more than one underwater scene in a tight time window, this format fits well.

I’d hesitate only if you’re very sensitive to rocky entries. Malmok can be a stone-heavy step into the water, so make sure you’re comfortable with that.

If you’re traveling with family, first-timers, or a small group who wants to steer the day, this charter is a smart use of time in Aruba.

FAQ

How long is the snorkeling excursion?

The duration is about 2 hours.

Is this tour private or shared?

It’s a private tour/activity, so only your group participates.

Where does the tour start?

The meeting point is Octopus Aruba Sailing, Snorkeling, Sunset & Private Tours at J.E. Irausquin Blvd 87, suite 227, Palm Beach, Aruba, Noord.

What snorkeling spots will we visit?

You’ll head to Catalina Bay for shallow-water snorkeling, and Malmok beach is located about 150 feet south of Boca Catalina.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

What drinks are included?

Bottled water, rum punch, and soft drinks are included. The minimum drinking age is 18 years.

Is food included?

No. Food is not included.

Do they offer hotel pickup?

Yes. Free pick-up is offered for listed high rise hotels. If your hotel is not listed, pick-up and drop-off is available for $10 per person round trip.

What should I bring?

Bring a towel, sun cream, and sunglasses.

What’s the cancellation window?

You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience starts, there’s no refund. The experience requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor weather you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is it suitable for beginners?

Yes. It’s suitable for all levels, including beginners.