Aruba: Jolly Pirate Afternoon Sail & Snorkeling with Open Bar

Snorkel Aruba’s reefs & shipwrecks then swing into Caribbean water

You’ll board a classic schooner in Aruba for an afternoon of snorkeling at Malmok Reefs and Boca Catalina, plus a swim above the Antilla shipwreck. Try your hand at swinging off the ropes into warm Caribbean water—or just relax under the canopy with unlimited drinks as your local guide keeps things lively.

Step-by-step itinerary

• Board 85-foot teak schooner
• Visit Malmok Reefs for snorkeling
• Swim and snorkel at Boca Catalina
• Enjoy rope swinging at WWII shipwreck Antilla
• Relax under canopy or on teak deck
• Enjoy open bar and full snorkeling gear

The Experience

The first thing I noticed when we stepped onto the Jolly Pirate schooner in Aruba was the smell—salty, but also a bit like old wood and sunscreen. Our guide, José, was already joking with everyone before we’d even left the dock. He handed out snorkel gear (mine fogged up instantly, but he showed me a trick with spit—classic) and pointed at Malmok Reefs shimmering just ahead. The water looked almost fake, so blue it made my sunglasses feel unnecessary. We slid in off the side—cold shock at first, then just quiet except for my own bubbles and some distant laughter from the deck.

Boca Catalina was next. I lost track of time floating above these fish that seemed way too bright to be real. There was this one kid who kept shouting every time he spotted something new—his mom tried to hush him but honestly, I kind of wanted to do the same. Then we drifted over to Antilla, the WWII shipwreck. It’s huge under there, parts of it almost ghostly in the shifting light. Someone said you could sometimes spot turtles but no luck for us today. Didn’t matter though—I still think about how eerie and peaceful it felt down there.

Back on deck, people started lining up for the rope swing. I hesitated (not gonna lie), but José yelled “Just go!” so I did—and yeah, I screamed on the way down. The open bar was flowing by then; rum punch everywhere and people chatting like old friends even if they’d just met an hour ago. Sunburn creeping in, music playing somewhere behind me, wind tangling my hair while I tried to dry off stretched out on the teak boards. Honestly didn’t want it to end right then.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes all snorkeling equipment, unlimited drinks from an open bar, access to two onboard restrooms, and plenty of shade or sunbathing space—plus a multilingual local guide who keeps things easygoing and fun throughout your Aruba sailing adventure.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelStroller friendlyPublic transport nearbyNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Jolly Pirates Sailing Cruises & Snorkeling

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Top questions

How long is the Jolly Pirate afternoon sail in Aruba?

The tour lasts an afternoon; exact duration isn’t specified but includes stops at three snorkeling sites.

Which snorkeling sites are included on this Aruba cruise?

You’ll visit Malmok Reefs, Boca Catalina, and snorkel above the Antilla WWII shipwreck.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, full-set snorkeling gear is included for all participants.

Are drinks included during the sail?

Yes, there’s an open bar with unlimited drinks available onboard.

Is there shade or seating available on deck?

Yes, there’s ample shade under a large canopy and plenty of seating by the bar or on deck.

Can children join this Aruba snorkeling cruise?

Yes, children can join if accompanied by an adult; infants can ride in a pram or stroller.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are nearby.

Are restrooms available onboard?

Yes, there are two restrooms available on board for guests’ use.