Aruba: Luxury Lagoon Cruise with Chef Lunch & Open Bar

Summary

Cruise aruba’s coast lounge on deck rope swing chef lunch

You’ll cruise Aruba’s southern coast on a teak schooner, sipping cocktails while lounging or sunbathing. Swim or snorkel in clear waters near Spanish Lagoon, then share laughter over a chef-grilled lunch onboard with Caribbean music drifting by. It’s relaxed, social, and full of small moments you’ll want to remember.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I didn’t expect to laugh so much on a “luxury” lagoon cruise in Aruba. The teak deck felt warm under my feet as we set out along the southern coast, and the water was that unreal blue you always see in postcards but never quite believe. Our guide—can’t remember his name now, but he had this easy way of telling stories—pointed out little fishing boats bobbing near the Spanish Lagoon. Someone handed me a glass of champagne before I’d even found a seat. Not complaining.

The sun got higher and people started drifting between the shaded lounge and the bow, where you could just sprawl out and watch pelicans dive. At one point I tried the rope swing (let’s just say there was more splash than style) and ended up floating next to a couple from Rotterdam who’d never snorkeled before. The chef—Miguel?—was already firing up the grill behind us, sending out these smoky smells that made everyone hungry way too early. There was Caribbean music playing, not too loud, just enough to make you feel like you were somewhere else entirely.

Lunch was grilled right there—fish, veggies, something with pineapple—and tasted even better because we’d all just come out of the water. I’m not sure if it was the salt or the cocktails (the bartender mixed this minty thing I still think about), but everything felt lighter somehow. On the way back, most people stretched out quietly or talked in low voices; it was that kind of gentle tiredness you only get after swimming and sun. I caught myself staring at Aruba’s coastline, thinking how different it looked from out here—like you’re seeing another side of it for once.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Luxury Lagoon Cruise and Coastal Views

• Board Teak Schooner
• Cruise along Aruba’s southern coast
• Enjoy views of Spanish Lagoon
• Relax on lounges or sunbathe
• Swim, snorkel, or kayak
• Lunch prepared by onboard chef
• Enjoy Caribbean music and cocktails
• Sail back admiring scenic beauty

Top questions

Is lunch included on this Aruba lagoon cruise?

Yes, a buffet lunch is prepared onboard by a chef and included in your tour.

Are drinks unlimited during the cruise?

Yes, there is an open bar with unlimited drinks including cocktails and champagne.

Does this tour include snorkeling equipment?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included for all guests.

Is transportation provided to the departure point?

No hotel pickup is listed but public transportation options are available nearby.

Can vegetarians be accommodated for lunch?

Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested at booking.

Is this Aruba lagoon cruise suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for those with poor cardiovascular health.

What activities are offered besides cruising?

You can kayak, snorkel, use the rope swing for swimming, or relax on deck during the cruise.

Is there a minimum age requirement?

The minimum age for this cruise is 18 years old.

What’s included

Your day includes light breakfast with fruit pinchos and cheese skewers, unlimited open bar with hand-crafted cocktails and champagne, guided snorkeling with equipment provided, kayaking opportunities along Aruba’s southern coast near Spanish Lagoon, rope swinging into clear waters if you’re up for it, plus an onboard chef-prepared buffet lunch grilled fresh as Caribbean music plays softly in the background—all taxes and fees covered before you return feeling sun-warmed and relaxed.