Aruba: Private Snorkeling Excursion & Rum Punch Cruise

Summary

Private boat trip in Aruba with snorkeling stops, rum punch, and local captain guiding your small group through Catalina Bay’s clear waters

You’ll board a private boat in Aruba with your own captain guiding you through calm turquoise waters toward Catalina Bay and Malmok beach for relaxed snorkeling. Enjoy fresh rum punch, bottled water or soft drinks as you spot colorful fish among coral fans and laugh with friends between swims. With gear included and hotel pickup available, this is easygoing island time you’ll remember long after you dry off.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed was the sound — that kind of soft slap as our Bayliner nudged away from the dock, a salty breeze already catching my hair. Our captain, who just introduced himself as Mark (with a grin like he’d been doing this forever), asked if we wanted music or just the sea. We picked both. There was laughter right away — someone spilled their first rum punch before we even left the harbor. The ice clinked against plastic cups and the sun was high but not harsh yet, which felt lucky.

I didn’t expect to feel nervous about snorkeling in Aruba (I mean, how hard could it be?), but Mark handed me the mask and said he’d show us a trick for getting it snug. Turns out I needed it — I always get my hair caught in those straps. When we anchored at Catalina Bay, you could see straight down to these little flickers of blue and yellow darting around coral fans. The water felt cooler than I thought; my heart did that funny skip when I first put my face in. Mark pointed out an angel fish — honestly, I probably would’ve missed it without him.

We drifted over to Malmok beach next — not far at all, maybe five minutes? It’s rocky getting in but nobody seemed to mind (except maybe me; stubbed my toe but tried to play it cool). There weren’t crowds, just our group and one older couple waving from shore. Someone tried to say “dushi” (sweetheart) in Papiamento and Mark laughed so hard he nearly dropped his drink. After a while we just floated there, listening to nothing but water slapping against the hull and someone humming quietly. That part sticks with me more than any photo.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private snorkeling excursion in Aruba

• Meet captain and board private boat
• Cruise around Aruba coastline
• Snorkel at Malmok beach
• Spot tropical fish and coral
• Enjoy customized tour with captain
• Return to shore and disembark

Top questions

Is snorkeling equipment included on this Aruba excursion?

Yes, all snorkeling gear is provided for your group during the tour.

How many people can join the private Aruba snorkeling cruise?

The boat can accommodate up to 10 people per booking.

Are drinks provided on the private boat tour?

Yes, rum punch, bottled water, and soft drinks are included.

Does the tour include hotel pickup in Aruba?

Pickup is free for most high-rise hotels; other locations can arrange round-trip service for $10 per person.

Where does the Aruba snorkeling excursion go?

The main stops are Catalina Bay and Malmok beach for snorkeling.

Is this private snorkeling tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, your experienced captain will help beginners feel comfortable in the water.

Can children join this Aruba private boat trip?

Children are welcome; infants under two cruise free with an adult lap seat.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from most high-rise hotels (or arranged drop-off), use of all snorkel equipment so you don’t need to bring anything extra, unlimited rum punch plus bottled water and soft drinks throughout the cruise, a fun octopus souvenir to take home, and plenty of time guided by your local captain at Catalina Bay and Malmok beach before heading back ashore.