Aruba: Sunset Catamaran Sail with Open Bar & Appetizers

Summary

Drift along Aruba’s coast as the sun melts away and local music drifts over the water

You’ll drift along Aruba’s coastline at sunset on a spacious catamaran, with appetizers and an open bar flowing as local music plays. Watch colors change over Palm Beach while sharing stories with fellow travelers and crew. It’s relaxed, sometimes funny, always real — the kind of evening that lingers long after you’re back on land.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t realize how much I needed that slow drift off Palm Beach until we were already out on the water. There was this moment when the sky went kind of pink-orange and everyone just stopped talking for a second — even the crew, who’d been cracking jokes in Papiamento, just leaned on the rail and watched. The salt air made my hair sticky and I could smell grilled something from shore, but up there it was just wind and rum punch (maybe too much, but who’s counting). Our guide, Miguel, kept pointing out little things along the coast — he said if you squint you can spot goats near the lighthouse. I tried. Didn’t see any.

The catamaran itself felt bigger than I expected — lots of space to flop down or stand at the edge if you wanted to feel dramatic about your life for a minute. People danced a bit when the speakers kicked into some local soca; one woman tried to teach us a step but honestly I’m hopeless at rhythm. The appetizers came out in these little trays — nothing fancy, but salty and perfect with cold Balashi beer from the open bar. I liked that nobody rushed us or tried to make it all about photos. There was just this easy flow between laughing with strangers and staring at the horizon. At some point I realized my phone was still in my bag and didn’t care.

I keep thinking about that last stretch back toward Palm Beach — how dark it got so fast, except for a few hotel lights blinking onshore. Someone started telling a story about Aruba’s “divi-divi” trees twisting in the wind forever; Miguel nodded like he’d heard it a thousand times but still smiled anyway. It wasn’t flashy or anything, just honest good company and that weird feeling you get when you’re floating somewhere between day and night. If you’re looking for loud parties or big crowds, this isn’t really that — but if you want to feel Aruba slow down around you for a couple hours… well, yeah.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset sail with appetizers and drinks

• Board luxury catamaran at Palm Beach
• Sail towards the Lighthouse
• Enjoy views of Aruba's coastline
• Watch the spectacular sunset
• Sip cocktails and local beer
• Eat bite-sized appetizers
• Listen to local music and storytelling
• Relax on sunning nets and seating

Top questions

Is pickup included for the Aruba sunset sail?

No, hotel pickup is not included; check-in is required 30 minutes before departure at Palm Beach pier.

Are drinks included during the catamaran cruise?

Yes, there’s an open bar with local beer and cocktails included during your sail.

What food is served on board?

Bite-sized appetizers are provided as part of your cruise experience.

Is this Aruba sunset cruise suitable for kids?

Yes, children are welcome; let Red Sail know if any child cannot swim so they can provide a mandatory life vest.

How long does the sunset sail last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but it covers sunset hours along Aruba’s coastline from Palm Beach toward the lighthouse.

Are bathrooms available on board?

Yes, marine bathrooms are available on the catamaran.

What should I bring for this tour?

You might want to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and maybe a light jacket for after sunset; everything else is covered onboard.

What’s included

Your evening includes sailing aboard a luxury catamaran from Palm Beach toward Aruba’s lighthouse with plenty of space to relax or dance, bite-sized appetizers served fresh onboard, an open bar featuring local beer and cocktails throughout your journey, plus lively music and stories from your Aruban crew before returning as night falls.