Barbados: Catamaran Cruise Swim with Turtles & Bajan Lunch

Summary

Sail Barbados waters, swim with turtles, taste Bajan lunch onboard

You’ll sail from Bridgetown on a small-group catamaran cruise with friendly crew, stopping to swim with sea turtles and snorkel over shipwrecks before relaxing over a traditional Barbadian buffet lunch onboard. With hotel pickup and an open bar included, you’ll feel both looked after and free to soak up every moment — salt air, laughter, and all.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it’s like to float off the coast of Bridgetown, just twelve of us drifting past those wild blue shades? I didn’t expect the boat to feel so open — you can hear every splash and bit of laughter bouncing off the water. Our crew (three of them for just a handful of us) greeted everyone by name. I think that’s when I realized this wasn’t going to be one of those crowded party cruises. There was this faint smell of sunscreen and grilled something already drifting from below deck.

The first stop was all about the turtles. Two crew members slipped into the water with us — honestly, I needed their calm energy because my mask kept fogging up (classic). The turtles were just there, gliding by like they owned the place. It’s strange how quiet things get underwater; you only hear your own breathing and maybe someone giggling through their snorkel when a turtle gets too close. After that, we moved over some old shipwrecks. The light filtered down in these odd stripes — kind of eerie but beautiful at the same time.

We sailed up the west coast after that, passing these huge houses that our guide pointed out belonged to people I’d only ever seen in magazines (I tried not to stare). Lunch happened in a quiet bay — real Barbadian food laid out buffet style. Flying fish, rice and peas, something spicy I still can’t pronounce (Li laughed when I tried). Sun on my shoulders, rum punch in hand, and fruit so sweet it almost felt unreal. Some folks jumped back in for another swim; I just lay back on the deck listening to the waves slap against the hull.

On the way back, I caught myself thinking about how different Barbados looks from the water — softer somehow. Maybe it’s just being out there with strangers who don’t stay strangers for long. Anyway, if you’re looking for a day trip from Bridgetown that doesn’t feel rushed or packed tight, this catamaran cruise is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran cruise with snorkeling and lunch

• Pickup from port or hotel
• Transfer to boat by air-conditioned van
• Depart Bridgetown on catamaran
• Swim with turtles for 45 minutes
• Snorkel over shipwrecks for 45 minutes
• Sail up west coast past luxury homes
• Stop at quiet bay for buffet lunch
• Swim or relax onboard for 1 hour 15 minutes
• Leisurely sail back to Bridgetown
• Return taxi awaits at dock

Top questions

How many guests are on the catamaran cruise?

The cruise has a maximum of 12 guests per trip.

Is pickup from my hotel or port included?

Yes, round-trip transfers from your hotel or port are included.

Do we actually swim with turtles during this tour?

Yes, there is a dedicated stop for swimming with turtles near Bridgetown.

Are drinks included on board?

Yes, there is an open premium brand bar available throughout the cruise.

What kind of lunch is served?

A traditional Barbadian buffet lunch is served onboard during a stop in a quiet bay.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, all snorkeling equipment is included for use during turtle and wreck stops.

Are children allowed on this catamaran cruise?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

How long does the catamaran cruise last?

The total duration is approximately 5 hours.

What’s included

Your day includes luxury minivan pickup from your hotel or port in Bridgetown, all taxes and fees covered upfront, unlimited drinks from an open premium bar onboard plus snacks and fresh fruit throughout. You’ll use provided snorkeling gear at both turtle and shipwreck stops before enjoying a two-course traditional Barbadian buffet lunch served right on deck — then return transfer back at the end of your cruise.