Barbados: Catamaran Snorkel Cruise & Bajan Lunch, Small Group

Summary

Small group sailing to Carlisle Bay turtles and Paynes Bay lunch

You’ll sail Barbados’ west coast on a small catamaran with friendly locals, snorkel among sea turtles at Carlisle Bay, enjoy a homemade Bajan lunch anchored off Paynes Bay, and sip rum punch from an open bar. The relaxed vibe and tiny group make it feel personal—like you’re part of the crew for a day.

What’s the experience like?

I honestly didn’t expect to laugh so much with strangers on a boat. The first thing that hit me was the smell of coconut bread — warm, sweet, just as we stepped onto Super Cats. Captain Randall gave us this easy nod like he’s been doing this forever (someone said he rowed across the Atlantic once? Still not sure if they were joking). There were only ten of us, so nobody got lost in the crowd — it felt more like a group of friends than a tour.

We drifted out past Paynes Bay and I could see the colors changing under the hull — turquoise to deeper blue, then back again. Our guide handed out snorkel gear and told us we might spot turtles at Carlisle Bay if we were lucky. I nearly swallowed half the ocean when one brushed past my leg. Honestly, I squeaked underwater — hope nobody heard that. The water was warm but there was this cool patch near the wrecks that made my skin tingle for a second.

Lunch was this full-on Bajan buffet anchored off a quiet stretch of sand. Rice and peas, grilled fish, plantains — everything tasted like someone’s grandma had made it. After eating way too much (the rum punch probably didn’t help), some folks jumped in for another swim. I just lay back and watched palm shadows flicker on the deck while Randall told stories about old storms and sea turtles nesting. It wasn’t fancy or forced — just easygoing and real.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran cruise with snorkeling and lunch

• Select best snorkel stops
• Snorkel to see sea turtles
• Optional second snorkel at shipwrecks
• Sail along west coast
• Enjoy rum punch and sights
• Lunch at beach with Bajan buffet
• Swim to cool off
• Sail back to port

Top questions

How many people are on the Barbados catamaran snorkel cruise?

The cruise sails with a maximum of 12 guests for a relaxed small-group experience.

Is lunch included on the Barbados catamaran tour?

Yes, a full Bajan buffet lunch is included during the cruise.

Do you get to see sea turtles during the snorkel stops?

There is usually at least one snorkel stop in Carlisle Bay where you may see sea turtles.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included in your tour.

Are alcoholic drinks available on board?

An open bar is included all day with rum punch and other beverages.

Where does the catamaran sail in Barbados?

The route typically covers Carlisle Bay and Paynes Bay along Barbados' west coast.

What food is served during the tour?

A Bajan buffet lunch is served plus banana bread in the morning and coconut bread in the afternoon.

Is there a restroom on board?

Yes, there is a restroom available on board Super Cats catamaran.

What’s included

Your day includes sailing along Barbados’ west coast with all snorkeling equipment provided, stops at Carlisle Bay for turtle spotting and possibly shipwrecks, an open bar throughout (don’t skip the rum punch), full Bajan buffet lunch anchored off Paynes Bay, plus homemade banana bread in the morning and coconut bread later on—all with an experienced local crew before returning to port.