Bonaire: Catamaran Snorkel & BBQ Sail with Lunch & Drinks

Summary

Sail Bonaire’s coast, snorkel clear water, grill on deck, unwind

You’ll sail along Bonaire’s bright coastline on a catamaran, guided by locals who know every patch of reef. Snorkel warm waters in Bonaire Marine Park, then eat fresh BBQ lunch straight off the grill with an open bar nearby. Whether you’re stepping off a cruise or exploring on your own, expect relaxed company and those small moments you’ll remember later—like salt drying on your skin or laughing over lunch.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember how quiet it felt when we first pushed off from Kralendijk — just the low slap of water against the hull and that salty, kind-of-metallic smell in the air. We’d barely left the marina before our guide, Pieter (who’s got this dry humor), started passing around cold drinks. I tried to act cool about the rum punch but honestly, it was stronger than I expected. The sun was already out but not too hot yet, and everyone sort of loosened up as we sailed along the coast toward Klein Bonaire.

We anchored near this sheltered spot in Bonaire Marine Park — you could see straight down to patches of coral from the deck. I’m not a confident swimmer but they handed out good snorkeling gear and walked us through everything, no rush. The water was warm, almost silky, and I kept hearing my own breath through the snorkel mixed with muffled laughter from someone nearby who kept fogging up their mask. Pieter pointed out a parrotfish munching on coral; he called it “the reef’s noisy neighbor.”

Lunch was grilled right there on board — smoky chicken and something veggie for my partner (can’t remember what exactly but she said it was good). There’s something about eating outside with wet hair and bare feet that makes food taste better, you know? People drifted between chatting at the bow and just staring at the coastline in silence. At one point I caught myself thinking I’d never really noticed how blue-blue the water is here until today.

If you’re coming off a cruise ship or just wandering around Bonaire for a day trip, this catamaran snorkel & BBQ sail fits right in — they time it so you won’t miss your boat or feel rushed. We met people from all over; some were solo travelers, others families. It didn’t matter much once everyone had a drink in hand and salt on their skin. I still think about that lazy stretch after lunch when nobody said anything for a while except for someone quietly asking if there was more Prosecco left.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran snorkel and BBQ cruise

• Board catamaran in Bonaire
• Sail to sheltered Bonaire Marine Park
• Guided snorkeling with professional guides
• Relax on board and enjoy drinks
• Eat lunch prepared on the grill
• Sail along Bonaire and Klein Bonaire coastlines
• Return to departure point

Top questions

Is this catamaran snorkel & BBQ sail suitable for cruise passengers?

Yes, departure times are adjusted to match cruise ship schedules so guests won’t miss their ship.

Where does the tour depart from in Bonaire?

The meeting point is Nautico Marina in Kralendijk at Kaya J.N.E. Craane 24, next to It Rains Fishes restaurant.

Is snorkeling gear included?

Yes, high quality snorkeling equipment is provided for all guests.

Are drinks included during the tour?

Yes, there is an open bar with unlimited water, soft drinks, rum punch, beer, wine and Prosecco.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

The crew prepares both meat and vegetarian options for lunch; let them know your needs when booking.

How long does this catamaran tour last?

The experience lasts approximately 4 hours including sailing, snorkeling and lunch time.

Can non-cruise guests book this tour?

Yes, anyone can join—cruise passengers and independent travelers alike are welcome to book.

Is this tour accessible for people with limited eyesight?

Yes, it is suitable for those with limited eyesight according to tour information.

What’s included

Your day includes guided snorkeling in Bonaire Marine Park with all gear provided, unlimited drinks from an open bar (water to Prosecco), plus a freshly grilled lunch served onboard after swimming—all timed so cruise guests make their ship back easily or independent travelers can join without stress.