Curacao Snorkeling Tour & Tugboat Wreck Half-Day Trip

Summary

Caracasbay Peninsula Guided Snorkel Adventure with Local Stories

Dive into Curacao’s underwater world as you snorkel around the famous Tugboat wreck, glide beneath coral-covered piers, and relax with a drink on sun-warmed sand. Hear local stories from your guide, explore Director’s Bay, and take in sweeping views from historic Beekenburg fortress—all in one easy half-day trip.

What’s the experience like?

“Look at those yellowtail snappers!” our guide called out, and suddenly I was surrounded by flashes of silver and yellow darting through the water. We’d just slipped into the sea at Tugboat Beach, masks fogging a little from the warm air mixing with the cooler water. The old tugboat sat quietly below us, its hull now a playground for glassy sweepers and coral fans waving in the gentle current.

We drifted under the pier—locals call it the Cathedral—where orange cup corals clung to every post, glowing in the filtered light. Sometimes you catch a whiff of salt and sunscreen mixed together, and you can hear muffled laughter from other snorkelers floating nearby. Our guide shared stories about how this spot used to be a Royal Dutch Shell bunker bay, which felt wild considering how peaceful it is now.

Director’s Bay was next, quieter except for the soft splash of fins. The swim back gave us time to watch pelicans diving near shore and spot tiny fish hiding in rocks. Back at Tugboat Beach, we grabbed cold drinks and just sat for a while, sand sticking to our feet. Before heading out, we climbed up to fortress Beekenburg—wind tugging at our shirts—to look out over Spanish Water and imagine what life was like here centuries ago.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling at Tugboat Beach and Director’s Bay

• Snorkel at Tugboat Beach
• Swim under the pier (Cathedral)
• Visit Director’s Bay
• Swim back to Tugboat Beach
• Relax with a cold drink
• View fortress Beekenburg and Quarantine building

Top questions

Is this snorkeling tour in Curacao suitable for beginners?

Yes, this guided snorkeling trip is beginner-friendly and includes all necessary equipment. The guide gives clear instructions and stays close by in the water.

How long does the Curacao snorkeling tour last?

The experience is a half-day trip, giving you plenty of time to visit multiple sites without feeling rushed.

Are lunch and drinks included on this snorkeling day trip?

Lunch is included along with use of all snorkeling gear. You’ll also enjoy a cold drink when relaxing back at Tugboat Beach.

Can children join this Curacao snorkeling excursion?

Yes, families are welcome—infants can ride in strollers or prams, and specialized infant seats are available if needed.

What’s included

Your half-day adventure comes with all snorkeling equipment provided, plus lunch so you won’t have to worry about packing food. When it’s time to relax after swimming, there’s a cold drink waiting for you at Tugboat Beach. The tour is family-friendly with options for infants and service animals allowed too—everything’s covered so you can just enjoy Curacao’s coast.