Roatan Catamaran Cruise: Snorkeling, Food & Open Bar Tour

Summary

Catamaran cruise in Roatan with reef snorkeling and open bar

You’ll set off from Roatan’s West Bay or West End for a relaxed catamaran cruise led by a local guide. Snorkel above vibrant reefs (gear included), enjoy snacks and an open bar after swimming, and swap stories with fellow travelers as you drift past colorful villages. It’s an easygoing day full of small moments you’ll remember long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really know what to expect when we walked down the dock at West Bay Beach — just that I needed a break from the usual, and maybe some sun on my face. The catamaran was already bobbing gently, music drifting out over the water (some old reggae tune I couldn’t place). Our guide, Luis, greeted us with this easy smile and a joke about how even if it rains here, “the sea doesn’t care.” He was right; the sky was patchy but the water looked like glass. There’s something about Roatan that makes you slow down before you even realize it.

We cruised along the coast, passing these bright little houses tucked into green hills. At one point I caught a whiff of grilled chicken from somewhere below deck — turns out they were prepping kebabs for later. The air tasted salty and sweet at once. When we reached the snorkeling spot (Luis called it Turtle Crossing), he handed out masks and fins, but didn’t push anyone who wanted to just hang back with a drink instead. I jumped in anyway — couldn’t resist — and wow, even though I’m not much of a snorkeler usually, floating above that coral felt like being inside someone else’s dream for a while. Fish everywhere, flashes of blue and yellow darting past my hands.

Afterwards we sprawled out on deck with cold sodas (the rum came after snorkeling — strict rule here), swapping stories with another couple from Tegucigalpa. The food was simple but hit the spot: chicken skewers, chips with some kind of spicy dip I still think about. Luis told us how sometimes they switch to the south shore if weather gets rough up north — “every side of Roatan has its own mood,” he said. He wasn’t wrong; you could feel it in the way people waved from passing boats or shouted greetings in Spanish as we drifted by West End Village.

I guess what stuck with me most wasn’t just the reef or even the drinks (though those were good) — it was that feeling of being part of this slow-moving scene for an afternoon. Not everything went perfectly; my mask fogged up twice and I probably got too much sun on my nose. But there’s this memory now: lying back on warm fiberglass, listening to Luis laugh about island weather superstitions, salt drying on my skin as Roatan slipped by in every shade of blue you can imagine…you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran Cruise and Snorkeling

• This tour departs from Infinity Bay Resort dock, West Bay Beach
• Cruise around West Bay from West End Wall to West End Village
• Optional snorkeling at one reef spot (30-60 minutes)
• Possible south shore cruise if weather requires

Top questions

Where does the Roatan catamaran cruise depart from?

The cruise departs from Infinity Bay Resort's dock at West Bay Beach or sometimes from West End.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

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

Are drinks included during the catamaran cruise?

An open bar is included after snorkeling; soft drinks are available throughout.

What food is served during the tour?

You’ll get chicken kebabs, chips and dips, or sometimes an island-style lunch depending on timing.

Is hotel pickup included in this Roatan catamaran tour?

Yes, roundtrip private ground transportation is provided to West End or West Bay.

Can children join this catamaran cruise?

Infants and small children can join; prams/strollers are allowed.

What happens if it rains during my booking?

The tour often still runs since Roatan’s reef protects calm waters; visibility may vary but cancellations are allowed 24 hours ahead for refund.

How long do we spend snorkeling on this trip?

You’ll have about 30 minutes to 1 hour at one selected reef site during your cruise.

What’s included

Your day includes roundtrip private transportation to either West End or West Bay dock, all snorkeling gear for one stop at a local reef site chosen by your guide based on conditions, soft drinks and bottled water throughout, an open bar served after swimming ends (for guests 18+), plus snacks like chicken kebabs or an island-style lunch depending on timing—all led by a friendly local crew before returning to your starting point.