Roatan: Snorkeling, Sloths & Private Beach Day Trip

Summary

Roatan’s coral reefs, playful monkeys and a slow beach afternoon

You’ll meet curious monkeys and gentle sloths at a local sanctuary before drifting above Roatan’s coral reef on a guided snorkel tour. End your day stretched out on a quiet private beach with drinks delivered to your chair and fresh island food for lunch. If you want a mix of real encounters and pure relaxation, this is it.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel nervous about holding a sloth. But there I was at Jungle Top Adventure in Roatan, palms sweaty (mine, not the sloth’s), while our guide Luis grinned and handed me this sleepy little creature. Its fur was sort of wiry-soft, like old yarn that’s been in the sun too long. Kids were giggling nearby as capuchin monkeys darted around — one tried to snatch my sunglasses, which Luis found hilarious. The sanctuary felt lively but not rushed; we had time to watch the scarlet macaws preen in the shade and try (badly) to copy a parrot’s whistle. I think I got laughed at by a bird.

The drive from the port was only about 20 minutes east — just enough time for Luis to point out some local fruit stands and chat about how he grew up swimming off these beaches. By the time we reached the snorkeling spot on Roatan’s barrier reef, clouds had cleared and you could smell salt on the breeze. Mask on, I slid into water so clear it almost didn’t seem real. For over an hour we drifted past coral heads — purple fans waving in slow motion — with flashes of yellow fish everywhere. Someone spotted a starfish big as my hand. There was a quiet under there that I still think about sometimes.

Afterwards, wet hair and sandy feet, we sprawled out on Brady’s Cay private beach. It wasn’t crowded; just us and maybe two other groups tucked under palapas. Our waiter brought cold drinks right to our chairs (I recommend the lime soda) and I ordered grilled fish without even looking at the menu because it just smelled so good coming from somewhere behind us. The sand was powdery — actually stuck between my toes for hours after — and honestly I didn’t mind at all.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Animal sanctuary and snorkeling beach break

• Pickup at exit gate
• Drive 20 minutes east to animal sanctuary
• 45 minutes photo session with exotic animals
• 1 hour drift snorkel at coral reef
• Relax on private beach with waiter service
• Return to ship

Top questions

How long is the Roatan snorkeling & sloth tour?

The full day trip lasts around 4-5 hours including all activities and transfers.

Is transportation included from the cruise port?

Yes, private transportation with pickup at the exit gate is included.

How much time do you spend snorkeling?

You get about 1 hour of drift snorkeling along Roatan's barrier reef.

Are food and drinks provided during the beach break?

You can order lunch and beverages from your private waiter during your beach break (cost not specified).

Can children join this Roatan day trip?

Yes, infants can ride in strollers or sit on an adult's lap; suitable for all fitness levels.

Where is the animal sanctuary located?

The sanctuary is called Jungle Top Adventure Roatan, about 20 minutes east of port by car.

What animals will I see at Jungle Top Adventure?

You’ll see sloths, capuchin monkeys, scarlet macaws, yellow head parrots, and more exotic species.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, all necessary snorkeling equipment is included in your tour.

What’s included

Your day includes private pickup from port or hotel, air-conditioned transport across Roatan island with bottled water along the way, entry fees for Jungle Top Adventure animal sanctuary where you’ll meet sloths and monkeys up close, use of all snorkel gear for exploring the barrier reef with your guide present throughout, plus three hours’ access to Brady’s Cay private beach with personal waiter service for lunch or drinks before heading back comfortably to your ship or hotel.