Wondering what are the best Aruba snorkeling tours?
Continue to read to find the best one for you.
Aruba is one of the best places in the world for snorkeling. This beautiful Caribbean island is known for its crystal clear waters and vibrant marine life, making it an incredible place to experience a thriving marine ecosystem. If you love the ocean and are seeking an unforgettable adventure, then snorkeling in Aruba should be at the top of your list.
My husband and I went snorkeling in Aruba to celebrate our 9th wedding anniversary. Long story short – we fell in love with the island the moment we arrived! The water was so clear, it was impossible to miss any of the colorful fish below – even from our vantage point on the boat.
It was a preview of the remarkable sights that awaited us below. And it did not disappoint.
Aruba’s snorkeling scene boasts a myriad of options catering to all levels of expertise. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or just dipping your toes into your first underwater adventure, there’s a perfect snorkeling tour in Aruba for you. From the vibrant coral formations of the Antilla Shipwreck to the serene beauty of Malmok Reef, each site tells its own story.
Since there are so many Aruba snorkeling excursions available, it can be difficult to decide which one to book during your trip. This post will detail the 18 best Aruba snorkeling tours and hopefully help you decide which one is best for you!
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Here Are the Top 3 Snorkeling Tours in Aruba!
Best Overall
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Arusun Aruba Catamaran Sail with Snorkeling
✅ Use of Snorkeling Equipment
✅ Snacks on board
✅ Unlimited drinks on the catamaran
Best for Families
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Jolly Pirate Morning Sail with Snorkeling
✅ Snorkeling Equipment
✅ Barbecue Lunch
✅ Unlimited Drinks
Best Overall
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Champagne Breakfast Cruise with Snorkeling
✅ Breakfast with Champagne
✅ Lunch with Champagne
✅ Snorkeling Equipment
The 18 Best Aruba Snorkeling Tours
Thankfully, there are lots of great options when it comes to snorkeling in Aruba. From boat tours with champagne, private Aruba catamaran tours, or the family looking to maximize their beach vacation, there is truly something for everyone. Below is a list of the best Aruba snorkeling tours for your trip.
1. Aruba Catamaran Sail with Snorkeling aboard the Arusun
Tour Length: 2.5 Hours I Rating: 5/5 Stars (over 1,000 5-star reviews!) I Book Here
Venture around Aruba’s beautiful blue waters on a 65-foot catamaran known as the Arusun. This tour is the perfect way to relax during your time in Aruba and enjoy some fun in the sun.
The Arusun makes stops at Antilla Shipwreck and Catalina Bay, where you can use the provided snorkeling equipment to explore some of the best reefs in Aruba. After snorkeling, enjoy some drinks from the open bar as you relax in the front or find a shady spot on the boat.
This is one of the best Aruba catamaran tours with snorkeling and is truly a must-do experience when visiting Aruba.
What is included in this tour?
- Use of Snorkeling Equipment
- Unlimited drinks on the catamaran
- Snacks on board
- Morning or Afternoon Departures
Featured Reviews
“Snorkeling was amazing. Sailing to the spots was so relaxing and the water was beautiful. The crew was awesome. A wonderful way to spend a morning!” – Diana
✔️ Check Availability and Book the Catamaran Sail with Snorkeling Aboard the Arusun ✔️
2. Jolly Pirate Morning Sail and Snorkel Cruise in Aruba
Tour Length: 4 Hours I Rating: 5/5 Stars I Book Here
Hop on board and sail the open sea on the Jolly Pirate Sail and Snorkel Tour. This is a fun Aruba excursion that is perfect for the whole family.
During the tour, you’ll have three different snorkel and swim stops, which are great for exploring the turquoise waters of Aruba. There are snorkeling opportunities for everyone on this tour, from exploring the shallow waters of Malmok, to snorkeling in the cove of Boca Catalina (home to sea turtles and other exciting marine life).
You’ll also stop at the shipwreck of the SS Antilla. Explore the submerged wreck as you snorkel around observing the coral reef and marine life that now call it home.
What is included in this tour?
- Professional Guide
- Snorkeling Equipment
- Barbecue Lunch
- Unlimited Drinks
Featured Reviews
“Highlight of our trip! The crew was so much fun and the snorkel spots were great. Our three teen/adult kids loved it.” -Krista
✔️ Check Availability and Book the Jolly Pirate Morning Sail and Snorkel Cruise ✔️
3. Aruba Champagne Breakfast and Lunch Cruise with Snorkeling
Tour Length: 4 Hours I Rating: 4.5/5 Stars I Book Here
Start your day with an Aruba catamaran tour that includes breakfast, lunch, and snorkeling. Toast with a glass of champagne as you cruise through the calm waters around Aruba and indulge in some delicious pastries.
The catamaran will make three different stops, allowing you to snorkel in the warm waters in search of colorful corals, tropical fish, and other marine life.
You’ll also enjoy a tasty lunch (with more champagne of course)! This is an incredible, all-inclusive experience that is of great value since you get two different meals, drinks, snorkeling, and an exciting day of cruising the seas on a catamaran.
This tour is also stroller and wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for the whole family to enjoy.
What is included in this tour?
- Breakfast with Champagne
- Lunch with Champagne
- Snorkeling Equipment
- Unlimited Drinks
Featured Reviews
“The experience was amazing. The view and water were gorgeous. Enjoyed seeing all the beautiful fish, turtles, and shipwrecks. Definitely a must-do when visiting Aruba.” -Christina
✔️ Check Availability and Book the Champagne Breakfast and Lunch Cruise with Snorkeling ✔️
4. Aruba Private Catamaran Charter with Snorkeling, Open Bar, and a Meal
Tour Length: 2-3 Hours I Rating: 5/5 Stars I Book Here
Sail along the coastline of Aruba on this incredible Private Aruba Catamaran Tour. As it is a private excursion, you can customize the itinerary based on your interests.
Choose to snorkel through Aruba’s beautiful turquoise waters to observe hundreds of tropical fish, turtles, and other marine life. As Aruba is the sunniest island in the Caribbean, you’ll likely enjoy a sunny day on the Catamaran with a tropical drink in hand.
If you’re looking for a private and luxurious Aruba catamaran tour, this is a fantastic option for your trip. It’s perfect for honeymooners or romantic vacations with your significant other. It’s also ideal for families or groups of friends since you’ll have the entire boat to yourself.
This private tour is sure to be an incredible experience and the highlight of your trip to Aruba.
What is included in this tour?
- Private Catamaran Tour with Captain and Crew
- Customizable Itinerary
- Snorkeling Equipment and Instruction Available
- Freshly Prepared Food
- Open Bar
Featured Reviews
For those who aren’t sure if the price is worth it…it’s definitely worth the money! Everything about this experience including the food, drinks, music, and atmosphere was fantastic.” -Sylvia
✔️ Check Availability and Book the Private Catamaran Charter with Snorkeling ✔️
5. Aruba Lunch & Snorkel Sail
Tour Length: 4 Hours I Rating: 4.5/5 Stars I Book Here
This half-day excursion will take you snorkeling in some of the best spots in Aruba, including Catalina Bay and the SS Antilla shipwreck. The tour also includes a deli-style lunch and open bar, making it a wonderful all-inclusive option.
This is an awesome snorkeling tour for beginners as snorkeling lessons are available upon request. The first stop, Catalina Bay, is shallow, clear, and full of hundreds of exotic fish. Perfect for snorkeling beginners!
What is included in this tour?
- Snorkel Lessons Upon Request
- Snorkel Equipment
- Caribbean Lunch Buffet Included
- Open Bar
Featured Reviews
“This is an amazing tour. The crew is helpful and efficient. The food is great and the drinks are plentiful. The snorkeling locations are well-chosen.” – Anne
✔️ Check Availability and Book the Aruba Lunch & Snorkel Sail ✔️
6. Snorkeling Cruise aboard the Dolphin with an Open Bar and light Lunch
Tour Length: 3 Hours I Rating: 4.5/5 Stars I Book Here
This boat, dubbed “The Dolphin,” is guaranteed to be an exciting excursion out at sea. It boasts a small water slide and rope swing – perfect for swinging or sliding into the warm water.
During the tour, you’ll stop at two different snorkeling and swimming locations and are encouraged to use the snorkeling equipment to observe fish, turtles, and other marine life.
What is included in this tour?
- Unique Boat with Small Water Slide and Rope Swing
- Snorkel Equipment
- Light Lunch
- Open Bar
Featured Reviews
“Fun staff, great food and beautiful snorkeling spots!” – Jennifer
✔️ Check Availability and Book the Snorkeling Cruise Aboard the Dolphin ✔️
7. All-Inclusive Afternoon Sunset Snorkel Tour
Tour Length: 3.5 Hours I Rating: 4.5/5 Stars I Book Here
If you’re looking for both snorkeling tops and a sunset cruise, this is the perfect Aruba catamaran tour for you. This tour leaves late afternoon, giving you plenty of time to swim and snorkel in the warm blue waters.
Visit Malmok Beach and enjoy snorkeling through the calm waters with schools of tropical fish. At Boca Catalina Bay, you’ll snorkel with turtles and other marine life before heading out to the famous Antilla Shipwreck.
At the end of the tour, enjoy a beautiful sunset while relaxing on the catamaran – a perfect way to end a day in Aruba.
What is included in this tour?
- Open Bar and Unlimited Water, Juices, Soft Drinks
- Snorkeling Equipment
- Pirate Rope Swing
- Cruise during Sunset
Featured Reviews
“Excellent sunset cruise. Friendly staff and great experience. Recommend this if you want to see a beautiful sunset and some sea turtles.” -Kristine
✔️ Check Availability and Book the All-Inclusive Sunset Snorkel Tour ✔️
8. North Coast Seabob Reef Tour
Tour Length: 2 Hours I Rating: 5/5 Stars I Book Here
A Seabob Reef Tour is an incredibly unique excursion in Aruba. It’s very similar to snorkeling, but you’ll use a Seabob F5 S Jet that will take you faster and deeper than a regular snorkeling tour. The tour includes a wetsuit, snorkel equipment, and instructions on how to operate the Seabob Jet.
Taking the Seabob Reef Tour will allow you to explore some of the best coral reefs and observe a wide variety of marine life in Aruba. It is the perfect option for those who want to explore more of the ocean or are looking for something more unique than the typical snorkeling experience.
What is included in this tour?
- Underwater Scooter
- Instruction from a Professionally Trained SEABOB Guide
- Snorkel mask and Wet Suit Included
- Professional Action Camera Service Available for Additional Cost
Featured Reviews
“The seabobs were so much fun. We were able to cover a lot of areas in a short amount of time. We were able to see sea turtles, rays, sea urchins, and an array of reef fish.” -Tabitha
✔️ Check Availability and Book the North Coast Seabob Reef Tour ✔️
9. Adults Only Catalina Bay Small Group Snorkel & Sunset Sail
Tour Length: 3 Hours I Rating: 5/5 Stars I Book Here
Visit one of Aruba’s most beautiful lagoons on this amazing snorkel and sailing tour. This experience is a small group sailing tour limited to 12 people or less.
This excursion is also adults-only – which makes it the perfect tour for couples, solo travelers, or friends looking for a low-key and relaxing environment. Enjoy the open bar, light snacks, and the beautiful calm atmosphere in Catalina Bay.
After experiencing some incredible snorkeling in the crystal clear waters, you will also enjoy a breathtaking Aruba sunset from aboard the catamaran.
What is included in this tour?
- Sailboat Experience with Snorkeling Equipment
- Small group of 12 or less
- Adults-only
- Sandwiches, Watermelon, and Open Bar
Featured Reviews
“Crew was friendly and informative. Snorkeling was beautiful and the sunset was breathtaking. Rum Punch sneaks up on you!” -Aericka
✔️ Check Availability and Book the Adults-Only Catalina Bay Small-Group Snorkel & Sunset Sail ✔️
10. Half-Day Aruba Special Champagne Brunch Cruise
Tour Length: 3 Hours I Rating: 4.5/5 Stars I Book Here
Sail around on this half-day Aruba catamaran tour that includes champagne, brunch, and snorkeling. Stop at the Antilla Shipwreck, before heading over to the calm waters of Catalina Bay. At Catalina Bay, explore the Malmok Reef and look out for sea fans, damselfish, angel fish, octopuses, and colorful coral.
What is included in this tour?
- Snorkel Gear and Instruction
- Brunch with Fresh Fruits and Pastries
- Champagne and Open Bar
- Octopus Souvenir
Featured Reviews
“This experience was one I will NEVER forget. Not only was the crew 100% accommodating to make our ride amazing, but the snorkeling was absolutely beautiful.” -Tiffany
✔️ Check Availability and Book the Half-Day Aruba Special Champagne Brunch Cruise ✔️
11. Sailaway Morning Adventure Tour
Tour Length: 4 Hours I Rating: 5/5 Stars I Book Here
Explore the magnificent coast of Aruba by sailboat on this fun tour. Feel the warm sea breeze as you sail to three of the best snorkeling spots around the island.
This tour is a morning snorkel experience and provides some incredible opportunities to see tropical fish, coral reefs, and other marine life. Morning is the best time of day to snorkel in Aruba because the waters tend to be calm and undisturbed.
What is included in this tour?
- Snorkel Equipment
- Pirate Rope Swing
- Lunch and Unlimited Drinks
Featured Reviews
“This was a great adventure which I highly recommend! The snorkeling was fun, the staff was friendly, and the drinks kept flowing!” -M.Letts
✔️ Check Availability and Book the Sailaway Morning Adventure Tour ✔️
12. Palm Pleasure Afternoon Delight
Tour Length: 3 Hours I Rating: 4.5/5 Stars I Book Here
If you decide to go with the Palm Pleasure Afternoon Delight, I highly recommend that you upgrade to the Snuba experience. This is a mixture between scuba diving and snorkeling and allows you to breathe easily underwater without having to remain close to the surface. During this optional upgrade, you can follow a certified Snuba guide to a depth of 20 ft.
This option is perfect for those who want to explore deeper reefs and observe a larger variety of corals and marine life. It’s also a great option for people who have been snorkeling and are looking for something more unique or advanced.
What is included in this tour?
- Hotel Pickup and Dropoff
- Snuba Experience
- Snorkel Equipment and Instruction
- Snacks and Open Bar
Featured Reviews
“Awesome experience, the snuba add-on was well worth the cost and our guide was fantastic.” -Teresa
✔️ Check Availability and Book the Palm Pleasure Afternoon Delight ✔️
13. Sea Trek
Tour Length: 30 Minutes I Rating: 4/5 Stars I Book Here
Sea Trek is a unique underwater experience in which the Sea Trek helmet allows you to comfortably walk on the ocean floor. In Aruba, this type of snorkeling can only be done at De Palm Island for an additional $64 per person. I can’t stress enough that it is an experience of a lifetime.
The thought of being able to walk on the ocean floor for almost thirty minutes without any diving experience is mind-blowing.
Before entering the ocean, a seventy-pound helmet (which is almost undetectable underwater) is placed on your shoulders. You simply have to walk, keep your head upright, and breathe regularly. In fact, there is a rail to hold onto as two divers escort you through the experience.
Once you’re on the ocean floor, you’ll witness a variety of fish, as well as various vehicles and props to pose with. There is a professional photographer that will snap your photos. It’s like. a mini photoshoot, but underwater.
What is included in this tour?
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Lunch Buffet, Snacks, and Open Bar
- Regular Beach Beds, Palapas and Other Beach Facilities
- Kids Waterpark, Drop Slides, and Daily activities
- Banana boat rides (Min. 10 years old and/or 50″ tall)
- Snorkeling equipment
- SeaTrek, Snuba, and Massages
Featured Reviews
“The experience was amazing and the atmosphere was electric. An abundance of activities and sights to behold. Great day and time well spent. The staff were friendly and inviting.” –Edward
14. Antilla & Catalina Snorkel Sail
Tour Length: 3 Hours I Rating: 4.5/5 Stars I Book Here
Enjoy a sunny afternoon in Aruba on this snorkel and sail excursion. This experience will give you time to go snorkeling at the Antilla Shipwreck as well as in the calm waters of Catalina Bay. Highlights include seeing tropical marine life such as stingrays, angelfish, yellowtail snapper, and more.
What is included in this tour?
- Snorkeling Equipment
- Appetizers
- Open Bar
Featured Reviews
“Smooth ride. The staff was amazing and friendly. The food and drinks were great. Would do it again!” -Serena
✔️ Check Availability and Book the Antilla & Catalina Snorkel Sail ✔️
15. Aruba’s Thrill Seekers – UTV Excursion, Including Natural Pool
Tour Length: 6 Hours I Rating: 5/5 Stars I Book Here
This tour is the perfect option for adventure seekers who are looking to combine snorkeling with other exciting activities. It’s a private tour that will take you on a thrilling UTV ride through the Arikok National Park. Here, you’ll visit a famous natural pool where you can swim and snorkel. It’s an excellent option for a thrilling Aruba adventure!
What is included in this tour?
- Private Tour with Expert Guide
- Arikok National Park Entrance
- Drive a UTV
- Snorkeling Equipment
Featured Reviews
“Fantastic fun tour. Highly recommend this tour if you want to see the natural scape of Aruba and some of its history and very cool swimming areas.” -Pamela
✔️ Check Availability and Book the Aruba Thrill Seeker UTV Excursion ✔️
16. Snorkeling with Solar Power Sea Scooters
Tour Length: 2 Hours I Rating: 5/5 Stars I Book Here
This is a unique snorkeling tour that uses solar-powered sea scooters to explore the island’s coral reefs and tropical marine life.
You will leave with your guide directly from the beach after a short lesson on using the sea scooter. The tour will then take you to explore the Mangel Halto Reef, where you can observe hundreds of tropical fish and colorful corals.
What is included in this tour?
- Snorkeling Equipment
- Instruction and Use of a Sea Scooter
- Photos from the Excursion
Featured Reviews
“We were first-time, non-swimmers and we would so do this again. Will do when I come back.” -Luz
✔️ Check Availability and Book the Snorkeling with Solar Power Sea Scooters Tour ✔️
17. Guided Mangel Halto and Baby Beach Snorkeling Tour from Aruba
Tour Length: 5 Hours I Rating: 4.5/5 Stars I Book Here
Snorkel from the beaches of Mangel Halto and Baby Beach on this guided tour that includes roundtrip transportation from your hotel. Mango Halto is considered a hidden gem of Aruba and is the perfect spot to snorkel and observe undisturbed marine life.
Next head to Baby Beach, which is a popular beach for locals, and have a chance to relax or enjoy even more snorkeling.
What is included in this tour?
- Hotel Pickup
- Snorkel Equipment
- Local Guide
Featured Reviews
“The warm waters, the tropical fish, and the white sand beaches are breathtaking!” -Daniel
✔️ Check Availability and Book the Guided Mangel Halto and Baby Beach Snorkeling Tour ✔️
18. Private Aruba Snorkeling Trip
Tour Length: 2 Hours I Rating: 5/5 Stars I Book Here
Embark on the adventure of a lifetime on this private, two-hour tour aboard a 26-foot Bayliner. You’ll head to the serene waters of Catalina Bay – perfect for enjoying beautiful water and snorkeling in a shallow area full of tropical fish and corals. This is a fantastic choice for couples or families as the tour is limited to just your group.
What is included in this tour?
- Private Boat Trip
- Snorkeling Equipment
- Rum Punch
Featured Reviews
“GREAT Tour – got to see great snorkel spots, tons of turtles and color fish – great rum punch – great tour guide – well worth the extra money for the private tour.” – Ricky
✔️ Check Availability and Book the Private Aruba Snorkeling Trip ✔️
Is Snorkeling Any Good in Aruba?
Snorkeling in Aruba is absolutely incredible. Aruba is one of the best islands for snorkeling in the Caribbean due to its abundance of sunny days and calm, clear waters. The sea around Aruba’s shores is full of colorful coral reefs and vibrant marine life, which makes snorkeling here great for beginners and experienced snorkelers.
Some of the marine life you can see while snorkeling in Aruba includes turtles, moray eels, octopuses, sting rays, and various types of tropical fish such as Blue Tangs, Parrot Fish, Yellow Goatfish, and more.
The Best Place to Snorkel in Aruba
There are many great snorkeling spots off the coast of Aruba. Boca Catalina has calm waters and high chances of observing turtles and other fascinating marine life. Malmok Beach is another great spot to go snorkeling and is home to a large variety of tropical fish.
If you’re looking for a unique snorkeling experience in Aruba, consider exploring one of the many shipwrecks surrounding the island. The Antilla shipwreck, which sank near Aruba during World War II, is one of the most popular snorkeling spots on the island. Here, you’ll observe both tube sponges and hard coral growing on the wreckage. The ship has attracted tons of marine life, such as schools of tropical fish, morays eels, turtles, octopuses, and lobsters.
The Best Time of Year to Snorkel in Aruba
One of the best things about snorkeling in Aruba is that it’s possible year-round. Aruba is known for being the Caribbean island with the most sunny days, which means the snorkeling is always great. No matter which month you visit, there is a great chance you’ll have an abundance of sunny days perfect for snorkeling.
There truly isn’t a bad time to go on an Aruba snorkeling tour. However, September is considered one of the best months for snorkeling because the water is very calm due to the light trade winds.
September is also less crowded compared to other months since it’s one of the hottest months in Aruba. Fewer crowds are better for snorkeling because large tours tend to scare off fish, turtles, and other marine life.
What to Bring on an Aruba Snorkeling Tour
There are a few important items to bring on an Aruba snorkeling tour. For more info on what to bring to Aruba, you can also check out my Aruba Packing List.
- Swimsuit: A comfortable swimsuit is a must for snorkeling
- Coverup: For when you are relaxing on the boat
- Reef Safe Sunscreen: Sunscreen is a must, and reef-safe sunscreen makes sure the natural habitat stays protected while snorkeling
- Dramamine or Sea Bands: If you are prone to seasickness
- Sunglasses: To protect your eyes from the bright Aruba sun
FAQ: Aruba Snorkeling Tours
Snorkeling is one of the best Aruba excursions and a popular activity when visiting the island. Below are some frequently asked questions about snorkeling in Aruba.
It is better to snorkel in the morning in Aruba. The sun tends to be the highest during the morning, which gives you the best visibility when snorkeling. Another reason why you should snorkel in the morning is because the sea tends to be calmer and there are generally fewer crowds than in the afternoon.
Yes, you can snorkel with turtles in Aruba. Aruba is known for having some of the best snorkeling in the world so you will likely see turtles and other marine life. The best place in Aruba to snorkel with turtles is at Boca Catalina Beach. Just be sure you don’t touch the turtles and be respectful of their natural habitat!
Arashi Beach is known as the best beach for snorkeling in Aruba. Located on the north side of the island, Arashi Beach has very calm waters and lots of colorful marine life. Boca Catalina is another one of the best beaches for snorkeling in Aruba due to its rich marine life. It’s also a popular spot for spotting turtles.
Most Aruba catamaran tours include a few snorkeling or swimming stops. This is an incredible chance to go snorkeling in the clear water and observe some of the most colorful coral reefs and marine life in the Caribbean. Many catamaran tours in Aruba also include lunch or drinks, so it’s the perfect way to spend time out on the water. Depending on the time of your Aruba snorkeling tour, you might also get a sunset cruise.
Not only is it possible to go snorkeling at Palm Beach, but it’s actually a great spot for beginners. Since it’s a popular resort area, Palm Beach is accessible and easy to get to. You may see small schools of fish near the shores of Palm Beach, but if you want to explore more of the marine environment, I recommend booking a snorkeling tour.
Conclusion: Aruba Snorkeling Tours
Thankfully, there is no shortage of incredible Aruba snorkeling tours. Some tours take you out on a catamaran or bayliner, while others take you snorkeling from the shore. Aruba is a tropical paradise – full of sunny days and turquoise Caribbean waters that are perfect for snorkeling. On a snorkeling tour in Aruba, you’re sure to see tropical fish, colorful coral, and exciting marine life that you’ll remember for years to come.
