Antilla shipwreck plus mimosas. What makes this Aruba morning sail so fun is the combo of WWII wreck snorkeling and an easy open bar where drinks come to you while you’re sitting pretty. I really like the small-group feel on the Octopus (maximum 34), and the crew’s hands-on help in the water. The one thing to consider is that the shipwreck stop can feel choppier, so if you’re sensitive to waves, you may prefer to snorkel at the second stop or take it slow.

You’ll meet at the Octopus beach hut on Palm Beach, then get shuttled out to the catamaran on a short boat ride. The whole experience runs about 3 hours, and it’s built around two snorkel windows plus a brunch-style start with pastries, food bites, and nonstop drinks.

This is the kind of tour where you can bring a friend who doesn’t snorkel and still feel like you’re getting your money’s worth. The big upside is that you’re not stuck waiting around—snorkel time is timed well, the boat has lounge seating with clear water views, and you can keep the vibe going with mimosas and snacks between swims.

Key things I’d circle on your itinerary

• Two snorkel stops in one morning: Antilla shipwreck, then Malmok Reef/Catalina Bay
• Open bar served to your seat so you’re not hunting for drinks between swims
• Small-group limit (34 guests) for a more relaxed feel than big party boats
• 45 minutes at each water stop, so you actually get time to get comfortable
• Snorkel equipment and instruction included, helpful even if it’s your first time
• Restroom onboard, which matters more than you think when you’re on the water

Aruba catamaran, but make it useful: Antilla + Malmok Reef

If you’re picking one Aruba snorkel day, this is a strong format because you get two very different kinds of underwater scenery without changing tours or transport. The first stop is the Antilla shipwreck: a 400-foot German freighter tied to WWII that’s been underwater for over 60 years. It’s intact enough that you’re not just spotting a few artifacts—you’re snorkeling around a real, large structure, which tends to make the experience feel instantly more memorable.

Then you head to the second spot: Malmok Reef in shallow Catalina Bay. This part is more about getting your bearings and enjoying what’s cruising around you—think colorful reef fish, plus a chance to spot bigger sea life like turtles. The shallow water layout also means beginners usually feel more at ease, because you’re not fighting for control the moment you put your face in.

The practical benefit of the two-stop plan is simple: if the first site feels a bit much because of surface conditions, you still have a second chance at a calmer, beginner-friendly swim. And if you’re comfortable right away, you get to compare two Aruba “styles” of snorkeling in one morning.

Octopus on the water: small-group comfort and crew energy

The Octopus setup is built for comfort without feeling stiff. The boat has cushioned lounge seating with sea views that make it easy to relax between snorkeling turns. There’s also a restroom onboard, which sounds basic, but it’s a big deal on a tour that’s only three hours long—you don’t want to lose time or interrupt the fun.

One of the most praised parts is how drinks are handled. The open bar is served directly to your seat, so you don’t end up doing the “where’s my cup now?” routine. In the mix you’ll find mimosas and cocktails like the Aruba Arriba, plus other drink options available throughout the cruise.

You’ll also see a lot of the crew’s personality, and names come up often in the feedback. People mention captains like Richard, and deckhands such as Jose Luis, Jameel, Roger, Jose, and Jamil. Regardless of who you get, the pattern is consistent: they’re attentive, keep things moving, and make snorkeling feel doable—even when you’re new.

A quick wave-check for comfort

Aruba’s seas can be gentle near shore, and the short shuttle ride out to the catamaran is described as calm (the water is noted as having little to no waves year-round). Still, once you’re near the snorkel areas, conditions can vary day to day. Some feedback flags that the Antilla stop can feel rougher, which leads to a smart strategy: if you’re wave-sensitive, take your time, use fins and the gear you’re given, and be ready to choose your comfort level at the first site.

“Brunch cruise” means brunch bites, plus Champagne-style starts

The tour is marketed as a brunch sail, and the experience starts that way. Before you head out, you get a Champagne brunch setup with pastries and fresh food, along with an open cocktail bar. During the water time, you’ll continue seeing snack rounds rather than a single dry-and-done plate.

Based on what’s been served and described, the food leans toward brunch-style bites such as:

• muffins and pastries early on
• pinwheel-style sandwiches (chicken, tuna, cheese)
• mini sandwiches and fruit skewers
• more light appetizers/snacks throughout the cruise

The big win is pacing. You’re not waiting until the end to eat, and you’re not stuck hungry while you’re focused on snorkeling. The open bar is also kept going throughout, so your morning doesn’t feel like a checklist.

One expectation tweak that protects your satisfaction

This is not an all-you-can-eat buffet where you can stack plates for hours. Think of it as brunch-style appetizers + snacks, with unlimited drinks. If you’re a big eater or you skip breakfast at home, I’d still recommend eating something before you arrive, just to be safe.

Stop 1: Antilla shipwreck snorkeling (WWII wreck, 45 minutes)

The Antilla stop is the headliner for most people, and for good reason. You’re snorkeling around a 400-foot wreck that has sat underwater for decades. That combination—size plus longevity—tends to create underwater scenery that feels substantial rather than random.

You’ll get about 45 minutes at the first snorkeling location. That’s enough time to:

1. get fitted with the snorkel gear and confirm it fits comfortably
2. get your rhythm in the water (especially if you’re new)
3. actually look around instead of rushing

Gear and safety support you’ll feel on this stop

You’re provided snorkel equipment and instruction, plus safety life jackets. A certified first responder is included, and there’s a built-in safety mindset throughout.

If you’re new, here’s how to use your time: don’t try to “out-swim” your nerves. Stay calm, practice breathing, and let the crew’s directions guide where you look. Many people end up seeing turtles and lots of fish around the wreck areas, but the best approach is slow scanning rather than sprinting.

The one drawback to plan around

Some feedback mentions the surface can feel rough at the shipwreck. So if you’re the type who gets motion discomfort easily, consider doing the water cautiously. If you’d rather not snorkel at this stop, you still have another chance at Malmok Reef. That backup is one of the best features of the tour design.

Stop 2: Malmok Reef at Catalina Bay (45 minutes of easier snorkeling)

After the Antilla stop, you go to Malmok Reef, specifically the shallow water in Catalina Bay. This is where a lot of first-timers end up relaxing, because you can keep things controlled and feel steady.

You’ll also get about 45 minutes here, which is perfect for:

• taking a second look without pressure
• spotting fish that are easier to notice in shallower water
• enjoying the scenery without fighting for balance

What you’re likely to see here

The reef stop is where people often report colorful reef life. The provided details mention angel fish and damsel fish, plus the possibility of seeing octopuses and sea life in the area. And turtles come up often too, so it’s worth keeping your eyes up as you float.

The crew support continues at this stop, with instruction aimed at keeping you safe and helping you get the most out of your snorkel time. If you’re traveling with someone new to snorkeling, this second location is where you can usually feel the biggest confidence boost.

Getting there and staying comfortable: timing, shuttle, and packing

Start time is 9:00 AM, and check-in is described as happening earlier (you’re given a clear boarding window). Plan to arrive on time. The day runs like a coordinated schedule, and you’ll want to be settled before the boat departs.

You’ll meet at the Octopus beach hut on Palm Beach at J.E. Irausquin Blvd 87, suite 227. From there, boarding happens via a spacious shuttle boat that takes up to 15 people at a time. It’s a short ride—about 30 meters / 98 feet—and the sea in that area is described as calm most of the year with little to no waves.

Bring what they ask for:

• towel
• suncream / sunscreen

Also, think like you’re going to be in direct sun on a reflective water surface. Your main protection is sunscreen and staying hydrated. And if you’re planning to snorkel both stops, you’ll be in and out of the water several times, so having your gear comfortable from the start matters.

Mobile ticket, no hotel pickup

This tour uses a mobile ticket, and it does not include hotel pickup. You’ll want to handle your own ride or walking/taxi time to the Palm Beach meeting point. The upside is that it keeps the experience straightforward and keeps the tour time focused on water time rather than van time.

Price ($79.99) and value: why this feels fair for what you get

At $79.99 per person, you’re paying for a lot more than just a boat ride. In one morning, you’re getting:

• two 45-minute snorkel sessions at major sites
• snorkel gear + instruction (so you’re not paying extra for rentals or training)
• unlimited drinks from an open bar served to your seat
• brunch-style food and fresh appetizers throughout
• restroom onboard
• a souvenir at the end

What makes it feel like good value is how the included items match the reality of a Caribbean morning. You’ll want to snorkel at least once and you’ll want something to drink while you relax between swims. This tour is built to deliver those two needs without turning it into nickel-and-dime pricing.

If you compare it to “pay for snorkeling gear separately” tours, the inclusion of equipment and instruction can be a big savings. And the small group limit helps too—you’re more likely to feel guided rather than herded.

Who should book this morning sail (and who should pick something else)

This tour is a great fit if you want a relaxed Aruba outing with real structure: two snorkel stops, food and drinks planned in, and crew support throughout.

It especially suits:

• first-time snorkelers, because instruction and snorkel-time pacing are included
• couples and small groups who don’t want a crowded party boat feel (max 34)
• families, including those with a young child (there’s feedback about traveling with a toddler and feeling safe)
• people who want a “do both”: snorkeling and a fun brunch vibe

When you might choose another option

If your main priority is a long, uninterrupted snorkel session at one site, this format may feel short (you’re getting two shorter windows). Also, if you’re very sensitive to motion, you may find the first stop less comfortable and would need to adapt your expectations or snorkel strategy.

Should you book Premium Catamaran Morning Sail: Snorkeling, Mimosas and Brunch?

I’d book this if you want the best of Aruba in one smooth morning: Antilla shipwreck for the wow factor, Malmok Reef for easier snorkeling and marine life, plus unlimited drinks and brunch-style food without fuss.

If your idea of the perfect trip is all-day snorkeling with zero wave risk and zero compromise, you may want a different style of tour. But for most people—especially first-timers—the mix of sites, included gear, onboard comfort, and a small-group feel makes this a strong choice.

FAQ

How long is the catamaran morning sail?

The tour runs about 3 hours (approx.).

Where does the tour start in Aruba?

You meet at the Octopus Aruba Sailing, Snorkeling, Sunset & Private Tours beach hut, J.E. Irausquin Blvd 87, suite 227, Palm Beach, Aruba (Noord).

What snorkeling stops are included?

You’ll snorkel at two locations: the Antilla shipwreck and Malmok Reef in shallow Catalina Bay.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Yes. The tour includes snorkel equipment and instruction.

Are food and drinks included?

Yes. You get breakfast plus fresh appetizers, and there’s an open cocktail bar with unlimited drinks.

Is there a restroom onboard?

Yes, there is access to a restroom on-board.

Do I need to have snorkeling experience?

No. The tour notes that most travelers can participate, and the crew provides instruction and safety support.

What’s the cancellation policy?

You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, the amount paid is not refunded. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.