Turquoise waters, bright skies, and an all-you-can-drink bar serving chilled drinks — sounds like a dream, right? Well, if you’re planning a trip to the bucket list-worthy island of Aruba, that dream can become a reality. One of the island’s most popular tours per Tripadvisor — which currently gives it a 5-star rating recommended by 93% of travelers — is a three-hour sailing and snorkeling trip aboard “The Dolphin.” A spacious catamaran cruise equipped with a sunbathing area, deck, and slide, the experience takes you on a picturesque journey to some of Aruba’s most popular underwater spots.
Operated by Delphi Watersports, the tour departs from the beach outside the Hyatt Regency in Noord. Just look for the “Delphi Watersports” sign, and make sure you’re there 30 minutes before departure time to check-in. Overall, the trip is designed for solo travelers, couples, and families alike, and it’s all about discovery and relaxation — as well as some much-needed fun under the sun.
Although the island is teeming with affordable and highly rated tours, one specific detail makes Delphi Watersports’ catamaran cruise stand out from the rest — the added perk of unlimited, boozy drinks on board. Cocktails and ocean views? Now that’s what we call a vacation.
What’s included in the trip
Delphi Watersports / Facebook
Along with the open bar, there’s plenty more to do once you’re on “The Dolphin” that’ll make the entire experience worthwhile. For starters, there are the rope swings and a spinning waterslide — both of which turn the cruise into a playground suited for all ages.
Additionally, the tour includes two snorkeling stops for underwater exploration. The first stop at the Antilla shipwreck — the largest shipwreck in the Caribbean — makes a perfect pit-stop for checking out what life is like below the surface and coming face-to-face with some of its inhabitants, like tropical fish, lobster, and more. Then, over on Boca Catalina– one of the best snorkeling beaches in the world – you’ll have the opportunity to explore one of the island’s most vibrant reefs filled with colorful fish and, if you’re lucky, sea turtles. Snorkeling equipment (and instructions, if necessary) will be provided by the crew at each stop.
Lastly, you’ll be glad to know that the trip also includes a light lunch, snacks, and fresh fruit — so you don’t have to worry about going hungry — as well as plenty of time to kick back and relax while soaking up some sun (and sipping on those drinks!) Once the tour is complete, you’ll be dropped off right back where everything started so you can continue exploring everything else the island offers.
Planning your catamaran experience
Booking your trip with Delphi Watersports is easy and convenient, with much of the hard yards passed on the company’s own website. Currently priced at $65 per adult and $45 per child ages 5 to 12, you choose your date and time directly from within the platform. The company currently offers two departures — one at 9:30 a.m. and one at 1:00 p.m. — which means more flexibility. Alternatively, tour operators like Viator offer the same trip from its platform for the same price.
As for choosing the best time to visit Aruba for a snorkeling trip, you’ll ideally want to set your sights on September through mid-December. Not only is the weather a lot cooler during this time, but the island is also a lot more affordable and less packed with tourists. Plus, the light winds (and lack of waves) make it the perfect time to head underwater for some marine exploration.
