Banana Adventure Catamaran Shipwreck Snorkel and Turtle Swim

If you’re looking for a day out on the water in Aruba that combines the thrill of snorkeling, the romance of sailing, and a chance to see sea turtles and a WWII shipwreck, the Banana Adventure Catamaran Tour might just be your ticket.

This tour, rated 4.5 out of 5 by over 110 happy travelers, is praised for its friendly crew, scenic routes, and authentic Caribbean feel. It’s a great pick whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family.

What we especially like about this cruise is its intimate, relaxed atmosphere and the knowledgeable guides who make the experience informative but never overbearing. The combination of calm sailing and engaging snorkeling stops offers a satisfying balance of adventure and chill time.

One thing to consider is that the shipwreck snorkel site can sometimes be crowded and a bit rough, which might not suit everyone—so if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer very calm waters, plan accordingly.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a more personal, less commercialized boat experience. If you’re eager to see Aruba’s famed marine attractions — including the Antilla wreck and sea turtles — and appreciate good food and drinks in a relaxed setting, this trip likely fits the bill. Let’s dive into the details.

Key Points

• Authentic, smaller-group experience with attentive guides and friendly crew
• Two snorkel stops including the famous Antilla shipwreck and Tres Trapi with sea turtles
• All-inclusive with snacks, fresh fruit, sliders, local pastries, and open bar
• Comfortable, stable catamaran with shaded decks, a rope swing, and diving platform
• Priced at $65, offering good value considering the personalized service and inclusions
• Flexible cancellation policy with 24-hour full refund option

What to Expect from the Banana Adventure Catamaran Tour

The Setting: A Relaxing Sailing Adventure

From the moment you step aboard the multihull vessel at Hadicurari Fishermen’s Pier, you’ll notice the emphasis on comfort and style. The boat is spacious and well-maintained, with shaded areas perfect for lounging between stops. The friendly crew, led by a knowledgeable captain, makes sure everyone feels at ease—whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer.

As you set sail along Aruba’s coast, you’ll enjoy the steady trade winds, which keep the ride smooth and enjoyable. The boat’s stabilizing design means even if you’re prone to seasickness, you’ll likely find the ride quite manageable. Most reviews appreciated the crew’s attentive approach, with many noting how they kept drinks flowing and shared interesting tidbits about the surroundings.

The Snorkel at the Antilla Shipwreck

The highlight for many is the snorkel stop at the Antilla wreck, a World War II ship that sank over 80 years ago. It remains remarkably intact and is regarded as one of the Caribbean’s top sunken ships. We loved the fact that, after decades underwater, this wreck now hosts a thriving community of tropical fish and marine life.

However, some travelers found the wreck somewhat challenging to view clearly due to the water conditions. One review mentioned that the wreck was quite far down, making it hard to see everything, especially if the water gets choppy. The presence of other boats at the site can add to the crowding, which might detract from the intimacy or clarity of the experience.

Regardless, the shipwreck offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and makes for a memorable underwater feature. The crew’s guidance ensures you understand what you’re looking at, and the snorkeling equipment provided is generally good quality, with free lessons available for beginners.

Snorkeling with Turtles at Tres Trapi

Next stop, Tres Trapi, is where many guests find their favorite part of the tour. Here, snorkelers have the chance to swim alongside Aruba’s gentle green sea turtles. As one reviewer noted, “Swimming with the turtles is simply amazing,” and many pointed out how it’s a peaceful, almost magical experience to be surrounded by these calm creatures in their natural habitat.

The water at Tres Trapi is typically calmer, offering a more relaxed snorkeling experience. Expect to see a variety of colorful fish and vibrant coral, making this stop a true underwater spectacle. Some reviews mention that spotting turtles requires patience and searching, but the crew’s tips and encouragement help make this easier.

Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere

The tour includes a light lunch featuring fresh fruit, sliders, and local pastries—simple yet tasty. Travelers often praise the quality of the snacks, which provide a perfect energy boost after swimming. The open bar is a definite highlight, with a selection of liquors, mixers, soft drinks, juices, and bottled water. Notably, beer is not included, and you need to be 18+ to enjoy the alcoholic beverages.

Guests often mention how the crew’s friendliness enhances the overall experience. As one reviewer put it, “The captain and deckhand were amazing,” making drinks and sharing island stories, which created a warm, welcoming vibe. The boat’s layout allows guests to relax, soak up the sun, or take a dip from the diving platform or rope swing.

Group Size and Personal Attention

One of the strongest points is the small group size, with a maximum of 36 travelers, and some reviews mentioning trips with only a handful of people or even private experiences. Several guests appreciated the personal attention: “It felt like a private excursion,” said one reviewer. This smaller scale means less crowding at snorkeling sites, more space on the boat, and a more intimate atmosphere overall.

Transportation and Convenience

The tour includes private transportation, which simplifies logistics and allows you to relax from the moment you leave your hotel or resort. The starting point at Hadicurari Pier is conveniently located near popular resorts like the Marriott Surf Club, making it easy to access.

Most travelers found the pickup service reliable and convenient, though some noted that after the trip, the return transportation back to their hotel could take a little longer, so planning accordingly is wise.

The Experience in Practice: A Balanced Look

Pros

• Friendly, knowledgeable guides make the experience engaging without feeling overdone
• Beautiful scenery and marine life, including turtles and fish
• Two snorkel stops provide good variety and chances to see different underwater environments
• Snacks and drinks included, offering excellent value for a modest price
• Comfortable, stable catamaran with shaded and open-air options
• Smaller group sizes mean more personalized service and fewer crowds at snorkeling sites

Cons

• The shipwreck site can be crowded, and visibility may vary based on water conditions
• Water conditions at some sites might be rough, limiting the viewing or snorkeling time
• No beer included — if you’re a beer drinker, you’ll need to purchase separately
• The duration of roughly three hours is perfect for most, but serious snorkelers might wish for more underwater time

Value for Money

At $65 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. You get two snorkeling stops, lunch, open bar, transport, and a relaxed sailing experience. Reviewers consistently praise the crew’s attentiveness and the quality of the snorkeling, which makes the price seem reasonable even compared to more crowded, less inclusive options.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a personal, authentic boat trip with a friendly crew and a chance to see Aruba’s marine life, this tour is a strong choice. It’s particularly well-suited for families, couples, or small groups who appreciate a laid-back vibe and good value. If you’re keen on snorkeling, spotting sea turtles, or exploring shipwrecks, this tour covers all those bases.

Final Thoughts

This Banana Adventure Catamaran tour balances scenic sailing, informative guides, and memorable snorkeling stops in a way that feels genuine and relaxed. The smaller group size and the attentive crew make it stand out from busier, commercialized options, providing a more intimate experience. The inclusion of snacks, drinks, and transportation adds to the overall value, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking quality.

While the shipwreck site can sometimes get crowded and the water conditions vary, most guests leave with a smile, having seen turtles, colorful fish, and an impressive WWII wreck. If you’re looking for a fun, laid-back day on Aruba’s waters, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation is provided, making it easy to get to and from the meeting point at Hadicurari Fishermen’s Pier.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 3 hours, which gives plenty of time for sailing, snorkeling, and relaxing without feeling rushed.

Are snorkeling equipment and lessons included?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided and most reviews mention the equipment is good quality. Free lessons are also available for beginners or those needing a refresher.

Can I see sea turtles?
Yes, the stop at Tres Trapi is specifically known for turtle sightings, and many guests report swimming alongside these gentle creatures.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention how friendly and accommodating the crew is with children, and the smaller boat size makes it more manageable for families.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, a light lunch with fresh fruit, sliders, and pastries is included, along with an open bar of soft drinks, juices, and liquors. Beer is not included.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are usually on the trip?
Group sizes are limited to 36, and some trips have only a few guests, making for a more personalized experience.

Is the boat comfortable and stable?
Yes, the multihull design ensures a smooth ride, and shaded decks add comfort during the trip.

What do reviews say about the overall experience?
Most travelers rate it highly, praising the guides, the marine life, and the overall relaxing vibe. Some mention the wreck being crowded but still worthwhile.

In Closing

The Banana Adventure Catamaran Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic Aruba experience that combines sailing, snorkeling, and island hospitality. It’s a fantastic choice if you want to see marine life, explore a WWII wreck, and enjoy a laid-back day with friendly guides and good food. Perfect for those seeking a more intimate, less commercialized adventure—this trip stands out as a memorable way to enjoy Aruba’s coastal waters.

Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or a seasoned marine explorer, this tour balances fun, safety, and value in a way that will leave you with stories to tell long after your trip ends.