Catamaran Cruises in Aruba

Best catamaran cruises for families

Compare the best family-friendly catamaran cruises in Aruba—pirate ship sails, water slides, snorkeling, and fun for kids and adults. Stable boats, shade, and activities everyone can enjoy.

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Our picks

Our best catamaran cruises for familie picks

Aruba Jolly Pirate Afternoon Sail with Snorkeling

4.6 · 488 reviews

Price from $89

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Jolly Pirates’ 85-foot teak pirate schooner is one of Aruba’s most family-friendly sails. Kids love the themed ship and famous rope swing; parents appreciate the shade, seating, and open bar. Visit three snorkel sites—Malmok, Boca Catalina, and the Antilla wreck—and snorkel at two, then swing into the water at the third. A classic choice for multigenerational groups.

Best for:

  • Families with kids who love a pirate theme
  • Anyone who wants the famous Jolly Pirates rope swing
  • Multigenerational groups (grandparents to grandkids)
  • Guests who want shade, seating, and an open bar for adults

Dolphin Catamaran Snorkel and Sail with Open Bar

4.7 · 2,382 reviews

Price from $69

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The Dolphin catamaran wins families over with a water slide—kids (and adults) can splash into the Caribbean between snorkel stops. Two snorkel sites (Antilla wreck and Boca Catalina), rope swing, open bar, and wraps and tropical fruit. Friendly crew teaches snorkeling to beginners. Ideal for families with teens who want action, not just sailing.

Best for:

  • Families with teens who want a water slide and snorkeling
  • Kids who love waterslides and rope swings
  • Parents who want open bar while the kids play
  • First-time snorkelers (gear and instruction included)

Family-friendly catamaran cruises in Aruba combine stability, shade, and activities that suit all ages. Choose a pirate ship for themed fun and a rope swing, or a catamaran with a water slide for kids who want to splash. Snorkeling, open bars for adults, and snacks keep everyone happy. Shallow bays like Catalina Bay make first-time snorkeling safe and fun for kids.

Why choose a family catamaran cruise in Aruba?

Catamarans and schooners are stable and spacious—no rocking like small speedboats. Most family sails offer shade, seating, and activities: snorkeling for older kids and teens, rope swings and water slides for thrill-seekers, and open bars and snacks for adults. Crews are used to families and help kids with gear. Aruba’s calm water and shallow bays make it one of the best islands for family sailing.

What to expect

  1. 1Check-in at the marina or beach. Kids get life jackets; families get a safety briefing before boarding.
  2. 2Sail to snorkel stops. Shallow sites like Catalina Bay are ideal for first-time snorkelers. Gear and instruction included.
  3. 3Water activities: snorkeling, rope swing, or water slide (depending on the tour). Crews help kids feel comfortable.
  4. 4Shade and seating on deck. Open bar and snacks for adults; soft drinks for kids. Most tours run 3 hours.
  5. 5Return to the marina. Pirate ships and catamarans with slides tend to be the most memorable for families.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best family catamaran cruises in Aruba?
The best family catamaran cruises in Aruba include Jolly Pirates’ pirate schooner (rope swing, three snorkel sites, shade) and the Dolphin catamaran (water slide, rope swing, two snorkel stops). Both offer snorkeling, open bar, and activities that appeal to kids and adults. Jolly Pirates has a themed pirate ship; the Dolphin has a water slide kids love.
Is the Jolly Pirates sail good for families?
Yes. Jolly Pirates’ 85-foot teak pirate schooner is very family-friendly. Kids love the pirate theme and famous rope swing. There’s shade under the canopy, seating by the bar, and three snorkel sites (Malmok, Boca Catalina, Antilla). Snorkel at two and use the rope swing at the third. Open bar and snorkel gear included.
Does the Dolphin catamaran have a water slide?
Yes. The Dolphin catamaran has a water slide and rope swing, plus two snorkel stops at the Antilla wreck and Boca Catalina. It’s a hit with families—especially families with teens who want action. Open bar, wraps, and tropical fruit are included. The crew teaches snorkeling to beginners.
What age is a catamaran cruise suitable for in Aruba?
Most family catamaran cruises in Aruba welcome all ages. Very young children can stay on deck with a parent; toddlers may need close supervision. Kids who can swim can snorkel with gear and instruction. Water slides and rope swings typically suit ages 6–7 and up. Check each operator for age guidance.
Is snorkeling safe for kids on Aruba catamaran cruises?
Yes. Aruba’s calm water and shallow sites like Catalina Bay make snorkeling safe for kids. Crews provide life jackets and snorkel gear; many offer instruction. Kids can start in shallow water before heading to deeper sites. Non-swimmers can stay on the boat and enjoy the sail, rope swing, or water slide.
What should families bring on a catamaran cruise?
Bring swimwear, towels, reef-safe sunscreen, and hats. Kids may want rash guards or a change of clothes. Many tours provide life jackets. Leave valuables in your hotel or in a dry bag. Check if your tour offers snacks for picky eaters—some have wraps and fruit; others focus on drinks.

More ways to explore

Compare other catamaran cruises in aruba options:

Best morning catamaran cruisesBest snorkeling catamaran cruisesBest open bar catamaran cruises
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