Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Sailin One of Aruba's most popular adventures is the cruise to
nowhere. This is a terrific way to see the leeward side of the
island from the water while relaxing with a cool drink aboard
a yacht or catamaran. Some tours include snorkeling, lunch
or dinner, entertainment, open bar, or a combination pack-
age. If you want the ultimate trip, charter your own boat and
plan your own itinerary.
Perhaps the most important difference between a good cruise and a fabu-
lous cruise is the amount of open space on the boat. Even large vessels feel
cramped when they're filled to capacity, so ask how many people the boat is
licensed to carry and how many are expected at various times. Then sign
up for the boat with the best passenger-to-space ratio.
Costs vary, depending on the length of the trip and the extras that come
with it. A five-hour snorkel, lunch, and open-bar trip will run about $70 per
person. Trips without an open bar (they usually serve rum punch and soft
drinks) may save you $20. Sunset dinner cruises cost approximately $60
per person. Two-hour snorkel trips are in the $30 range. The activities
desk at your hotel can give you some information and point you in the right
direction, but do a little comparison shopping before you book. The follow-
ing have a reputation for excellence.
Sailing Tours
De Palm Tours
800-766-6016 (in the US); or 297-582-4545; www.depalm.com
Get information at the activities desk of major resorts or at their pier on
Palm Beach. They offer every imaginable type of cruise. You can book
through them or contact individual operators directly.
Red Sail Sports
Palm Beach. Wednesday-Monday day sails; daily sunset cruises, 877-733-
7245 (in the US), 297-583-1603; www.redsailaruba.com
Two catamarans sail from De Palm Pier on Palm Beach each morning for
four-hour snorkel, sightseeing, lunch trips. Shorter afternoon sails and the
sunset cruise include snacks.
Pelican Adventures
Palm Beach. Day sails and sunset crises every day; 297-58-2302 (week-
days), 297-586-1455 (weekends); www.pelican-aruba.com
Two catamarans sail from Pelican Pier near the Holiday Inn on Palm Beach for
day sails, sunset booze cruises, and special full-moon outings. Depending on
time of day, the tour includes snacks or brunch and drinks.
Jolly Pirates
Moombe's Bar & Restaurant, Palm Beach. Daily trips, 297-586-8107;
www.jollypirates.com
This 85-foot Brazilian schooner is one of the most popular party boats in the
Caribbean, and every trip features an open bar. Lots of noise. Lots of fun.
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