Two people swimming in clear blue water next to a boat, viewed from above.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Aruba Snorkel Cruise Questions on What to Bring, Where to Go, Safety, and more!

Sunset Tour

Is the sunset sail romantic?

Yes, the sunset sail is very romantic, perfect for couples looking to enjoy a private, intimate experience with stunning views.

What’s included in the sunset experience?

The sunset experience includes a welcome drink (mimosa or sangria), light bites, a premium open bar, life vests, and Wi-Fi.

What kind of food is served during sunset?

Light bites are served during the sunset sail.

Is champagne included?

No, champagne is not included, but it can be requested for an additional cost.

What if it’s cloudy and there’s no sunset?

Even on cloudy days, the sail remains beautiful and relaxing. While the sunset may not be fully visible, the experience continues with stunning views and a comfortable, enjoyable cruise.

Do you cancel if it rains?

We do not cancel for light rain. The sail will continue as long as conditions remain safe. Cancellation only occurs in the case of unsafe weather.

Can we combine it with a half-day tour?

Yes, the PM Half Day sail and the Sunset sail can be combined.

Can I book the full-day and end with sunset?

Yes, but the tour will depart later and the sunset will depart earlier to connect both departures.

Half-Day Tour

What’s the difference between the morning and afternoon Half-Day experience?

The main difference is the welcome drink and the ambiance. The morning sail includes mimosas and a bright, calm atmosphere, while the afternoon sail includes sangria and a warmer, golden setting. Everything else, snorkeling, inclusions, and duration, remains the same.

Is snorkeling included on both?

Yes, snorkeling is included on both the morning and afternoon Half Day sails.

What is served during the Half-Day tour?

The Half Day tour includes a welcome drink (mimosa or sangria), charcuterie-style light bites, a premium open bar, towels, floating hammocks, life vests, snorkel gear, and Wi-Fi.

Are the welcome drinks different for AM and PM?

Yes, the welcome drinks are different: the AM sail includes mimosas, and the PM sail includes sangria.

Can we choose our snorkeling spot?

You’re welcome to share your preferred snorkeling spot, and the crew will do their best to accommodate it.

Do we stop at Tres Trapi, Arashi, or Malmok?

Yes, the Half Day sails typically stop at Tres Trapi, Arashi, or Malmok, depending on sea conditions and your preference.

Can we add champagne or extra bites to the Half Day sail?

Yes, upon request.

Full-Day Tour

What’s included in the full-day experience?

The full-day experience includes a welcome drink, an exclusive flamingo encounter at De Palm Island, snorkeling at Mangel Halto, charcuterie board and curated bites, a premium open bar, towels, floating hammocks, life vests, snorkel gear, and Wi-Fi.

How long is the flamingo encounter at De Palm Island?

The Flaming encounter is approximately 15-20 minutes.

Is the flamingo encounter private for our group?

Yes, the flamingo encounter is private for your group.

Can we take pictures with the flamingos?

Yes, you can take pictures with the flamingos during the encounter.

Can kids join the flamingo encounter?

Yes, kids can join the flamingo encounter.

Do we get lunch on the full-day tour?

Yes, lunch is provided as an option when booking during the full-day sail.

Are fruit platters and charcuterie boards included?

Yes, fruit platters and charcuterie boards are included.

Is snorkeling at Mangel Halto included?

Yes, snorkeling at Mangel Halto is included in the full-day sail.

How deep is the water at Mangel Halto?

The water at Mangel Halto varies in depth, ranging from shallow areas near the mangroves to deeper sections around the reef.

Food & Drinks

What kind of food is served?

Light bites are served

Are the bites hot or cold?

The bites are served at a comfortable, perfect temperature, not hot or cold.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available?

Yes, vegetarian options are available, and vegan options can be arranged upon request.

Can you accommodate allergies or dietary restrictions?

Yes, we can accommodate allergies or dietary restrictions with advance notice.

Are desserts or sweets included?

Yes, the light bites do include small sweets.

Is there a premium food upgrade?

No, we do not offer a premium food upgrade.

Are drinks included?

Yes, drinks are included.

What’s included in the premium open bar?

The premium open bar includes a selection of soft drinks, juices, beers, and the mentioned cocktails.

What is the welcome drink?

Mimosa or Sangria.

Can we choose between mimosa and sangria?

No, the welcome drink is set, mimosas are served in the morning, and sangria is served in the afternoon and at sunset.

Are drinks unlimited?

Yes, drinks are unlimited.

Can we upgrade to premium bottles?

Yes, we do offer upgrades to premium bottles.

What premium brands are available?

We offer a selection of premium bottles at an additional cost, including Aguardiente Antioqueño Tapa Verde, Baltons Bourbon Straight from the Barrel, Moët & Chandon Imperial Brut, Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque, Hennessy V.S.O.P., Hennessy XO, Hendrick’s Gin, Hypnotiq, Casamigos Mezcal, Diplomatico Reserva, Zacapa 23, Patrón Reposado, Clase Azul Reposado, Tito’s Vodka, Johnny Walker Blue Label, Chivas Regal 21, and The Glenlivet 18.

How much do premium bottles cost?

Premium bottle pricing varies by brand. If you’re interested in a specific bottle, we can provide the exact price upon request.

Is there ice and water onboard?

Yes, both ice and water are available on board.

Inclusion

Are towels included?

Yes, towels are included.

Should we bring our own sunscreen or hats?

Yes, we recommend bringing your own sunscreen and hats for sun protection.

What should we wear onboard?

We recommend wearing comfortable beachwear or swimwear, along with sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.

Are shoes allowed on the catamaran?

No, shoes are not allowed on the catamaran, all guests will be asked to go barefoot on board.

Can we lie down and sunbathe?

Yes, you can lie down and sunbathe on the deck.

Are pets allowed?

No, pets are not allowed on board.

Can I bring a stroller?

Strollers are not recommended on board due to limited space and safety considerations, but you may bring one to the pier and leave it safely with the check-in team during your sail.

Is there a safety briefing before departure?

Yes, a safety briefing is provided before departure.

Are life jackets mandatory?

Life jackets are not mandatory to wear at all times, but they are available and required if the crew determines it’s necessary for safety.

Is the crew certified in first aid?

Yes, the crew is trained and certified in first aid.

Celebration Requests

Can we celebrate a birthday or anniversary onboard?

Yes, you can absolutely celebrate a birthday or anniversary on board.

Can we propose on Fortunata?

Yes, Fortunata is a beautiful setting for a proposal, and our crew will be happy to assist in making the moment special.

Can you decorate the catamaran for a special occasion?

Yes, we can add simple decorations for special occasions upon request.

Can we bring balloons, cake, or champagne?

Yes, you may bring a cake or champagne, but balloons are not permitted due to environmental and safety reasons.

Can we request a specific playlist or music theme?

Yes, you can request a specific playlist or music theme.

Do you have a photographer or videographer option?

No, we don’t have a photographer or videographer option.

Can we bring our own photographer?

Yes, but the photographer will be counted and included in the amount of guests.

Additional Questions

Can I bring a drone for videos?

Yes, you may bring a drone.

Can I bring my camera?

Yes, you’re welcome to bring your camera.

Is there somewhere to charge my phone?

Yes, there are limited charging outlets on board, but we recommend bringing a portable charger just in case.

Can we post photos on social media during the trip?

Yes, you can post photos on social media during the trip, Wi-Fi is available on board.

Can the crew take photos for us?

Yes, the crew will be happy to take photos for you using your phone.

Can we jump off the catamaran for a swim?

Yes, you can jump off the catamaran for a swim when the crew confirms it’s safe to do so.

Can we request music volume lower or higher?

Yes, you can always ask the crew to adjust the music volume.

Can I store my belongings safely?

Yes, you can store your belongings safely on board, and the crew will help you keep them secure.

Is the catamaran ride rough?

The ride is generally smooth, but conditions can vary slightly depending on the sea that day.

Can we ask the crew to stop for pictures?

Yes, you can ask the crew to stop for pictures whenever it’s safe to do so.

What if I’m celebrating something and want a surprise setup?

If you’re celebrating something special, we can arrange a simple surprise setup upon request.

Can I charter Fortunata for multiple days?

Yes, multi-day charters can be arranged upon booking and are subject to availability.

Is it possible to disembark at a different location?

No, disembarkation is only available at De Palm Pier.

What if it rains?

If it rains, the sail will continue as long as conditions remain safe.

How many crew mates will be on board?

There will be two crew members on board.

If coming by cruise ship, how do we get to you?

If you’re arriving by cruise ship, you’ll need to take a taxi to De Palm Pier. It’s a short ride, and all taxi drivers know the location.

Do i need to sign a waiver form?

Yes, all guests are required to sign a waiver form before boarding.

What is the difference between Fortunata and Palm Pleasure?

Fortunata is a private luxury catamaran exclusively for your group, while Palm Pleasure is a shared catamaran experience with other guests.

Can i be taken to the shore?

In the case of an emergency the crew would arrange to take you to shore, following all safety procedures.

Is Fortunata sustainable?

Yes, Fortunata operates with sustainable practices in mind, following De Palm Tours’ EarthCheck Gold and GSTC–certified standards to minimize environmental impact.

I’ve never sailed before, what will i expect?

Even if you’ve never sailed before, you can expect a smooth, relaxing, and comfortable experience. Our crew will guide you through everything, starting with a safety briefing, and will be available to assist you throughout the entire sail.

What’s the difference between the stop destinations of Palm Pleasure and Fortunata?

Palm Pleasure follows fixed snorkeling stops on shared tours, while Fortunata’s stop destinations are private and flexible. Palm Pleasure typically visits locations like Antilla and Boca Catalina, whereas Fortunata offers customizable stops such as Tres Trapi, Malmok, Arashi, De Palm Island (Full Day only), and Mangel Halto, depending on sea conditions and guest preference.

Is smoking allowed on Fortunata?

Smoking is not allowed in the cabin nor on the aft deck, only on the front deck.

General

What’s the difference between the Half Day, Full Day, and Sunset sail?

The Half Day sail includes snorkeling and light bites, the Full Day sail adds a flamingo encounter at De Palm Island and snorkeling at Mangel Halto, and the Sunset sail is a sightseeing experience with no snorkeling, focused on relaxing and enjoying the views.

What kind of catamaran is Fortunata and how big is it?

Fortunata is a Lagoon 400 Catamaran.

Does it have bathrooms onboard?

Yes, there are bathrooms available on board.

Is there shade on the catamaran?

Yes, there is plenty of shade available on board.

Is there a cabin or lounge area?

Yes, Fortunata features 4 cabins, plus both an indoor and outdoor lounge.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?

Yes, you’ll have access to Wi-Fi during your sail.

Are there speakers or Bluetooth for music?

Yes, we have speakers for music on board.

Is there AC?

No, we don’t have AC on board.

Is Fortunata safe for children, elderly guests, and pregnant women, and are there any age or health restrictions?

Yes, Fortunata is safe for children, elderly guests, and pregnant women. There are no age or health restrictions, and the activity level is considered easy.

Scheduling & Duration

What time does the Half Day AM sail depart and end?

The Half Day AM sail departs at 9:30 AM and ends at 12:30 PM.

What time does the Half Day PM sail depart and end?

The Half Day PM sail departs at 1:15 PM and ends at 4:15 PM.

What time does the Full Day sail depart and end?

The Full Day sail departs at 10:00 AM and ends at 4:00 PM.

What time does the Sunset sail depart and end?

The Sunset sail departs at 5:00 PM and ends at 7:00 PM.

How early should we arrive before departure?

For a smooth check-in, please arrive 15 minutes early before your departure time.

Can we adjust or extend our sailing time?

No, the sailing duration cannot be extended or modified.

Locations

Where do we check in?

Please check in at the Coconuts Store at De Palm Pier.

Where is De Palm Pier located and is it easy to find?

It’s on the beach directly behind the Riu Palace Aruba. Once you walk toward the ocean, you’ll see the Coconuts Store at the start of the pier.

Is parking available nearby?

Yes, there are nearby parking options along the Palm Beach area.

Do we need to show ID or a booking confirmation?

Yes, all guests are required to show a booking confirmation upon check-in. A valid photo ID may also be requested.

Can someone else check in on my behalf?

No, someone can not check in on your behalf.

Group Pricing

How many person max are included in the starting price?

Starting rate includes 6 guests.

How many person can join in total?

Up to 12, surcharges are applied for each additional guest.

How much does it cost to add additional guests?

The cost for additional guests varies, please check the price during booking according to the number of additional guests.

Are kids counted in the total number of guests?

Yes, children are included in the total number of guests.

Are infants free?

Yes, infants typically sail for free, but please confirm at the time of booking.

Is gratuity included in the price?

Gratuity isn’t included, and guests may tip at their discretion.

How much should we tip the crew?

Tipping is entirely at your discretion, please feel free to tip whatever you believe is appropriate.

Booking & Payment

How can I book?

Bookings can be made through our website, or you can email at contact@depalmtours.com or call us at +(297) 522-4600 for more information and reservations.

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking at least a few days in advance.

Can I book the same day?

Same-day bookings are possible, but they depend on availability. We recommend checking our website or contacting us to confirm.

Do I need to pay a deposit?

No, a deposit is not required. Full payment is made at the time of booking.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept all major credit cards when booking online.

Can I pay cash on the day of the tour?

No, payment must be made at the time of booking, cash is not accepted on the day of the tour.

Can I split payments between guests?

No, payment must be made in full at the time of booking; splitting payments between guests is not available.

Will I get a confirmation email?

Yes, you will receive a confirmation email after completing your booking.

Can I change or reschedule my booking?

Yes, you can change or reschedule your booking, subject to availability and our cancellation policy.

What’s the cancellation policy?

A full refund without penalty shall be given if tour or activity is canceled at least 72 hours prior to the scheduled start of your tour or activity. No refunds for cancellations inside of 72 hours. If you miss the tour because of not being on time for your excursion, no refund will be issued. De Palm Tours reserves the right to cancel, change or substitute any tour. If we are unable to substitute your purchased tour, a full refund will be provided. If tour is cancelled by De Palm Tours, De Palm Tours will substitute the original activity with one of at least equal value as the one being cancelled or substituted.

Do I get a refund if the tour is canceled due to weather conditions?

Yes, if the tour is canceled due to weather conditions, you will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.

How do I contact someone for booking help?

You can contact our reservations team by phone at (+297) 522 4400 or by email at contact@depalmtours.com for booking assistance.

Itinerary

What does the Half Day sail include?

The Half Day sail includes a welcome drink (mimosa in the morning or sangria in the afternoon), charcuterie board and light bites, a premium open bar, towels, floating hammocks, life vests, snorkel gear, and Wi-Fi.

What does the Full Day sail include?

The Full Day sail includes a welcome drink, flamingo encounter at De Palm Island, snorkeling at Mangel Halto, charcuterie board and curated bites, a premium open bar, towels, floating hammocks, life vests, snorkel gear, and Wi-Fi.

What does the Sunset sail include?

The Sunset sail includes a welcome drink (mimosa or sangria), light bites, a premium open bar, life vests, and Wi-Fi.

What’s the difference between morning and afternoon sails?

The main difference is the welcome drink and the atmosphere. The morning sail includes mimosas, while the afternoon sail includes sangria. Both offer the same route, snorkeling stops, inclusions, and duration.

Can we choose where to snorkel?

Half Day sails typically stop at Tres Trapi, Arashi, or Malmok; the Full Day includes snorkeling at Mangel Halto; the Sunset Sail is sightseeing only, and snorkel spots may be adjusted based on sea conditions and guest preference.

What are the stop destinations?

Half Day sails typically stop at Tres Trapi, Arashi, or Malmok; the Full Day includes a flamingo encounter at De Palm Island and snorkeling at Mangel Halto; and the Sunset Sail is sightseeing only.

How long do we spend snorkeling?

There is no specific time set for snorkeling.

How far do we sail during the trip?

For the Half Day sail, we typically cruise between Tres Trapi, Malmok, and Arashi; the Full Day sail include De Palm Island and Mangel Halto; and the Sunset Sail follows a scenic coastal route without snorkeling stops.

What if sea conditions are rough?

If sea conditions are rough, the crew will try their best to adjust the route or select calmer areas to ensure your comfort and safety.

Will the captain change the route if the weather changes?

Yes, the captain may adjust the route if weather or sea conditions change to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

Can we customize our route?

You’re welcome to share your preferred route, and the crew will do their best to accommodate it

Can we swim during the sunset sail?

Swimming is not included in the Sunset Sail, as this experience is designed for sightseeing and relaxation.

Can we visit De Palm Island?

De Palm Island is included only in the Full Day sail; it is not part of the Half Day or Sunset sail.

Is lunch included or just snacks?

Only for Full-Day sail is lunch included as an option.

Flamingo Encounter

What’s included in the flamingo encounter at De Palm Island?

You can enjoy an exclusive flamingo encounter with refreshing mimosas.

How close can we get to the flamingos?

You can get close to the flamingos during the encounter, while following the crew’s guidance to ensure the safety and comfort of both guests and birds.

Can we feed or touch them?

No, guests are not allowed to feed or touch the flamingos to ensure their safety and well-being.

Is the flamingo encounter private for our group?

Yes, the flamingo encounter is private for your group.

Can we take pictures with the flamingos?

Yes, you can take pictures with the flamingos.

Can kids join the flamingo encounter?

Yes, kids can enjoy the flamingo encounter too.

How long do we spend snorkeling?

There is no specific time set for snorkeling.

Snorkeling & Swimming

Which sails include snorkeling?

Snorkeling is included in the Half Day and Full Day sails; the Sunset Sail does not include snorkeling.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is included for our Half Day and Full Day sail.

Can we bring our own snorkel gear?

Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own snorkel gear if you prefer.

Are life vests provided?

Yes, life vests are provided for all guests.

Are floating hammocks available?

Yes, floating hammocks are available for our Half Day and Full Day sail.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?

Yes, snorkeling is suitable for beginners, and the crew is happy to assist if needed.

Can I join if I can’t swim?

Yes, you can still join even if you can’t swim, and life vests are provided for your safety.

Are there shallow areas for swimming?

No, there are no designated shallow areas for swimming.

Are there life jackets for kids?

Yes, we have life jackets available for children.

What marine life might we see?

You may see tropical fish and sea turtles (sea turtles are only located in Tres Trapi, Malmok, Arashi), depending on the day’s sea conditions.

What happens if I get seasick?

If you begin to feel seasick, the crew will assist you right away and adjust the experience as needed to help you feel more comfortable.

Transportation

Is transportation or hotel pickup to De Palm Pier included?

No, transportation is not included.

Should we come with our own transport?

Yes, we recommend arranging your own transportation to De Palm Pier.

Is it easy to find the pier by taxi?

Yes, it’s very easy to find De Palm Pier by taxi.

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