Banana Adventure Catamaran Shipwreck Snorkel and Turtle Swim

The best part of this Aruba outing is the combination of two very different snorkel stops: the Antilla, a World War II-era shipwreck, and Tres Trapi, where sea turtles may be swimming below. Between stops, you can stretch out under shade, ride the trade winds, or launch yourself from the rope swing.

I like the small-capacity boat, limited to 36 people, and the easygoing mix of sailing, swimming, snacks, and drinks. I also like that the crew keeps the mood family-friendly rather than turning the trip into a loud floating party. The main catch is simple: turtles are wild animals, and rough water can make the Antilla hard to see.

Key points

• Two snorkel locations: Visit the Antilla shipwreck and Tres Trapi, a known turtle-swimming area.
• A modest group size: The catamaran carries a maximum of 36 people, with some departures much smaller.
• Lunch and drinks included: Expect fruit, sliders, local pastries, liquor, mixers, juice, soft drinks, and water. Beer costs extra or is not included.
• Fun on board: Use the rope swing and jump platform, or stay in the shaded seating areas.
• Good family fit: The crew gives a safety briefing, supplies equipment, and has been praised for helping children in the water.
• Weather matters: Wind and waves can affect visibility, comfort, and the quality of the shipwreck stop.

Sailing from Hadicurari Fishermen’s Pier

The trip begins at Hadicurari Fishermen’s Pier, near Aruba’s Palm Beach hotel area. The listed meeting point is Berea di Piscado Hadicurari in Noord, and the boat returns there after roughly three hours.

Pickup is offered, and private transportation is included, but you should confirm the exact arrangement when booking. Some departures have included resort pickup, while the standard start point remains the pier. Allow a little extra time at the end if you have a firm dinner reservation or airport plan. One sailing took longer than expected to arrange transport back to the pickup spot.

The setting is practical rather than fancy. You board near the fishing pier, then head out along Aruba’s coast on a multihull catamaran. The boat’s broad design helps it feel steadier than a narrow speedboat, though it cannot erase wind and waves. Aruba’s trade winds are part of the appeal, but they can also make the ride and snorkeling more active.

The listed price is $65 per person. For a three-hour trip, that is a fair package if you plan to use the snorkel gear, eat the included lunch, and enjoy the open bar. A shore snorkeling trip could cost less if you already have a car and equipment, so the real value here is having transport on the water, a boat ride, instruction, food, and two swim stops bundled together.

The Antilla shipwreck and its World War II story

The first major stop is the Antilla, one of the Caribbean’s better-known wreck sites. The ship sank more than 80 years ago during World War II and remains largely intact beneath the water. Over time, its structure has become shelter for tropical fish and other sea life.

The wreck gives this trip more substance than a basic swim at a beach. You are not just looking at coral and fish. You are also seeing a large piece of maritime history that has become part of the underwater world.

Your view depends heavily on conditions. Some people see plenty of fish and get a clear look at the wreck. Others find the water too rough, the visibility limited, or the wreck too far below to appreciate fully. The site can also draw several boats at once, which makes the water feel crowded.

I would set your expectations correctly. The Antilla is worth seeing, but it may not look like a perfectly lit aquarium. Wind, current, sunlight, and your comfort in open water all affect the visit. If you are a strong snorkeler, you may spend more time exploring the outline of the ship. If you are less confident, stay near the crew and focus on the fish and the parts of the wreck visible from the surface.

The crew provides snorkel equipment and a basic lesson before you enter the water. That matters, especially if you have not used a mask and snorkel recently. You should still tell the crew if you are uneasy, need help adjusting the equipment, or want to remain close to the boat.

Tres Trapi and the search for sea turtles

The second featured stop is Tres Trapi, where you may swim with Aruba’s sea turtles. This is the part many people look forward to most, and it can be wonderful when the turtles are present and the water is clear.

You may need to search rather than wait for a turtle to paddle right up to you. The animals move through the area on their own schedule. Some outings have produced several turtle sightings, while others have produced fish but no turtles at all. That uncertainty is not a flaw in the crew’s effort. It is simply the nature of wildlife viewing.

The site is not always packed with things to see. Some swimmers find Tres Trapi less impressive than the Antilla, while others prefer it because the water feels calmer and the turtle search is more personal. I would treat the stop as a chance, not a promise. If seeing a turtle is your only reason for booking, you may be disappointed.

The crew can point you in the right direction and help you spot marine life, but they cannot control where the turtles swim. Keep your movements calm, give animals space, and listen closely to the safety instructions. You may also see colorful fish and smaller sea life around the site.

Three hours of swimming, snacks, and open-bar drinks

This is not a nonstop snorkeling workout. The catamaran gives you time to sit in the shade, watch the coast, enjoy the wind, and chat with your group. The boat has comfortable seating and shaded areas, so you can take breaks between water stops.

A light lunch is included. The food can include fresh fruit, sliders, and local pastries. The sliders and fruit are useful after swimming, though the meal is modest rather than a full restaurant lunch. One person found the food only average, so I would book this for the boat and snorkeling first, with lunch as a welcome extra.

The beverage package includes liquor, mixers, soft drinks, juices, and bottled water. Beer is not included. Alcohol is available only to people 18 and older. Since snorkeling and alcohol do not mix well, drink slowly and save most of the alcohol for after you are finished swimming.

The rope swing and jump platform add a playful touch. Kids and adults can take turns jumping into the water, and the feature gives the ride some energy between snorkel stops. You can also skip it completely and enjoy the boat from the deck.

Music and crew style can vary by departure. Some sailings have included island music and a lively mood, while others have felt quiet and relaxed. This is a good choice if you want some fun without committing to a full party cruise.

A small boat can make a big difference

The maximum capacity is 36 people, which is smaller than some Aruba catamaran outings that carry far more. In practice, some departures have had only a handful of people. That can make the trip feel almost private, with more room on deck and easier access to the crew.

A smaller group also helps during the safety briefing and water stops. You spend less time waiting for a large crowd to enter or leave the water. Crew members can keep a closer eye on the group, which is especially useful for families.

Do not assume every sailing will be nearly empty. The official maximum is still 36, and the feel of the day depends on demand. Even at full capacity, the smaller limit is an advantage for people who dislike packed boats.

The crew has included people called Captain Cuba, Captain Sean, Joidel, Benjamin, Benji, JJ, Manuel, Mussa, and Jeremy on different sailings. The names and staff may change, but the strongest pattern is attentive service and clear instructions. Families have appreciated the care shown to children, and several departures continued even when only a few people had booked.

One point to keep in mind: not every crew member will get into the water with you. The staff may remain on board while giving directions and watching the group. If you want a guide swimming beside you the whole time, ask about that before you go.

How weather changes the day

Aruba is known for steady trade winds, and the tour is designed around sailing in them. On a calm day, the ride can be smooth and pleasant. On a windy day, the boat may roll more, spray may reach the deck, and the Antilla stop can become rough.

Water conditions also affect how much of the wreck you can see. A site that looks impressive in clear water may feel underwhelming when the surface is choppy. Tres Trapi can also vary in visibility and marine life.

Wear sunscreen and bring a water bottle. You should also pack a swimsuit, towel, and a cover-up for the ride back. The tour supplies snorkel equipment, but you may prefer to bring your own mask if you have one that fits well.

Good weather is required. If poor conditions cancel the outing, you can choose another date or receive a full refund. For a full refund after booking, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time. Changes or cancellations inside that window are not accepted.

Who will enjoy this Aruba catamaran most

This outing fits families, couples, and groups that want a balanced water day. You get some history at the wreck, wildlife at Tres Trapi, free time on the boat, food, drinks, and simple thrills from the rope swing.

It is particularly suitable for:

• Families with children who want equipment, instruction, and a boat with shade
• First-time snorkelers who prefer a guided outing
• Couples looking for a relaxed sail with a little adventure
• Small groups that dislike large party boats
• People who want an open bar and lunch without paying for a full-day cruise

It is less ideal if you need guaranteed turtle sightings, dislike open-water conditions, or want a long and highly detailed snorkeling session. It may also disappoint serious snorkelers who expect a huge reef or perfect wreck visibility.

Most people can take part, and service animals are allowed. The boat is near public transportation, and pickup may be available. Ask in advance about your exact meeting arrangement, especially if you are staying outside the main hotel zone.

Should you book the Banana Adventure?

I would book this trip if you want a well-rounded three-hour outing rather than a specialized snorkeling expedition. The $65 price is reasonable for the boat ride, equipment, instruction, two stops, lunch, drinks, and access to the rope swing.

Go in knowing that the turtles are not guaranteed and the Antilla can be rough or hard to see. If you can accept those limits, the trip offers a pleasant way to get on the water without spending a full day or joining a huge crowd.

My practical choice would be a morning departure if available. You may get calmer conditions, and you will still have the rest of the day for Aruba’s beaches and restaurants. Book it for the mix of sailing, swimming, history, and easygoing crew service, not for a promise of perfect wildlife viewing.

FAQ

How long is the Banana Adventure Catamaran tour?

The tour lasts approximately three hours and ends back at the Hadicurari Fishermen’s Pier meeting point.

Where does the tour start?

The listed starting point is Hadicurari Fishermen’s Pier, Berea di Piscado Hadicurari, Noord, Aruba.

Is hotel pickup available?

Pickup is offered, and private transportation is included. Confirm the exact pickup location and timing when booking.

Are snorkeling equipment and instruction included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment and a free lesson are included.

Are sea turtle sightings guaranteed?

No. Tres Trapi is used for turtle snorkeling, but turtles are wild animals and may not appear during your stop.

What food and drinks are included?

The light lunch can include fresh fruit, sliders, and local pastries. Drinks include liquor, mixers, soft drinks, juices, and bottled water. Beer is not included.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel at least 24 hours before the experience for a full refund. Cancellations or changes made less than 24 hours before the start time are not accepted. If bad weather cancels the tour, you can choose another date or receive a full refund.