Is the Blue Parrot Snorkel Sail with 4-Course Lunch or Dinner in Aruba Worth It?

What exactly is the Blue Parrot Snorkel Sail?

The Blue Parrot Snorkel Sail is a private boat charter operated by Tropical Sailing Aruba. Unlike a shared snorkel trip where you book a seat alongside strangers, this product is sold as a private charter: the boat and crew are dedicated to your group. The description emphasises privacy, comfort, and a schedule built around your preferences.

Key facts from the verified listing:

• Duration: approximately 4 hours.
• Location: Oranjestad, Aruba.
• Capacity: 1 to 15 travellers.
• Included: snorkelling equipment, lunch, dinner, and alcoholic beverages.
• Not included: towels.

Because it is a charter, the experience is shaped around your group rather than a fixed group itinerary. The crew works with you on timing and service, which is a meaningful difference from a standard excursion.

What is included in the price?

The listing confirms four inclusions: alcoholic beverages, lunch, dinner, and use of snorkelling equipment. That means you do not need to bring your own mask, snorkel, or fins for the snorkelling portion. Food and drinks are part of the charter, which is convenient for a half-day on the water.

What is not included

Towels are explicitly excluded, so plan to bring your own from your hotel or accommodation. The listing does not mention other potential extras such as gratuities, transportation beyond the stated pickup, or personal items, so it is wise to confirm any additional costs directly with the operator before booking.

Lunch or dinner?

The title refers to a 4-course lunch or dinner, and both lunch and dinner appear in the inclusions. The exact timing depends on your sailing schedule, which you arrange with the operator. If you have specific dietary requirements, raise them with Tropical Sailing Aruba in advance; the listing does not provide a menu or dietary details.

How does the private charter format work?

This is a whole-boat charter, not a per-seat tour. The from-price of 1,919 USD is best understood as a starting rate for the vessel rather than a per-person ticket. With a maximum of 15 travellers, the cost per person decreases as your group grows, which makes it more attractive for families, friend groups, or small celebrations.

The operator describes the experience as flexible and built around your schedule. In practice, that means you should communicate your preferred departure time, meal timing, and snorkelling preferences when you book or shortly after. The listing does not specify fixed departure times, so treat the schedule as something to confirm directly.

Because it is private, the atmosphere is quieter and more tailored than a shared party boat. That said, it is still a snorkel sail with alcohol included, so it can be lively if your group wants that.

Where does the sail depart, and is pickup available?

Pickup is available. The verified meeting details state that you should be in the lobby 10 minutes before the pickup time provided to you, and the estimated pickup time will be shared in advance.

If you are arriving on your own

Self-arrival is also possible. The address is Bucutiweg #34. The listing notes that GPS users may find it easier to search for The Fish House Restaurant at Varadero Marina, as the operator is located on the same property. Plan to arrive 15 minutes before the sailing time if you are making your own way there.

What to bring

The operator advises bringing a bathing suit if you wish to swim or snorkel, plus towels and sunscreen. Towels are not provided, so this is a practical reminder rather than a suggestion.

Who is this experience best for?

This charter suits groups who value privacy and flexibility over a low per-person price. It is a good fit for:

• Families or friend groups of up to 15 who want the boat to themselves.
• Small celebrations where a tailored schedule and meal matter.
• Snorkellers who prefer to avoid crowded shared tours.
• Groups with mixed preferences, since the crew can adapt the pace and activities.

It is less suited to solo travellers or couples looking for the cheapest possible snorkel trip, because the charter cost is fixed regardless of group size. It is also not ideal for anyone who wants a fully structured, fixed-itinerary tour with a large group atmosphere.

The listing notes that infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, which is helpful for families with very young children, though you should confirm any specific accessibility needs with the operator.

What are the practical limitations and things to confirm?

While the listing is clear on the basics, several details are not specified and should be confirmed before you book:

• Exact departure times: the schedule is described as flexible, but fixed times are not listed.
• Menu and dietary options: the 4-course meal is mentioned, but no menu or dietary policy is provided.
• Snorkel stops: the listing does not name specific snorkelling sites or itinerary stops.
• Weather policy: no information is given on how inclement weather is handled.
• Gratuities: not mentioned in inclusions or exclusions.

The cancellation policy is standard: for a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. That gives you some flexibility, but it is still worth reading the full terms at booking.

With only 8 reviews, the 5-star rating is encouraging but based on a small sample. Treat it as a positive signal rather than a definitive verdict.

How does it compare with a shared snorkel tour?

Shared snorkel tours in Aruba typically charge per person and follow a fixed route with a set departure time. The Blue Parrot Snorkel Sail is different: you pay for the boat, you set the schedule with the crew, and the meal and drinks are part of the package. For a group of 10 to 15, the per-person cost can compare reasonably with premium shared tours, while giving you privacy and flexibility. For a group of two or three, the per-person cost is much higher.

This comparison is general; always check the specific inclusions of any tour you consider.