Private Sunset Snorkeling Boat trip in Curacao

Planning a private sunset snorkeling adventure in Curacao promises a blend of scenic sailing, relaxed snorkeling, and intimate luxury. This tour, offered by Maxie Sailing, has quickly become a favorite among travelers, thanks to its exclusivity, stunning scenery, and thoughtful touches. With a top rating of 5.0 out of 5 from just two reviews, it’s clear this experience delivers on expectations.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the entire yacht is yours, ensuring privacy and a tailored experience. Second, the combination of sailing, snorkeling, and sunset views offers a well-rounded activity that balances adventure with relaxation. Third, the focus on delicious Mediterranean-inspired food and drinks adds a gourmet touch that elevates the outing.

However, a possible consideration is that the experience hinges on favorable weather conditions, as the sailing and snorkeling are weather-dependent. If you’re someone who loves personalized, quiet excursions away from the crowds, this tour is a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a special, private way to enjoy Curacao’s natural beauty.

Good To Know

• Exclusive Private Experience: Entire yacht booked for just your group, ensuring privacy and personalized service.
• Stunning Scenery: Sails through the Spanish Waters, ending in the tranquil Fuik Bay with incredible sunset views.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Mediterranean snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, reef-friendly sunscreen, and towels included.
• Flexible Snorkeling & Relaxation: An hour to swim, sunbathe, or explore mangroves, with options to enjoy the deck or beach.
• Experienced Crew: Owners Hilde and Norbert are praised for their warm hospitality and attention to detail.
• Weather Dependent: Sails and snorkeling are subject to favorable weather, so flexibility might be necessary.

An In-Depth Look at the Private Sunset Snorkeling Experience

The Yacht: Your Luxurious Floating Sanctuary

The vessel, a spacious 48ft sailing yacht named Galaxie, is described as fully equipped to ensure a smooth, relaxing journey. Its size offers ample space for comfort, whether you want to lounge on the deck, enjoy the scenery, or prepare for snorkeling. Reviewers mention the yacht’s cleanliness and cozy atmosphere, noting that the vessel feels both luxurious and intimate.

The owners, Hilde and Norbert, are known for their exceptional attention to detail—from providing reef-friendly sunscreen to serving a generous selection of Mediterranean small dishes and charcuterie. The yacht is also equipped with floaties and bath towels, making it easy to switch seamlessly between sailing, sunbathing, and swimming.

The Itinerary: From Sailing to Snorkeling and Sunset

The tour kicks off at Seru Boca Marina at 3:00 pm, with the boat set to sail through the Spanish Waters. The first hour is spent cruising through scenic waters, giving you a chance to settle in, take in the views, and enjoy a relaxed sailing experience. The reviewers loved the way Hilde and Norbert engaged guests with friendly chatter and music, setting a welcoming tone.

After an hour at sea, you’ll anchor in Fuik Bay, a peaceful haven known for its calm waters and natural beauty. Here, you’ll have about an hour for snorkeling among mangroves, swimming in the clear waters, or simply unwinding on the deck soaking up the sun. The beach nearby is described as a tiny, natural escape—perfect for those who want a more authentic, less commercialized experience.

While you snorkel, the crew will prepare a Mediterranean-inspired food platter, which adds a gourmet element to the trip. Think small dishes, charcuterie, and possibly vegetarian or gluten-free options upon request. The inclusion of soda, soft drinks, and a selection of wines and beers means you can sip and savor while watching the horizon change color.

The Sunset Sail: A Breathtaking End

The return trip to the harbor begins with the sails up, capturing that quintessential sailing image against the setting sun. According to reviewers, this part of the journey provides beautiful panoramic views and a tranquil, almost magical, atmosphere. As the boat glides back, you’ll enjoy the gentle rocking of the water, the warm glow of the sunset, and perhaps, if luck is on your side, smooth sailing conditions that make the journey back even more pleasurable.

Authentic Experiences & Guest Feedback

Feedback from guests underscores the experience’s personal touch. One reviewer called it the “highlight of our Curaçao vacation”, praising Hilde and Norbert for making them feel welcomed and spoiled. They appreciated the delicious food and drinks, noting that the tour struck a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.

Another guest described it as “simply the best”, sharing how the hosts greeted them with champagne and created a relaxing ambiance with music. These authentic insights reveal the tour’s strong points: warm hospitality, gourmet touches, and breathtaking views.

Practical Considerations: Price, Duration, and Tips

At $225 per person, the tour’s price reflects its exclusivity and all-inclusive approach. Considering that the yacht is private, the gourmet snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and the personalized service, the cost offers great value for a luxury experience. The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a perfect late-afternoon activity that fits well with other sightseeing plans.

Booking well in advance is recommended; travelers are often booking about 177 days ahead, which indicates how popular and sought-after this experience is. Keep in mind, the sailing and snorkeling are weather-dependent, so flexibility might be needed if conditions aren’t ideal.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour includes a variety of Mediterranean small dishes and charcuterie, with vegetarian and gluten-free options available upon request. Beverages such as hard seltzers, beers, and white, rosé, and sparkling wines are served, but hard liquors are not on the menu.

All necessary snorkeling equipment, reef-safe sunscreen, and towels are provided, so you won’t need to bring much beyond your swimwear and a sense of adventure. Transfers to the harbor can be arranged on request, especially for cruise passengers, which adds to the convenience—though it’s not included in the base price.

As a private tour, only your group will participate, heightening the sense of exclusivity and intimacy.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This private sunset snorkeling cruise is a wonderful choice for travelers seeking a personalized, relaxed, and scenic experience in Curacao. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups of friends, or anyone who wants to avoid crowded tours and enjoy authentic, high-quality service. The combination of sailing, snorkeling, and sunset views, complemented by gourmet snacks and attentive hosts, creates a memorable outing.

If you value comfort, privacy, and expert hospitality, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially well-suited for those wanting a mix of adventure and relaxation, with the added bonus of stunning Caribbean scenery. Just remember to book early, keep an eye on the weather, and be prepared for a truly luxurious, intimate adventure on the water.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 3 hours, starting at 3:00 pm and returning around 6:00 pm, giving plenty of time for sailing, snorkeling, and sunset viewing.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private tour, so only your group will participate, providing an exclusive and personalized experience.

What’s included in the price?
Snacks (Mediterranean dishes and charcuterie), soda, soft drinks, alcohol (wines, beers, hard seltzers), snorkeling gear, reef-safe sunscreen, bath towels, and floaties are included.

Can I request vegetarian or gluten-free options?
Yes, vegetarian and gluten-free options can be requested when booking.

Is transportation to the harbor included?
Not automatically, but transfers can be arranged for a fixed price if needed, especially helpful for cruise ship travelers.

What is the best time to book?
Given that the tour is highly popular—booked on average 177 days in advance—it’s wise to secure your spot early.

What if the weather isn’t favorable?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

Are there age restrictions?
Alcoholic drinks are served only to travelers 21 and over; minors will be served non-alcoholic beverages.

In summary, this private sunset snorkeling trip offers a luxurious, intimate way to experience Curacao’s natural beauty. With attentive hosts, gourmet snacks, and unforgettable vistas, it’s ideal for travelers seeking a special, personalized outing that balances adventure with comfort.