Turtle Spotting Snorkel Malmok And Tres Trapi

Exploring Aruba’s Underwater World: Turtle Spotting Snorkel at Malmok and Tres Trapi

When it comes to snorkeling in Aruba, many travelers dream of encountering graceful sea turtles and vibrant marine life in peaceful surroundings. This Turtle Spotting Snorkel tour by Pelican Aruba promises just that — a gentle, up-close look at Aruba’s serene turtle habitats, led by expert guides in a small-group setting. While we haven’t personally tried this tour, available reviews and detailed descriptions paint a compelling picture of what you can expect.

What makes this experience appealing? First, the small-group size of a maximum of six guests creates a more personalized, relaxed vibe. Second, the inclusion of a snorkel clinic, perfect for first-timers or those wanting a refresher, makes it accessible. Lastly, the eco-focused approach and gentle pacing ensure a respectful encounter with marine life.

However, one consideration is that towels are not included, so bring your own if you want to dry off after your swim. This tour appears especially well-suited for families, couples, and beginners who want a safe, intimate introduction to Aruba’s underwater beauty without the crowds or complexity of advanced dives.

Good To Know

• Small Group: Max 6 guests for comfort and personalized attention
• Beginner Friendly: Includes a snorkel clinic, ideal for first-timers
• Eco-Conscious: Learn techniques to explore marine life respectfully
• Serene Locations: Glide above shallow reefs, seagrass beds, caves, and tunnels
• All-Inclusive Feel: Snacks, chilled water, snorkeling gear, and GoPro clips provided
• Timing: Starts early at 7:30 am, optimal for calmer waters

Why This Snorkel Tour Stands Out

This snorkeling experience offers more than just a swim; it’s an opportunity to connect with Aruba’s marine environment in an intimate, safe setting. It’s operated by Pelican Aruba, a reputable provider, and it’s booked an impressive 64 days in advance on average, indicating strong interest.

The tour begins at Malmok Beach, renowned for its calm, shallow waters perfect for beginners, and proceeds along the coastline to Tres Trapi. Tres Trapi is known as a natural turtle corridor—think of it as a neighborhood where sea turtles come to feed and socialize, making it a prime spot for turtle sightings. You’ll drift past limestone formations and seagrass beds teeming with marine life like parrotfish, butterflyfish, and sergeant majors, all in tranquil turquoise waters.

Setting Out: What to Expect

The tour kicks off with a short snorkel clinic, led by a certified guide. This mini-lesson covers equipment use, floating techniques, and safety tips, putting even complete beginners at ease. As your guide, Dylan Molina, and the team lead you into the water, you’ll quickly realize how peaceful snorkeling can be when compared to more adrenaline-fueled water sports.

The route along the coast offers the chance to see natural sea caves and limestone tunnels, adding an element of island adventure and discovery. These features, carved by time and waves, create stunning backdrops and habitats for marine life, making the experience both scenic and educational.

The Marine Life Encounter

Most participants report that the highlight is the potential face-to-face encounters with sea turtles. One review mentions the incredible moment of floating just feet away from a turtle gliding gracefully—an experience that sticks with many for a lifetime. The shallow reefs are also vibrant, filled with schools of colorful fish like blue tangs and butterflyfish, adding visual delight.

The guide’s commentary is also praised for enhancing the experience—pointing out natural features and marine animals, creating a narrative that elevates the snorkel beyond just floating in water.

Comfort and Convenience

Since the tour is only 1 hour and 30 minutes, it’s a manageable outing that fits well into a busy Aruba itinerary. The pickup service adds convenience, saving you from worrying about transportation logistics. Included in the package are snacks and fruits, snorkeling jackets, use of snorkeling gear, and GoPro clips—a thoughtful touch that helps capture the adventure.

While towels are not provided, most travelers find this manageable, especially since the focus is on floating and observing rather than extended swimming. It’s best to bring your own towel or plan to rinse off at your hotel afterward.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect if you’re a first-time snorkeler or traveling with family members who prefer a calm, controlled environment. The small group size guarantees personalized attention, and the eco-focused approach makes it suitable for eco-conscious travelers. It’s also a good choice for couples or small groups seeking an intimate, relaxed experience.

The Value of the Experience

At $109 per person, the price reflects the personalized service, small-group intimacy, and inclusion of equipment and snacks. Compared to larger, more commercial snorkel trips, this offers a more relaxed, educational experience that encourages respectful marine encounters.

The early start time of 7:30 am is advantageous—waters are typically calmer, and the marine environment is at its most vibrant in the morning. Plus, beginning the day with such a peaceful activity can set a positive tone for your Aruba holiday.

Practical Tips for Booking and Preparing

• Book early: Due to limited spots, especially during peak season, securing your place well in advance is recommended.
• Bring your own towel if you want to dry off comfortably afterward.
• Wear reef-safe sunscreen but avoid heavy lotions that can harm marine life.
• Consider bringing a waterproof camera or utilizing the provided GoPro clips to capture your underwater moments.
• Arrive at the meeting point on time—the tour starts promptly at 7:30 am.
• Stay mindful of safety: Listen carefully during the mini-lesson and follow your guide’s instructions.

Final Thoughts

This turtle snorkeling tour offers a relaxed, eco-conscious way to explore Aruba’s shallow reefs and encounter its gentle sea turtles. The emphasis on small groups and education makes it ideal for beginners, families, and those seeking an authentic, unobtrusive adventure.

While it may not satisfy thrill-seekers or advanced snorkelers looking for deep reefs or extensive dives, it excels at delivering a peaceful, memorable experience that highlights the island’s natural beauty and marine biodiversity. The combination of calm waters, friendly guides, and the chance to see turtles firsthand makes this a worthwhile addition to your Aruba vacation.

If you’re after a gentle, intimate exploration of Aruba’s marine life, this tour hits the mark. It’s a wonderful way to start your day with a calm, scenic journey beneath the waves, leaving you with fresh memories of sea turtles and colorful fish in their natural habitat.

FAQ

What is the starting time of the tour?
The tour begins at 7:30 am, providing a peaceful morning snorkeling experience.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 guests, ensuring a small, personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it includes a snorkel clinic and is specifically designed to be beginner-friendly.

Are snorkeling equipment and gear included?
Yes, snorkel jackets and all necessary equipment are provided, along with GoPro clips to capture your underwater moments.

What should I bring?
While snacks and water are provided, bringing a towel is recommended since it’s not included. Protect yourself with reef-safe sunscreen.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, roundtrip transportation is offered, making it convenient for travelers staying in or near Oranjestad.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While specific age restrictions aren’t stated, the calm, easy pace and small group make it suitable for families with older children or teenagers.

Will I see sea turtles?
While sightings are common due to the location’s reputation as a turtle corridor, encounters depend on wildlife activity on the day.

To sum it up, this Aruba snorkeling tour by Pelican Aruba offers a peaceful, educational, and eco-friendly way to enjoy the island’s marine life. Perfect for beginners, families, and couples, it emphasizes small-group intimacy and respect for nature, making it a meaningful addition to your Aruba itinerary. Whether you’re chasing turtles or simply seeking a tranquil underwater escape, this experience is likely to leave you with fond memories—and plenty of fantastic photos.