Do you need to bring towels on an Aruba boat tour?

Towels are typically not provided on most Aruba boat tours, so you’ll need to bring your own beach towel from your hotel or accommodation. However, some premium operators include towels as part of their all-inclusive service to reduce what guests need to carry. When booking your boat tour in Aruba, check directly with the operator about towel provision to avoid any surprises. This guide covers everything you need to know about packing for your Caribbean sailing adventure.

Do you need to bring towels on an Aruba boat tour?

Most boat tour operators in Aruba expect guests to bring their own towels, making it standard practice to pack a beach towel from your hotel. The reasoning is simple: towels take up valuable storage space on vessels, require constant laundering between tours, and can become damp and uncomfortable for later passengers. Your resort or accommodation typically provides beach towels specifically for off-property use, making them perfect for boat excursions.

That said, premium boat tour operators sometimes include towels as part of their all-inclusive offerings. These companies position themselves as hassle-free experiences where guests simply show up ready to enjoy. The towels are usually fresh, dry, and waiting for you after snorkelling stops. When researching boat tours, look for mentions of towel provision in the tour description or inclusions list.

If you’re unsure about your specific tour, a quick email or phone call to the operator clarifies the situation before you leave your hotel. This prevents the frustration of arriving at the pier without a towel or carrying unnecessary items. Some operators offer towel rental for a small fee, though bringing your own remains the most economical option.

What other essentials should you pack for an Aruba boat tour?

Beyond towels, you’ll want to pack reef-safe sunscreen as your top priority for any boat tour in Aruba. The Caribbean sun reflects intensely off the water, and you’ll be exposed for several hours. Reef-safe formulas protect both your skin and the delicate coral ecosystems you’ll be snorkelling around. Apply generously before boarding and reapply after swimming.

Your swimwear should be worn underneath comfortable clothing, as changing facilities on boats are limited. Bring a lightweight cover-up or rashguard for sun protection between swimming stops. A waterproof phone case or dry bag protects your electronics and valuables whilst allowing you to capture those stunning Caribbean moments. Many guests regret not protecting their phones properly when they want to photograph the turquoise waters and tropical fish.

Cash for crew tips is worth bringing, as gratuities aren’t typically included even on all-inclusive tours. The standard tip ranges from $10-20 per person depending on service quality and tour length. Some boats have small lockers or dry storage areas, but keep valuables minimal. Sunglasses with a secure strap prevent losing them overboard, and a hat with a chin strap serves the same purpose when the sea breeze picks up.

Consider packing motion sickness medication if you’re prone to seasickness, even though Aruba’s waters are generally calm. A light, long-sleeved shirt provides additional sun protection during the sailing portions. Most importantly, bring your sense of adventure and readiness to relax.

How do you prepare for snorkelling during your Aruba boat tour?

Snorkel equipment including masks, fins, and snorkels are provided by all reputable boat tour operators in Aruba, so you don’t need to bring your own gear. The crew will help you select properly fitting equipment and provide basic instruction before your first snorkelling stop. They’re experienced at helping nervous first-timers feel comfortable and confident in the water.

If you wear prescription glasses, contact lenses work well under standard snorkel masks for most people. Alternatively, some operators have prescription masks available upon request, though you should enquire about this when booking rather than assuming availability. Anti-fog solutions are sometimes provided, but you can use a simple trick: spit in your mask, rub it around the lens, and rinse lightly with seawater before putting it on.

For first-time snorkellers, the key is staying calm and breathing naturally through your mouth. The snorkel allows normal breathing whilst your face is underwater, which feels unusual initially but becomes comfortable quickly. Practice in shallow water first, keeping your face down and breathing steadily. The crew monitors all swimmers and stays nearby to assist anyone who feels uncertain.

Physical fitness requirements are minimal for snorkelling on boat tours. You’ll wear a life vest if desired, and the crew provides flotation devices for anyone who needs extra support. The snorkelling sites around Aruba feature calm, clear waters with excellent visibility, making them ideal for beginners whilst still offering plenty of marine life for experienced snorkellers to enjoy.

What’s the difference between morning, afternoon, and sunset boat tours in Aruba?

Morning boat tours typically depart between 9:00-10:00 AM and offer the calmest water conditions with excellent visibility for snorkelling. The Caribbean waters are smoothest in the morning before afternoon trade winds pick up. These tours attract guests who want to start their day with adventure, then have the rest of their afternoon free for other activities. The atmosphere tends to be more relaxed and family-friendly.

Afternoon tours usually leave around 2:00-3:00 PM and bring higher energy with livelier music and a party atmosphere. The crew often encourages rope swinging, dancing, and social interaction amongst guests. Water conditions may be slightly choppier due to afternoon breezes, though this rarely affects the experience significantly. These tours suit guests who prefer sleeping in or spending their mornings at the beach before heading out on the water.

Sunset cruises depart in the late afternoon, timing the sailing to catch Aruba’s spectacular sunsets over the Caribbean horizon. The focus shifts from high-energy activities to romantic ambiance and breathtaking views. These tours often include upgraded food offerings and feature a more sophisticated atmosphere. Couples celebrating anniversaries or special occasions particularly favour sunset sailings. The golden hour light creates stunning photography opportunities that morning and afternoon tours can’t match.

Each time slot offers the same snorkelling sites and general route, but the experience feels distinctly different based on timing, crowd energy, and natural lighting. Your choice should align with your vacation rhythm and whether you prefer adventure, socialising, or romance as your primary focus.

How can you choose the right boat tour operator in Aruba?

Group size makes an enormous difference in your boat tour experience, with smaller groups providing more personalised attention and space to move around comfortably. Tours limited to 20-25 guests feel intimate and allow the crew to interact meaningfully with everyone aboard. Larger vessels carrying 50+ passengers can feel crowded, with long queues for the bar, limited seating, and less individual attention from the crew.

All-inclusive offerings versus add-on costs require careful comparison when evaluating operators. Some tours advertise low base prices but charge separately for drinks, food, equipment rental, and even snorkelling stops. True all-inclusive experiences bundle everything into one transparent price, including open bars with premium drinks, meals, and all equipment. This approach eliminates surprise costs and creates a more relaxed atmosphere where you’re not constantly reaching for your wallet.

Crew reputation appears consistently in reviews and makes or breaks your experience. Look for mentions of friendly, knowledgeable crew members who create festive atmospheres whilst maintaining safety standards. The best crews balance professionalism with personality, making guests feel welcome rather than processed. They share information about marine life, assist nervous swimmers, and keep the energy positive throughout the journey.

Vessel quality and maintenance standards are visible in photos and mentioned in recent reviews. Well-maintained boats have clean facilities, functioning equipment, and comfortable seating areas. Safety equipment should be visible and accessible. The vessel’s style matters too, whether you prefer authentic sailing schooners with pirate-ship charm or modern catamarans with spacious decks.

When you’re ready to experience Aruba’s waters with a trusted operator, we invite you to explore our boat tours featuring morning, afternoon, and sunset departures. Our intimate group sizes and all-inclusive approach ensure you’ll enjoy every moment without worry. For questions about towel provision or any other details, feel free to contact our friendly team who are happy to help you prepare for your Caribbean adventure.