NOORD SAILING FIELD GUIDE
Sail, Snorkel, Swim, and Swing! — Four hours aboard Aruba’s Jolly Pirates schooners
A 4-hour, family-friendly sail from Moomba Beach that combines three top snorkeling sites — including the WWII wreck SS Antilla — with a BBQ, unlimited drinks, and the ship’s famous rope swing.
Sail, Snorkel, Swim, and Swing! — Four hours aboard Aruba’s Jolly Pirates schooners.
Adventure brief
Sail, Snorkel, Swim, and Swing! — Four hours aboard Aruba’s Jolly Pirates schooners
Set sail aboard the 85‑ft Jolly Pirates schooners for a brisk, four‑hour run along Aruba’s northern shore: three snorkel stops among shallow reefs and clear coves, a dramatic WWII shipwreck, and shipboard comforts that make the outing as social as it is marine‑rich.
Aruba, located in the southern Caribbean Sea just north of Venezuela, is a sun-soaked paradise famed for its crystalline waters and vibrant marine life. There’s no better way to experience the island’s underwater wonders than aboard the Jolly Pirates Schooners, a striking 85-foot teak sailing vessel that offers an unforgettable four-hour journey combining sailing, snorkeling, and a bit of pirate-inspired fun. Departing from the lively MooMba Beach in Noord, this excursion perfectly blends adventure with relaxation, making it one of Aruba’s most sought-after activities.
This trip sets sail along Aruba’s picturesque coast, stopping at three standout snorkeling sites known for their shallow reef formations and abundant tropical fish. The first is the reef near Malmok Beach, a shallow area teeming with angelfish, yellow striped grunts, parrotfish, and groupers darting among coral and rock structures. Next, you’ll navigate to tranquil Boca Catalina, a protected cove offering crystal-clear visibility and calm waters ideal for snorkeling.
The crown jewel of this experience is snorkeling over the SS Antilla, a 400-foot World War II shipwreck resting in about 60 feet of water. Scuttled by its crew in 1940 to prevent capture, the shipwreck is remarkably intact and home to a bustling underwater ecosystem. Guided by expert crew members, snorkelers explore the eerie yet captivating hull and marvel at the marine life that calls the wreck their home. It’s both a historical and natural highlight unique to Aruba's coastal waters.
Back on board, guests enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch paired with an unlimited open bar under the shade of the ship’s canopy. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a leap from the ship’s famous rope swing into the turquoise sea below, a favorite activity for kids and adults alike. Ample sundeck space invites loungers to soak up the Caribbean sun while watching friendly crew entertain with flips and lively banter.
This adventure caters to snorkelers of all levels, from novices eager to explore coral reefs to seasoned underwater enthusiasts keen on the SS Antilla. All snorkeling gear is provided, as is attentive service ensuring guests stay refreshed and engaged throughout. Arrive 30 to 45 minutes before departure to check in at the Jolly Pirate Gift Shop at MooMba Beach.
Combining rich history, diverse marine life, and exhilarating activities, the Sail, Snorkel, Swim, and Swing tour encapsulates Aruba’s beachside magic. It is perfect for families, solo adventurers, and groups looking for a lively and memorable half-day on the water. Whether you want to snorkel amidst colorful fish or simply relax on the deck with a cold drink in hand, this excursion promises a genuine taste of Aruba’s coastal allure.
Route Schematic
Route & stops
The schooner departs Moomba Beach and visits a series of swimming and snorkeling spots along Aruba’s coast, including reef bays and the Antilla wreck.
Moomba Beach — boarding
Departures originate from the Moomba Beach area; check‑in and boarding begin at the Jolly Pirate Gift Shop located at Moomba Beach.
Malmok Beach — shallow reef snorkel
Explore shallow reef formations along the Malmok coast where tropical fish are abundant and conditions are ideal for snorkeling.
Boca Catalina — protected cove
Snorkel in a shallow, protected cove at Boca Catalina known for clear water and strong visibility.
SS Antilla — WWII shipwreck
Snorkel over the SS Antilla, a 400‑ft shipwreck resting on its port side in about 60 ft (18 m) of water; the hull hosts abundant marine life and the crew guides swimmers around the wreck.
Plan to arrive 30–45 minutes before departure for check‑in and boarding.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A four‑hour schooner cruise from Moomba Beach
This is a four‑hour morning sail aboard the popular Jolly Pirates schooners — the most requested snorkel excursion in Aruba — combining time under sail with multiple swim stops.
Three top snorkel sites, from shallow reef to wreck
The trip calls at three of Aruba’s most requested snorkel areas: shallow reef formations ideal for colorful tropical fish and a protected cove with excellent visibility, capped by snorkeling over the impressive SS Antilla wreck.
BBQ, unlimited drinks and the rope swing
Onboard amenities include a tasty barbecue lunch, an unlimited open bar and a rope swing for cannonballs and belly flops, plus ample sundeck and shaded seating served by an energetic crew.
What the day feels like
What this outing feels like
Board at Moomba Beach and settle into teak benches and sun decks as the schooner moves along Aruba’s coast. Swim and snorkel at two shallow, calm bays rich with tropical fish, then don fins and masks to explore the SS Antilla — a nearly intact 400‑ft WWII shipwreck sitting on its port side in roughly 60 ft (18 m) of water. Between swims, the crew circulates food and drinks; guests can relax on deck, take the rope swing, or linger in the shaded bar area.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The excursion is a four‑hour sail; participants are advised to reserve tickets in advance and to arrive 30–45 minutes before departure for check‑in and boarding.
Included aboard are a tasty barbecue lunch, an unlimited open bar, the ship’s rope swing and a full set of snorkeling gear for each participant.
All Jolly Pirates snorkel excursions board from the area at Moomba Beach, at the Jolly Pirate Gift Shop.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the excursion?
The sail is four hours in duration.
Where do I meet for boarding?
Meet at the Jolly Pirate Gift Shop at Moomba Beach for check‑in and boarding.
What is included in the trip price?
The excursion includes a tasty barbecue lunch, an unlimited open bar, the ship’s rope swing and a full set of snorkeling gear.
What snorkel sites will we visit?
You’ll visit three snorkeling locations: shallow reef formations near Malmok Beach, a protected cove at Boca Catalina, and the SS Antilla WWII shipwreck.
Is this suitable for children or inexperienced snorkelers?
Yes — the outing is described as perfect for all ages and accommodates novice and experienced snorkelers alike.
How soon should I arrive before departure?
Plan to arrive 30–45 minutes before the scheduled departure time for check‑in and boarding.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-16T07:59:24.248Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.