6 Best Sunset Cruises in Aruba: Drinks, Scenery, & Sunsets!

Aruba, with its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and warm hospitality, is a tropical paradise drawing visitors from around the globe. While the island offers a tons of things to do, one experience stands out as a quintessential experience in Aruba – sunset cruises.

Taking a sunset cruise in Aruba is not just an opportunity to get out on the water, but also a chance to see the coastline as you sail by, and of course to enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets in the Caribbean! To make it even more special, many of the sunset sailing trips in Aruba offer open bars and even a chance for food or swimming, depending on the trip you decide.

The biggest challenge you’re going to have? Picking the best sunset cruise in Aruba! There are so many on offer, and its hard to differentiate them. In this article, we’ll discuss the best of the best sunset boat trips in Aruba so that you can narrow it down and decide which one is right for you!

Disclosure: Some of the links below may be affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase.

Why Cruise at Sunset in Aruba

Beyond the aesthetic appeal of watching the sun dip below the Caribbean Sea’s horizon, a sunset cruise in Aruba offers a unique perspective of the island’s coastal landscape. You’ll be able to admire its pristine beaches, iconic landmarks like the California Lighthouse, and the clear waters around the island all from the boat.

Whether you’re capturing the moment through your camera lens, savoring the quiet moments before evening descends on the island, or reveling in the social atmosphere onboard, a sunset sail in Aruba promises an unforgettable experience.

Not to mention, most of the sunset trips in Aruba also offer an open bar. This gives you a chance to enjoy a few drinks – included in the price of the experience, making the overall cost of a sunset sail quite reasonable. (Drinks are expensive in Aruba in case you did not know!) So if you’re on the fence of whether you want to enjoy a cruise at sunset in Aruba, don’t hesitate – just book it. You will love it.

Best Aruba Sunset Cruises

With sunset being such a popular time in Aruba, sailing trips often leave around 5:00 or 5:30 to ensure you capture “the golden hour” at sea. Of course, that is about where the similarities between the trips end.

Some take place on sailboats, others on catamarans, and you can even choose from the Jolly Pirates ship. Then you can select from those with appetizers versus those with just drinks or even spring for dinner included! Let’s take a look at your best options along with what you need to know to select the right choice for you.

1. Aruba Sunset Sail with Appetizers and Open Bar

Sail into the sunset aboard a luxurious catamaran on the Aruba Sunset Sail with Appetizers and Open Bar excursion. Here you can enjoy tropical cocktails and complimentary appetizers against the backdrop of a breathtaking Caribbean sunset.

Cruise along Palm Beach’s coastline, indulging in views and entertainment provided by the crew, including local music, storytelling, and dancing. This unforgettable experience combines luxury, stunning scenery, and Aruban culture.

• Duration: 2 hours (5:30 – 7:30pm)
• Boat Type: Catamaran
• Included: Bite sized appetizers & open bar

2. Aruba Happy Hour Sunset Sail with Food and Drinks

Departing from Palm Beach, you can set sail on a 40-foot trimaran and experience the Aruba Happy Hour Sunset Sail. Relax in comfort as the attentive captain and crew ensure your safety and enjoyment.

Sip on refreshing drinks from the open bar, indulge in appetizers, and capture pictures of the Aruban sunset. With a focus on comfort, safety, and refreshments, this happy hour cruise in Aruba is the perfect way to unwind.

• Duration: 2 hours (5:00 – 7:00pm)
• Boat Type: Trimaran sailboat
• Included: Snacks & open bar

3. Jolly Pirate Sunset Sail Aruba

Looking for a more unique adventure? Look no further than the Jolly Pirate Sunset Sail in Aruba. Here you’ll set sail on a teak schooner to witness the sunset from the water. Feel the gentle trade winds as you sip cocktails from the open bar and enjoy the island’s scenic beauty from the decks.

Channel your inner pirate with the onboard rope swing, adding a playful twist to your sunset experience. This evening pirate cruise in Aruba promises an unforgettable combination of Caribbean charm, unlimited drinks, and the thrill of swinging like a pirate.

• Duration: 2 hours (5:30 – 7:30pm)
• Boat Type: Teak schooner / Pirate ship
• Included: Open bar & rope swing

4. Aruba Sunset Sail Experience

Board a comfortable open-deck catamaran for the Aruba Sunset Sail Experience. Here you can enjoy the breathtaking sunset from the crystal waters surrounding the island with panoramic views of Eagle Beach, Palm Beach, the California Lighthouse, and more.

Sip on cocktails and savor snacks as you bask in the beauty of the setting sun. This experience is ideal for couples seeking a romantic evening as the tour is extremely relaxed and laid back, accompanied of course with unlimited drinks.

• Duration: 2 hours (5:30 – 7:30pm)
• Boat Type: Catamaran
• Included: Hors D’oeuvres & open bar

5. All Inclusive Afternoon Sunset Snorkel Tour

Want to combine an afternoon snorkel tour with a sunset cruise? The All-Inclusive Afternoon Sunset Snorkel Tour in Aruba fits the bill. This sailboat excursion takes you on a coastal journey, making multiple stops at renowned spots like Boca Catalina Bay, Malmok Beach, and the Caribbean’s largest shipwreck.

Relax on board, indulge in tropical drinks from the open bar, and use the provided snorkel gear to explore Aruba’s underwater world. Enjoy the added excitement of the rope swing for a refreshing splash into the waters below. With an open bar, light snacks, and insightful commentary from your captain and crew, this all-inclusive tour promises a blend of exploration and relaxation.

• Duration: 3.5 hours (3:30 – 7:00pm)
• Boat Type: Sailboat
• Included: Light snacks, open bar, rope swing, & snorkeling

6. Aruba Sunset Cruise and Seaside Dinner

Last but not least, you have the option for an Aruba Sunset Cruise and Seaside Dinner. Board a catamaran for a sunset cruise on the Caribbean where you’ll savor snacks and drinks from the open bar as you enjoy the coastal views.

Following the cruise, head to Pelican Nest Seafood Grill for a steak, chicken, or fresh fish dinner, accompanied by a glass of wine. This unique combination offers a front-row seat to Aruba’s breathtaking sunset, followed by a memorable dining experience in a waterfront setting at Pelican Nest.

• Duration: 3 hours (5:30 – 8:30pm)
• Boat Type: Catamaran
• Included: Snacks & open bar on board + Dinner & 1 drink during dinner