Our February Caribbean Getaway
Part 3
The next 4 days of our first cruise were spent in Aruba, Curacao, and Grand Cayman, with one at sea day between the latter 2 stops. We booked excursions through Celebrity for all three – here’s a description of them along with my commentary.
Aruba -Sailing and Snorkeling Tour offered by Red Sail Sports
“This three-hour snorkel adventure provides a unique look at Aruba’s tropical beauty, both above and beneath the waters surface. A sleek catamaran brings you to Boca Catalina for some spectacular reef snorkeling. Continue to the famous Antilla shipwreck, submerged 60 feet beneath the waves, and discover for yourself exactly why this site is voted one of the worlds top ten dive and snorkel sites. After, enjoy tropical refreshments as you sail back to port.
Highlights
Journey 15 feet underwater to explore Aruba's tropical marine life.
Learn how the Antilla was scuttled by its own captain to prevent its capture during World War II.
Enjoy a refreshing rum punch cocktail as the rhythmic sounds of Caribbean music play in the background.”
It was good but too much transport to and from and not enough snorkeling – however, being able to snorkel close to the shipwreck was very cool.
Curacao -Snorkel the Treasures of Caracas Bay
Steve wanted to stay on the ship, so I went alone for this one.
“Board your snorkel boat and its crew for an award-winning snorkeling adventure and scenic cruise. Cross over the Queen Juliana Bridge; at 185 feet above sea level, it’s one of the highest bridges in the world. From there, you’ll sail through the Spanish Waters to Caracas Bay, one of the islands most spectacular snorkeling sights and home to the sunken tugboat. Enjoy an opportunity to explore this underwater treasure trove of brightly colored coral and fish before returning to port.
Highlights
Swim and snorkel around Curacao's famous sunken tugboat that's encrusted with multi-colored coral and teeming with abundant marine life.
Sail past captivating landmarks, including Barbara Beach, the Yacht Club, Hurricane Hole, Gold Coast, and Millionaire's Island.
Enjoy a refreshing glass of fruit punch as you relax aboard the boat, taking in stunning coastal views.”
In my opinion, there was too much touring, and not enough snorkeling. However, the scenery at Curacao is always gorgeous (so much so that I took very few pics)
Grand Cayman-Coral Garden Sandbar Snorkel and Stingray City
Although we’ve visited the stingrays twice before on Grand Cayman and once before in Antigua, it’s always fun to go again.
“Hold, pet, and snap post-worthy pictures of the friendly stingrays at Stingray Sandbar, and then snorkel in the warm Caribbean waters among colorful corals and vibrant sea life at Coral Gardens.
Highlights
Take a short drive along Seven Mile Beach to a private dock, where you board a comfortable boat and set out to Stingray Sandbar.
Upon arrival to Stingray Sandbar, you’re greeted by plenty of friendly and gentle stingrays in the waist-high water.
Watch a professional hold and feed the rays and hear about the names and habits of these majestic creatures.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can hold or pet a stingray yourself and be sure to get lots of close-up photos.
Hop back on the boat on your way to the Coral Gardens, where you can pull on your snorkel gear and explore the beautiful, exotic underwater world. See colorful coral as you snorkel alongside the likes of elegant angelfish, schools of blue tangs, and the comical parrot fish.”
It wasn’t terribly warm that day and the wind made the surf very choppy in both the snorkel and stingray sites. The boat wasn’t really comfortable. There was no colorful coral at Coral Gardens. Otherwise, I got to kiss a stingray for the first time, and the guides made them snuggle against me – they always feel so silky.
All these excursions were fun as it’s always wonderful to get into the warm Caribbean water and get some exercise. Everybody’s in a great mood and we chatted with some from all over Canada and the U.S. The most important thing for us with booking our excursions through the ship is knowing that we’ll get back on time!
Next week, we’ll talk about the experience of Consecutive Cruising and the Behind-the-Scenes tour of the ship.
Where do you plan to go in 2026 and 2027? (I’m looking at 2028 bookings too!)
May I help you?
Happy Travels!
#celebritycruises
https://www.celebritycruises.com/ca/