A quintessential Caribbean experience, it’s hard to beat feeling the sun on your face and the wind in your hair as you sail up the West Coast on a catamaran cruise.

Most trips include one or two snorkelling stops and the chance to swim with turtles, as well as on-board drinks and snacks and a Bajan buffet meal. Some of the shorter, three-hour trips only include drinks and snacks.

Tour types

There are basically two types of catamaran tours. Party-loving folk opt for the fun-filled booze-cruise variety, where the rum punch flows freely, the music’s loud, and the sun-deck can be packed. More suitable for families and holidaymakers wanting to unwind on the water are the pricier, more spacious boats, offering more shade and fancier food and drink.

Whichever type of cruise you go for, it’s almost always a holiday highlight.

Practical Info

Cost: Prices vary (adults US$75–150; children US$40–120) depending on the cruise duration (3–5 hrs), boat size and quality, maximum number of passengers, whether lunch/dinner is included, and the quality of food and drink served. Special rates may be offered to cruise ship excursions.

Times: Morning, lunchtime and sunset cruises are offered, as well as private charters.

Catamarans: Party-cat favourites include Cool Runnings, El Tigre and Tiami. The relaxing Calabaza and fabulous Silver Moon cruises are at the more luxurious end of the scale.

Transport: Most boats either leave from the Careenage in Bridgetown (this entry’s map location), or from the Shallow Draft to the north of the city. Some include a hotel transfer; others can arrange one for a fee.