A Barbados sunset cruise is a relaxed few hours on a catamaran, with time in the water, food and drinks onboard and the sky changing colour as the day ends. If you have never been on one, here is what a typical sunset cruise with Pelican Explore looks like, from pickup to the trip back.

Before the cruise: pickup

Pickup and return transport is included from hotels and apartments on the west and south coasts. When you book, you tell us where you are staying and we arrange your pickup, so you do not need to find the boat yourself.

On the water: snorkeling and turtles

Every sunset cruise includes snorkeling, with snorkel equipment provided. Depending on the cruise, you swim with sea turtles and snorkel over a shipwreck or a reef, with tropical fish around you. Snorkel and safety gear is provided, so beginners are welcome.

Turtles are wild animals, so sightings cannot be guaranteed on any cruise. Our guide Are turtles guaranteed on a Barbados catamaran cruise? explains what to expect at the turtle stop.

Sailing along the coast

Between the swim stops you sail along the scenic Barbados coast on the catamaran. This is the relaxed part of the trip, when you can sit back, enjoy the drinks and watch the island from the water.

Food and drink onboard

What is served depends on the cruise you choose:

The Standard Classic Sunset Cruise serves canapés and Prosecco, with unlimited drinks, and runs on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
The Chill Out Sunset Cruise serves dinner with wine and dessert after dark.
The Premium Sunset Cruise has light bites and snacks and a premium open bar.

The sunset and the evening

As the sun goes down, you can watch the colours of the tropical sunset from the deck. On the Chill Out Sunset Cruise, night then falls and you can see the stars and the twinkling lights of the island while you eat. On the Standard Classic Sunset Cruise, you see the island light up before you return to the dock.

What to bring

Swimwear, worn under your clothes for easy changing
A towel and sunscreen
A light layer for the evening, as it can feel cooler on the water
A camera or phone for the sunset
Sunglasses, if you like

Choosing your sunset cruise

The three sunset cruises differ by group size, length and food. See our full comparison in the best sunset cruise in Barbados guide, or view all sunset cruises.

Common questions

Do I need to be able to swim?

Snorkel and safety gear is provided on every sunset cruise. If you are unsure, contact us before you book and we will advise you.

Do you collect from my hotel?

We collect from hotels and apartments on the west and south coasts.

Is food included?

Yes. Food and drinks are included, and what is served depends on the cruise you choose.

How do I book?

Choose your cruise, click Book Now and pay in full online to secure your date. We confirm within 24 hours, and if we cannot accommodate your date your payment is refunded in full.