Anyone wishing to explore Aruba from the water will quickly discover that there is a wide range of rental boats available. However, without clear agreements beforehand, you run the risk of unexpected costs or a defective vessel. By comparing available boats and conditions in advance on a platform such as edenlucayachts.com, you avoid problems during the handover at the harbor.
The choice between sailing independently or hiring a skipper
Maritime legislation in Aruba sets clear requirements regarding the power of rental boats. For small motorboats with a light engine, a boating license is usually not required, but the situation is different for larger vessels. If you choose an exclusive option, such as a luxury yacht Aruba, the presence of a local, certified captain is almost always mandatory. A skipper knows the exact locations of the shallow coral reefs and guides the vessel past the jetties without damage. This prevents you from sitting behind the wheel yourself with the stress of navigating.
Map out all fuel costs and extras in advance
The basic rental price you see online on a booking website is rarely the full amount you will ultimately pay. Ask the rental company explicitly about the fuel policy beforehand, as larger engines consume quite a few liters when sailing at higher speeds. Some charters charge a fixed price including diesel, while others check the tank afterwards and deduct the consumption from your deposit. You can check these financial conditions per vessel type in advance via edenlucayachts.com. Also, ask immediately if items such as snorkel sets, life jackets, and ice cubes are included to avoid extra costs at the dock.
Align your sailing route with the current trade winds
Wind conditions around Aruba are a determining factor for the feasibility of your sailing route. On the south and west coasts, the water is generally flat and calm, making these ideal locations for anchoring at beaches such as Mangel Halto. The north side of the island, on the other hand, experiences rough seas with hard waves crashing against the rocks, making this region unsuitable for pleasure boating. Discuss your plans with the rental company in advance to map out a realistic route. A logical route prevents you from having to sail against the waves for hours, which increases safety.
Choose the right time for departure
The time of departure determines the conditions you will encounter on the water. Booking in the early morning, around nine o'clock, is most suitable if you want to snorkel at the Antilla shipwreck before the large excursion boats arrive. The water is often clearest at that time, and the wind is usually less strong than in the afternoon. If you choose a trip during sunset, you sacrifice effective snorkeling time for visibility from the aft deck. Therefore, determine the main goal of the rental period in advance and align the departure time strictly with it.
Check the safety equipment before departure
A brief physical inspection of the vessel before casting off prevents problems en route. Do a quick check with the rental company and verify that a suitable life jacket is available for every person on board. Check the location of the fire extinguishers and the first aid kit, and test whether the VHF radio is working properly. Because mobile network coverage on the open sea can be unreliable, built-in communication equipment is necessary in the event of engine failure. This check takes at most five minutes of the rental time, but actually provides the necessary reassurance for a safe trip.
