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Welcome to Cool Runnings Catamaran Cruises, voted 2nd Most Popular Attraction by the globally recognised Zagat Survey as 'the Rolls-Royce of catamaran excursions' in Barbados. Our unique charter company specializes in personalised cruises, ensuring the utmost in comfort, service and enjoyment. Our elegant, custom-built catamarans sail with a limited number of passengers, to guarantee a superb day of sailing in an uncrowded atmosphere.

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Cool Runnings Catamaran Cruises

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Cool Runnings Catamaran Cruises - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

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COOL RUNNINGS CATAMARAN CRUISES: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

“COOL RUNNINGS” SNORKEL DUNN’S RIVER CRUISE

Experience an unforgettable day of fun and sun aboard one of our Catamarans. Set sail from a beach and cruise for a swim or go snorkeling in the warm colorful waters. Then back to the Catamaran once again. Enjoy the refreshment as you sail pass the emerald hills before docking at the famous Dunn’s River Falls. Follow your guide up the spectacular 900’ cascading waterfalls and through the lush tropical rain forest. The sail on the way back is party time. Let loose to the latest Reggae and Soca dance tunes and enjoy Red Stripe Beer and Rum drinks on the house!

WEATHER ON THE WEEK

Fun and sun aboard one of our Catamarans - Climb the spectacular 900’ Dunn’s River Falls - Party all the way back - Refreshments on the house

Book SNORKEL DUNN’S RIVER CRUISE

An unforgettable cruise experience.

Monday to Saturdays – 12:30–4:30 PM; Sundays available (min 15 pax) Morning Cruises available – 9:00-12:00 AM (minimum 15 pax)

On our Snorkel Dunn’s River Cruise, you will experience an unforgettable day of fun and sun aboard one of our Catamarans. We set sail from Mahogany Beach and cruise for a swim or go snorkeling in the warm colorful waters. Then back to the Catamaran once again.

Enjoy the refreshment as you sail pass the emerald hills and numerous waterfalls before docking at the famous Dunn’s River Falls. Follow your guide up the spectacular 900’ cascading waterfalls and through the lush tropical rain forest.

The sail on the way back is party time. Let loose to the latest Reggae and Soca dance tunes and enjoy Red Stripe Beer and Rum drinks on the house.

OPEN SNORKEL DUNN’S RIVER TOUR Cruise Includes : Music, Crew, Snorkeling Gears, Entrance to Dunn’s River Falls, Sailing, Jamaican Patties and Open Bar Open Bar : Rum Punch, Rum & Pepsi, Fruit Punch, Pepsi, Beer and Wat

This cruise requires a minimum 15 persons in order to sail. Please contact us before booking: tel: 876 618 2052 (local) | tel: +1 206 415 9214 (overseas).

On a cruise? To book your tour directly with your cruise line, click the logo :

‘CATAMARAN PARTY AND DUNN’S RIVER FALLS’

‘ON-BOARD A CATAMARAN TO DUNN’S RIVER FALLS’

  i.fb-icon-element.fontawesome-icon.fb-icon-element-3{ color: #ffffff;}i.fb-icon-element.fontawesome-icon.fb-icon-element-3:hover { color: #ffffff;} Notes

All persons participating in the Snorkel DRF tour have access to:

• Snorkel Gears;
• Entrance to Dunn’s River Falls;
• Open Bar (alcoholic Beverages are not served until after Dunn’s River);
• Complimentary Jamaican Beef patties;
• Free WI-FI.

Water shoes are required for the Falls climb. They are available on board:

• Purchase – U$13.00 per pair

Zones 1 and 2 are “All-Inclusive” (all amenities plus roundtrip transfer from the resort and lunch).

Zones 3 – 5 are entitled to all the amenities but will be required to pay for lunch and transfer if required.

Consistently mostly Excellent Reviews for all our tours.

I.fb-icon-element.fontawesome-icon.fb-icon-element-4{ color: #ffffff;}i.fb-icon-element.fontawesome-icon.fb-icon-element-4:hover { color: #ffffff;}  hotel pickup time by zone, zone 1 (negril), zone 2 (montego bay/ trelawny/ oracabessa), zone 3 (runaway bay/ st. mary), zone 4 (mammee bay/ white river), zone 5 (ocho rios), i.fb-icon-element.fontawesome-icon.fb-icon-element-5{ color: #ffffff;}i.fb-icon-element.fontawesome-icon.fb-icon-element-5:hover { color: #ffffff;} faq.

Useful and frequently asked questions from Tripadvisor. Questions and answers from our guests, in their own words.

Is this excursion suited for someone in a wheelchair? Obviously I wont climb the dunns river, but would like to come with my family and watch.

No it is not suitable for a wheelchair, the access to the catamaran is not great, and would be difficult for anyone with walking difficulties, the catamaran is really crowded, and we had to negotiate another 2 to get on to ours. At Dunns River the jetty it quite rickety and leads straight on to the sand, hope this useful.

Where are bathroom facilities on this excursion?

Down a few stairs.

We have been many times and love it! My question is this trip my grandchildren will be with us. They are 4, 2 and 2. If an adult stays with them can they go on the boat? They would not snorkel or climb.

There were children on our boat and they were allowed to snorkel. They were not as young as your grandchildren, maybe from 5-12yrs old, but they seemed to have a good time. Just keep an eye on them because when the dancing starts, it can get a little crowded and wild. Have a great vacation!

How long is the catamaran ride from sailing to the falls?

Catamaran package deal is supposedly a full-day COURSE, from the point and time you’ll be picked-up from your hotel normally in the morning after breakfast, and then on the shuttle bus that’s where all the fun begins due to the driver makes that excursions fun and interesting.  Then you’ll be dropped off the place where you need to wear your water shoes when you go to your boat and to the falls and back (lots and lots of fun it is all well worth every dollar spent). Have a good time!

How difficult is it to get back on the boat after snorkeling. How far does the ladder go down in the water?

Normal ladder. Probably 2 rungs below water. Very easy. We had all shapes and sizes in our group.

Sailing from:

Mahogany Beach, Ocho Rios, St. Ann. See on Google map

Bus available for hotel pickup – see hotel pickup time by zone

Mahogany Beach

Contact Cool Runnings Catamarans

1 Marvin’s Park, White River, Ocho Rios, St. Ann

Phone: 876 618 2052 | 876 381 2565 | 876 564 3779

Mobile: US: +1 206 415 9214

Email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

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Next Stop Barbados

8 Best Barbados Catamaran Cruises (That are Totally Worth it!)

Published: April 20, 2021

Updated: September 6, 2023

*This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please read our disclosure.

Barbados is known for its beautiful, pristine beaches. So of course, there are many water activities available such as jet-skiing, surfing, boogie boarding, and paddleboarding. But what if you want to do something a little different? Luckily, Barbados also offers many different catamaran cruise options! Let’s take a look at some of the top Barbados catamaran cruises and tours.

Why Take a Barbados Catamaran Cruise?

Barbados has some of the best Catamaran cruises available. How could it not with its crystal clear waters and abundant sea life?

Taking a Barbados catamaran cruise is not only a great way to explore the area, get closer to nature, and see the island from a new perspective. Some Barbados catamaran cruises offer a luxurious experience that will leave you feeling relaxed, refreshed, and pampered. Some experiences focus on snorkeling and adventurous water activities.

Most cruises offer a meal of some sort and some even offer wine as you step aboard the boat. No matter what you choose, get ready to have a wonderful, memorable catamaran experience!

What to Look for in a Barbados Catamaran Cruise

When looking at Barbados catamaran trips, consider what activities you want to be included in your package. Some catamaran outings offer tours, some offer snorkeling, and some offer multi-course meals with bottomless drinks. 

Ensuring your expectations line up with the planned activities on the catamaran trip will make sure you have the best experience possible. 

Another tip is to check the catamaran departure and return time for your selected trip. Make sure it aligns with any other activities you have planned. For example, if you want to be back at your hotel by lunchtime, make sure the catamaran trip itinerary matches your desired timeline. 

Types of Barbados Catamaran Cruises

There are three main types of catamaran cruises in Barbados – private tours, sunset cruises, lunch and snorkel cruises.

• Private Catamaran Tours.  These are great for people who are seeking a more exclusive event. The catamaran is reserved just for the individual’s group, making this a perfect option for hosting a special event like a wedding, a date night (think proposal!), and even a honeymoon activity. Private tours are customized to your requested length of time and preferred activities.
• Sunset Cruises.  Sunset cruises are exactly what they sound like. These catamaran cruises typically begin in the later afternoon and continue into the evening. Unlike private tours, sunset tours have established start and end times as well as pre-planned activities and meals. Most sunset cruises will include activities like snorkeling and dinner. This option is perfect for travelers who want to experience a Barbados sunset on the open water.
• Lunch and Snorkel Cruises.  These catamaran snorkel cruises offer tasty lunches and snorkeling at some of the best spots around the island. Swim among sunken ships while admiring diverse marine life and even sea turtles! Cruise-goers will also enjoy sipping drinks and relaxing on the boat while sailing up the West Coast of the island. These cruises also have set start and end times and pre-determined activities. Perfect for travelers who want relaxation and those who want a bit of adventure.

Let’s take a look at the top catamaran cruises available in Barbados. All of the cruises listed below have great reviews on TripAdvisor and knowledgeable captains.

Top 8 Barbados Catamaran Cruises

• Calypso Cruises

Elegance Catamaran Cruises Barbados

Cool runnings catamaran.

• El Tigre Catamaran Cruise Barbados

Tiami Silver Cruises Barbados

Silver moon barbados, jammin catamaran cruises, seaduced luxury catamaran, calypso cruises with captain nick.

With over 500 excellent reviews on TripAdvisor, Calypso Cruises has a lot to offer. Calypso Cruises provides all three types of cruises – private tours, sunset cruises, and lunchtime snorkel cruises. Captain Nick has wonderful reviews for being a fun, well-informed ship captain.

Calypso Cruises use a spacious sailing catamaran named Calypso Girl for their excursions. In addition to serving lunch, they offer hors d’oeuvres, snacks, and all-inclusive drinks throughout the day. Maxing out at 12 people per cruise, Calypso Cruises is best for small groups and intimate outings. Cruises last 3-5+ hours depending on which package you select.

I’ve gone on the Calypso snorkel cruise several times and it’s always one of the highlights. Captain Nick takes you to beautiful coral reefs around the island where you can see tropical fish and incredible shipwrecks in the crystal clear waters off the Barbados coastline. Plus, the food is amazing! The snorkel tour includes a premium bar (with some dangerously good signature cocktails) and a Bajan lunch buffet, complete with macaroni pie and other local favorites!

• Located in Bridgetown near Carlisle Bay
• Lunch cruises, sunset cruises, and private tours available
• Tours include snorkel gear and unlimited drinks
• One of the best catamaran cruises in Barbados with over 500 Excellent reviews on  TripAdvisor
• Check Captain Nick’s availability

  Elegance Catamaran Cruises Barbados also offers all three types of cruises – private tours, sunset cruises, and lunch and snorkel cruises. Lunch cruises start from Bridgetown and offer snorkeling stops, a delicious meal, and plenty of time for lounging on the way back. These trips have a maximum of 12 guests.

Sunset dinner cruises offer a unique opportunity to snorkel as the sun goes down and enjoy a delicious dinner with all-inclusive drinks. All Elegance cruises offer hotel transportation and have an open bar.

• Located in Bridgetown
• Luxury experience
• They offer a sunset dinner cruise, a lunchtime catamaran snorkeling cruise, and a private cruise option
• Food, drinks, hotel transportation, and snorkel gear included
• Book Elegance Catamaran Cruise

Cool Runnings Catamaran is another popular Barbados cruise option that offers great value. Snorkel and lunch cruises are offered daily while sunset cruises are only offered Wednesdays and Thursdays each week. Private tours are by appointment. 

All Cool Runnings tours include a buffet meal and all-inclusive drinks. Snorkeling equipment is provided and they also offer transportation to and from your hotel or cruise ship terminal.

• Over 2000 Excellent reviews on  TripAdvisor
• Hotel transportation, meal, and drinks included
• Book Cool Runnings Catamaran Cruise

El Tigre Catamaran Barbados

The El Tigre Catamaran Barbados has over 400 excellent reviews on Viator and offers memorable tours aboard their 60-foot catamaran. You’ll kick off your catamaran tour with a snorkel among the shipwrecks and ocean life, then you’ll return to El Tigre for unlimited drinks and good vibes.

El Tigre offers 3-hour cruises and 5-hour cruises. All tours come with snorkel gear and bottomless drinks. The 5-hour cruise option also includes lunch. They also offer a 3-hour sunset cruise.

• Accommodation pick up and drop off at select hotels
• Maximum 36 guests per cruise
• Discounted pricing for children under 12
• Book an El Tigre Catamaran Barbados Cruise

Tiami Silver Cruises Barbados offers eight different cruise ships to travel on and tours include delicious local dishes. Each cruise ship is custom-built and incredibly spacious. 

Tiami Catamaran Cruises offers private charters that go above and beyond with live music and catered food by request. The lunch cruises have three swimming and snorkeling stops as well as a delicious lunch buffet — perfect for anyone who wants to get to know the friendly sea turtles and see colorful marine life off the coast of Barbados. The sunset cruise has a full buffet dinner and gorgeous views.

• Luxury Packages
• 8 available cruise ships
• Round trip transfers
• Book Tiami Cruises Barbados

Silver Moon Barbados has been around since 2002 and is run by Nick and Nicky. Silver Moon Barbados has a fleet of three ships. Silver Moon Barbados offers two excursion options. You can book a lunch cruise that lasts about 5 hours and has a maximum capacity of 12 passengers per trip. You’ll enjoy an incredible Bajan meal, bottomless drinks, and transportation from your accommodation.

The second option is a private charter that can be booked for any time of day. Food is catered and private pickup is offered. The amount of time is by request.

• 4500+ Excellent Reviews on  TripAdvisor
• Lunch cruises and private charters
• Book your excursion with Silver Moon Catamarans

Jammin Catamaran Cruises offers fun-filled daytime and evening catamaran trips the whole family will love. All cruises include a delicious buffet meal, an open bar, hotel pickup, and even water slides!

The Sun Blast Cruise lasts about five and a half hours and there are plenty of activities for kids and adults alike. The Twilight Cruise promotes a 4-hour sunset cruise with entertainment. If you’re planning a special event, their private cruises can hold up to 85 people at a time. This is a great option for larger groups.

• Round Trip Hotel Transfers
• Great for families with kids
• Large group private catamaran option
• Book Jammin Catamaran Cruises

If you’re looking for luxury, Seaduced Luxury Catamaran Barbados won’t disappoint. Both private and semi-private charters are available. Private cruises last about 5 hours and are scheduled based on the requested time. Semi-private charters have a maximum of 14 people and include snorkeling, refreshments, and a chef-prepared lunch.

If spending the afternoon on a luxury yacht in the Caribbean sounds like your definition of paradise, take a look at Seaduced Catamarans.

• Luxury yacht experience
• Private Chef
• Book Seaduced Luxury Catamaran

FAQ: Taking a Catamaran Cruise in Barbados

How much is a catamaran cruise in barbados.

Catamaran cruises in Barbados typically cost between $75 and $150 USD per person for a half-day, non-private charter. Usually, this includes several hours of exploring, snorkel equipment, drinks, snacks, and a meal.

How long is a Barbados catamaran cruise?

Catamaran boat trips typically last anywhere from a few hours to a half day, depending on the offer you book. When you make your reservation, your captain will tell you when to meet the boat and what time you can expect to return.

What do you wear on a catamaran cruise in Barbados?

Most Barbados catamaran cruises are casual and involve lots of swimming, so I recommend wearing a bathing suit with an easy coverup or tee-shirt for when you want sun protection. A hat is nice to have for keeping the sun off your face, and you’ll definitely want to bring sun screen and sun glasses. It’s also a good idea to bring a quick-drying towel so you can dry off between snorkel sessions. On your feet, a pair of flip flops is fine since you’ll take off your shoes before you get on board.

Final Thoughts: Top Catamaran Trips in Barbados

Whether you are looking for a relaxing day trip or a bit of adventure among the impressive reefs, you’ll have no problem finding the perfect Barbados catamaran tour for you. Check out the catamaran experiences above for an unforgettable experience.

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• The Ultimate Barbados Travel Guide
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Cool Runnings Sailing

Cool Runnings II and Cool Runnings III is a 58′ and 62′ respectively catamaran custom-built for comfort and safety.  Both catamarans sail with limited persons (approx 36 on Cool Runnings II and 42 on Cool Runnings III) to provide personalised service in an uncrowded atmosphere.

Day Cruises Sail along the calm, clear waters of the West Coast to a secluded bay where you can enjoy a fascinating visit with the sea turtles, a refreshing swim, a stroll on the beach or sunbathing on deck.  Explore a shallow shipwreck where you can feed schools of fish.  Snorkeling gear is provided.  Lunch with wine and dessert is served.

Cruises are daily, from 9:30am to 2:30pm and the cost is US$100 per person (US$50 for children 4-12 years).  This includes transportation to and from your hotel/villa, snorkeling equipment, snorkeling instruction, unlimited drinks and buffet lunch.

Sunset Cruises The sunset cruise begins with a stop for swimming and snorkeling with the turtles and over a shipwreck.  Sailing along the coastline you will experience the spectacular colours of the setting sun.  As night falls, a sumptuous dinner is served, complete with wine and dessert.  Gaze at the shimmering stars in the sky and twinkling lights on the island by night.

Cruises are Wednesdays only, from 3pm to 7pm and the cost is US$90 (US$45 for children 4-12 years).  This includes transportation to and from your hotel/villa, snorkeling equipment, snorkeling instruction, unlimited drinks and buffet.

Private Cruises Perfect for celebrating special occasions, private parties, corporate entertaining or incentive groups.  Prices upon request.

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Cool Runnings Catamaran Cruises

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Cool Runnings Catamaran Cruises - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Cool Runnings Catamaran Cruises

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

COOL RUNNINGS CATAMARAN CRUISES (Bridgetown) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Sandals Resort | Best Excursion - Cool Runnings Catamaran Cruises

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• Cool Runnings Catamaran Cruises

Fantastic evening cruise again on cool runnings, everything went smooth no issues with a great crew... read more

Cool Runnings is the absolute Best !!! Been on them twice now in 3 weeks and would do it all over... read more

Sandals Resort | Best Excursion

We went out with Captain Eddie and his crew today. It was a beautiful first half of the trip and we had so much fun! My husband and I both touched a sea turtle and we saw a ship wreck with tropical fish. The way home was rainy, but we still listened to great music and sat on the deck in the rain. The crew was informative, energetic and fun! They danced and got the whole boat dancing, too! We had a marvelous day!! I would recommend this trip to anyone. Worth the money!

We went out on a morning cruise that departed from Bridgetown at 930am. The crews on board are both very informative and great fun. As the first trip we went on was so fantastic we just had to book again for another trip on the last day of our two week trip because my wife, 9 year old son and 6 year old daughter has such a great time On our second trip two of the crew even remembered us being Adam and Marc. They were very entertaining throughout our cruise and much of our time was spent talking and chatting. The cruises usually have three stops. The first being time snorkelling watching turtles where we even managed to see a stingray and some puffer fish. The second stop was snorkelling over two sunken ships which enabled us to see a variety of fishes that reside around. After this we took a longer trip up to the west of the island. At this point the sails are raised on the trip to where they dropped anchor and a good portion and variety of food is served. Guests are then allowed to jump of the side of the boat and swim ashore if they wish. On both occasions the crews and skipper were amazing and we will all remember these days for the rest of our lives. Hopefully we will return again next year to enjoy these days again.

We had an amazing day on Cool Runnings with Marlow and the team!!! Our group being 4 adults and one child. The staff are all attentive and kept coming round checking we were happy and seeing if we wanted any other drinks etc... A very well organised and fun trip, the food was fab as well.also a big plus they fed the children first!!! We stopped at 3 places seeing a shipwreck turtles and stingrays! I would definitely rebook Cool Runnings again.

We’ve been coming to Barbados for a lot of years and always enjoy a catamaran cruise whilst here. Without doubt Cool Runnings do it really well. Not over crowded. Great with the kids and super food. Thanks. See you next year.

These guys pull off an amazing time! Swimming with the turtles, great music, beyond excellent staff, very funny Captain! Lovely meal served by the crew. Clean cabin, great views, lovely sunset. Very memorable. We booked this direct on their website prior to leaving for our vacation. Great work everyone! Thank you!

We visited Barbados back in May, one of the attractions was coolrunnings catamaran cruise. Chosen from the website, the cheapest £68pp for 5 hours cruising, swimming with turtles, snorkeling to see shipwreck and a let's don't forget unlimited booze and lunch. After little misunderstanding about a correct day to pick us up, we have been forgotten by the company. Only because of the girls from sugar bay hotel, who's been calling them, finally they send a taxi to pick us up, and giving us a discount to apologise, we found ourselves on the boat. What a experience, absolutely nothing to compare, loved it so much, had a little seasick, but the guys gave me tablets, I was OK after 3o min. Service great, good fun and, dancing, drinking, typical Barbados. We are coming again in May 2019 and def will book coolrunnings, no doubt. My daughter is scared of open water, but she felt so safe, she swam in ocean, big achievement for her, food lovely, lots of drinks, do book it, u can will love you it