PART OF THE PALM BEACH LANDSCAPE SINCE 1997
Some things become part of a place so gradually that you hardly notice.
The powder-white sand. The turquoise Caribbean Sea. The rows of palapas. The Marriott resorts stretching along Palm Beach. And just offshore, the billowing white sails of Jolly Pirates.
For nearly three decades, they’ve all shared the same horizon.
On September 17, 2026, Jolly Pirates celebrates 29 years in Aruba.
Whether relaxing by the pool, enjoying breakfast from a balcony at the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, Marriott’s Aruba Ocean Club, Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club, or strolling along Palm Beach, generations of visitors have watched the teak schooners of Jolly Pirates glide across the water.
For many, it starts with a simple glance toward the sea.
Soon enough, they’re stepping aboard.
Our adventure begins from the pier at MooMba Beach, just a short walk from the Marriott resorts. Within minutes, guests are snorkeling Boca Catalina, the Antilla shipwreck and Malmok Reef. Along the way, sea turtles, tropical fish and our legendary rope swing become the moments people remember most.
Palm Beach has changed over the years.
I was aboard when Jolly Pirates first set sail on September 17, 1997, and I still remember that first day. I knew we were starting something special. Twenty-nine years later, those white sails are still out there, and Jolly Pirates is still going strong.
The Marriott family expanded along the shoreline. During those same years, Jolly Pirates grew from one teak schooner to two.
Let’s just say we didn’t do it quietly.
Our white sails, music and laughter have become part of the Palm Beach soundtrack.
We’ve welcomed honeymooners, wedding parties, birthdays, anniversaries, reunions, and countless first-time snorkelers. Many guests return years later to share those same experiences with family and friends.
By day, our schooners explore Aruba’s spectacular coastline on snorkeling adventures. By evening, they head back out for sunset sails and our adults-only Grub & Grog BBQ Dinner Cruise.
Today, it’s hard to imagine Palm Beach without the Marriott resorts lining the shore, or without the white sails of Jolly Pirates drifting across the turquoise sea.
One has become part of the skyline.
The other has become part of the seascape.
Together, they’ve helped create nearly three decades of unforgettable Aruba vacations.
Frequently Asked Questions:
When did Jolly Pirates first set sail in Aruba?
Jolly Pirates first set sail on September 17, 1997. In 2026, we celebrate 29 years in Aruba.
Where is Jolly Pirates located in Aruba?
Jolly Pirates is at MooMba Beach on Palm Beach, between the Marriott resorts and Holiday Inn, within walking distance of many of Aruba’s High-Rise hotels.
Is Jolly Pirates within walking distance of the Marriott, Holiday Inn and other Palm Beach hotels?
Yes. Jolly Pirates is between the Marriott resorts and Holiday Inn and within easy walking distance of many hotels in Aruba’s High-Rise area.
Where do I check in for Jolly Pirates and how early should I arrive?
Check in at the Jolly Pirates gift shop at MooMba Beach at least 30 minutes before departure. Our schooners depart from the pier directly in front of MooMba Beach.
Is there free parking at Jolly Pirates?
Yes. Free parking is available at MooMba Beach for Jolly Pirates guests.
What should I bring and wear on a Jolly Pirates snorkeling cruise?
Wear your swimsuit with comfortable beach clothing and bring a towel and sun protection. Snorkeling equipment is provided aboard.
What sunscreen should I use while snorkeling in Aruba?
We recommend reef-friendly sun protection to help protect Aruba’s marine environment.
What snorkeling sites does Jolly Pirates visit?
Depending on the cruise, Jolly Pirates snorkeling trips visit the Antilla shipwreck, Boca Catalina and Malmok Reef.
Is Jolly Pirates good for families?
Yes. Our morning Sail, Snorkel, Swim & Swing cruise is especially popular with families. We also offer other cruises with different atmospheres, including our adults-only Grub & Grog BBQ Dinner Cruise.
How far is Jolly Pirates from the Aruba cruise ship terminal?
Jolly Pirates at MooMba Beach is approximately a 20–25 minute drive from the Aruba cruise ship terminal, depending on traffic. Cruise passengers should confirm their ship’s arrival time and Aruba local time before booking and allow enough time to arrive for check-in at least 30 minutes before departure.