gingerinsomniac
16 Jun 2025
Our boat day with Bettina and Marc of Trip & Treat VIP Tours was the best part of our trip to Curaçao. Even before we arrived, Bettina's email communication was warm, prompt, and detailed. She answered all our questions with care, offered suggestions tailored to our family of 4 (daughters ages 14 and 21) , and helped us feel completely at ease about the day ahead despite the rainy forecast.
When we arrived at the dock, we were warmly greeted with big smiles. Their boat was clean, comfortable, and prepared for our family.
We cruised to the waters near Tugboat Beach and the fort, and although the sea was a bit choppy at times, Marc navigated well and made sure we were always safe. The snorkeling was lovely despite the waves, and both Marc and Bettina helped us in and out of the boat with patience and encouragement. My daughter tried the ZUP board for the first time, which was a blast and easy to learn thanks to their guidance.
Unfortunately, the rough seas and increasingly rainy weather cut our tour shorter than expected. Near the fort, I started feeling seasick from the storm-driven waves, and Marc quickly adjusted the plan to get us back to the calmer Spanish Waters. Once back on calmer water, I felt completely fine. On a normal day, I don’t think sea sickness would have been an issue at all. They were clearly experienced in handling less-than-ideal weather and were total pros at helping me feel better and stay comfortable.
Despite the early return, the time we spent onboard was wonderful. Bettina served the fruit and Johnny Cake sandwiches we had ordered ahead of time, along with cold drinks. As we cruised through Spanish Waters, she shared bits of local history and made us feel right at home. She was incredible, gently mothering us all by handing out water and towels, untangling and securing the snorkels we had incorrectly assembled ourselves, and offering to hold or put away anything we weren’t using so we could relax, while Marc captained the boat.
Later that day, Bettina followed up by email to check in and issued a partial refund for the time we missed, something we didn’t ask for or expect, but deeply appreciated. Because of the rain, one of my daughters didn’t get to try the ZUP board, and Bettina generously offered to take her back out after their other tours the next day. That level of kindness and professionalism really stuck with us.
What stood out most was how personal and heartfelt the entire experience felt. Bettina and Marc weren’t just running a business. They were sharing their island and their hospitality in the most genuine way. Even with the weather challenges, we left the boat feeling cared for, connected, and so grateful. We’d recommend this experience to anyone looking for a fun day on the water. I only wish I had taken more pictures, but we were too busy enjoying everything! We can't wait to return and plan another day on the boat with them!
Amazing experience and great customer service. Very memorable trip. We went snorkeling and saw alot of marine life, stopped at a restaurant to refuel, then did the water board sports. The owners of the boat were amazing and very helpful 10/10 experience!
A great 1/2 day boating and snorkeling excursion from a great couple that makes you feel like family.
Even though the waters were rough due to high winds , we still managed to have a great time because the husband wife team made us feel safe and always made sure we were having fun.
Traveling through Spanish town was a perfect end to our tour and if you’re looking for a great company …look no further