Riding the Blue: Seabob With Sea Turtles at Playa Piskado
Underwater speed meets sea turtle calm on Curaçao’s quiet west side
Morning at Playa Piskado starts with a quiet choreography: fishermen easing skiffs ashore, pelicans patrolling the shallows, and the Caribbean rolling in with a patient, glassy rhythm. The beach’s name—Piskadó, “fisherman” in Papiamentu—doesn’t hide its purpose. You feel it in the coiled ropes, the salt-stiff nets, and the steady hum of work. Out beyond the boat ramp, the water shifts from turquoise to a painter’s blue, and somewhere in that gradient, the turtles rise like returning thoughts. You clip into the Seabob—a sleek, battery-powered underwater scooter—and the ocean stops being a horizon and becomes a doorway. The device noses forward with a gentle insistence, currents pushing, the reef inviting you to follow.
Trail Wisdom
Master the Seabob throttle
Feather the power in short presses to maintain buoyancy and avoid stirring sand that ruins visibility.
Keep turtle distance
Stay at least 2 meters from sea turtles and never block their path to the surface; give right of way to breathing animals.
Go early for clear water
Morning sessions often bring lighter winds and better visibility on Curaçao’s west coast.
Use reef-safe sunscreen or a rash guard
Protect your skin without harming coral; apply 30 minutes before entry or wear long-sleeve UPF fabric.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The pier’s shadow line where tarpon cruise like silver ghosts
- •Shallow coral pockets north of the boat ramp with schooling sergeant majors
Wildlife
Green sea turtles, Hawksbill sea turtles
Conservation Note
Sea Turtle Conservation Curaçao monitors local populations; visitors are urged to use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching or feeding turtles to reduce stress and disease transmission.
Playa Piskado—also called Playa Grandi—has long served Westpunt’s fishing community; turtles frequent the area due to fish-cleaning activity near the pier.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Clear mornings, Active reef life
Challenges: Occasional trade-wind chop, Sun intensity
Spring brings dependable visibility and warm water. Early starts help beat the breeze and crowds.
summer
Best for: Warmest water, Long daylight
Challenges: Stronger sun exposure, Potential for higher visitor traffic
Summer is prime for warm, calm swims—bring extra hydration and sun protection.
fall
Best for: Balanced conditions, Less crowding
Challenges: Intermittent showers, Variable visibility after rain
Fall often sees mellow crowds and steady seas; brief squalls can reduce clarity for a short time.
winter
Best for: Cooler air temps, Consistent turtle sightings
Challenges: Occasional north swells, Breezier afternoons
Winter mornings are crisp and clear; plan earlier departures to avoid wind and swell.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Long-sleeve rash guard (UPF 50+)Essential
Provides reliable sun protection and reduces reliance on sunscreen while snorkeling at the surface.
Reef-safe sunscreen (non-nano zinc)Essential
Protects skin without harming coral or seagrass habitats around Playa Piskado.
Action camera with red filter
Captures color-true footage at snorkeling depths without heavy post-processing.
Water shoes or sturdy sandals
The beach entry and pier area can be rough; protect your feet while launching.
Common Questions
Do I need scuba certification to use a Seabob?
No. This is a surface and shallow-water experience guided by a PADI Divemaster; basic snorkel comfort is sufficient.
How close can I get to the turtles?
Maintain at least 2 meters of distance and never pursue, touch, or block their path. Turtles must reach the surface to breathe.
Is the tour suitable for kids?
Strong-swimming teens typically do well. Younger children may struggle with device handling; confirm age and ability with the operator.
What if I wear glasses?
Bring prescription swim goggles or contacts to use with the provided mask. Standard masks won’t fit over glasses.
Will photos or video be provided?
Yes, the guide captures high-quality images and video during the tour so you can focus on the experience.
What’s the best time of day to go?
Morning departures generally offer calmer water and better visibility on the island’s west side.
What to Pack
Reef-safe sunscreen to protect both your skin and the coral; long-sleeve rash guard for sun and jelly protection; compact dry bag for keys and phone; reusable water bottle to rehydrate immediately after the session.
Did You Know
Playa Piskado (Playa Grandi) is renowned for resident green and hawksbill turtles that gather near the pier, a behavior influenced by decades of fish-cleaning by local fishermen; all sea turtles in Curaçao are protected under national law.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive early to secure parking near the pier; bring small cash for local snacks or optional amenities; avoid heavy sunscreen right before entry—apply 30 minutes prior; check wind forecasts—the west side is calmer in the morning.
Local Flavor
After your swim, drive 10 minutes to Jaanchie’s in Westpunt for lionfish and Curaçaoan specialties, or grab a beachside smoothie at nearby Playa Forti. Back in Willemstad, toast the day with a Blue Curaçao cocktail and a bowl of funchi fries along the Handelskade.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Curaçao International (CUR), 40–50 minutes by car to Playa Piskado. From Willemstad: roughly 45 km (60 minutes) to Westpunt. Cell service: Generally good on the main road; spotty at the beach. Permits: No permit needed; follow local guidelines for wildlife protection.
Sustainability Note
Use non-nano, reef-safe sunscreen and maintain a no-touch, no-chase policy with turtles. Avoid standing on coral and pack out all trash to keep Westpunt’s reefs healthy for future generations.
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