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If a cruise is threatened with a hurricane, however, the ships are often diverted and you may miss your chance to explore this amazing port of call. Meet Curaçao – the southern Caribbean hidden gem boasting breathtaking beaches, colorful architectural masterpieces, and kind, friendly residents. It’s an island full of diversities and if you are reading this blog, you’re probably going to visit this place by cruise ship.
Willemstad, Curacao
Of notable interest is the Rif Fort, which is a stone’s throw from the cruise pier. Walk through the colorful streets of Punda where you can find cozy restaurants, colorful boutiques, and various sights.
Curacao Beaches
THE 25 BEST Cruises to Curacao 2024 (with Prices) - Curacao Cruise Port Terminal on Cruise Critic - Cruise Critic
THE 25 BEST Cruises to Curacao 2024 (with Prices) - Curacao Cruise Port Terminal on Cruise Critic.
Posted: Mon, 23 Oct 2023 15:20:39 GMT [source]
There are plenty of fish to see here, especially along the rugged cliffs. Some green sea turtles can also be spotted in the middle part of the sloping sea bed. There are over 40 dive sites in Curacao that cater to all diving skill levels. Some popular ones include Mushroom forest, Superior Producer, Alice in Wonderland, and Beacon point. Go dive with a team of highly skilled dive instructors and see a world of colorful healthy reefs teeming with a variety of fish and sea life.
Newest Carnival Ship Makes Inaugural Calls to Caribbean Ports - Cruise Hive
Newest Carnival Ship Makes Inaugural Calls to Caribbean Ports.
Posted: Tue, 10 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]
CPA implements first phase of Master Plan St. Anna Bay
Curaçao is the best place to enjoy a breathtaking view while savoring delightful cuisine paired with a fine glass of wine- or a Blue Curaçao cocktail! When we go out to diner, we mostly opt for a restaurant with a view and it is certainly something I would recommend when visiting the island during a cruise. There are a couple of upscale dining options to check out during your cruise stop in Curaçao. These places offer a mix of local and international dishes, making it a tasty adventure for your taste buds. When articles feature Curaçao, this is likely the image they use to represent its beaches, making a visit to Grote Knip an integral part of the ultimate Curaçao experience. If you’ve done any research about the island before your cruise vacation, chances are you’ve encountered numerous photos showcasing the bay of Grote Knip.
This is the main shopping street in Willemstad that starts right after you cross Queen Emma Bridge. Here you’ll find a large number of duty-free shops, clothing and souvenir stores, and brands like Swarovski, Cariloha and Del Sol, Diamond International, Penha, and others. Constructed across St Anna Bay, this pedestrian floating bridge constructed in 1888 and renovated multiple times connects Otrobanda and Punda districts. The bridge is also called “Swinging Old Lady” by the locals and regularly opens to enable the passage of larger vessels. Located in the southwest of Curacao, the Willemstad Historic Center and the harbor have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as they boast marvelous and diverse architecture. There are several attractions you can visit during your exploration of this picturesque city.
Explore on a Free Walking Tour
Enjoy a guided tour that details the incredible history of the place touching on the refuge and escape routes. The caves are located in the rugged northern coast of the island. Exploring them can be done in under two hours so it’s easy to combine with another activity in the north. Enjoy the hike up to Curacao’s highest point some 372 meters (1,200 feet) above sea level and enjoy panoramic views of the island.
The Plan is the result of a series of interactions with stakeholders holding roles throughout the community, downtown merchants, and the general public. The Safe mooring locations provide optimal conditions for any vessel type and may be available for long-term stays. The Caracasbaai jetties offer berths with a depth of 13.7 meters and a maximum LOA of 320, while the depth at the St. Michiel buoy is 39.6 meters and holds a maximum of 350,000 DWT. We look forward to welcome you to our facilities; for more information, contact us. If you go to Playa PortoMari, just be aware that there is a fee for entrance, chairs, and umbrellas.
Popular Cruise Lines that visit Curaçao Cruise Port Guide
These typically Dutch buildings feature magnificent colonial architecture and are best seen from the pontoon bridge. Once you cross the bridge, you’ll see several waterfront cafes, restaurants, tour agencies, jewelry, perfume, clothing, and other duty-free shops housed in the buildings. After you pass through the Renaissance Resort, you’ll reach Rif Fort village, an unusual, seafront shopping complex housed in a restored 19th-century fort. This is a famous tourist area where you’ll find many shops, ATMs, several restaurants, and tour operator booths offering trolley train rides, car rentals, bike rentals, and more. From here you are about 500 yards away from the city centre of Willemstad. You will find an information booth, taxi stand, tour operators and souvenir shops on the dock.
Curaçao Ports Authority at Seatrade Cruise Global 2023
There’s a wide variety of shore excursions available with departure from the Curaçao Cruise Port. The downtown neighborhoods of Punda, Otrobanda, Pietermaai, and Scharloo are within walking distance from the pier. Private tours are a great option if you want to discover Curaçao at your own pace, where a knowledgeable guide offers a personal approach.
Here you can buy fresh goods from the locals, and get some delicious, authentic Curacao dishes such as iguana stew in the rustic Old Market, offering live cooking shows and a unique ambiance. The best time to visit Curaçao is from February to May, considered the ideal time for travelers. There are fewer crowds than during peak tourist season, and the weather is more comfortable. For an authentic experience, head to Plasa Bieu (also called Old Market), where you can enjoy local meals made with love by the island’s talented cooks like goat stew, fresh fish, or pumpkin pancakes. Some other recommendations include Perla Del Mar, De Gouverneur, Mundo Bizarro, Café Old Dutch, La Bohème, Plein Café Wilhelmina, and Plasa – all serving delicious food in welcoming settings. Venture into the beautiful island’s natural reserves, where green landscapes await.
If you’re looking for adventure, head to one of the two beautiful beaches near the cruise port. One is perfect for snorkeling with colorful marine life, while the other is ideal for swimming and enjoying the crystal-clear waters. The beaches of Curaçao are not located in the city and that is why many cruise passengers book a tour or shore excursion to the beaches. One can also take a taxi to some nice beaches near the Cruise Port.
Playa Cas Abao is probably the most pristine beach is all of Curacao. If you are looking for a remote uncrowded beach, head to the northwestern side of the island, some 20 miles away from Willemstad, and enjoy a day on this beautiful beach. Playa Lagun is the best spot for snorkeling right from the beach.
In 2018, the port's passenger shipping traffic increased 16% (over 2017) following the inauguration in 2017 of the second cruise ship pier. In early-2018, to both piers were added more mooring dolphins to allow docking of world's largest passenger liners. Willemstad is a Southern Caribbean cruise port and the capital city of Curacao (Leeward Islands, Dutch Antilles) - an island country, one of the overseas territories of The Netherlands (Holland).
Amidst shopping, one can enjoy a meal at the numerous outdoor cafes and restaurants. The area offers a vibrant atmosphere with Curaçao markets, local boutiques, and charming cafes along narrow streets, providing a diverse range of items from fashion to (locally crafted) souvenirs. Another crucial aspect highlighted in the schedule is the frequency of arrivals and departures. This information can vary from day to day, influencing your itinerary and overall experience. This schedule provides a comprehensive overview of ship arrivals and departures, allowing you to plan your time effectively.
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