Cruises to Curacao, Netherlands Antilles
Curaçao and its sister islands, Bonaire and Aruba, are located in the southern caribbean sea. Located between Venezuela and Aruba, this Dutch Caribbean Island is known for its beaches nestled into coves and alluring coral reefs rich in marine life. From 1816 to the present, the country has been part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It has been an important port for international trade for centuries.
Curaçao has incredible beaches, history, luxurious resorts, vibrant culture, and unique natural attractions listed below. If your next cruise stops in Curacao, take note of the places below when planning your excursions.
Queen Emma Bridge connects Otrobanda and Punda in the capital city of Willemstad. It is a pontoon bridge that opens at various intervals to enter and leave the bay. The bridge has existed since 1888 and was renovated in 1939. This long-existing bridge has the nickname "Our Swinging Old Lady." The bridge's lights cast a shimmering rainbow on the water at night.
One of the most adventurous exploring points in Curaçao is Hato Caves. Caves here were formed over millions of years beneath the ocean and are close to the airport. Inside the caves, there are many things to see, such as striking limestone formations, natural pools, famous statues, waterfalls, and more. It is also home to a colony of bats. Thus no photography is allowed. It will take around 45 minutes to complete the Hato Caves tour.
If you want to go on an underwater adventure, go Scuba Diving. It is one of the best ways to explore the underwater world showcasing the playful dolphins, delicate coral gardens, graceful stingrays, and sunken ships in the Caribbean water. Many of Curaçao's specified diving sites are directly accessible from the beach, such as Blauwbaai and Porto Mari. Moreover, divers can go down and explore the Superior Producer. This cargo freighter went down in 1977 and it’s a great place to see the coral-encrusted remains inside it.
Willemstad is Curaçao's capital city that provides valuable insight into the lifestyle and culture of the people in Curaçao. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage City divided into two parts by St. Anna Bay. The divided areas are Otrobanda (west) and Punda (east). The Queen Emma Bridge makes it easy for pedestrians to go from one end to another. Even the architecture of the Willemstad is inviting and vibrant, including several attractions such as Handelskade, a waterfront street with colorful, majestic Dutch houses.
Approximately 10 kilometers of the rocky, wave-exposed north coast of the island are covered by Shete Boka National Park bordering Christoffel Park, making it an ideal place to spend your day. It has lots of beautiful coves and inlets. The word 'Shete Boka' means seven inlets. Still, several inlets, including Boka Tabla, give fantastic views from the top and three species of turtle nests. When the waves break on the Boka against the coral rock formations, the salt water splashes high into the air, making a sound known as Pistolero.
From May to November, one can consider visiting Curaçao during the off-peak season. It is less crowded than during high-peak season months – O Curaçao is just 12 degrees north of the equator and still has an average temperature that rests in the mid-80s all year. The water visibility is suitable for diving, snorkeling, and other water activities.