Sunday, April 14, 2024

Curaçao Willemstad Cruise Port Guide: Review 2023

willemstad cruise port

This terminal is usually used if the Mega Piers 1 and 2 are too busy, and this is where smaller cruise ships normally dock (those that can pass under Queen Juliana Bridge. Convenience is key, especially for those with limited time to spend on the island. We will highlight a couple of popular beaches that are conveniently located near the cruise port, allowing passengers to easily access the sun, sand, and sea without extensive travel. Curacao is stunning from the colorful port city to the stunning beaches. Within the city of Willemstad you can spend days exploring everything from the floating market along the water’s edge, to Fort Amsterdam, the shopping, and other historic locations.

Option 2: Visit Curaçao Rif Mangrove Park

willemstad cruise port

Once you cross the bridge, you are in the city center where you can admire its stunning colonial architecture, beautiful parks, markets, go shopping, or explore the city’s main historical landmarks. One of them is the 17th-century Mikve Israel-Emanuel Jewish Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the western Hemisphere featuring a museum, gift shop, and offering tours. Kleine Knip’s older sister, Grote Knip is another hidden gem set in gorgeous natural surroundings. When the sun starts to set it’s time to pay a visit to the Pietermaai district.

Cliff Jumping at Playa Kenepa

Cruise Ships Port Schedules 2018 - Crew Center

Cruise Ships Port Schedules 2018.

Posted: Mon, 15 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Curacao’s beaches are different because they’re not long stretches. Instead, you’ll find lots of small coves and hidden beaches among pretty cliffs. There are more than 40 beaches, and all of them are within a 45-minute drive from the Cruise Port.

Explore Curacao’s Art

Another great option is Blue Bay resort, an amazing resort located around 10 km, or a 15-minute drive from the Mega pier. It is a family-friendly resort with all necessary facilities, tucked in the gorgeous bay boasting an incredible deep blue ocean color. The history of Curaçao dates back thousands of years, starting with settlement by the Arawaks of South America. The capital city, Willemstad, was founded in the 17th century by Dutch traders, who saw an opportunity to transform the island into a shipping and trading port off the Sint Anna Bay. During this time, residents built the city’s now-historic sites, including Fort Amsterdam, the harbor, and various grids across Old Town.

Which terminal are we docking at?

willemstad cruise port

Believe me when i tell you that there is something for everyone’s likes. 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. The primary reason to explore this beach is its iconic status, but also because this beach is even more beautiful then any image could show.

Where You Dock in Willemstad – Curacao

The Curaçao cruise port, Port Willemstad, is located in Willemstad. Guided tours of the caves are offered and will allow you to know the legends of Curacao and to see bats and iguanas. You can also explore the nearby trail to see the typical vegetation of the island. Embracing the diversity of activities Curaçao has to offer ensures that your time on the island is not just a visit but an experience. Here’s what you need to know about the Curaçao cruise port to kickstart your adventure. This rocky pebble beach is famous for the tugboat wreck that sank several years ago and has become a popular underwater attraction ever since.

Punda

Enjoy a guided tour that details the incredible history of the place touching on the refuge and escape routes. Exploring them can be done in under two hours so it’s easy to combine with another activity in the north. The sea aquarium is located on the waterfront in the west coast of Willemstad and has plenty to see, do, and learn. There are large pools with a variety of marine life found in Curacao’s water and interesting shows, such as dolphin, sea lion, and shark shows held daily. It’s an especially fun place for the kids to learn and interact with marine life. You get to this side of Willemstad by crossing the Queen Emma Bridge.

Norwegian Sky Ready for Homeporting Program in the Dominican Republic - Cruise Industry News

Norwegian Sky Ready for Homeporting Program in the Dominican Republic.

Posted: Sun, 28 Jan 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Top Sights & Attractions on a Cruise to Curaçao

On April 30, 2018, the shipyard received 2 floating docks delivered by the heavy-lift vessel Xin Guang Hua (DWT 98,000 tons). In early-July 2018 was announced that the islands Curacao and Aruba (Willemstad-Oranjestad) will be connected with regularly scheduled fast-ferry service by the end of 2018. Cuisine on the island ranges from common fare such as burgers and chicken to local seafood, Caribbean, Hispanic, and of course Dutch cuisine. You won’t go wrong by taking a trip down the Handelskade where you’ll find several places to eat.

Willemstad Curacao cruise terminal

There is plenty of parking and amenities for a smooth day at the beach. 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.

The establishment provides a great opportunity to become acquainted with authentic Curaçaoan dishes and taste our island cuisine. This is where the port of Curaçao is located, so if you’re visiting the island on a cruise, you’re right at the start location of our itinerary. Overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the calm waters at Mambo Beach are perfect for swimming. On cruises to Curaçao, visit the shops along Mambo Beach Boulevard and unwind with a refreshing piña-colada. Take it easy lounging on the sparkling white sand, or get your heart rate up with a friendly game of beach tennis. Curaçao, with its vibrant culture, stunning natural landscapes, and rich history, offers a plethora of activities to fill your day with unforgettable experiences.

Mega Piers 1 and 2 are equipped with a few facilities, such as a tourist information desk, souvenir shop, taxi rank, and large parking used mainly by tour buses. Blue Bay Beach Resort is situated a minute drive from the Curacao port (around 10 km/6 miles) and ranks among the most beautiful beaches on the island. The beach is part of the private resort featuring beach and golf courses, luxury villas, several bars and restaurants, and a stunning private beach tucked in a bay named after its blue azure waters. Many cruise guests take a trip to Mambo Beach, one of the island’s most beautiful beaches and the closest one to the cruise port.

This old fort has been converted into a number of shops and restaurants, and you can also climb to the top (for free!) for views of Handelskade, Punda, Otrobanda, and St Anna Bay. If the bridge is closed to pedestrian traffic and you can cross to either Punda or Otrobanda, you can take the ferry for free across to the other side! We did this a few times and it offered a different perspective of the opposing districts. One of the most unique features about Willemstad is the huge floating bridge connecting Otrobanda to Punda. You can wander aimlessly and some across all sorts of unique pieces of art.

No comments:

Post a Comment

101 Best Japanese Full Sleeve Tattoo Ideas That Will Blow Your Mind!

Table Of Content top japanese tattoo artists The Art of Irezumi: Techniques and Styles Japanese Sleeve Tattoos: Meaning and Significance Dec...