What to Do in Curacao on a Cruise: A 2-Day Itinerary

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Curacao: A Caribbean Island Paradise

With its crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and lush vegetation, Curacao is a Caribbean island paradise. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, Curacao has something to offer everyone.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best things to do in Curacao, including:

  • Visiting the capital city of Willemstad
  • Exploring the island’s many beaches
  • Diving and snorkeling in the clear waters
  • Hiking in the lush forests
  • And much more!

So if you’re planning a trip to Curacao, be sure to read on for all the information you need to know.

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Activity Description Cost
Scuba diving Explore the colorful reefs and marine life of Curacao’s waters. $50-$100 per dive
Windsurfing Catch some waves and enjoy the beautiful scenery. $20-$40 per hour
Hiking Explore the island’s natural beauty on foot. $10-$20 per hike
Shopping Find souvenirs and other unique items to take home. $10-$20 per item
Carnival Experience the island’s vibrant culture and festivities. $20-$40 per day

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Must-See Attractions

[image of the Queen Emma Bridge]

Queen Emma Bridge

The Queen Emma Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Curaao. This floating bridge is a popular spot for tourists to take pictures and enjoy the views of the harbor. The bridge was built in 1888 and is the only floating bridge in the world that is still in use. It is a beautiful example of Dutch colonial architecture and is a must-see for any visitor to Curaao.

Fort Amsterdam

Fort Amsterdam is a 17th-century fortress that was built by the Dutch West India Company. The fort is located on the waterfront in Willemstad and offers stunning views of the city and the harbor. The fort is open to the public and is a great place to learn about the history of Curaao.

Willemstad

Willemstad is the capital of Curaao and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is known for its colorful buildings, which are built in a variety of architectural styles. Willemstad is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that is full of life and culture. There are plenty of things to do in Willemstad, including visiting museums, shopping, and dining at some of the city’s many restaurants.

Christoffel National Park

Christoffel National Park is located in the north of Curaao and is home to the highest mountain on the island, Mount Christoffel. The park is a beautiful natural area that is perfect for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. There are also a number of caves in the park that can be explored.

Klein Curaao

Klein Curaao is a small uninhabited island that is located about 25 kilometers off the coast of Curaao. The island is a popular day trip destination for tourists who want to experience the beautiful white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. There are also a number of shipwrecks that can be explored off the coast of Klein Curaao.

Outdoor Activities

[image of a person scuba diving]

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Curaao is a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling due to its clear waters and abundant marine life. There are a number of dive sites to choose from, including shipwrecks, coral reefs, and caves.

Hiking and Biking

There are a number of hiking and biking trails in Curaao, which offer stunning views of the island’s natural beauty. The trails range in difficulty, so there is something for everyone.

Windsurfing and Kitesurfing

Curaao is a great place to windsurf and kitesurf due to its strong winds and consistent waves. There are a number of windsurfing and kitesurfing schools on the island that can provide lessons and equipment.

Fishing

Fishing is a popular activity in Curaao, and there are a number of different species of fish to catch. The best time to go fishing is in the morning or evening, when the fish are more active.

Other Activities

In addition to the activities mentioned above, there are a number of other things to do in Curaao, including swimming, sunbathing, shopping, and dining. Curaao is a beautiful and diverse island that has something to offer everyone.

Cultural Experiences

Curacao is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from the Dutch, Spanish, African, and Caribbean peoples who have all called the island home. This rich cultural heritage is evident in everything from the island’s cuisine to its music and dance.

Here are a few of the cultural experiences you can enjoy during your cruise to Curacao:

  • Visit the Kura Hulanda Museum. This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of Curacao, and it features exhibits on everything from the island’s indigenous people to its colonial history.
  • Take a cooking class. Learn how to make traditional Curaaoan dishes like funchi (cassava bread), keshi yena (stuffed cheese), and stoba (stew).
  • Attend a cultural festival. Curacao hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from Carnival to Christmas.
  • Listen to live music. Curacao is home to a vibrant music scene, with everything from traditional Caribbean calypso to modern reggae and dancehall.
  • Visit a local bar or restaurant. Sample some of Curacao’s delicious cuisine, and enjoy a cold drink in a lively atmosphere.

Food and Drink

Curacao is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide variety of restaurants to choose from. You can find everything from international cuisine to traditional Curaaoan dishes.

Here are a few of the must-try foods when you’re in Curacao:

  • Funchi. This is a type of cassava bread that is a staple of the Curaaoan diet. It is typically served with a variety of toppings, such as cheese, meat, or fish.
  • Keshi Yena. This is a stuffed cheese dish that is made with a variety of meats, vegetables, and spices. It is typically served with rice and beans.
  • Stoba. This is a type of stew that is made with a variety of meats, vegetables, and spices. It is typically served with rice.
  • Curaao liqueur. This is a liqueur made from the dried peel of the laraha citrus fruit. It is typically used in cocktails, but it can also be enjoyed on its own.
  • Banana bread. This is a sweet bread that is made with bananas, sugar, and spices. It is typically served with butter or cream cheese.

Curacao is a beautiful island with a rich culture and a vibrant food scene. There is something for everyone to enjoy in Curacao, whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an exciting cultural experience.

What are the best things to do in Curacao on a cruise?

  • Visit the capital city of Willemstad. Willemstad is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to many beautiful buildings, including the Queen Emma Bridge and the Handelskade. You can also visit the Curacao Museum, which tells the story of the island’s history.
  • Go snorkeling or diving. Curacao has some of the best diving in the Caribbean, with clear waters and a variety of marine life to see. There are many dive sites to choose from, including the Tugboat Wreck, the Mushroom Forest, and the Coral Gardens.
  • Take a boat trip to Klein Curacao. Klein Curacao is a small island just off the coast of Curacao. It’s a popular day trip destination, and is known for its beautiful beaches, clear water, and abundance of sea turtles.
  • Visit the Hato Caves. The Hato Caves are a series of limestone caves located in the north of Curacao. They’re home to a variety of stalactites and stalagmites, as well as bats and other wildlife.
  • Explore the Curacao National Park. The Curacao National Park is located in the south of the island. It’s home to a variety of plants and animals, including the endemic Curacao toad. You can also go hiking, biking, and birdwatching in the park.

What is the best time to visit Curacao?

The best time to visit Curacao is from December to April, when the weather is warm and sunny. The average temperature during this time is around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The rainy season runs from May to November, but it’s still possible to have a good time during this time of year.

What is the currency in Curacao?

The official currency in Curacao is the Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG). However, most businesses also accept US dollars.

Do I need a visa to visit Curacao?

Citizens of most countries do not need a visa to visit Curacao for stays of up to 90 days. However, it’s always a good idea to check the latest visa requirements before you travel.

What is the language spoken in Curacao?

The official language of Curacao is Dutch. However, most people also speak Papiamento, which is a creole language that is based on Dutch, Spanish, Portuguese, and English.

Where is Curacao located?

Curacao is located in the Caribbean Sea, about 35 miles off the coast of Venezuela. It’s part of the Dutch Caribbean and is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

How do I get to Curacao?

The most common way to get to Curacao is by plane. There are direct flights from a number of cities in the United States, Canada, and Europe. You can also get to Curacao by cruise ship.

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Curacao is a beautiful island with a rich culture and history. There are many things to see and do, from exploring the capital city of Willemstad to relaxing on the beach. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation, Curacao has something to offer everyone.

Here are a few key takeaways from this article:

  • Curacao is a relatively small island, but it has a lot to offer visitors. There are many different things to see and do, from exploring the capital city of Willemstad to relaxing on the beach.
  • Curacao is a diverse island, with a mix of Dutch, African, and Caribbean influences. This is reflected in the island’s culture, food, and music.
  • Curacao is a great place to visit year-round. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy.

If you’re looking for a beautiful island with a lot to offer, Curacao is a great option. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation, you’re sure to find it on Curacao.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.