Aruba Cruises

Aruba, a stunning jewel in the southern Caribbean, is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and friendly locals. With its bright sunny days and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s no wonder why Aruba has become a top cruise destination for ocean lovers and adventure seekers alike. Fun fact: Aruba is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, including the famous Eagle Beach, which often ranks among the top in global surveys. So, pack your swimsuit and sunscreen—this Caribbean paradise is calling your name!

Major Cruise Lines Offering Unforgettable Trips to Aruba

• Holland America Line: This classic cruise line features a fleet of 11 ships, with 6 making their way to Aruba. The Rotterdam and Zuiderdam are particularly notable, offering elegant dining experiences and excellent service. Departures are most commonly from Fort Lauderdale or Miami, providing a convenient route for cruisers aiming to enjoy the vibrant culture and stunning scenery of Aruba.
• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17, Princess has 8 ships that visit Aruba. The Majestic Princess and Coral Princess stand out with their exceptional onboard amenities and diverse entertainment options. Cruises usually depart from Fort Lauderdale or Los Angeles, making it easy to kick off your Caribbean getaway.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: This well-known cruise line has a fleet of 28, with 9 ships making their way to Aruba. The Serenade of the Seas and Brilliance of the Seas are two crowd-pleasers, boasting thrilling activities and impressive dining venues onboard. Departures typically happen from San Juan or Cartagena, allowing cruisers to seamlessly enjoy Aruba’s tropical paradise.
• Carnival Cruise Line: With 27 ships in their fleet, Carnival has 12 vessels sailing to Aruba. Carnival Vista and Carnival Magic are particularly popular, known for their casual atmosphere and engaging onboard entertainment. Most cruises depart from Miami or Port Canaveral, giving you plenty of options to set sail towards fun.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Currently, this cruise line features a total of 20 ships, with 10 offering itineraries to Aruba. Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Jade are noteworthy for their casual dining and freestyle cruising experience. Most departures occur from Tampa or Miami, making it an easy escape for Australian cruisers wishing to bask in the Aruba sun!

Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines to Aruba

• Oceania Cruises: Oceania sails with a fleet of 8 ships, with 5 sailing to Aruba. The Insignia and Sirena are particularly acclaimed for their fine dining and luxurious accommodations. Departures most commonly occur from Miami or Panama City, ensuring you’re well-positioned for an unforgettable experience on this stunning island.
• Seabourn: This luxury cruise line features 6 ships, with 1 dedicated to Aruba—Seabourn Ovation. Known for their all-inclusive offerings and personalized service, this ship promises an indulgent holiday experience. Departures often happen from Bridgetown or Philipsburg, leading you smoothly to the heart of paradise.
• Silversea: With a fleet of 12, Silversea has 3 ships sailing to Aruba, including Silver Shadow and Silver Ray. These ships are synonymous with opulence, featuring spacious suites and exceptional gourmet dining. Expect departures most often from Cartagena or Fort Lauderdale, setting the tone for lavish cruising into Aruba.
• Azamara Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 4, Azamara has 2 ships offering itineraries to Aruba. Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest are known for their immersive experiences and longer port stays. Most departures occur from Miami or Fuerte Amador, allowing you to dive into the island’s rich culture and captivating beauty.

Top Harbours to Experience in Aruba

• Oranjestad: The charming capital of Aruba is filled with colourful architecture and welcoming vibes. Take a stroll along the waterfront and explore the quaint shops at the Renaissance Marketplace. Be sure to try the local dishes at one of the many restaurants nearby for a taste of authentic Aruban flavours.
• Eagle Beach: Recognized for its powdery white sands and turquoise waters, this beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Enjoy water sports like paddleboarding or jet skiing, and don’t miss out on visiting the iconic Divi-Divi trees lining the shore for a perfect photo opportunity!
• Baby Beach: A stunning crescent-shaped lagoon, Baby Beach is ideal for families and inexperienced swimmers due to its calm waters. Enjoy a relaxing day by the beach, rent snorkelling gear, and discover vibrant marine life just steps from the shore.
• Arikok National Park: For nature enthusiasts, this stunning national park covers about 20% of the island. Hike through unique landscapes filled with cacti, beautiful beaches, and ancient rock paintings. It’s the perfect way to see Aruba’s diverse flora and fauna while enjoying scenic views.
• California Lighthouse: A visit to Aruba wouldn’t be complete without stopping by this iconic landmark. Climb to the top for a breathtaking panoramic view of the island and coastline. The sunsets from this vantage point are truly something special, ideal for a romantic evening!

The Ideal Times to Cruise to Aruba

With its warm, tropical climate, Aruba is a fantastic cruising destination year-round! From January to March, expect temperatures between 24°C and 29°C, ideal for sun-seekers. April to June continues to be pleasant with highs around 26°C to 31°C, perfect for outdoor activities and beach fun. While July to September brings warmer temperatures of 26°C to 32°C, you’ll likely experience a few short showers. Finally, October to December sees temperatures returning to 24°C to 28°C, with increased rainfall that typically offers sunny days mixed with occasional tropical showers.

The Cost of a Cruise to Aruba

For those dreamy days in Aruba, a one-week cruise will generally set you back between $1,300 and $2,800 AUD, depending on the cruise line and accommodation choices. If you’re looking for something more lavish, expect to pay around $3,500 to $6,500 AUD for a luxury escape, offering exquisite amenities and tailored services.

When it comes to dining, meals at local restaurants generally range from $15 to $35 AUD, letting you immerse yourself in local flavours without a hefty price tag. Drinks like cocktails and beers typically cost around $5 to $14 AUD, ensuring you can toast to your sunny getaway!

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Next Cruise

If you’re looking for other exciting destinations, here are some alternative cruise regions that complement a trip to Aruba:

• Saint Martin – Known for its stunning beaches and a mix of French and Dutch cultures, this destination offers lively beach bars and delectable cuisine that blends cultures perfectly.
• Bonaire – A paradise for divers and snorkelers, Bonaire is famous for its beautiful coral reefs and vibrant marine life. With its laid-back atmosphere, this destination is perfect for those looking to relax while exploring underwater wonders.
• Curacao – Just a short sail away, Curacao offers a colourful and unique colonial flair along with breathtaking beaches. The vibrant capital city of Willemstad is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Cuba – A destination rich in history and culture, Cuba invites exploration of colonial architecture, vibrant nightlife, and freshly prepared local dishes. Don’t miss the iconic streets of Havana!
• Dominican Republic – Known for its stunning beaches and exciting excursions, the Dominican Republic offers adventurers plenty to explore while basking in the sun on white sandy shores.

Are you ready to embark on your dream cruise to Aruba with Cruise1st? Explore vibrant beaches, enjoy exquisite dining, and create memories that will last a lifetime in this spectacular Caribbean destination!