Bonaire Cruises

Explore the Tropical Paradise of Bonaire

Welcome to Bonaire, a stunning Caribbean destination known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and breathtaking landscapes. Part of the Dutch Caribbean, Bonaire is the perfect spot for those seeking adventure and relaxation in equal measure. Did you know that Bonaire is famous for its excellent diving and snorkelling opportunities, offering over 80 dive sites? Cruising to Bonaire presents an ideal chance to enjoy the island’s natural beauty, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of this tropical paradise.

Top Major Cruise Lines to Bonaire

• Royal Caribbean: With a fleet of 30 ships, Royal Caribbean features 7 vessels, including Symphony of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas, that offer itineraries to Bonaire. Famous for their innovative ship designs and thrilling onboard activities, Royal Caribbean ships provide a diverse range of entertainment options, from rock climbing walls to ice skating rinks. Most cruises depart from key international ports like Fort Lauderdale and Miami, ensuring a smooth journey to the beautiful shores of Bonaire.
• Princess Cruises: Operating a fleet of 17 ships, Princess Cruises boasts 7 vessels—like Regal Princess and Caribbean Princess—offering itineraries that include Bonaire. Known for their exceptional service and onboard dining options, Princess Cruises excel at creating memorable experiences for cruisers. Departures commonly occur from international ports such as Fort Lauderdale or San Juan, providing easy access to explore this stunning Caribbean gem.
• Holland America Line: This renowned cruise line has a total fleet size of 11 ships, with 3 vessels—including Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam—offering itineraries to Bonaire. Holland America is celebrated for its refined dining experiences and cultural enrichment programs, offering immersive activities related to the destinations visited. Departures usually take place from international ports like Fort Lauderdale and Amsterdam, ensuring smooth embarkation for cruisers exploring Bonaire.
• P&O Cruises: Operating a fleet of 7 ships, P&O features 3 vessels—Britannia, Azura, and Ventura—that cruise to Bonaire. With a focus on British traditions and family-friendly experiences, P&O Cruises offer engaging onboard activities and dedicated entertainment for all ages. Most departures happen from international ports such as Southampton, giving travelers the flexibility they need to embark on their Caribbean adventure.
• Carnival Cruise Lines: This vibrant cruise line boasts a fleet of 27 ships, with 5 vessels—including Carnival Horizon and Carnival Magic—offering itineraries to Bonaire. Carnival is known for its fun atmosphere and unique onboard experiences, making it perfect for cruise-goers looking for excitement and entertainment. Departures typically occur from key international ports like Miami and Galveston, ensuring convenient access for travelers heading to Bonaire.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruising Opportunities

• Silversea: With a fleet of 12 ships, Silversea features 4 vessels—such as Silver Spirit and Silver Shadow—that offer itineraries to Bonaire. Known for their all-inclusive luxury, Silversea provides personalized service, exquisite dining, and exclusive shore excursions, creating a truly unforgettable cruise experience. Departures usually occur from international ports like Bridgetown or Miami, providing easy embarkation for those seeking a refined experience in Bonaire.
• Oceania Cruises: Oceania operates a fleet of 8 ships, with 4 vessels—Marina, Nautica, Sirena, and Riviera—offering itineraries to Bonaire. Renowned for their culinary excellence and luxurious amenities, Oceania provides an upscale onboard experience with a focus on immersive destination engagement. Departures typically happen from international ports such as Miami or Panama City, ensuring smooth access to stunning Bonaire.
• Explora Journeys: This luxury cruise line, with a fleet of 2 ships, features both EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II that offer itineraries to Bonaire. With a focus on wellness and sustainability, they deliver an innovative cruise experience that emphasizes relaxation and rejuvenation. Departures usually occur from international ports like Miami or San Juan, making it convenient for cruisers ready to discover Bonaire’s beauty!
• Azamara Cruises: This smaller luxury cruise line operates a fleet of 4 ships, with Azamara Quest offering itineraries to Bonaire. Known for its immersive travel experiences, Azamara emphasizes extended port stays, allowing guests to engage deeply with local cultures. Departures typically take place from international ports such as Fuerte Amador and Miami, ensuring easy access to Beauitful Bonaire.

Top Harbour to Explore in Bonaire

• Kralendijk: The lively capital of Bonaire, Kralendijk, welcomes cruise passengers with its colourful architecture and charming waterfront. While docked, visitors can explore local shops, galleries, and restaurants by the ocean. Be sure to sample local dishes like “kibbeling” (fried fish) and refreshing drinks made from the island’s natural ingredients. Enjoy a stroll along the waterfront promenade, or take a kayak or snorkelling tour to explore the nearby coral reefs!

Additional Harbours Typically Visited by Cruises Going to Bonaire

• Oranjestad, Aruba: Often a stop before or after visiting Bonaire, Oranjestad is known for its vibrant Dutch colonial architecture and stunning beaches. Visit Fort Zoutman for a dose of local history, or explore the Aruba Aloe Museum and Factory to learn about the island's iconic aloe vera production. Don't forget to dive into the Caribbean culture at local markets, where you can find arts, crafts, and delicious cuisine!

Best Times to Cruise to Bonaire

The ideal cruising season for Bonaire generally spans from December to April, with temperatures typically ranging from 24°C to 30°C. This period is known for its dry weather and abundant sunshine, perfect for outdoor activities like sunbathing and water sports. The May to November period, while warmer (averaging 27°C to 32°C), may bring some rain and storms, but the lush landscapes are stunning and ideal for a quieter experience of the island.

Costs of Cruising to Bonaire

A typical one-week cruise to Bonaire usually ranges from $1200, while a two-week cruise may start around $2200. For those interested in luxury cruising, prices typically begin at about $4000 for a week. Dining costs in Bonaire can be quite affordable, with meals averaging around $15 to $30, allowing you to indulge in local Caribbean flavours. Drinks in the region generally range between $3 and $8, providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy tropical cocktails!

Alternative Regions Worth Considering for Your Next Cruise

If Bonaire has captured your imagination, consider these alternative regions for your next cruise:

• Aruba: Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, Aruba offers plenty of outdoor activities and a lively cultural scene, making it perfect for those seeking fun and relaxation.
• Curaçao: Just a short cruise away, Curaçao is famous for its colourful architecture, beautiful beaches, and rich history. Enjoy water sports, traditional cuisine, and local art galleries during your visit!
• St. Lucia: Known for its lush rainforests and iconic Pitons, St. Lucia provides breathtaking landscapes and plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities, perfect for nature lovers.
• Grenada: Famous for its spice production and beautiful beaches, Grenada is an idyllic destination offering both adventure and relaxation for visitors.
• Dominica: Often called the "Nature Isle," Dominica is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, cascading waterfalls, and lush rainforests, making it a perfect spot for eco-tourism and outdoor activities.

Ready to start your tropical adventure in Bonaire? Book your cruise with Cruise1st today and immerse yourself in the beauty of this breathtaking destination!