Curacao Cruises

Curacao, a vibrant gem in the Caribbean, is famed for its stunning beaches, rich history, and colorful architecture that reflects its Dutch heritage. Home to around 35 beaches with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s a paradise for sun-seekers and adventure lovers alike. Fun fact: Curacao’s capital, Willemstad, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its one-of-a-kind Dutch colonial buildings painted in bright, cheerful colours! Visiting Curacao by cruise is an excellent option, as it allows you to explore everything this island has to offer while enjoying the luxury and comfort of a cruise ship.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Exciting Sailings to Curacao

• Holland America Line: With a fleet size of 11, Holland America has 5 ships that sail to Curacao, with the Rotterdam and Zuiderdam leading the way. These ships are renowned for their fine dining experiences and exceptional onboard services. Departures typically occur from Fort Lauderdale or Miami, making it convenient for cruisers to embark on their Caribbean adventure!
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: This impressive cruise line boasts a fleet of 28, with 9 of those vessels sailing to Curacao. The Serenade of the Seas and Brilliance of the Seas stand out for their thrilling onboard activities and entertainment like rock climbing walls and impressive theatres. Most cruises depart from San Juan or Fort Lauderdale, providing ample opportunity to explore Curacao’s beauty.
• Princess Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 17 ships, 8 of them visit Curacao. The Majestic Princess and Grand Princess are specifically noteworthy due to their wide array of onboard entertainment options and exquisite dining experiences. Departures predominantly take place from Fort Lauderdale or San Juan, allowing cruisers to delve into the vibrant island culture upon arrival.
• Carnival Cruise Line: With a total of 27 ships, Carnival has 12 that set sail to Curacao. The Carnival Magic and Carnival Venezia are popular for their fun-filled atmospheres and diverse dining options. Departures commonly occur from Miami or Port Canaveral, providing exciting options for cruisers ready to explore.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: This cruise line boasts a fleet of 20, with 10 ships offering itineraries that include Curacao. The Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Gem provide a relaxed atmosphere with freestyle dining options. Sailings typically depart from Tampa or Miami, ensuring that cruisers have convenient access to Curacao’s stunning shores.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines to Curacao

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet size of 8, Oceania has 5 ships cruising to Curacao, notably Insignia and Sirena. These ships stand out for their gourmet dining experiences and high-quality service. Departures occur most frequently from Miami or Panama City, promising a refined cruising experience in stunning surroundings.
• Seabourn: Operating 6 ships, Seabourn has 2 that visit Curacao—Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn. Their focus on luxury and exceedingly attentive service ensures an unforgettable experience at sea. Cruises often depart from Bridgetown or Miami for an exquisite getaway.
• Silversea: With a total of 12 ships, Silversea has 3 that sail to Curacao, including Silver Shadow and Silver Moon. Known for their all-suite accommodations and personalized service, these vessels deliver an exceptionally luxurious cruise experience. Departures are typically from Fort Lauderdale or Cartagena, providing fabulous starting points for your holiday.
• Azamara Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 4, Azamara has 2 ships visiting Curacao. The Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest are notable for their immersive itineraries and longer stays in port, allowing cruisers to capture all the flavours of Curacao. Departures generally occur from Miami or Fuerte Amador, adding to your journey’s allure.

Top Harbours to Discover in Curacao

• Willemstad: As the capital city, this picturesque harbour is characterized by its vibrant, colorful buildings and cobblestone streets. Upon docking, explore the Queen Emma Bridge for stunning waterfront views and stop by the floating market for local crafts and delicious street food.
• Seru Boca: This anchorage allows you to visit nearby beaches. Rent a bike or take a scenic drive to visit the stunning Cas Abao Beach or Playa Porto Marie, renowned for their clear waters and beautiful coral reefs.
• Santa Barbara Beach: Nestled along the coast, Santa Barbara Beach welcomes cruisers with ample activities like snorkelling and diving opportunities or simply relaxing by turquoise waters. Take a stroll along the sandy shores and soak in the laid-back atmosphere.
• Blue Bay Beach: Dubbed one of the best beaches on the island, Blue Bay features serene waters and breathtaking scenery. Lounge in the sun, enjoy local cuisine from beachside shacks, or snorkel among colourful fish in the nearby reef.
• Kralendijk, Bonaire: While not part of Curacao, tendering into Kralendijk will allow you to explore this nearby island famous for its spectacular diving and snorkelling spots. It’s an excellent opportunity for cruisers seeking unforgettable underwater adventures during their visit.

Best Times to Cruise to Curacao

The beauty of Curacao lies in its mild climate, making it a fabulous year-round destination. From January to March, temperatures hover around 24°C to 28°C, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and the beautiful beaches. April to June typically sees temperatures similar to these, making it great for travelling without the crowds. During July to September, expect slightly warmer weather, averaging 26°C to 32°C, while the humidity levels may rise. October to December offer pleasant temperatures between 23°C to 28°C, making it a lovely time for explorations and soaking up local festivities!

The Cost of Cruising to Curacao

A one-week cruise to Curacao generally costs between $1,200 to $2,800 AUD, depending on the cruise line and level of accommodation you select. For those looking for luxury cruise experiences, costs can range from $3,500 to $6,500 AUD, with amenities that can elevate your voyage to the next level.

When you’re enjoying the local cuisine, meals typically vary from $15 to $30 AUD at local restaurants, offering a taste of authentic Caribbean flavours. Drinks, like cocktails and local beers, usually cost around $5 to $12 AUD, helping you enjoy the refreshing flavours of Curacao without stretching the budget too much!

Alternative Regions to Consider for a Cruise

If you’re considering other fascinating cruise destinations, take a peek at these regions:

• Bonaire – An ecological paradise known for its exceptional diving experiences, Bonaire is perfect for nature lovers. Explore the stunning marine parks and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of this laid-back island.
• Netherlands Antilles – This string of islands offers a delightful mix of cultural experiences, stunning landscapes, and breathtaking beaches. If you’re after local flavour and vibrant music scenes, the Netherlands Antilles are a fantastic choice!
• Caribbean – With countless islands to explore, the Caribbean is a go-to choice for any cruiser! From the lush Rainforests of Dominica to the white sandy beaches of Antigua, the captivating charm of the Caribbean is calling your name.
• Bahamas – Known for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters, the Bahamas promises relaxation and a vibrant local culture. Indulge in exquisite seafood, explore sun-kissed beaches, and bask in the sun for the ultimate tropical experience.
• Mexico – Offering beautiful coastlines, ancient ruins, and incredible local food, Mexico is a fantastic destination for adventurous cruisers. Immerse yourself in vibrant markets and discover an array of cultural attractions during your visit.

Ready to dive into the vibrant world of Curacao? With Cruise1st, you can easily book an unforgettable cruise holiday that tantalizes your senses with everything this stunning destination has to offer. Your island getaway awaits, so let’s set sail to Curacao!