Curaçao Cruise Port: A Guide for Cruisers

Curaçao is a Dutch Caribbean island that offers a unique blend of European and African influences, as well as a diverse natural beauty. Whether you are looking for history, culture, adventure, or relaxation, Curaçao has something for everyone. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about cruising to Curaçao, including where to dock, what to do, where to shop, and how to get around.

Where to Dock in Curaçao?

The port of Curaçao is located in Willemstad, the capital and largest city of the island. Willemstad is divided into two parts by the St. Anna Bay, a narrow inlet that leads to the deep harbor of Schottegat. The two parts are called Punda (the east side) and Otrobanda (the west side), and they are connected by the Queen Emma Bridge, a floating pedestrian bridge that swings open to let ships pass through.

Cruise ships dock at one of two terminals in Willemstad: the Mega Pier Cruise Terminal and the Mathey Wharf Terminal. The Mega Pier Cruise Terminal is for large cruise ships that cannot fit under the Queen Juliana Bridge, which spans the bay. The Mega Pier Cruise Terminal is located in Otrobanda, close to the Rif Fort, a historic fortress that now houses shops and restaurants. The Mathey Wharf Terminal is for smaller cruise ships that can pass under the bridge. The Mathey Wharf Terminal is located in Punda, along the waterfront of Handelskade, a picturesque street with colorful colonial buildings.

Both terminals are within walking distance of the main attractions of Willemstad, and they offer amenities such as tourist information desks, taxi stands, tour operators, restrooms, wheelchair assistance, and ECV rental. You can also find free Wi-Fi at some of the nearby cafes and restaurants.

What to Do in Curaçao?

Curaçao has a lot to offer for cruise visitors, from exploring the UNESCO-listed historic city center of Willemstad, to enjoying the pristine beaches and coral reefs of the island. Here are some of the best things to do in Curaçao:

Wander around Willemstad: Willemstad is one of the most charming and colorful towns in the Caribbean, with a rich historical and cultural heritage. You can admire the Dutch and Spanish architecture of the buildings, visit landmarks such as the Fort Amsterdam and the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue (the oldest synagogue in the Americas), and browse through museums such as the Kura Hulanda Museum (which showcases the history of slavery and African culture) and the Maritime Museum (which displays the maritime history of Curaçao). You can also shop for souvenirs at the floating market (where vendors sell fresh produce and fish from their boats) or at the many stores along Handelskade and Breedestraat.
Relax on the beaches: Curaçao has over 35 beaches to choose from, each with its own character and charm. Some of the most popular beaches are Blue Bay Beach (a large beach with calm waters and excellent snorkeling), Mambo Beach (a lively beach with bars, restaurants, and water sports), Playa Porto Mari (a beach with white sand and clear water), Playa Kenepa Grandi (a beach with turquoise water and stunning views), and Playa Lagun (a beach with a fishing village atmosphere). Most beaches charge a small entrance fee or require a purchase at a nearby bar or restaurant.
Snorkel or dive in the coral reefs: Curaçao is known for its abundant marine life and coral reefs, which are easily accessible from the shore or by boat. You can snorkel or dive with stingrays, turtles, fish, and even sharks among the 400 species that inhabit the waters around Curaçao. Some of the best snorkeling and diving spots are Tugboat (where you can see a sunken tugboat), Mushroom Forest (where you can see coral formations shaped like mushrooms), Klein Curaçao (a small uninhabited island with pristine reefs), Superior Producer (a sunken cargo ship), and Alice in Wonderland (a reef with colorful corals and sponges).
Visit the Curaçao Sea Aquarium: The Curaçao Sea Aquarium is a great place to learn about the marine life of Curaçao and to interact with some of the animals. You can see exhibits of sharks, sea turtles, sea lions, flamingos, and more. You can also feed the fish, touch the starfish, or watch the dolphin show. For a more immersive experience, you can snorkel or dive with the dolphins at the Dolphin Academy, or swim with the stingrays and sharks at the Animal Encounters.
Explore the natural wonders: Curaçao has more than just beaches and reefs. It also has some amazing natural wonders that are worth exploring. You can visit the Hato Caves, a network of limestone caves with stalactites, stalagmites, and ancient drawings. You can also visit the Shete Boka National Park, a park that covers 10 km of coastline and features dramatic cliffs, blowholes, and bays. You can also visit the Christoffel National Park, a park that covers the highest point of the island and offers hiking trails, wildlife, and scenic views.

Where to Shop in Curaçao?

Curaçao is a shopping paradise for cruise visitors, as it offers a variety of products at duty-free prices. You can find everything from clothing and jewelry, to electronics and souvenirs, to local crafts and delicacies. Here are some of the best places to shop in Curaçao:

Renaissance Mall & Rif Fort: This is a shopping complex that is located near the Mega Pier Cruise Terminal in Otrobanda. It features over 50 stores, including international brands such as Mango, Nautica, Swarovski, and Pandora. It also has a casino, a cinema, and several bars and restaurants.
Punda: This is the oldest and most popular shopping district in Willemstad, located across the Queen Emma Bridge from Otrobanda. It has a pedestrian-only street called Breedestraat, where you can find many stores selling jewelry, electronics, souvenirs, and more. It also has a market square called Gomezplein, where you can find local crafts and food.
Floating Market: This is a unique market that is located along the waterfront of Punda. It consists of boats from Venezuela that sell fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and spices. You can buy directly from the vendors or from the stalls on the shore.
Curaçao Liqueur Distillery: This is a distillery that produces the famous blue Curaçao liqueur, a sweet orange-flavored liqueur that is used in many cocktails. You can take a tour of the distillery, learn about its history and production process, and sample different flavors of the liqueur. You can also buy bottles of liqueur at the gift shop.
Otrobanda: This is another shopping district in Willemstad, located on the same side as the Mega Pier Cruise Terminal. It has a street called Breedestraat Otrobanda, where you can find more stores selling clothing, shoes, accessories, and more. It also has a flea market called Marshe di Otrobanda, where you can find second-hand goods and bargains.

How to Get Around in Curaçao?

Curaçao is easy to get around for cruise visitors, as most of the attractions are within walking distance or a short taxi ride from the cruise terminals. Here are some of the options for getting around in Curaçao:

Walking: Walking is the best way to explore Willemstad and its surroundings. You can walk from one side of the town to the other by crossing the Queen Emma Bridge or taking a free ferry when the bridge is open. You can also walk to some of the nearby beaches such as Mambo Beach or Blue Bay Beach.
Taxi: Taxi is a convenient way to get to other parts of the island or to farther beaches and attractions. Taxis are available at both cruise terminals and at major tourist spots. However, taxis do not have meters in Curaçao, so you should agree on a fare before getting in. The average fare for a taxi ride is around $20 USD per hour for up to four people.
Bus: Bus is a cheap way to get around in Curaçao, but not very reliable or frequent. There are two types of buses in Curaçao: Konvoi: These are large buses that run on fixed routes and schedules. They have blue license plates with the letters BUS. They stop at designated bus stops, which are marked with yellow signs. The fare for a konvoi bus is around $2 USD per ride, and you can pay with cash or a smart card called a PasaCard. Buseta: These are small vans that run on flexible routes and schedules. They have yellow license plates with the letters BUS. They stop anywhere along the road, and you can flag them down or ask them to drop you off. The fare for a buseta is around $1 USD per ride, and you can pay with cash only.
Car rental: Car rental is another option for getting around in Curaçao, especially if you want to explore the island at your own pace and convenience. You can rent a car from one of the many car rental agencies at the airport or in Willemstad. However, you should be aware of the driving conditions in Curaçao, such as the left-hand traffic, the narrow roads, the lack of street signs, and the aggressive drivers. You should also have a valid driver’s license, an international driving permit, and insurance coverage. The average cost for a car rental is around $40 USD per day.

Curaçao Cruise Port FAQ

What is the best time to cruise to Curaçao?

The best time to cruise to Curaçao is from December to April, which is the dry season and the peak tourist season. The weather is sunny and warm, with average temperatures ranging from 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C). The water temperature is also ideal for swimming and snorkeling, averaging around 80°F (27°C). However, this is also the most expensive and crowded time to visit Curaçao, so you should book your cruise and your excursions in advance.

What is the currency in Curaçao?

The currency in Curaçao is the Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG), also known as the florin. The exchange rate is fixed at 1 USD = 1.79 ANG. However, US dollars are widely accepted in Curaçao, especially in tourist areas. You can also use credit cards and debit cards at most places, but you may be charged a foreign transaction fee by your bank. ATMs are available throughout the island, but they may charge a withdrawal fee.

What language is spoken in Curaçao?

The official languages in Curaçao are Dutch and Papiamento. Dutch is used for government and education purposes, while Papiamento is used for everyday communication. Papiamento is a creole language that combines elements of Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, English, French, and African languages. However, most people in Curaçao also speak English and Spanish fluently, so you should not have any problem communicating with them.

What are some of the local delicacies in Curaçao?

Curaçao has a diverse cuisine that reflects its multicultural heritage. Some of the local delicacies that you should try are:

Keshi yena: This is a dish of cheese stuffed with meat, vegetables, raisins, olives, and spices. It is usually served with rice or bread.
Kabritu stoba: This is a stew of goat meat cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic, herbs, and hot peppers. It is usually served with funchi (a cornmeal porridge) or tutu (a mashed bean and cornmeal cake).
Piska kora: This is a dish of fried fish coated with flour and spices. It is usually served with pika (a spicy sauce made from onions, peppers, vinegar, and salt) or salsa criollo (a sauce made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice).
Pastechi: This is a pastry filled with cheese, meat, chicken, tuna, or vegetables. It is usually eaten as a snack or breakfast.
Bolo di glas: This is a cake made from rum-soaked sponge cake layered with fruit jam and covered with hard sugar glaze. It is usually eaten as a dessert or for special occasions.

What are some of the souvenirs to buy in Curaçao?

Curaçao has many souvenirs to choose from, ranging from handicrafts to liqueurs. Some of the souvenirs to buy in Curaçao are:

Curaçao liqueur: This is the signature product of Curaçao, a sweet orange-flavored liqueur that comes in different colors, such as blue, green, red, and clear. You can buy it at the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery or at any liquor store.
Delftware: This is a type of pottery that originated in the Netherlands and is characterized by its blue and white patterns. You can find plates, cups, vases, and figurines made of Delftware at various shops in Willemstad.
Chichi dolls: These are colorful and curvy dolls that represent the elder sisters of the Curaçaoan culture. They are handmade by local women using recycled materials and painted with vibrant designs. You can buy them at the Serena’s Art Factory or at other souvenir shops.
Aloe vera products: Curaçao is known for its high-quality aloe vera plants, which have healing and moisturizing properties. You can buy creams, lotions, gels, and oils made from aloe vera at the Curaloe Plantation or at other health and beauty stores.
Curaçao salt: Curaçao has a long history of salt production, dating back to the 17th century. You can buy salt crystals, flakes, or grains in different flavors, such as smoked, garlic, or chili, at the Salt of the Earth store or at other gourmet shops.

What are some of the safety tips for cruising to Curaçao?

Curaçao is generally a safe and friendly destination for cruise visitors, but you should still exercise some caution and common sense. Here are some of the safety tips for cruising to Curaçao:

Be aware of your surroundings: Avoid walking alone at night or in isolated areas. Keep your valuables in a safe place or leave them on the ship. Do not flaunt your jewelry or cash. Beware of pickpockets and scammers in crowded places.
Follow the local laws and customs: Respect the local culture and religion. Dress modestly when visiting churches or mosques. Do not take photos of people without their permission. Do not drink alcohol in public places. Do not use drugs or engage in illegal activities.
Protect yourself from the sun and heat: Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat when outdoors. Drink plenty of water and avoid dehydration. Seek shade or air-conditioning when possible. Avoid overexertion or heatstroke.
Be careful when swimming or snorkeling: Check the water conditions and currents before entering. Wear a life jacket or flotation device if needed. Do not touch or feed the marine animals. Do not step on or break the coral reefs. Watch out for jellyfish, sea urchins, or other stinging creatures.
Have fun but be responsible: Enjoy your cruise to Curaçao but do not forget to be courteous, respectful, and responsible. Follow the rules and regulations of your cruise line and your excursion providers. Tip your guides and drivers if you are satisfied with their service. Have a backup plan in case of emergencies or delays. And most importantly, have a great time!

Curaçao Cruise Port Table

Category	Detail
Location	Caribbean Sea
Country	Curaçao
Capital	Willemstad
Population	163,000
Area	444 km<sup>2</sup>
Language	Dutch, Papiamento
Currency	Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG)
Time zone	Atlantic Standard Time (AST)
Climate	Tropical savanna
Average temperature	81°F (27°C)
Average rainfall	22 inches (560 mm)
Cruise season	Year-round
Cruise terminals	Mega Pier Cruise Terminal, Mathey Wharf Terminal
Distance from terminals to city center	Walking distance
Transportation options	Walking, taxi, bus, car rental
Main attractions	Willemstad, beaches, coral reefs, Curaçao Sea Aquarium, natural wonders
Shopping areas	Renaissance Mall & Rif Fort, Punda, Floating Market, Curaçao Liqueur Distillery, Otrobanda
Local delicacies	Keshi yena, kabritu stoba, piska kora, pastechi, bolo di glas
Souvenirs	Curaçao liqueur, Delftware, chichi

What is the weather in Curaçao?

Curaçao has a tropical savanna climate, which means that it has a dry season and a wet season. The dry season lasts from December to April, and the wet season lasts from May to November. However, the rainfall is not very high in Curaçao, averaging only 22 inches (560 mm) per year. The island is also outside of the hurricane belt, so it rarely experiences storms or hurricanes.

The temperature in Curaçao is fairly consistent throughout the year, ranging from 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C). The hottest months are August and September, and the coolest months are January and February. The humidity is also moderate, averaging around 75%. The water temperature is also warm and pleasant, averaging around 80°F (27°C).

The best time to visit Curaçao in terms of weather is from December to April, which is the dry season and the peak tourist season. The weather is sunny and warm, with little rain and wind. However, this is also the most expensive and crowded time to visit Curaçao, so you should book your cruise and your excursions in advance.

What are the visa requirements for Curaçao?

Curaçao is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, which means that it has its own immigration policy and visa requirements. Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Curaçao or not. You can check the visa requirements for your country on the official website of the Curaçao Immigration Service.

In general, citizens of the United States, Canada, the European Union, and most other countries in the Americas do not need a visa to enter Curaçao for tourism purposes for up to 90 days. However, they still need a valid passport with at least six months of validity and two blank pages, a return or onward ticket, proof of sufficient funds, and proof of accommodation. They may also need a health certificate or a negative COVID-19 test result depending on the current travel restrictions.

Citizens of other countries may need a visa to enter Curaçao for tourism purposes for up to 30 days. They can apply for a visa at the nearest Dutch embassy or consulate in their country of residence. They will need to submit their passport, application form, passport photo, travel itinerary, proof of funds, proof of accommodation, health insurance, and any other supporting documents. They will also need to pay a visa fee of around $40 USD.

It is important to note that Curaçao is not part of the Schengen Area, which means that having a Schengen visa does not grant you entry to Curaçao. You will still need to follow the visa requirements for Curaçao as mentioned above.

What are the best tips for cruising to Curaçao?

Cruising to Curaçao can be a wonderful experience if you plan ahead and follow some tips. Here are some of the best tips for cruising to Curaçao:

Research your cruise line and itinerary: Different cruise lines and itineraries offer different experiences and amenities when cruising to Curaçao. You should research your cruise line and itinerary before booking your cruise and see what they offer in terms of ports of call, shore excursions, onboard activities, dining options, entertainment options, and more. You should also check the reviews and ratings of your cruise line and itinerary from other cruisers who have been there before.
Book your shore excursions in advance: Shore excursions are one of the best ways to explore Curaçao and its attractions. However, they can also be expensive and sell out quickly if you book them on board or on the day of arrival. Therefore, you should book your shore excursions in advance online or through your travel agent. You can also compare prices and reviews of different shore excursion providers and choose the ones that suit your budget and preferences.
Pack smartly: Packing smartly can make your cruise to Curaçao more comfortable and enjoyable. You should pack lightly and bring only what you need for your cruise duration. You should also pack according to the weather and activities that you plan to do in Curaçao. Some of the essential items that you should pack are sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, swimsuit, snorkel gear, water shoes, insect repellent, camera, charger, adapter, and medication. You should also pack some formal wear for the cruise nights and some casual wear for the shore days.
Arrive early: Arriving early can save you a lot of stress and hassle when cruising to Curaçao. You should arrive at your departure port at least one day before your cruise departure date and stay at a nearby hotel. This way, you can avoid any flight delays, cancellations, or lost luggage that may affect your cruise. You can also enjoy some sightseeing and relaxation at your departure port before boarding your cruise ship.
Explore Curaçao on your own: While shore excursions are a great way to see Curaçao, they are not the only way. You can also explore Curaçao on your own and discover its hidden gems and local culture. You can walk around Willemstad and admire its colorful architecture and history. You can take a taxi or a bus to some of the farther beaches and attractions. You can also rent a car or a scooter and drive around the island at your own pace. However, you should always be careful and respectful when exploring Curaçao on your own and follow the local laws and customs.

Conclusion

Curaçao is a beautiful and diverse island that offers a lot of fun and adventure for cruise visitors. Whether you are looking for history, culture, nature, or relaxation, Curaçao has something for you. By following this guide, you can make the most of your cruise to Curaçao and have an unforgettable experience.

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