Aruba Cruises

Aruba, a stunning island in the Caribbean, is known for its powdery white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant cultural scene. This delightful destination offers visitors a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, with its warm climate and constant sunshine. Fun fact: Aruba is outside the hurricane belt, making it a safe destination to visit year-round! Cruising to Aruba allows you to experience its captivating landscapes, engage with friendly locals, and indulge in delicious dining experiences—all while enjoying the luxury and convenience of a cruise ship.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Aruba

• Princess Cruises operates a fleet of 17 ships, with 6 dedicated to itineraries that include Aruba. The Grand Princess and Enchanted Princess are particularly popular and are known for their superb onboard activities, fine dining options, and exceptional service. These ships offer delightful entertainment choices, including broadway-style shows and cooking classes. Departures typically happen from Fort Lauderdale or San Juan, making it easy to embark on your idyllic Caribbean cruise.
• MSC Cruises includes a fleet of 23 ships, with 5 that feature itineraries to Aruba. The MSC Virtuosa and MSC Seaside are especially loved for their family-friendly atmosphere and engaging entertainment options. The MSC Virtuosa offers an impressive array of facilities, including multiple pools and shows. Cruises generally depart from Miami or Fort de France, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable start to your journey to this beautiful island.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises operates a fleet of 29 ships, with 4 that travel to Aruba. The Rhapsody of the Seas and Jewel of the Seas offer thrilling onboard activities and a great atmosphere with engaging entertainment experiences for the entire family. Departures usually occur from San Juan or Miami, making it convenient for guests eager to dive into the wonders of Aruba.
• Carnival Cruise Line features a fleet of 27 ships, with 12 that highlight itineraries including Aruba. The Carnival Magic and Carnival Splendor are particularly popular for their lively onboard atmosphere and variety of amenities, including water parks and live entertainment. Departures typically take place from Miami or Port Canaveral, making it easy to start your adventure in paradise.
• Holland America Line has a total of 11 ships, with 6 that feature itineraries to Aruba. The Eurodam and Nieuw Statendam provide refined onboard dining experiences, cultural enrichment opportunities, and excellent service. Departures primarily occur from Fort Lauderdale or Miami, ensuring seamless access to this Caribbean treasure.

Luxury and Small Ship Options for Aruba

• Explora Journeys operates a fleet of 2 ships, both featuring itineraries to Aruba. The EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II are celebrated for their luxurious design, wellness amenities, and exceptional culinary experiences, including specialty dining celebrating local flavours. Most departures occur from Miami or San Juan, creating a refined entry into your Caribbean journey.
• Oceania Cruises includes a fleet of 8 ships, with 6 focused on itineraries featuring Aruba. The Vista and Sirena are known for their upscale amenities and personalized service, allowing travellers to enjoy an intimate cruising experience. Departures typically happen from Miami or Rome, providing a smooth transition to the stunning Caribbean destinations.
• Azamara Cruises operates a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 dedicated to travelling to Aruba. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward are known for their immersive travel experiences and late-night port stays, giving guests a chance to experience the vibrant nightlife. Departures commonly occur from Miami or Barbados, enhancing your journey into the lush Caribbean.
• Seabourn features a luxury fleet of 5 ships, with 1 focusing on itineraries to Aruba. The Seabourn Ovation is known for its all-inclusive luxury offerings and exceptional service, creating a blissful cruising experience. Departures generally take place from Barbados or Saint Martin, providing an elegant embarkation to your idyllic journey.
• Fred Olsen consists of 3 ships, with 2 offering itineraries that include Aruba. The Balmoral and Bolette provide a very personal cruising experience with homey atmospheres, making them perfect for cruisers who appreciate a friendly touch. Departures usually occur from Southampton or Liverpool, enabling UK travellers to connect conveniently with their Caribbean fantasy.

Top Harbours and Activities in Aruba

• Oranjestad – The capital city is known for its stunning pastel-coloured buildings and vibrant atmosphere. Spend time exploring the shops and boutiques of the Renaissance Marketplace or visit the Aruba Aloe Museum to learn about the island’s aloe production. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach or relax at the waterfront cafés.
• Half Moon Bay – Known for its picturesque shores, this stunning beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming in calm waters. Consider renting a beach chair and umbrella for a relaxing day under the sun or engaging in snorkelling activities to explore the underwater landscape. Beach bars and casual eateries offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy local drinks while taking in the views.
• Baby Beach – This tranquil, shallow beach offers ideal conditions for families and those looking to relax. Enjoy swimming in warm and calm waters or try your hand at paddleboarding. Local vendors provide beach rentals, so you can easily enjoy a day of fun and relaxation.
• Arikok National Park – Explore this beautiful natural reserve, home to unique landscapes, local wildlife, and historical sites. Hike the countless trails or take a guided tour to experience the beauty of the desert and the coast. You can also see ancient rock carvings dating back thousands of years at Fontein Cave.
• Casibari Rock Formation – Visit this impressive natural rock formation, where you can climb up to admire panoramic views of the island. The surrounding area has trails for hiking, or you can simply explore the nearby cacti and flora. It’s a fantastic opportunity for photography or just to appreciate the unique landscape of Aruba.

Best Times to Cruise to Aruba

The climate in Aruba is warm and sunny, making it an inviting destination throughout the year. From January to March, temperatures typically range from 24°C to 29°C, perfect for beach outings and outdoor activities. Spring (April to June) maintains similar temperatures, offering opportunities to enjoy local festivals and events. Summer months (July to September) can be hot, with temperatures often reaching 30°C, but this is also a great time to take advantage of local attractions with vibrant celebrations and parties. Autumn (October to December) brings temperatures ranging from 22°C to 29°C, allowing visitors to enjoy the harvest festivities in a pleasantly relaxed environment.

Costs of Cruising to Aruba

A typical one-week cruise to Aruba generally costs between £700 and £1,500, depending on the cruise line and type of accommodation selected. Luxury cruises usually start at around £3,000, with prices potentially increasing based on desired amenities and services. When on the island, you can expect to spend about £10 to £25 for meals at local restaurants and beverages typically cost around £3 to £8, allowing you to experience the local cuisine and refreshing beverages throughout your stay.

With its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and lively atmosphere, Aruba is a destination you won’t want to miss! It’s time to book your cruise holiday via Cruise1st and set sail for an unforgettable journey through this enchanting Caribbean island!