Curacao Cruises

Curacao, a stunning island in the Caribbean, is part of the ABC Islands and renowned for its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning beaches. With its colorful Dutch colonial architecture, beautiful coral reefs, and welcoming locals, Curacao offers an unforgettable experience for cruise passengers. Fun fact: Curacao is home to some of the oldest synagogues in the Americas, reflecting its diverse cultural heritage! Cruising to Curacao provides you with the unique opportunity to explore a melting pot of cultures while indulging in the island’s beautiful scenery and local delicacies.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Curacao

• Holland America Line operates a fleet of 11 ships, with 5 that feature itineraries including Curacao. The Zuiderdam and Eurodam are particularly popular, known for their elegant design and focus on culinary excellence. These ships provide enriching onboard experiences such as cooking demonstrations and high-quality dining options. Departures usually occur from Fort Lauderdale or Miami, enabling convenient embarkation into the beautiful Caribbean waters.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises features a fleet of 29 ships, with 9 that stop at Curacao. The Rhapsody of the Seas and Brilliance of the Seas are popular choices for their dynamic onboard activities, such as rock climbing and ice skating, ideal for families and thrill-seekers alike. Departures frequently happen from San Juan or Fort Lauderdale, offering excellent routes into this inviting destination.
• Princess Cruises has a fleet of 17 ships, with 6 that visit Curacao. The Enchanted Princess and Grand Princess are particularly noted for their variety of entertainment, including outdoor movie nights and themed dining experiences. Departures mainly occur from Fort Lauderdale or San Juan, ensuring smooth access to explore the colourful island.
• Carnival Cruise Line operates a fleet of 27 ships, with 12 focused on itineraries to Curacao. The Carnival Mardi Gras and Carnival Magic are especially popular for their fun-filled atmosphere and vast array of onboard entertainment options, making them suitable choices for families. Departures are usually from Miami or Port Canaveral, ensuring convenient access to the yacht-friendly island.
• MSC Cruises includes a fleet of 23 ships, with 5 that feature itineraries to Curacao. The MSC Virtuosa and MSC Seaside are particularly known for their hospitality and onboard amenities, including expansive swimming pools and entertainment venues. Departures usually occur from Miami or Fort de France, making it easy to embark on your Caribbean adventure.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Options for Curacao

• Explora Journeys operates a refined fleet of 2 ships, both offering itineraries to Curacao. The EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II focus on luxury and well-being, ensuring guests enjoy upscale amenities and unique experiences throughout their journeys. Departures typically occur from Miami or San Juan, laying the groundwork for an upscale adventure in the Caribbean.
• Oceania Cruises comprises 8 ships, with 6 featuring itineraries to Curacao. The Marina and Nautica are known for their refined atmosphere and excellent cuisine, providing a luxurious cruising experience that highlights local flavours. Departures mostly happen from Miami or Rome, ensuring an elegant entry into the scenic Caribbean waters.
• Azamara Cruises operates a fleet of 4 ships, with 3 dedicated to itineraries in Curacao. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey provide an intimate atmosphere and focus on cultural immersion with late-night stays in port. Departures are commonly from Miami or Barbados, enhancing the overall journey in discovering the island’s attractions.
• Seabourn features a luxurious fleet of 5 ships, with 1 dedicated to visits to Curacao. The Seabourn Ovation provides an all-inclusive luxury experience with superior service, ensuring that each guest enjoys a serene journey through the Caribbean. Departures primarily occur from Barbados or Saint Martin, giving way to exceptional cruising into Curacao’s welcoming shores.
• Fred Olsen has a fleet of 3 ships, with 2 that offer itineraries to Curacao. The Balmoral and Bolette are preferred by passengers for their personal service and classic cruising style. Most departures are from Southampton or Liverpool, making it simple for UK travellers to begin their exploration of this beautiful destination.

Top Harbours and Activities in Curacao

• Willemstad – The capital city of Curacao is famous for its vibrant and colourful Dutch colonial architecture. Explore the charming streets of the historic Punda district, admire the iconic floating bridge (Queen Emma Bridge), and visit the local shops and markets. Don’t forget to sample local delicacies like keshi yena, a traditional stuffed cheese dish, at one of the local cafés.
• Spanish Water – This picturesque bay is perfect for water sports and leisurely excursions. Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply relax along the waterfront and watch the sailing yachts sail by. The area is dotted with vibrant restaurants and bars, where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood while taking in stunning sunset views.
• Shete Boka National Park – An incredible natural reserve, Shete Boka is home to dramatic coastal cliffs and several inlets where waves crash spectacularly against the rocks. Visitors can explore scenic walking trails, spot local wildlife, and marvel at breathtaking ocean views. The Boka Tabla leads to an impressive blowhole as well!
• Knip Beach – Known for its stunning beauty, Knip Beach offers white sands and clear turquoise waters, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Bring a picnic or visit local food vendors to sample delicious local snacks. Snorkeling is also a great option here, with colourful marine life beckoning just below the surface.
• Westpunt – Located at the northwest end of the island, Westpunt is home to some of the most secluded and pristine beaches in Curacao. Visit Playa Lagun, a small bay popular for swimming and snorkelling among vibrant coral formations. This area also has local seafood restaurants offering fresh dishes right by the beach, making for a serene dining experience.

Best Times to Cruise to Curacao

Curacao enjoys warm temperatures year-round, making it a fantastic cruise destination at any time. From January to March, temperatures typically range from 24°C to 29°C, providing perfect weather for beach activities and outdoor exploration. The spring months (April to June) bring similar temperatures, making it an ideal time to enjoy local events and festivals. Summer (July to September) can be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching around 30°C; this peak season is full of exhilarating events and celebrations. Autumn (October to December) cools down slightly to around 25°C to 31°C, presenting visitors with a wonderful opportunity to experience harvest festivities and a less crowded atmosphere.

Costs of Cruising to Curacao

A typical one-week cruise to Curacao ranges from £700 to £1,500, depending on the cruise line and type of accommodation chosen. Luxury cruises often start at approximately £3,200 and can increase based on amenities and services desired. On the island, you can expect to spend about £10 to £30 for meals at local restaurants, with drinks typically costing around £3 to £8, allowing you to enjoy the incredible local cuisine during your stay.

With its stunning beaches, rich culture, and inviting experiences, Curacao is waiting to be explored. Now is the perfect time to book your cruise holiday through Cruise1st and set sail for a delightful adventure in this captivating Caribbean destination!