Top 11 Types of Fun Cruise Excursions in Curaçao
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Looking for things to do in Curaçao? We’ve been there several times and have some ideas for the types of cruise excursions in Curaçao you could book.
Curaçao is a beautiful island located in the southern Caribbean Sea, famous for its colorful architecture, pristine beaches, and diverse culture. Whether you are a history buff, beach lover, or adventurous traveler, Curaçao has something for everyone. We’ve visited the island several times so far on different cruises, and we still have a lot left to discover.
Earlier, we posted about the most popular cruise excursions in the Caribbean. In this post, we will explore the top 11 types of cruise excursions in Curaçao and its capital city of Willemstad. We just visited Willemstad, Curaçao, for the third time on our most recent Caribbean cruise and had a wonderful time.
How To Book Cruise Excursions In Curaçao
There are several ways to do cruise excursions in Willemstad, the port city in Curaçao.
The first option is to book through your cruise line. A benefit of this option is that if your tour returns late to the ship, the ship won’t leave without you. Although booking with the cruise line is generally more expensive, it does come with peace of mind. Cruise excursions typically combine three or more sites to visit in a half-day of touring.
The second option is to explore the city on your own. This is possible in Willemstad but does require a lot of walking – unless you pay for a hop-on/hop-off bus ticket.
The third option book a third-party excursion through a reputable company like Viator.
1 | Explore the Historic District
With its architectural beauty and distinctive culture, it’s no surprise that historic Willemstad has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of only five in the Caribbean. Characterized by its colorful buildings and unique architecture, the area is perfect for exploring on foot, with many shops, cafés, and restaurants lining the streets.
Don’t miss the iconic Queen Emma Bridge, a floating pontoon bridge that connects the district of Punda to Otrobanda, and the Love Locks on the Punta side of the bridge. Instagram photo opportunity!
2 | Seek Out the Street Art
The streets of Curaçao are just as beautiful as its waters. The island offers a unique blend of cultures, which is reflected in its local cuisine, music, and art. Take a walk along the streets of Willemstad and admire the colorful murals, street art, and hidden alleyways. The street art in Curaçao is varied and vibrant, demonstrating a wealth of local talent. From two-dimensional murals to three-dimensional bas-relief on the sides of buildings, the imaginations of the residents come alive. I love the city’s street art, and seeking it out is one of my favorite things to do in Curaçao.
3 | Go Snorkeling or Diving
With over 40 dive sites, Curaçao is the perfect destination for divers and snorkelers looking to explore the underwater world. You’ll find a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, giant turtles, and even dolphins. Top sites include Alice in Wonderland, Mushroom Forest, and the Blue Room.
4 | Go Shopping
Otrobanda is the district on the west side of Willemstad. It’s known for its colorful buildings and bustling shopping area. Visitors can find everything from local handicrafts to high-end fashion and jewelry. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs or gifts for friends and family back home.
Pro Tip: Something fun to shop for in this Dutch country is Delft blue china.
5 | Go on a Food Tour
Curaçao has a diverse culinary scene, influenced by African, Dutch, and Caribbean flavors. Take a food tour of Willemstad and sample local delicacies such as keshi yena (a baked cheese dish with meat and vegetables), fried plantain, pastechi (a savory fried pastry), and bitterballen (a Dutch snack). Many restaurants in Willemstad offer authentic local cuisine for you to try.
6 | Visit Fort Amsterdam
Cross the iconic Queen Emma Bridge and visit the historic Fort Amsterdam. Willemstad is home to several historic forts, including Fort Amsterdam and Fort Nassau. These forts were built in the 17th and 18th centuries to protect the city from pirate attacks. Today, visitors can take a tour of the forts and learn about their history and significance.
7 | Visit the Curaçao Museum
The Curaçao Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the island. The museum’s collection includes artifacts and exhibits on the island’s colonial history, its African roots, and its modern cultural traditions. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of Curaçao.
8 | Explore the Floating Market
The Floating Market is a unique attraction located in the heart of Willemstad, one of the top things to do in Curaçao. Local fishermen and farmers sell their fresh produce from boats docked along the waterfront. Sample local fruits, vegetables, and seafood and experience the vibrant culture of Curaçao.
9 | Visit the Curaçao Sea Aquarium
The Curaçao Sea Aquarium is a must-visit attraction for marine lovers. The aquarium offers a range of interactive exhibits, including a touch tank where you can pet stingrays and sharks. Watch dolphins perform tricks and learn about the marine life of the Caribbean.
10 | Tour the Chobolobo Curaçao Liqueur Factory
Choose either a quick tour with a tasting or a longer tour with an explanation of the distilling process and company history, but either way, you’ll enjoy yourself at the Chobolobo curaçao liqueur factory. While you’re there, be sure to pick up a bottle of Alcolado Glacial, a mentholated splash lotion or spray that’s used for a myriad of health purposes. So far, we’ve found it’s fantastic to reduce itching.
11 | Enjoy the Beaches
Finally, no trip to Curaçao would be complete without spending some time on the beach. The island is home to many beautiful beaches, including Mambo Beach, Jan Thiel Beach, and Blue Bay Beach.
Final Thoughts on Top 11 Cruise Excursions in Curaçao
Curaçao is a traveler’s paradise, where you can explore both its colorful charm and scenic beauty. This small island is full of surprises, and every corner offers something new to discover. If you’re looking for a unique destination that offers a blend of culture, nature, and adventure, then Curaçao is the perfect destination for you.
If you’d like to learn more about Curaçao and its history, visit Curacao.com. And if you’d like help choosing what to pack for your Caribbean cruise, see what we recommend.
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