Let’s Cruise to Aruba and Curaçao

Set sail to Aruba and Curiçao via Royal Caribbean and you will not be disappointed. The ease of reaching these destinations on a ship filled with activities, dining, drinks, and relaxation really sets the bar.

What did I recommend to do in Aruba?

The beautiful thing about this port is that your next stop, Curiçao, is so close that you really get to maximize your day in Aruba. Often times all aboard is after 9 or 10pm, so why not max out your time here.

You can find a rental company via a reputable tour site to rent a Jeep for the day. This is for my thrill seeking adventurers. Take a drive out to the desert, and all the way to the southern tip of the island for Baby Beach. Take a swim for a little while; highly recommend bringing your own snorkel gear (inexpensive on Amazon!) You can go off-roading on some routes which really is exciting. Hop back on the pavement and find the Arikok National Park. Finish up by heading over to the Surfside Beach Bar for a quick bite before returning the Jeep.

Once you’ve returned the Jeep, you have plenty of time to catch a cab out to Palm Beach for a sunset cruise on a Catamaran for drinks and snacks. The sunsets here are unforgettable.

If you’re on a romantic vacation, I cannot recommend enough Atardi. This restaurant is in the hotel zone and offers beach front dining. I recommend searching the time of year you plan to visit to see when sunset will be so you can nab a reservation to watch. As your travel advisor, I’d be happy to set this up for you.

As a night cap, head over to Frenchie’s Cafe and say hi to Zoe, the bars mascot.

What do I recommend to do in Curiçao?

The best snorkeling I have ever done in my life happened on this beautiful island. We’ve done a trip out on the south end of the island, past Santa Barbara beach, at a ship wreck. The fish were so beautiful to see. But Curiçao is also known for its sea turtles. I absolutely recommend finding a reputable company to tour with for this excursion. Regardless of which location you go to, it will be crowded. Just enjoy being in the water with these gorgeous sea giants and keep your hands to yourself.

Downtown Willemstad is lined with colorful buildings which are great for photo opps. Walk across the Queen Emma bridge for good restaurants and shops. The best restaurant we’ve encountered here, however, is called Steak and Ribs right near the port. After your delicious meal, stop by the Rum distillery for a tasting and maybe a souvenir bottle to take home.

Speaking of souvenirs! Dutch cheese and Blue Curiçao liquor: you cannot go wrong!

Aside from the description of the islands above, I highly recommend a cruise to these destinations for many reasons. Firstly, you don’t tire yourself out traveling. Half of the joy in the journey is the time spent getting there. Whichever ship you choose to sail on, take full advantage of all it has to offer. The Vitality Spa couples massage, the Broadway shows, the fine dining and specialty dining, maybe even a pull or two on slots. The Royal Caribbean fleet is one of the best cruise lines to sail on merging fun and class into a spectacular time.

If you are interested in ways to save on activities on board, I’d love to help.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Aruba and Curaça. In need of further inspiration? Check out Amanda Brownlie’s guide, Bright, Breezy and Beachy Aruba.