The Best of Curacao by Cruise

On a recent cruise to the Caribbean, we were lucky enough to visit Curacao for the second time. Curacao is in the Southern Caribbean, and is part of the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao). It’s also part of the Dutch Caribbean and this certainly contributes to its charm.

Curacao is one of my favourite Caribbean islands to visit. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you are really in for a treat. Your ship will be docked in the historic and vibrant city of Willemstad, a few minutes from the downtown core. The iconic row of colorful Caribbean Colonial buildings are within walking distance of the port. There are several options as to how you can spend your day while in Curacao. Whatever you choose, do save some time to walk around the local area.

Tip: While the US dollar is taken happily, the currency used by locals is actually the Antillean guilder, commonly called the Florin.

Curacao Island Tour

You can opt for a tour of the island, where you can view historic districts within the city and stop at a lookout and view a stunning landscape. A tour wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the home of Genuine Blue Curacao Liqueur. The liqueur factory produces the famous liqueur, which is still distilled on the island with the Laraha fruit. You can purchase this unique liqueur here or at different vendors near the port.

We did this tour the first time we were in Curacao and enjoyed it. You can book a tour through your cruise line or choose one as you get off your cruise ship. Several vendors were present just a few minutes from the ship.

Stunning Beaches

Since this was our second visit to Curacao, this time we opted for an easy beach day followed by a walk around the town of Willemstad to see the sights and enjoy. We were very fortunate to have had a long day in port, as we were in Curacao until 10 pm. This afforded us time to go back and forth to the ship. Do plan accordingly based upon the time you have in port.

There are some beautiful beaches in Curacao. Some of the best beaches for snorkelling or other water activities are about 30 minutes (or more) away by taxi or tour. However, for an easy beach day (which is what we wanted), you can opt for nearby Mambo Beach.

Mambo Beach is right next to the popular Seaquarium Beach and its only about 10 minutes away by taxi. Although this is a man-made beach, it’s still quite nice and a lot of fun! It’s great for families with children as the water is very calm. With its party like atmosphere in some sections, it’s also a great place for adults to hang out.

Tips: There is a small entrance fee of $3.50 USD p/p. Lounge chairs were available for between 3$ and 9$, depending on what section of the beach you decided to sit by.

Willemstad: Sights to see

After spending some time at the beach, we decided to head back to the ship for a quick lunch and to change out of our beach wear. Then we were heading into the town.

The town of Willemstad is something special. As you approach the downtown core, you’ll cross the Queen Emma Floating Pontoon Bridge. This unique pedestrian floating bridge actually swings (gently and slowly) to move sideways, allowing boats to pass through the channel. It’s something to experience!

The row of colonial pastel buildings is visible from the bridge and makes a great spot for a photo. Once you cross the bridge, you’ll find a tourist booth where local maps and information are available. There are interesting buildings and statues to view, right in the very walkable town center.

Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue

One of the most notable tourist attractions is the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, which is the oldest surviving synagogue in the Western Hemisphere. This simple building, from the exterior, can almost go unnoticed. However, it’s interior features a unique sand floor set in contrast to the ornate dark-wood interior. Ancient religious artefacts are still used today, but also displayed in a small museum within the building. There’s a 10$ entry fee and tour.

World’s Best Mojito Bar

What visit to a Caribbean Island would be complete without a short stop for a drink? As we were walking around the streets, we came across this very simple building that boasted the World’s Best Mojito Bar (yes, that’s really its name!). The mint smelled delicious and we were pretty hot and thirsty.

We saw a few people from our ship sitting at the outdoor table and chairs, and had to ask, “Were they really the World’s Best Mojitos?”. Pretty close, was the answer, and that was enough for us. So, we stopped for and had mojitos and drank in the local atmosphere (literally). This wasn’t the most picturesque part of town, but that was part of the charm.

Curacao Souvenirs

Are you like me and like to find a little something to bring home from every place you visit? Nearby the ship, you’ll find an old fort that now houses shops, bars and restaurants. This is a good place to purchase some pretty blue and white Dutch Souvenirs. There’s also a Starbucks at the Renaissance Resort area for those Starbucks Mug Collectors (I know you’re out there).

There is also a market with some craft vendors as you make your way to the Queen Emma Bridge. It can be a good place to purchase some inexpensive souvenirs, local paintings, clothing and crafts.

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading about my Curacao experience and that some of my tips can be helpful. Will you be visiting Curacao while on a cruise? You may find, as I have, that Curacao becomes one of your favorite Caribbean ports.

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Final Words