Aruba, Curacao & Bonaire Cruise: Everything You Need To Know
Table of Contents
- Itinerary Summary
- The Pre-Cruise Experience
- Life Onboard the Celebrity Cruises Ship
- Aruba curacao bonaire cruise: Island Adventures
- Aruba Curacao Bonaire Cruise: Culinary Delights
- Reflection
This Aruba, Curacao & Bonaire cruise was my last cruise for the next few years, as I’ve decided to focus on exploring Africa. Unlike my Cruise to Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, where I traveled with a larger group, this trip was more intimate—just four of us setting sail, as many of our friends had already visited the ABC islands.
The ABC islands—Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire—are a must-visit destination in the Southern Caribbean. Known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and diverse activities, these islands offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Let’s dive in!
Itinerary Summary
- Day 1: Fly to Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
- Day 2: Ship departs Fort Lauderdale at 4:00 PM.
- Days 3-4: At sea.
- Day 5: Bonaire.
- Day 6: Curaçao.
- Day 7: Aruba.
- Days 8-9: At sea.
- Day 10: Arrive in Fort Lauderdale at 7:00 AM.
“Adventure is worthwhile.”
Aristotle
The Pre-Cruise Experience
Booking and Budget
To score the best price, we booked our Celebrity Cruises trip directly on their website (celebritycruises.com) a year in advance This smart planning secured us an interior stateroom for a very reasonable price. Upgrading to a balcony room was tempting, but we opted for the more budget-friendly interior option.
Planning early helped us secure this deal and lock in a great Aruba Curacao Bonaire cruise price.
- Cruise booking: $500 per person for an inland view room (including taxes)
- Cost of upgrading to a balcony: $300 per person (Optional)
Travel to Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Our Aruba Curacao Bonaire Cruise journey began with a quick flight from Atlanta to Fort Lauderdale on Southwest Airlines. The short flight (just over an hour) was made comfortable by Southwest’s open seating policy, which allowed our group to sit together, along with free movies on our devices and included checked baggage. We were even offered complimentary beverages and a snack.
Upon arrival at Fort Lauderdale Airport, baggage claim was quick and efficient. Instead of using a ride-share service, we opted for a taxi directly outside the gate. The cost was the same as an Uber, priced at $20 for the 4-mile trip to our hotel, the Hilton Marina.
Accommodation
We stayed at the Hilton Marina in Fort Lauderdale for $200 per night, splitting the cost four ways. The hotel offered free bottled water and provided a pleasant overall experience.
Although the on-site Mediterranean restaurant had an hour-long wait, we found a convenient alternative: Chen’s Garden, a Chinese restaurant that delivers directly to the hotel for just $5.
Additional amenities include free lemon water in the lobby and a café for breakfast and quick meals.
Transportation to the Cruise Port
The Hilton Marina offers a continuous shuttle service to the Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port for $8 per person. Reservations weren’t required; we simply lined up in front of the hotel. A shuttle came through every few minutes & we didn’t wait long.
Life Onboard the Celebrity Cruises Ship
Embarkation
The Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port, while busy, was surprisingly well-organized. We were efficiently directed to our terminal after quickly dropping off our luggage and going through security. Our check-in time was 11:30 AM, and everything went smoothly.
The Inland View Room Review
This cruise marked our first experience with an inland view room, and I’m still processing my feelings about it. Compared to balcony rooms, it definitely felt smaller and noticeably darker. However, I spent most of my time exploring the ship, so it didn’t impact my overall experience too much.
One of the perks of sailing with Celebrity Cruises is the high-quality lotion provided in each room – a small but appreciated touch. We also received a complimentary Celebrity bag, perfect for excursions or carrying items to the pool.
While Celebrity doesn’t offer self-service laundry facilities, they do provide a laundry service. You can either fill a large bag for a flat fee of $60 or opt for individual item pricing (e.g., pants $9, shirts $4, long sleeves $8). A laundry bag with a price list is conveniently located in the closet.
Recreation and Relaxation
Fitness Center & Sauna
The ship offered several areas for recreation and relaxation. My personal favorite was the fitness center and sauna.
The fitness center provided everything needed for a good workout, including water, towels, and earbuds. It’s conveniently located next to the spa, though be prepared for staff promoting spa packages.
The Hideaway
For those seeking a quieter escape, The Hideaway offered a peaceful atmosphere for reading, journaling, or enjoying a cup of coffee.
The Game On Area
Located on the 8th floor, this area provided entertainment with puzzles, screens, and various games, offering a fun space for socializing and friendly competition.
The Library
Finally, the Library, an open area on the 9th floor, offered a space for casual reading. Interestingly, its beautiful decor made it a popular spot for families to take photos.
The Sky Lounge
If you’re looking for a quiet spot with incredible views, the Sky Lounge is a great option. Situated on the 14th floor above the spa, this lounge offers a bar and a surprising amount of privacy when events aren’t taking place
Aruba curacao bonaire cruise: Island Adventures
Bonaire
Bonaire, part of the Dutch Antilles, offers a serene and colorful experience. Its capital, Kralendijk, is lined with pastel stucco houses in shades of pink, orange, and lime green. Famous as one of the top ten diving destinations in the world, the island is surrounded by a marine park that extends from the beach to 200 feet in depth, encompassing the entire coastline. With a population of only 25,000 and the U.S. dollar as its currency, Bonaire is a laidback destination rich in natural beauty and history.
Attractions
Kralendijk
The colorful capital city with its distinctive architecture.
Salt Lands
Located in the south, these lands were historically significant for salt production.
Historical Sites
Includes remnants of slavery, such as the quarters where Indian laborers from Venezuela, enslaved by the Spanish, once lived.
Passport Stamp in Bonaire
After passing through security in Bonaire, look for a small wooden tourist booth to your right. If staffed, you can request a free passport stamp immediately. Unfortunately, we missed this opportunity as we were rushing to catch our bus.
When we returned, the booth was unstaffed, and security directed us to the yellow customer building with white trim. However, upon arrival, a sign outside indicated that passport stamps were available at the tourist center across the road. The tourist center was closed until 1:30 p.m., so we returned to the ship for lunch and came back later.
Despite the extra effort, the 15-minute walk from the ship was well worth it—the stamp was free, beautifully designed, and a memorable keepsake from Bonaire.
Curaçao
Curacao, a Dutch-inspired port city located 30 miles off the coast of Venezuela, boasts a rich history blending Old and New World influences. Once a key trading center for the Dutch West Indies Company, its name is thought to derive from either the Portuguese word Coracao (meaning “heart”) or Cira (meaning “heal”), referencing its central role in trade or its wealth of medicinal plants.
Landmarks and Historical Insights
The Queen Emma Bridge
Known as the “Floating Old Lady,” this iconic pontoon bridge opens and closes up to 30 times daily to allow boats to pass. When the warning bell rings, visitors have 3-5 minutes to leave the bridge. If you see locals running, it’s your cue to hurry to the other side!
Colorful Buildings and Architecture
Curacao’s vibrant buildings are a hallmark of the island. In the mid-1700s, all structures were white until a governor ordered homes to be painted in various colors, supposedly to ease his wife’s headaches caused by the sun reflecting off the white surfaces. Today, homes are repainted annually due to the corrosive effects of salt.
Schools are often located next to churches, reflecting the role of nuns in establishing early education.
Our Journey for our Passport Stamp
Curacao’s port does not officially give a passport stamp but we begged them for a souvenir as our walk was over 25 minutes. It was a beautiful walk as the sun was just coming up, the air was cool, and not many were out & about yet due to it being at 8 am.
Historical Significance
Curacao was discovered by the Spanish in the 1400s and later became a strategic point for the Dutch, who used it as a hub for the transatlantic slave trade. It served as a “medical depot” where enslaved individuals were treated before being sent to other destinations. The Dutch abolished slavery in 1863, and freed slaves were given land, building homes using natural resources.
The Curacao Countryside
The upper-middle-class countryside features homes priced between $300,000 and $500,000. Water is costly, making it a valuable resource, while the minimum wage is $900 per month. Residents benefit from free healthcare and educational loans, with many studying in the Netherlands.
The West Curacao
Food Truck Experience
Dani, our knowledgeable and charismatic tour guide with a degree in hotel management, introduced us to Curacao’s local flavors. Her insights into the island’s history and culture were unmatched. Follow her on Instagram at @explorecuracaowithdani to book private tours for an unforgettable experience.
Aruba
Aruba, along with Bonaire and Curacao, forms the ABC islands, celebrated for its vibrant architecture, stunning beaches, cactus-strewn landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Known as One Happy Island, Aruba is home to approximately 115,000 residents representing 90 nationalities. The locals commonly speak four languages—Dutch, Spanish, English, and the local dialect, Papiamento.
The Lighthouse
Rock Formation
Natural Bridge
Passport Stamp in Aruba
Unfortunately, Aruba’s port does not officially stamp passports. However, souvenir stamps commemorating your visit can be obtained at select local shops, making for a unique and memorable keepsake.
Aruba Curacao Bonaire Cruise: Culinary Delights
The food onboard the ship was nothing short of extraordinary, with the Oceanview Café Buffet offering a daily rotation of international delicacies. Each day, the menu highlighted flavors from different countries, ensuring a unique dining experience. Guests received a newsletter in their room each evening from the steward, detailing the next day’s lunch and dinner themes.
Here is the breakdown of the daily delicacies according to the day. The announcement of the lunch will be provided on the newsletter the steward leaves in our room the night before.
Day 3: Sea Day (American lunch, Mediterranean Dinner)
Day 4: Sea Day (Carribean Lunch, Indonesian Dinner)
Day 5: Bonaire (Mexican Lunch, Middle Eastern Dinner)
Day 6: Curacao (British Lunch, French Dinner)
Day 7: Aruba (German Lunch, Spanish Dinner)
Day 8: Sea (Greek Lunch, Indian Dinner)
Day 9: Sea (Special Lunch, Italian Dinner)
Reflection
“Heart, what are you telling me? I am listening”
“I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world” – Mother Theresa
Love has been the theme of my journey this trip. As I meditate on the impact I am to make this year, I hear my heart saying be prepared for surprises that will lead me into destiny. Surprises normally show up as inconveniences as we were expecting something else. But if we lean into the call of destiny, we can step into a wondrous journey of adventure. Will my heart take this leap of faith?
What’s Next after this Aruba, Curacao, Bonaire cruise ?
My next adventure takes me on a mission trip to Chennai, India, where I will explore a vibrant culture, engage with the community, and embrace opportunities to make a meaningful impact.
Let me know your thoughts in the comments—I can’t wait to take you along for this next adventure!
