If you’re planning a Caribbean cruise, you might be wondering if Aruba is one of the ports of call. The answer is yes! Aruba is a popular destination for many cruise lines, and there are several reasons why.
Location: Aruba is located in the southern Caribbean, just north of Venezuela. It’s part of what’s known as the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao), which are all popular destinations for tourists. Because of its location, Aruba is easily accessible from many other Caribbean islands.
Cruise Lines: Many major cruise lines include Aruba on their itineraries. Some examples include Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises. These cruise lines offer a variety of different itineraries that include stops in Aruba.
Port Facilities: The port facilities in Aruba are modern and well-maintained. There are two main ports in Aruba – the Oranjestad Cruise Terminal and the Barcadera Cruise Terminal. Both offer easy access to the island’s attractions and amenities.
Oranjestad Cruise Terminal
The Oranjestad Cruise Terminal is located in downtown Oranjestad, the capital city of Aruba. It can accommodate up to four ships at once and has all of the facilities that passengers need to make their visit comfortable. These facilities include:
- Duty-free shopping
- Restaurants and bars
- Taxi service
- Tourist information desk
- Bathrooms
Barcadera Cruise Terminal
The Barcadera Cruise Terminal is located on the other side of the island, away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Oranjestad. It’s a smaller terminal that can accommodate up to two ships at once. However, it’s still equipped with all of the necessary facilities, including:
- Duty-free shopping
- Taxis and rental car services
- Tourist information desk
- Bathrooms
Things to Do in Aruba:
If you’re visiting Aruba on a cruise, there are plenty of things to see and do on the island. Some popular attractions include:
- The beaches – Aruba is known for its beautiful beaches, including Eagle Beach and Palm Beach.
- The Natural Pool – Also known as “Conchi,” this natural pool is located in Arikok National Park.
- Oranjestad – The capital city of Aruba is home to colorful Dutch colonial architecture and great shopping.
- The California Lighthouse – Located at the northern tip of the island, this lighthouse offers stunning views of the coastline.
In conclusion, if you’re planning a Caribbean cruise and hoping to visit Aruba, you’re in luck! Many major cruise lines include this beautiful island on their itineraries. With modern port facilities and plenty of things to see and do on the island, Aruba is a great destination for any Caribbean cruise.