Aruba Cruise Port, also called the Aruba Cruise Terminal or Port of Oranjestad, is among the main gateways to the Southern Caribbean’s lovely ABC islands of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao.
The port is nestled proper on the sting of Oranjestad, the capital metropolis of Aruba, offering guests with the chance to discover town or sit back and calm down on the close by white sand seashores.
For those who plan to go to this bustling port and the heritage-rich metropolis on its doorstep, we’re right here to assist. This information will clarify every thing you might want to know in regards to the cruise port, its environment, and extra.
Aruba Cruise Port Location and Deal with
The Aruba Cruise Port is conveniently situated alongside Lloyd G. Smith Blvd. in Oranjestad. Since cruise ships dock on the piers immediately adjoining to the north finish of the capital metropolis’s bustling downtown space, cruise guests have quick access to town’s many points of interest and facilities.
Variety of Terminals and Piers
The cruise port boasts 4 docking berths, three of which have devoted terminal buildings. Moderately than utilizing the prolonged piers in neighboring Curacao, cruise ships dock immediately in entrance of the three terminals, with a fourth berth used solely for spillover through the busy season.
Aruba Cruise Terminal Amenities and Providers
Every of the three terminal buildings within the Aruba Cruise Port is absolutely air-conditioned, which could be a welcome escape from Aruba’s sizzling and humid local weather when you find yourself ready to return to your ship.
Every terminal constructing additionally has well-maintained public restrooms. If the terminal is especially crowded and there’s a line for the amenities, bogs may also be discovered on the close by Renaissance Mall.
All through the cruise facility, additionally, you will discover quite a few info cubicles staffed by pleasant and welcoming employees. You can too discover assist desks with representatives of a number of the extra outstanding cruise strains and tour suppliers promoting varied packages.
Whereas the port doesn’t supply free public Wi-Fi, you’ll be able to go to the Setar Telecommunications desk for all of your mobile and Wi-Fi wants. Web entry comes at a charge, however costs are cheap, and the connection velocity is pretty common for the Caribbean.
Seating within the terminal buildings is restricted, however loads of eating places and cafés are close by, so for those who arrive again on the port early, you’ll be able to simply discover a place to attend for departure time.
Accessibility
Every of the three terminal buildings and the whole port facility is wheelchair-friendly, so it’s utterly accessible to these with mobility wants. For those who want additional help or want a wheelchair, you’ll be able to communicate with representatives out of your cruise line earlier than arriving on the port.
Which Cruise Traces Go to Aruba Cruise Port?
Given Aruba’s recognition as a vacationer vacation spot, the fashionable port facility can accommodate as much as 4 cruise ships at a time; it’s recurrently utilized by a number of the most recognizable cruise strains. Simply a number of the many cruise strains that frequent Aruba Cruise Port embody:
- Carnival Cruise Line
- Movie star Cruises
- Disney Cruise Line
- MSC Cruises
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- Royal Caribbean Worldwide Cruise Line
- Virgin Voyages
- Cunard
- Azamara
- Holland America
- TUI Cruises
Not one of the cruise strains have a long-term devoted berth, so ships are likely to dock in numerous areas from voyage to voyage. Passengers will likely be given a quantity from one to 4, informing them the place their ship will likely be. The port is extremely straightforward to navigate, so there are not often any points.
Transportation Choices
Upon exiting any of the three cruise terminal buildings, guests will discover a lengthy row of taxis circling the Cruise Ship Taxi Stand on the north aspect of the port facility.
Price Studying: Bonaire Cruise Port – What You Must Know
Taxis are usually the popular technique of transportation for cruise passengers visiting the island, as they’re plentiful and most present flat charges. Given the significance of tourism to the island’s financial system, flat charges are official and enforced, so that you don’t have to fret about getting ripped off.
The island doesn’t but have any of the most important rideshare apps, so don’t be stunned when you’ll be able to’t name an Uber. Nevertheless, this isn’t a serious subject as a result of taxi charges are so cheap.
A bus terminal is situated close to the port’s principal exit, providing easy routes across the metropolis of Oranjestad.
Fortunately, Oranjestad is a well-organized and comparatively small metropolis, so visitors is often minimal. That stated, issues can get a bit congested across the port and the island’s hottest points of interest for those who go to throughout peak vacationer season.
Getting Between Aruba Cruise Port and Airport
Aruba Cruise Port can also be strategically near the island nation’s principal airport, Queen Beatrix Worldwide Airport (AUA). For the reason that airport providers direct flights from the USA, Canada, and a number of other different Caribbean nations, vacationers generally use it, as do these flying to and from cruises.
With solely 3.4 miles separating the 2, cruise passengers can simply commute by taxi immediately alongside Lloyd G. Smith Blvd. in roughly 10 minutes.
Language, Foreign money, and Tradition
Though Dutch and Papiamento are Aruba’s two official languages, English is broadly spoken, particularly amongst these working within the tourism trade. The employees working the vacationer info cubicles in cruise terminals are additionally fluent in English, making communication straightforward for many worldwide vacationers.
The official foreign money of Aruba is the Aruban Florin (AWG), however virtually each institution will settle for U.S. {Dollars}. Whilst you can’t use bank cards from road distributors, most eating places and shops in Oranjestad settle for the most important playing cards. Do not forget that Aruba is dearer than another Caribbean islands, so don’t be stunned if costs appear excessive.
Whereas tipping just isn’t necessary in Aruba, some eating places and bars cost a ten% to fifteen% service cost for bigger teams. Even for those who don’t see these expenses in your invoice, tipping for good service is at all times appreciated in Aruba and different elements of the Caribbean.
The Finest Time to Go to Aruba and Seasonal Climate Situations
Aruba’s tropical local weather makes it a year-round journey vacation spot, however situations differ from season to season. Common guests typically agree that late spring to early summer season is the most effective time to go to the island.
Learn Additionally: When is the Finest Time to Cruise the Caribbean?
Between April and July, you must take pleasure in loads of sunshine, temperatures within the 79° to 89°F vary, and comparatively low possibilities of rainfall.
With that stated, not everybody can or needs to journey throughout these months, so right here’s a primary breakdown of seasonal situations in Aruba:
Summer season (June to August)
Temperatures are likely to hover between 79° and 90°F, with situations at their hottest in August. Whereas rainfall is decrease than that of the northern Caribbean islands, occasional showers and thunderstorms can happen.
Fall (September to November)
Fall in Aruba is much like summer season, with temperatures ranging between 75° and 88°F; nonetheless, humidity tends to rise barely. Rainfall will increase with moisture, so you will have mild, moisture-wicking clothes.
Winter (December to February)
Though winter is the good season in Aruba, its proximity to the equator means it’s often fairly heat and dry. Temperatures are often measured within the 75° to 80°F vary, with minimal rainfall. This makes it a well-liked time to go to, particularly for vacationers who dwell in chilly climates.
Spring (March to Could)
Spring brings hotter temperatures within the mid-80° F vary, mild winds, and comparatively low humidity. Rainfall can also be minimal, making it the perfect time to take pleasure in out of doors actions and seaside outings.
Facilities and Points of interest Close to Aruba Cruise Port
Since Aruba Cruise Port sits proper on the sting of Oranjestad, town’s many facilities are all inside cheap strolling distance. The town is nicely price exploring, as its shut historic ties to the Netherlands imply it’s crammed with Dutch colonial structure however with Caribbean-style colours. It’s a really lovely metropolis.
If in case you have restricted time in port, you’ll be able to simply stroll to the next Oranjestad highlights.
The Nationwide Archaeological Museum of Aruba
The museum is extremely spectacular for such a small island nation, with collections spanning from 2500 BC to the fashionable period. It’s situated simply 0.3 miles from the terminals, so you’ll be able to stroll to it in minutes.
The Royal Plaza Mall
For these much less fascinated about historical past and archaeology, the cruise port can also be situated only a 5-minute stroll from the Royal Plaza Mall. The mall has a mixture of native distributors and high-end designer shops. For those who’re restricted on time or need to seize a fast memento earlier than getting again in your ship, it’s an excellent possibility.
Historic Museum of Aruba
Constructed into the stays of Fort Zoutman, a former army fortification, it now serves as a museum devoted to the island’s historical past and its connection to the slave commerce. Taking a guided strolling tour of the fort grounds is among the finest methods to get essentially the most out of the expertise.
On condition that it’s lower than a mile from the port, it’s very straightforward to get to. The stroll will take you previous Aruba’s authorities buildings, which showcase basic Dutch structure.
Queen Wilhelmina Park and Renaissance Seashore
Situated only a 15-minute stroll from the port, this peaceable, ocean-side park is a wonderful place to sit down again and calm down. With statues, water fountains, and direct entry to Renaissance Seashore, it’s possibility for these searching for a quiet afternoon.
Fresco Beachside Bar can also be situated simply steps from the park. You can too style Aruba’s Dutch connection by testing The Dutch Pancake Home, which is steps away from the seaside.
Standard Seashores Close to the Port
Whereas the mix of Dutch and Caribbean tradition and structure makes the island uniquely charming, the seashores make Aruba a real gem of the Southern Caribbean. The next are simply a number of the extra well-liked choices:
Eagle Seashore
This picture-perfect seaside is situated lower than 3 miles from the cruise port, so it’s a must-visit vacation spot. The neighborhood on the prime of the white sand seaside is a wonderful place for a stroll. With Dutch structure and loads of cafés and bars, it’s the proper place to spend a day.
Palm Seashore
Situated somewhat additional north however nonetheless solely 4.3 miles from the port, you’ll discover Palm Seashore. Because of its proximity to a number of the island’s many resorts, there are many bars and eating places.
It’s additionally very near the Bubali Fowl Sanctuary, the place you’ll be able to view a number of the many tropical birds that decision Aruba dwelling, like flamingos and snowy egrets.
Surfside Seashore
In order for you a quieter seaside, Surfside Seashore has a extra relaxed ambiance. Situated simply 1.5 miles from the port, it’s additionally possibility for these with restricted time. With a number of beachside bars, it’s a beautiful seaside to take pleasure in a soothing drink and watch the surfers.
Distance to Standard Points of interest
For these prepared to journey somewhat additional outdoors the port, the entire of Aruba is comparatively accessible. The next are simply a number of the well-liked points of interest which are price taking a taxi to:
Conchi Pure Pool
Situated almost 8 miles from the port, this pure saltwater pool is extremely lovely. Splashing within the pool can also be an effective way to cap off a hike across the island’s northern conservation space.
Aruba Butterfly Farm
Situated just some minutes stroll from the north aspect of Eagle Seashore, the Butterfly Farm is simply 3.8 miles from the port. Step right into a tropical backyard and get swarmed by butterflies from everywhere in the world. For those who’re searching for the proper Instagram image, you’ve discovered it!
The Donkey Sanctuary of Aruba
Situated 6 miles from the port, this secure haven for injured and rescued donkeys is nicely price a go to. Not solely are you able to feed the pleasant donkeys, however all proceeds and donations go in direction of their welfare. Do your self and the donkeys a favor and convey a number of apples or carrots!
Aruba Pure Bridge in Arikok Nationwide Park
This distinctive rock formation mimics a man-made bridge. The pure limestone arch is extremely photogenic, particularly for those who can snag {a photograph} of the crashing waves on the opposite aspect of the bridge.
Taking a hike by Arikok Nationwide Park to the bridge is a highly regarded exercise. At simply over 7 miles from the port, attending to the park just isn’t overly troublesome.
Eating Close to Aruba Cruise Port
Oranjestad has a vibrant culinary scene, with a variety of choices that showcase the island’s weird mix of Dutch, Caribbean, South American, and African delicacies.
Whilst you can simply wander across the metropolis and stroll into any of the quite a few eating places that catch your eye, the extra well-liked choices embody The West Deck and Yemanja Woodfired Grill. Each supply dishes that showcase the island’s distinctive flavors. Another choice is Sandra’s Backyard Restaurant, which is inside strolling distance from the port space and subsequent to Surfside Seashore.
For one thing nearer to the cruise port and with a extra laidback ambiance, take a stroll over to Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant. Seize some recent seafood and watch the boats come and go from Renaissance Marina.
Given Aruba’s pretty excessive GDP and booming tourism trade, Oranjestad is a client’s paradise. We already mentioned how shut The Royal Plaza Mall is to the cruise port, however loads of different choices are close by.
Renaissance Mall & Market is a extra upscale buying complicated with loads of worldwide retailers, duty-free retailers, and high-end luxurious shops. You can too stroll by town streets and discover quite a few retailers, particularly wandering alongside L.G. Smith Boulevard, dotted with jewelers and designer retailers.
Continuously Requested Questions (FAQs)
Are you able to stroll round Aruba from the cruise port?
Sure, the cruise port is situated immediately throughout the metropolis of Oranjestad, so its many points of interest, retailers, and eating places are all inside strolling distance.
What’s near the cruise port in Aruba?
The cruise port is situated on the sting of downtown Oranjestad, so it’s straightforward to entry many points of interest, together with the Archaeological Museum, Fort Zoutman, the Renaissance Mall, and Eagle Seashore.
How a lot is a taxi in Aruba from the cruise port?
Taxi fares differ relying on the place you’re going however are usually very cheap. Plus, official flat charges are displayed on the cruise port and throughout the cabs themselves. Count on to pay between $10 and $35 to get round, relying on how far you might be touring from the port.
