My first visit to the heavenly island of Curacao was via the Carnival Freedom cruise ship during the summer of 2014. We docked in the early afternoon and didn’t leave port until the late hours of the night, so I had a really nice chunk of time to spend exploring the island. On my second visit to Curacao as a complimentary guest on a press trip, I spent a total of 4 nights and 5 days, during which I felt that I really got a taste of the best that the island has to offer. Like many small islands in the Caribbean, Curacao is one of those exotic destinations that many Americans have never even heard of until they book a cruise and see the unfamiliar name pop up on the list of ports of call. I thought I’d share some Things to do in Curacao During a Cruise so that you have a few ideas if you’re sailing to Curacao this summer!
Things to do in Curacao During a Cruise
So what do you do when you arrive in port at Curacao? You can get off the cruise ship and walk around downtown Willemstad, shop, visit museums, take your photo on the famous Queen Emma pontoon bridge…or you can plan ahead and really make the most of your short time in Curacao.
Things to do Near the Port of Curacao
If you’re a history buff, you will be especially pleased with the historical attractions within walking distance of the port of Curacao.
Hura Kurlanda Museum
Just a short walk from the cruise port, you’ll find Hura Kulanda Museum, which is an amazing collection of artifacts from the island of Curacao as well as the continent of Africa, dating back all the way to 600 AD from the Mali area.
Privately owned by an art collector and businessman, the Hura Kurlanda Museum combines education and art history in a way that I haven’t seen anywhere else. The museum tells us about the history of slavery on the island, which was the center of the slave trade and operated by the West Indies Company, about the two rebellions on the island and eventual abolition, then takes you farther back into the history of Africa, which still has a major influence on the people of Curacao to this day.
It is a powerful museum, and a visit will leave you more educated about the history of slavery and a new-found appreciation for art from Africa as well.
Fun fact: Did you know that the language, Papiamentu, spoken in Curacao is derivative of several languages, including several Afrikaans dialects?
Dine at the Gouvernuer Restaurant
One of the most iconic restaurants in Curacao can be found in downtown Willemstad, which is very close to the cruise port. Once home to the governor of Curacao, de Gouverneur offers indoor, outdoor and garden seating with some of the best food on the island.
While you’ll be hard pressed to find a “bad” dining experience in Curacao, you simply must visit the Gouverneur for a cocktail and a meal. The Shade Ade cocktail is simply divine, as is the strawberry mojito!
I recommend trying the Banana Soup and the Stoba. You won’t be disappointed!
Take a Photo with a Chichi
Chichi® is a sensual, well rounded Caribbean figure representing the vibrant, dynamic and responsible older sister in the family. Handmade and hand painted in bright Caribbean colors by local craftsmen and painters at Serena’s Art Factory in Curaçao, you can find different Chichi around Serene’s Art Factory in historic Willemstad!
Have Lunch at Plasa Bieu
I enjoy fine dining, but there’s something to be said for sitting down to eat a causal meal on a picnic bench, surrounded by locals on their lunch break.
I love these experiences, tasting the common dishes that are eaten every day by the people who live in the place I am visiting. The Plasa Bieu is a well-known lunch spot with several kitchens under one roof.
Sit down to a plate piled high with stewed goat, chicken or beef, rice and beans and a little salad and cornmeal, but save room for pumpkin pancakes – trust me on this one.
Take a DUSHI Photo
A common term of endearment in Curacao is “Dushi” which translates to “Sweetheart” or “Honey.” Across the Queen Emma Bridge, you’ll find the DUSHI sign in big bold letters and it makes for a great easy photo opp.
Visit a World UNESCO Site
Designated a World UNESCO site in 1997, the historic area of Willemstad is not only culturally significant, but incredibly beautiful!
Take a Walk Across the Queen Emma Bridge
The Queen Emma Bridge is a pontoon bridge across the St. Anna Bay, connecting the Punda and Otrobanda quarters of the capital city, Willemstad.
Go ahead and walk across – if the bridge opens while you’re on the other side, you can take a free ferry to get back across!
Shop at the Floating Markets
Along the marina just on the other side of the Queen Emma Bridge, you will find boats selling fresh fish and fruits and vegetables from Venezuala.
Hire a Private Taxi or Tour Operator
If you have a little money budgeted away for your time in Curacao, I recommend hiring a private taxi or tour guide and creating a customized itinerary for your time in Curacao. This will alleviate time constraints because a personal driver can map out a plan of action ahead of time, optimizing your time at the very best attractions. Here are a few things I recommend you ask to see!
Big Knipp / Little Knipp
Shette Boka / Boka Tableau
You can find out more about all of the things to do on the island of Curacao here.
Happy Travels!
If you enjoyed this post on Things to do in Curacao During a Cruise, please take a moment to share it on Pinterest for me!
Are you looking for other Caribbean islands to visit? Lucky for you, I have been all over the Caribbean and have quite a few recommendations! Living in Miami affords me the luxury of visiting the Caribbean islands often, whether it by by a cruise or by a plane. For instance, it’s only a 40 minute plane ride to the Bahamas for me!
Exploring the Other Side of the Caribbean
Top 5 Beaches in the Dominican Republic
The Best Beaches in the Caribbean
7 Reasons Why You Should Go Snorkeling in Curacao
The Hard Rock Hotel in Punta Cana
The Hyatt Andaz Papagayo in Costa Rica
See a Different Side of Punta Cana with a Zipline Tour
El San Juan Resort and Casino in Puerto Rico
The Lap of Luxury at the St Kitts Marriott Resort and Casino
Holiday Inn Sunspree in Montego, Jamaica
My Stay at the Grand Paladium Resort and Spa in Jamaica
Touring the Haunted Rose Hall Great House in Jamaica
Sandals Ochi Beach Resort in Jamaica
Things to do in Miami Before and After Your Cruise
Kamalame Kay in Andros Islands, Bahamas
These are just a few of the posts I’ve written about the Caribbean over the years. If you’d like to see a more comprehensive listing, just go to TheRebelChick.com and click the TRAVEL category!
