Plan a CruiseCruise ships dock directly adjacent to Oranjestad, Aruba's capital, with the port capable of accommodating up to five vessels. The modern cruise terminal offers souvenir and clothing shops, restrooms, and a tourist information center. Oranjestad's main attractions, including extensive shopping, diverse dining, and lively bars, are conveniently within a 1km walking distance of the dock. A free hop-on/off trolley service also loops through the city's various shopping districts.
Aruba is a flat, riverless island celebrated for its stunning white-sand beaches. It enjoys a tropical climate, consistently moderated by Atlantic trade winds, maintaining an almost constant temperature of about 27°C (81°F). Annual rainfall is minimal, typically not exceeding 20 inches, and Aruba is located outside the Caribbean hurricane belt. Oranjestad itself is a picturesque historic Dutch capital on the southern coast, blending traditional multicolored Dutch houses with open-air patios, reflecting a unique fusion of Dutch and indigenous cultures. Visitors can explore sites like the Fort Zoutman Historical Museum or the National Archaeological Museum to delve into Aruba's past.
Getting Around from the Port
Oranjestad is best explored on foot, with many attractions within walking distance of the pier. For destinations further afield, taxis are readily available; they do not use meters but operate on government-fixed rates. For example, a ride from downtown to Palm Beach costs approximately $11.
A public bus system, "Arubus," offers an affordable way to explore the island, including travel from Oranjestad to tourist hotels for about $2.60 one-way or $5.00 return. The bus terminal is within walking distance of the pier, and routes extend to areas like St. Nicholas on the far end of the island, allowing passengers to experience local life. Buses operate until 9 PM.
For independent exploration, renting a car or 4x4 is an option, as driving is on the right side of the road.
Attractions and Activities
- Explore Oranjestad on Foot: Wander through the schooner harbor, browse outdoor markets selling tropical fruits and local crafts, and admire Dutch-colonial architecture. Visit the Fort Zoutman Historical Museum or the National Archaeological Museum for a glimpse into Aruba's heritage.
- Taxi Island Tours: Just outside the ship, you can find taxi tours lasting about 2.5 hours for approximately $20 (per taxi with 4 persons). These typically cover highlights like the California Lighthouse, Casibari rock formations, and the chapel on the Northwest coast.
- Arubus Island Exploration: Utilize the local "Arubus" system ($2.60 one-way, $5.00 return) to reach tourist hotels, or venture to the far end of the island like St. Nicholas to have lunch and observe local life.
- Underwater Adventure with Atlantis Submarine: Experience Aruba's marine world aboard the island's only passenger submarine.
- Beach Day: Head to one of Aruba's famous white-sand beaches, such as Eagle Beach, which are clean and easily accessible from the cruise terminal.
- Arikok National Park: Discover the island's interior, characterized by a Martian-like landscape with towering cacti, divi-divi trees, iguanas, and wild goats.
- Aruba Ostrich Farm: Take a guided tour to learn about ostriches and emus, including opportunities for personal encounters with these fascinating birds.
- The Butterfly Farm: Immerse yourself in a lush tropical rainforest environment, surrounded by diverse butterflies, flowers, and a trickling waterfall.
- Aruba Aloe Museum & Factory: Enjoy a complimentary guided tour, offered every 15 minutes in English, Dutch, Spanish, and Papiamento, to learn about Aruba's renowned aloe industry.
Dining & Shopping
Aruba is a popular shopping destination in the Caribbean. You'll find a wide array of goods, including Swiss watches, French perfumes, and fine jewelry. Dutch and Indonesian products, as well as locally made aloe products, are particularly good buys. Oranjestad boasts numerous shopping malls.
Right within the port area, the cruise terminal itself hosts souvenir and clothing shops, and the Renaissance Marketplace is also conveniently located. In downtown Oranjestad, explore outdoor markets for tropical fruits, local arts, and crafts. For specific local products, the Aruba Aloe Museum & Factory offers a chance to purchase items directly.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Aruban Florin (AFL or AWG), with an exchange rate typically around 1 USD = 1.75 AFL (when buying Florins) and 1.80 AFL (when selling Florins for USD). However, there is no need to exchange currency as U.S. dollars are widely accepted throughout the island. Major credit cards are also accepted at most establishments. Be aware that you may receive local Aruban coins as change for amounts less than one dollar.
The official languages are Dutch, English, Papiamento, and Spanish. English is widely spoken, making communication easy for most visitors. Free Wi-Fi is available in the Renaissance Mall and Renaissance Marketplace, particularly around Starbucks and other cafes.