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Whether you want to check out some beaches, go shopping, go snorkeling, or quickly explore the island, read on to discover the best of the best in Oranjestad, Aruba. Port Oranjestad Aruba cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Oranjestad Aruba, Netherlands Antilles.
Aruba Cruise Port and Terminal Information - Cruise Critic
Aruba Cruise Port and Terminal Information.
Posted: Mon, 05 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]
Oranjestad – Aruba

Aruba is one of the most popular islands in the Caribbean. It offers everything you look for while on vacation, whether you would like to enjoy Aruba’s popular Palm beach, go shopping in its Oranjestad or visit one of the many natural formations. Aruba offers a large variety of sites and activities to cater any tourist. The island is covered by dry landscapes, cactus, boulder formation and is home to one of the best beaches of the world. Its colourful small city centre is close to the terminal and best to explore by foot. However, if you want to spend a beach day on this wonderful island, there are plenty of choices.
Maps (right-click to save)
This way, you can explore the island when, where, and how you want. Try one of the three routes filled with highlights we laid out for you. We already mentioned Eagle Beach, but we can also recommend Oranjestad. The Aruba cruise terminal is situated here, so you can hop off the ship and get immersed in this colorful town immediately. The town of Oranjestad is located on the picturesque south coast of Aruba in the Dutch Antilles.
Ports Authority

The cruise terminal area has plenty of shops and malls to explore. Step into the colorful and lively capital of Aruba, Oranjestad. Explore the charming streets lined with Dutch colonial architecture, indulge in duty-free shopping, or relax on pristine beaches. Discover the unique natural wonders of the island, such as the famous Natural Bridge or the Arikok National Park.
You may assume that there will only be a little to do if you only have a few hours to explore Oranjestad, but that’s not true. There are plenty of things to keep you busy right near the port. Has a kiosk located at the Cruise Terminal where they provide international call services, Wi-Fi cards, and Internet Services. Book a table at one of the restaurants in Eagle Beach, Palm Beach or Oranjestad.
The West Deck Island Grill & Beach Bar
Shopping The terminal is close to the city centre of Oranjestad. When exiting the terminal you go right at the main road. This is where the shopping district starts and you will come across more and more stores the closer you get to the city centre of Oranjestad.
The Local Market Aruba
Who said that during a cruise you don't get to see or experience the real side of the destinations you visit along the way? Here in Aruba, shop owners, tour guides, local experts and other island specialists alike do their utmost to provide you with a most enjoyable time and authentic experience in Aruba. If you are not into spending a day at the beach or attracted by water activities, Oranjestad is a lovely city (really a small town) to explore on your own. Just turn right once you exit the port gates and you are in the city. Smith Boulevard to the Renaissance Marketplace and then back thinking that there isn't more to see in Oranjestad. Immediately at the Aruba cruise port facilities, travelers will find a handful of local bites and bars.
The bus service is pretty extensive and it is suitable to take to one of Aruba’s beaches for example. While Aruba's beaches and shopping are enticing, the island has much more to offer for those seeking adventure and exploration. Consider opting for one of the guided excursions to make the most of your limited time. A local guide can showcase the island's highlights and secrets, ensuring a memorable experience. We suggest taking this route to Arashi Beach, where the bus conveniently drops you off right in front of the parking lot, ensuring a hassle-free day of sun and surf with views of California Lighthouse.
The ride goes along the island’s north and east coasts with stops for refreshments. You’ll get the opportunity to see huge cacti trees – so typical in Aruba, lizards, iguanas, and other Aruban wildlife. The gorgeous sea views, sand dunes, and the view over the whole northeastern coast of Aruba will follow you along the way. There's also an open-air trolley that provides tours around downtown Oranjestad, suitable for both sightseeing and shopping. This is a great free option for those who want to stay close to the ship. For cruises bound for the southern Caribbean, making a stop in Aruba is often the most eagerly anticipated part of the journey.
The port of Aruba consists of two modernly equipped cruise terminals located in the very heart of Oranjestad, the island’s capital. Aruba’s free streetcar Right outside the cruise port’s main gate you will find a free streetcar that takes you to the main street area. The trolley comes by ever 25 minutes between 10 am and 5 pm.
Aruba's weather has hot summers (sometimes very hot) and warm winters, with little to minimal precipitation. Oranjestad and Aruba are on Atlantic Standard Time (AST), which is 4 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). UTC-4 is 1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time. Aruba does not observe DST (daylight saving time/summertime.
Although you may read reviews stating that "change may come in local currency", in over 20 years visiting Aruba on cruise ships this never happened to any of IQCruising editors. The beaches of Aruba are famous, spectacular, and very easy to enjoy on your own. The Bus Terminal is right in front of the port exit, public buses are affordable, have stops next to the most popular beaches, and taxis are not the rip-off found in many other Caribbean ports.
Let the friendly locals and the vibrant atmosphere of Oranjestad make your visit unforgettable. One of the most popular ones is Renaissance Mall, located less than a 10-minute walking distance from the port, and this where you can get free wi-fi as well. Only 1 km away from the cruise port is Fort Zoutman historical museum, one of the iconic historical landmarks and the oldest preserved building in Oranjestad. I am the creator of an e-book “Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide“, the most comprehensive guide to 45 Mediterranean cruise ports, & YouTube channel @AdventourBegins. There are normally plenty of local vendors outside the cruise terminal, however, the quality of their services may not be guaranteed (I had a negative experience with ATV rental). Smith Boulevard is where you will find the public bus station.
Not only can you find the best deals here, but you also have a variety of shopping districts to browse and compare prices. Shopping in Aruba is most known for its various selections. Aruba's currency is the Florin (AWG) though US dollars are widely accepted. To change florins to US dollars, divide florin amount in half and add 10%.
For updated coronavirus (Covid-19) information and travel advice to Aruba and Oranjestad visit the website of the U.S. For more Traveler's Health advice to Aruba see the CDC Website.
This is in part because the boulevard is closer to the cruise ship terminal and harbour area. Known for its impeccably white sand beaches and cobalt blue seas, Aruba is considered one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean. While there might be some debate whether the eastern or western Caribbean areas are the most beautiful, the truth is that anywhere in the Caribbean is lovely to visit.
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