The Cruise Port of Aruba

Located deep in the Southern Caribbean, Aruba, The Netherlands Antilles is a popular vacation destination and cruise port of call.

Aruba deservedly is known for some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean along with its almost perfect weather. Taking advantage of those assets the government and businesses have invested heavily in building up its tourist infrastructure. Marketed as “One happy Island” it has much to recommend it and lots to explore and you’re sure to find a beach, activity, sight or event that’s just what you’re looking for.

Aruba is famous for its many upscale beach resorts, restaurants, including many recognizable American chains, casino gambling and great duty free shopping.

While the official languages are Dutch and a native language called Papiamento*, most Arubans are fluent in English and Spanish and are famous for being friendly and helpful.

Where Your Ship Docks

The main city on the island is Oranjested and cruise ships dock at cruise terminals right next to the cities central marina. The two cruise terminals have public facilities and a wide array of services and shops selling perfume, Dutch duty free items like Delft and Caribbean handicrafts and souvenirs. Inside the air conditioned terminal you’ll find staffed information booths, where they can assist you with maps, tours and all the information you need to explore Aruba. Central Oranjested is only a few blocks from the piers.

Currency

Local currency is the Aruban florin or Aruban guilder and it is subdivided into 100 cents. The florin was introduced in 1986, replacing the Netherlands Antillean guilder at equal value. The Aruban florin is linked to the United States dollar at the rate of 1.79 florin per USD. Most locations gladly accept Dollars and most credit cards are welcome.

Transportation

Aruba is easy to get around in without a car using public transportation. Bus routes run through the main city of Oranjested and along the length of the resort beaches. The public bus system is Arubus and fares are US$2.60 per single trip with a day pass available for US$10.

One of the most convenient ways to travel is by taxi. Aruba is not a very big island and the taxi drivers are friendly, and operate on fixed rates. Often you’ll find rate charts at taxi pick-up stops. Some drivers will negotiate an island tour at special rates.

Attractions

Don’t miss a visit to Aruba’s powder white sand beach just north of Oranjested at Eagle Beach, trip Advisor’s 3rd Best Beach in the World. You’ll also find amazing snorkeling on the reefs and shallow waters at Mangel Halto an excellent on shore diving site. You can walk out through shallow water to the edge of the reef. Snorkelers on the reef will find parrot fish, yellowtail snapper, sergeant majors and blue tangs as well as beautiful corals, sponges and anemones. For divers the far side of the reef plunges to depths of 110 feet.

Want to get away? You’ll find solitude at Baby Beach or you can explore the ever changing coastline from Natural Bridge to the northeast coast in Aruba’s Arikok National Park.