ARUBA (Oranjestad)

Making up the ‘A’ of the ABC islands, Aruba is often seen as a highlight spot on anyones Caribbean cruise itinerary.

Located to the left of Curacao, and just above the coastline of Venezuela, Aruba is many things to many people. Looking for amazing beaches? Look no further than the likes of Eagle Beach and Palm Beach. Want to go snorkeling or diving? Aruba’s got it. Want inland adventure and interesting geological formations? Check. High-end shopping? Yep, got that too.

Up to 4 cruise ships can dock in Oranjestad, the islands capital, on any given day. There are a couple of different terminal buildings in the port area, any facilities can vary slightly.

Once you make your way out of the cruise port terminal area, you are very close to the downtown district. If you are looking to go further afield, and you want to do so on your own, there are plenty of taxis available, rental car operators, or if you’re cost-savvy, there is a public bus that goes to most of the main beach areas, that leaves right across the street from the port.

If you are looking to stay local, and mobility is a bit of a concern, keep your eyes out for the complimentary city tram. It does just stay in Oranjestad, however it makes multiple stops across the downtown area to give you multiple sight-seeing options.

The Best Caribbean Cruise Ports for Diving!

If you are an avid diver, and are looking for ports within a Caribbean cruise to explore what happens below the surface in this region, look no further!

In this video, we highlight 10 of the most popular cruise ports in the region to go diving in. There are many more than just these 10, but getting a few of them in your itinerary will get you off to a good start!

PORT FAST FACTS

DOCKED OR TENDERED?

Docked. There are multiple terminal buildings and their facilities vary slightly in each building.
TERMINAL BUILDING OR PIER?

Yes, both docking berths have a terminal building.
WIFI AVAILABLE?

Upon most recent visits, there was access to WIFI in one of the terminals, but not the other. WIFI network was “Aruba port guest”.
PUBLIC RESTROOMS ASHORE?

Yes, inside the terminal buildings.
TOURIST INFORMATION?

Inside the terminal building with the WIFI access there is a staffed tourist information booth available.
MAPS AVAILABLE?

Yes, from the tourist information booth inside the terminal building.
TAXIs / PUBLIC TRANSPORT?

Taxi’s are available, both inside the port gate and outside. Inside gate, taxi’s are not metered rates, the prices are fixed based on destination. Public bus also available outside the port gate.
ATMs / MONEY EXCHANGE?

Not right at the port. ATM’s a short walk away downtown. US dollars are accepted in most places.