Where Do Cruise Ships Dock In Bonaire?

Discover the best things to do on a cruise to Bonaire, including scuba diving, snorkeling, cultural attractions, and landmarks. The Bonaire cruise port is located in the downtown area of Kralendijk, the capital of Bonaire, and is accessible by walking, taxi, or water taxi. The port consists of two main docking areas: the Northern and Southern Pier, which can handle full-sized cruise ships. Three cruise ships can berth alongside in the center of Kralendijk, with water depths up to 15.2 meters. An attractive waterfront promenade allows guests to enjoy the island’s attractions.

The cruise port is located in the downtown area of Kralendijk, the main town on the island. The island offers white sandy beaches on the west side, and the ships arrive at one or two of the main Bonaire cruise port terminals, just south of the downtown area. This comprehensive guide provides a comprehensive guide to Bonaire, guiding cruise passengers through the island and its attractions.

Is Bonaire safer than Curacao?

There is much more peace and quiet on Bonaire, but there are still some small establishments. Bonaire especially offers cozy terraces and small pubs. Going out on Curacao and Bonaire is not only fun, but also safe on both islands.

It would not be the Caribbean if nothing were celebrated – this happens exuberantly on Curacao. Throughout the year,eventsand activities are organized on both Curacao and Bonaire, varying from sports to art.

Curacao is all round when it comes to activities, there is a lot to experience. In general, Curacao attaches more valueto culture and the historyof the island. This is reflected, for example, in the number ofmuseums.

Bonaire is a paradise forwater sports and diving, for both beginners and advanced. On both Bonaire and Curacao many activities and sights are related to nature and water.

Can you walk around Bonaire from a cruise port?

How do we get around?. If you stay in Kralendijk, most places are within easy walking distance. For visiting the beaches, a taxi will be needed in most cases.

What about taxis?. Taxis will be available directly in the area of the pier where you disembark; costs will vary depending upon the destination. Taxis can also provide tour services. View the various services available to cruise visitors by Bonaire’s taxis.

What currency is used?. The U.S. dollar is the official currency as of January 1, 2011.

How many cruise ports are in Bonaire?

Cruise Schedule for the 2024 season.. Arriving ships will dock on one of two piers (South Pier or North Pier) in the center of the west coast, directly in front of Kralendijk, Bonaire’s main town.

Note: The schedule is subject to change at any time.

Do you go through customs when you get off a cruise ship?

Do I need to go through Customs and immigration at the cruise port?. When your cruise ship arrives at its disembarkation port, local immigration officials need to clear the ship before anyone can disembark. Ships that terminate in U.S. ports may require passengers to fill out Customs forms and show their passports to border control in the cruise terminal. Some passengers might be required to meet with immigration officials on board prior to getting off the ship. Because rules change based on the country of the disembarkation port and the nationality of the passengers, it’s best to follow all instructions given onboard.

Also, if you’ve purchased souvenirs on your cruise, be sure to check your home country’s allowances for goods like alcohol, cigarettes and cigars brought back from abroad. Keep all receipts because you could be asked to report the value of all goods purchased abroad; if you go over the limits, you face taxes on some of your items.

Will there be transportation options from the cruise terminal?. Yes, taxis are always available at ports of disembarkation to take travelers to the airport, post-cruise hotels or area attractions. You can book bus transfers via your cruise line, either before your trip or onboard, that will either take you directly to the airport or combine a city tour with an airport transfer. Buses will be parked just outside the terminal, and port staff can direct you to the correct one.

Does Bonaire have carnival?

Carnival, also known as Karnaval in Bonaire’s local language of Papiamentu, is all about parades, parties, and traditions. The anticipation of the parades and parties has everyone on the island ready to experience the excitement! Over the next couple of weeks, there will be jump-ins, children’s parades, adult parades, and the burning of King Momo, which is quite spectacular and should not be missed!

Elaborate and vibrant costumes.. Each group in the parade showcases its distinct theme and dance. The costumes they wear are filled with sequins, glitter, and feathers, radiating vibrancy. The extravagance of these costumes often leaves onlookers in awe, questioning how participants manage to move, let alone dance, in such elaborate attire. As each group parades past the crowds, the ongoing spectacle continues to amaze everyone, highlighting the remarkable effort invested in crafting these stunning masterpieces. The seamstresses put a lot of hard work into their creations, and it sure does show! You may even notice that the groups have different costumes for each parade, So plan on joining more than one parade for the full experience.

How can I participate?. Tumba Festivals for Adults and Youth. The Tumba Festivals are scheduled for both adults and youth. Tumba is the special music that is specifically for Carnival (Karnaval), and each year, the music is chosen in special competitions by the Tumba musicians for Carnival (Karnaval).

Is Bonaire limiting cruise ships?

Bonaire gets closer to enacting the “One Ship Policy.”. In a recent press conference, an update was given on the “one ship policy” aimed at a better Bonaire experience for cruise tourists as well as residents of Bonaire. By handling a maximum of one large cruise ship per day, several improvements are being made for Bonaire. For the cruise tourists, the service and experience of the island visit will improve by spreading out the number of visitors. Bonaire can also better serve the increased number of cargo ships, partly due to the strong growth in the number of inhabitants, and entrepreneurs can offer more service to visitors. This will also relieve pressure on Bonaire’s infrastructure.

The “one ship policy” already came into effect last year, resulting from the Tourism Recovery Plan, but Bonaire is still seeing two cruise ships at a time due to older contracts that cannot be broken. As of mid-April, there will mostly be one cruise ship in port. However, smaller ships with less than 700 passengers will be allowed as a second ship. The revision of the criteria and requirements for port bookings was also discussed. Incentives for motivating cruise lines to visit during the low season is also being considered.

A recent visit from Carnival Cruise Management. Recently, TCB and OLB welcomed a delegation of Carnival Cruises management aboard the Carnival Horizon. The purpose of their visit was to better understand the island’s vision, high-quality, low-impact tourism, and a cohesive brand strategy with a focus on the visitor experience. For their part, Carnival Cruise lines introduced on-board stakeholders, including media partners, direct partners from the cruise industry, port and government officials, to their far-reaching environmental and recycling policies and an extensive Q&A session.

Do I need a passport to get off a cruise ship at Bonaire?

All U.S. citizens must have a U.S. passport for all air travel to and from the BES Islands. All sea travelers must have a U.S. passport or passport card. Review further information on Bonaire travel here.

Proof of onward or return ticket;; proof of sufficient funds; and; proof of lodging accommodations for your stay.;

Crime:Bonaire, Saba, and Sint Eustatius are all assessed as low-crime areas as their small populations provide a high level of social control and their police forces are professional and responsive. Thoe crimes that do occur are generally non-violent, financially-motivated, and opportunistic in nature such as pickpocketing, thefts of unattended bags, and smash and grabs of empty vehicles. Do not leave valuables unattended in public areas or in unsecured hotel rooms and rental homes. Keep a copy of your valid U.S. passport in a secure location in case it is stolen.

What terminal does Carnival Horizon depart from?

Terminals D & E – Carnival, Princess Cruises, P&O, Holland America Line.

Sailing to or from Miami is an unforgettable experience with stunning beaches and exciting attractions.

The city is a world class destination for you to enjoy before or after you set sail on your cruise. Iconic views at Miami Beach, lively South Beach, pristine Everglades National Park, bustling streets in Little Havana, beautiful architecture in the Art Deco Historic District, and much more await you.

With more than 20 cruise lines berthing 55 ships, PortMiami is one of the world’s leading cruise destinations. More than 4 million cruise passengers traveled through the port in 2022.

Where does Carnival Horizon dock in Bonaire?

Where cruise ships dock in Bonaire. Cruise ships dock in one of two piers on a wide bay on the Southern part of the West coast of the island of Bonaire, right by Kralendijk the main city and capital of the island known as: Southern Pier. Northern Pier.

Essential guide to Bonaire cruise port in Kralendijk: where cruise ships dock, how to get around, things to do, shore excursions, dining, and all you must know.

Bonaire is the B on the island trio known as ABC – Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao. These island have a lot in common but cruise passengers shouldn’t infer that if you “have seen one you have seen them all”.

The three islands are located off the coast of Venezuela and are all part of the Kingdom or Netherlands (or Holland, as many call this small European country) but all have very distinct aspects and completely different ambiance.

Is Bonaire cheaper than Aruba?

ARUBA: Although you can find some good value condo-style properties in Aruba, overall Bonaire offers accommodations at a cheaper price point.

For example, when we stayed at the adorable Boardwalk Boutique Hotel in Aruba it was around $500/night for the Deluxe Coco Casita with a kitchenette and outdoor shower.

BONAIRE: The cost per night at our stay at the Bamboo Bonaire Boutique Resort was around $250/night for a room with a private plunge pool. Even the newer boutique hotels like Belnem House Bonaire are around $250/night.

ARUBA: Aruba has lots of fun activities to participate in. Here are some highlights to give you a taste of what the island has to offer:

Why is Bonaire so expensive?

The costs of living on Bonaire are on average 30% to 40% higher than in The Netherlands, while wages are a lower than in The Netherlands. The transport cost of the products is often seen as the reason for the high prices. Most products come largely from Netherlands, America and Curacao, a small portion comes from Venezuela.

Virtually everything is available on Bonaire, but sometimes you have to search a bit or wait for new supply to arrive, but most products are here for sale. Because everything has to be imported, oftentimes shelves in the supermarkets are empty, especially when it comes to fresh fruits, vegetables and dairy products. Flowers are also often scarce and not for sale everywhere.

In the Netherlands you first make up your mind on what you want to eat and then you go to the supermarkets, on Bonaire you go to the supermarket to see what’s available and that’s what you eat that day.