- Princess Cruises Destinations
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Dutch influence still lingers on this balmy Caribbean island, part of the former Netherlands Antilles until its independence in 1986. Aruba is a contrast: the island's arid interior is dotted with cactus and windswept divi-divi trees while secluded coves and sandy beaches make up its coast. Aruba's long and colorful heritage is reflected in its dialect. Called Papiamento, it is a tongue that combines elements of Spanish, French, Portuguese, Dutch, African and English.
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California Lighthouse.
Perched on a high elevation and named after the "U.S. California," which sunk off the coast of Aruba, this lighthouse was built in 1910, and offers stunning views of the island and coastline.
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Oranjestad.
Oranjestad, Aruba's largest port, is also the island's capital and offers the best shopping experience on its main street, but is also known for its impressive Dutch Colonial architecture.
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The "Antilla" Shipwreck.
The 400-foot "Antilla" is one of the Caribbean's largest shipwrecks and also one of its most popular attractions. It was sunk during World War II and is home to many kinds of exotic sea life.
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Baby Natural Bridge.
Baby Natural Bridge is a stunning rock and coral formation. The original Natural Bridge fell into the sea in 2005, but the smaller bridge remains a must-see island highlight.
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Ayo and Casibari Rock Formations.
These dramatic formations are shaped by boulders, some the size of small houses and weighing several tons. Arawak Indians would visit in order to hear incoming thunderstorms and draw on the rocks.
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Arikok National Park.
Aruba's National Park is home to spectacular cacti, flora and fauna that flourish in this desert-like environment. Along with the wind-swept divi-divi trees, wild donkeys and iguanas also live here.
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Beaches.
Aruba is famous for gorgeous, palm-tree lined white sandy beaches which are home to calm clear waters, making them perfect locations for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing.
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Butterfly Farm.
Aruba's Butterfly Farm is home to hundreds of exotic butterflies who fly freely within large meshed enclosures. Witness all stages of their life cycle and with guidance, handle these tiny creatures.
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- Aruba Highlights and Aloe Factory. Get an overview of this interesting island and still have plenty of time to shop or relax on the beach. Drive through Aruba's capital, Oranjestad, passing the outdoor markets, the statue of Queen Wilhelmina and colorful Dutch colonial buildings. You'll also pass by the largest sea-water conversion plant in the world. Next, travel through Santa Cruz to Frenchman's Pass, where Indians once defended their island against attacking French, and see the remains of the 19th-century gold mill that operated here until 1913. You'll stop at the rock formations of Casibari, where you may climb to the top of the boulders for an outstanding view. Afterward, continue to Aruba's rugged north coast and the Natural Bridge, carved by the surf from solid rock. Continuing through the countryside, you'll pass windswept divi- divi trees on your way to the Aruba Aloe Factory. Here you'll have a brief guided tour of the production facility to see how this marvelous, soothing product is manufactured. Prior to returning to the ship, you'll also have a few minutes to browse the retail shop to pick up your favorite aloe products.
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- Seaworld Explorer Semi- Submarine. Explore Aruba's amazing underwater world in this state-of- the-art semi- submarine. You'll descend into the boat's air-conditioned hull, five feet below the water's surface, to see the Arashi Reef's spectacular sea life and coral formations through clear glass windows. Your knowledgeable guide will provide information on the underwater world around you. You will also see the wreck of the Antilla, a German freighter destroyed during World War II. One of the largest wrecks in the Caribbean, this 440-foot-long vessel lies partially submerged in 60 feet of water, providing a comfortable way station for the many pelicans and other sea birds that frequent it. After your tour, you'll have the option of being dropped off in town; you would then be responsible for your own return to the ship.
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- Bike Exploration of the Northeast Coast. Exploring Aruba's untamed northeast coast by mountain bike is an adventure even experienced bikers are sure to enjoy. You'll depart the ship in an air-conditioned bus for the approximately 30-minute scenic drive to the Natural Bridge. Then after a short briefing, your ride will begin. The ride is primarily downwind and along a flat sand road. There are a couple of fairly steep inclines, and soft sand can be encountered. Rest stops will be made at the Bushiribana Gold Mine and the Alto Vista Chapel. Your next stop is the picturesque California Lighthouse. Finally, you'll ride the short distance to Arashi Beach, where the shuttle bus will be waiting to return you to the ship.
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- Helmet dive and Passport to Paradise. Catch the latest craze in underwater activities-helmet- diving-and enjoy some fun in the sun at De Palm Island on this exciting excursion. After a brief bus and ferry ride, you'll arrive at De Palm Island. Here you'll be directed to the helmet dive are, where an equipment orientation and safety briefing will be provided. Depending on the number of divers, you may be split into groups for your helmet dive experience. If you're not in the first group of divers, you'll be able to take advantage of the other island activities, such as snorkeling, until it's your turn to dive. Your dive begins as the helmet is placed over your head on the entry ladder. As you begin your underwater walk you'll be amazed that the specially designed helmet and air system will keep your hair dry and even allow you to wear your glasses! To aid in your undersea walk, a railing has been installed along the path, and there are guides with the group the entire time. For your viewing pleasure, there is a sunken airplane and a multitude of friendly tropical fish. When your underwater walk is completed, you'll have ample time to use your Passport to Paradise to enjoy the other amenities at the island, such as snorkeling with the famous school of blue parrotfish, swimming or just relaxing the sun. Complimentary beverages and a light lunch are also included.
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- Golf at Tierra del Sol Aruba. ALocated on the western point of Aruba, Tierra del Sol Aruba combines spectacular vistas with a 6,811-yard championship course for a memorable day of golf. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., this 18-hole, par-71 desert links course has large and subtly contoured greens, along with plenty of room on the sweeping aprons from which to chip or putt. Carefully manicured bunkers and Aruba's constant trade winds offer unique challenges. Your tour includes greens fees, golf cart and transportation. Rental clubs and lunch are available at the course and are your own responsibility.
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Pricing & Information Request
Hot Deal: Up to $100 Onboard Credit & Bonus Savings!*
* Rates and offers vary by cruise, are subject to select dates and categories, are cruise only, per person, based on double occupancy, in US Dollars and include NCCF, unless otherwise mentioned. Government taxes and fees are additional. All rates and offers are capacity controlled, are subject to availability and confirmation, and may change without notice. Additional restrictions may apply.
- Carnival reserves the right to re-instate the fuel supplement for all guests at up to $9 per person per day if the NYMEX oil price exceeds $70 per barrel.
- Holland America Line reservations are only accepted from clients with a United States or Canadian residence; by reserving on Holland America Line, client warrants that he/she maintains a US or Canadian residence.
- ^ MSC Cruises kids age 11 and under sail free and age 12 to 17 sail for $99.00 when traveling with two adults in the same stateroom (some restrictions may apply.)
- Princess Cruises reservations are only accepted from clients with a United States or Canadian residence; by reserving on Princess Cruises, client warrants that he/she maintains a US or Canadian residence.
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