Aruba (Oranjestad) Port Guide for Princess Cruises
Plan your day in port with essential logistics, top sights, and a complete list of Princess shore excursions you can reserve in Manage Booking.
Why visit Aruba
Dutch influence still lingers on this balmy Caribbean island. Aruba’s arid interior is dotted with cactus and windswept divi-divi trees, while secluded coves and white-sand beaches line the coast. The island’s long, colorful heritage is reflected in Papiamento, a dialect blending Spanish, French, Portuguese, Dutch, African and English.
Where you dock: Ships call at Oranjestad, Aruba’s capital. The cruise pier sits right by downtown; shops and dining are a short walk away.
Getting around: Taxis are readily available at the terminal with posted fares. Arubus (the public bus) operates from the main station near the port with routes to Eagle Beach and Palm Beach. Rideshare coverage is limited.
Beaches near port: Surfside Beach is closest to the pier. Eagle Beach and Palm Beach offer wide sands, calm water, rentals, and dining.
Currency and payments: The Aruban florin (AWG) is the local currency, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted. Major credit cards are commonly used. Small bills are helpful for taxis and beach rentals.
Language: Papiamento and Dutch are official; English and Spanish are widely spoken.
Time zone: Atlantic Standard Time (UTC−4); Aruba does not observe daylight saving time. Shore excursions operate on ship’s time—always follow your onboard schedule.
Connectivity: Many cafés and malls near the pier offer Wi‑Fi. MedallionNet plans may work in port; check your package details.
Safety and comfort: Aruba is generally safe; use normal travel awareness. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and water. Trade winds can be strong; secure hats and lightweight items.
Accessibility notes
Terrain: Downtown sidewalks are generally paved but may include curbs, slopes, and occasional uneven areas. Some historic sites have steps.
Beaches: Sand can be soft; beach wheelchairs may be available from local vendors at popular beaches. Confirm availability in advance.
Shore excursions: Look for “Easy Activity” and accessibility notes in excursion descriptions. Use Manage Booking to review mobility requirements and suitability before reserving.
Top points of interest
California Lighthouse: Built in 1910 and named after the steamship “California,” this lighthouse offers panoramic views of the island and coastline.
Oranjestad: The island’s capital features Dutch Colonial architecture, museums, and the best shopping along the main street and waterfront malls.
The “Antilla” Shipwreck: One of the Caribbean’s largest wrecks, scuttled in WWII and now home to abundant marine life—a highlight for snorkelers and divers.
Baby Natural Bridge: A photogenic rock-and-coral arch near the former Natural Bridge site.
Ayo or Casibari Rock Formations: Dramatic boulder clusters once visited by Arawak Indians; short trails and lookouts.
Ostrich Attraction: Up-close look at ostriches and emus, with guided feeding experiences.
Beaches: Eagle Beach and Palm Beach are famed for soft sand and clear, calm water, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Butterfly Farm: Hundreds of butterflies in tropical gardens; learn about all stages of their life cycle.
Special Child Pricing: Children 12 and younger may save up to 50% on select tours.
Tips: Tours run on ship’s time. Meeting locations and times are listed in your excursion ticket and in Manage Booking. Bring your Medallion and photo ID when leaving and reboarding the ship.
Princess shore excursions in Aruba
Best of Aruba: Island Highlights & Beach — 4.5 hours, Easy — from $89.95 — Average rating 4.0/5 (41 reviews). View details
Swimwear and a cover-up if visiting beaches or joining water tours
Comfortable walking shoes
Small bills for taxis, tips, and beach rentals
Travel protection
For added peace of mind, consider a protection plan that can help with trip interruption, delays, medical expenses, and personal belongings. You can review available options for your booking in Manage Booking.
FAQs
Where will my Princess excursion meet?
Meeting times and locations are listed on your excursion ticket and in Manage Booking. Follow instructions on ship’s time.
How far is downtown from the ship?
Downtown Oranjestad is adjacent to the pier—typically a few minutes on foot.
Can I get to the beach without a tour?
Yes. Taxis are available at the terminal to Eagle Beach and Palm Beach. Public buses also run from the nearby station to major beach areas.
Is snorkeling good in Aruba?
Yes. Calm, clear water makes for excellent snorkeling. Popular sites include the Antilla shipwreck and shallow reefs visited by catamaran tours.
Are U.S. dollars accepted?
Yes. U.S. dollars are widely accepted; change may be given in local currency. Major credit cards are commonly used.
Is Aruba family-friendly?
Very. Many beaches have gentle surf, and several excursions are suitable for families. Look for “Easy Activity” and age notes in the tour descriptions.
Is the island accessible for guests with limited mobility?
Many areas of downtown are accessible, though surfaces can vary. Check excursion notes for accessibility details and choose activity levels that match your needs.
What’s the weather like?
Warm and dry year-round, with steady trade winds. Showers are typically brief. Sun protection is essential.
View cruises that call at Aruba • Already booked? Reserve excursions in Manage Booking