Aruba

Your friendly local expert will meet you at the port to begin your exploration of Aruba's history and cuisine. Your interactive guided walk will take in monuments, the old fort, important buildings and historic sites around down town Oranjestad. Pass by the Archaeological Museum, housed in classic Dutch colonial buildings and the former property of the Ecury family. Afterwards, continue to Fort Zoutman and Willem III Tower, now the Historical Museum of Aruba, for an exterior view. Constructed in 1798 as a means of defence against pirates, the fort is the oldest building in Oranjestad. The Willem III Tower was built in 1868 and added to the Fort with Aruba's first public clock and served as a lighthouse equipped with a spire and petrol lamp. During your tour learn about the local language and the historical influences of the Spanish, British and Dutch. You'll also have the opportunity to taste local snacks such as pastechi (fried Caribbean pastry filled with Gouda and any fillings that the chef can think of!), pan bati (savoury pancake with origins linked to Spanish conquerors and Creole culture). For a more immersive look at the island's earliest beginnings, you'll visit the National Archeological Museum, which displays 4,500-year-old stone tools and the Historical Museum, which sits inside the Dutch built Fort Zoutman. As your walking tour comes to a close, you'll be escorted back to your ship to reflect on your adventure.

The four hour adventure begins in your fun and unique mode of transport for the day – The Kukoo Kunuku open air buses. Enjoying Aruba's countryside with colorful local cunucu houses on your way to the Alta Vista Chapel built in the cununcu overlooking the Sea. Then you're off to the California Lighthouse. This brief photo stop offers panoramic views of the island. The building itself is a fascinating structure, named after the steamship California, which sank in the middle of the night on Sept. 23, 1891. After you've sightseeing it's time to climb back onto the Kukoo bus to shake your maracas to the Caribbean beat on the way to one of Aruba's white sand beaches. Your complimentary lounge chair awaits you to laze in the sun, swim in the azure waters or relax and sip a Pina Colada. There is a full-service bar and restaurant, restrooms and changing facilities, outdoor freshwater showers, and a gift shop for souvenir hunting.

Discover the beauty and history of Aruba when you travel throughout the island by an air-conditioned motor coach, stopping at an array of attractions on a 3.5-hour adventure. Your first stop is the Baby Natural Bridge & Natural Bridge Ruins. Pounded over thousands of years by wind and surf, this natural coral limestone bridge is a powerful testament to nature's power. Next, stop at the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins. This abandoned mill had its heyday in the 19th century during Aruba's gold rush. After snapping some pictures, continue on to the Alto Vista Chapel, which means 'highest view.' This beloved heritage landmark is celebrated for its tranquil atmosphere. The final stop of the day is the iconic and recently renovated California Lighthouse, offering spectacular views of the island. At the conclusion of your day, relax on the scenic ride back to port.

A four-hour, narrated, panoramic tour introduces you to Aruba's natural beauty and historic highlights. Meet your guide and settle into your seat as your comfortable motorcoach travels through Oranjestad taking in the sights while your guide offers lively commentary. Admire the Dutch colonial architecture with its antique buildings and houses which co-exist with modern architecture and the sophisticated flair of the island. Your first stop is the Aloe Factory for a tour of the aloe plantation and accompanying museum. Then it's on to some must-see landmarks: the Casibari Rock Formation and the captivating views from the California Lighthouse. Your day concludes with fun in the sun at one of Aruba's prettiest beaches. Be sure to wear your swimsuit to make the most of your approximately 1 hour time to swim and beachcomb. Travel a coastal route to return to the port.

Explore the top 4 attractions in this easy, breezy tour!

From the comfort of your air-conditioned bus you will pass through Oranjestad's colorful buildings as you head inland toward the mammoth rock formations that dot the Casibari area. Wander among the diorite boulders to see local flora and fauna or for the more adventurous, climb to the top and be rewarded with a view of your ship in the distance! Bar, giftshop and restrooms available for a charge.

It is now time to head to the windswept North Coast where cactus dots the landscape and waves dash upon the coral cliffs allowing for great photo ops! You will stop at the famous Baby Natural Bridge where you will have time to shop at the unique store - check out the "Biba Dushi" (sweet life) signature line of gifts. Typical local snacks can be purchased and restrooms are available for a $1 fee.

The Heart of Faith awaits you at the Alto Vista Chapel. This was the first Catholic chapel built on the Island in the 1700's and it still hosts alfresco masses every Tuesday afternoon. You will have time for photos and silent reflection or a walk through the peace labyrinth just a few steps away.

Now prepare your cameras for a breathtaking panorama from the base of the California Lighthouse. Newly renovated and celebrating 100 years you can see from coast to coast, including the hotels

This laid-back, three-hour tour is designed for guests who love to get close to nature and is Animal Planet recommended. A quick motorcoach drive brings you to the Butterfly Farm, where you'll meet your expert guide, who will show you around the wonderful tropical gardens. Here, you will view hundreds of exotic butterflies flying freely within large, meshed enclosures. Witness all stages of their life cycle, from a tiny egg to a caterpillar and jewel-like pupa. Then, travel past the wind-swept divi-divi trees en route to the Aruba Aloe Factory, where you will learn how aloe is grown and transformed into world-famous skin care products, which you can buy from the gift shop. Drive to the striking Ayo rock formation and explore the natural rock gardens before driving back to port across more dramatic terrain. At Oranjestad, time permitting, you may opt to be dropped off in the town center for more independent sightseeing.

Aruba's top highlights are discovered on this four-hour adventure that begins when you board an air-conditioned motorcoach and set out to photograph the California Lighthouse. Continue your drive across the island's arid terrain, viewing cacti and divi-divi trees and a series of fascinating rock formations: the ruins of the island's Natural Bridge, the still intact Baby Natural Bridge, two rock and coral formations that have become tourist highlights, and the striking Casibari rock formations, some of which are as big as houses. Animal lovers will then enjoy the next stop, the island's delightful ostrich attraction. Here, you will get acquainted with many of these interesting, flightless birds as well as the emu. At the conclusion of this sight-filled day, return to port. If time permits, you may opt to be dropped off in Oranjestad for independent shopping before making your own way back to the ship.

Enjoy a three-hour snorkel cruise that introduces you to the beauty of the island coastline and the riches of Aruba's marine life. After some smooth sailing, the first stop will be at Boca Catalina for some great reef snorkeling. As the depth will be around 15 feet, it is the perfect place to refresh or learn snorkeling skills. The second stop will be at the famous Antilla shipwreck. A remnant of World War II, the Antilla was scuttled by its own captain to prevent it from being captured by the Dutch Marines. Today, it lies on its side in 60 feet of water and was voted as one of the World's Top 10 Dive and Snorkel sites. Seeing the largest shipwreck in the Caribbean will be an experience you won't forget. Your snorkeling adventure will be followed by a relaxing sail back to the port with unlimited rum punch, juices and soft drinks accompanied by recorded music.

See the sights and catch some rays on a four-hour island motorcoach adventure includes a beach stop and begins with an easy drive through Aruba's capital, Oranjestad. Sit back and enjoy the sight of the colorful markets, the impressive Dutch Colonial buildings and the historic Frenchman's Pass. You'll stop to visit the Casibari rock formations, a shrub-covered landscape shaped by boulders, some the size of small houses and weighing several tons, and visit the gift shop. Proceed to the north coast to view the California Lighthouse, the sea-worn Natural Bridge that collapsed in 2005, and the still intact Baby Natural Bridge. On the way, you'll drive past Aruba's divi-divi trees, considered a natural compass because they point in a southwesterly direction due to the trade winds. The last stop of this laid-back tour is at one of the island's beaches. Be sure to wear your swimsuit. You will have approximately 1.5 hours to swim, beachcomb or relax on the sand. Return to port.

With the wind in your hair, relax on the open decks of a well-appointed catamaran specially designed for day cruises. After setting sail on a 3.5-hour adventure, take in the picturesque views as you cruise to the west point of the island, where ladders provide easy access for snorkeling in the crystalline water teeming with rainbow-hued fish. After a 50-minute stop, continue on to Pelican Marina and Aruba's famous stretch of white sand, Palm Beach. Make yourself comfortable in a lounge chair as the crew serves unlimited drinks. Take a swim, beachcomb or participate in available watersports activities (not included). There are several restaurants located at the water's edge, and the many casinos are within walking distance. After the beach break, return to port enjoying tropical cocktails and the lively Caribbean music performed by the professional crew. If you wish to spend more time at the beach, return at your own expense.

If you've ever wanted to channel your inner Johnny Depp, this outing offers the chance to become a real "pirate of the Caribbean." After a short motorcoach ride along Aruba's west coast, you will arrive at famous MooMba beach, where you will board the impressive Jolly Pirates, a charming teak schooner. Visit three of Aruba's famed snorkeling sites, which include two shallow reef areas and the wreck of the Antilla, the famous WWII German freighter that sank in shallow waters near the coast. The well-practiced crew will demonstrate their acrobatic skills on the ship's yard arm, and then it will be your turn to perfect your own style of fly 'n' dive off the rope swing. Snorkel, swim or relax on the deck with a complimentary open bar before heading back to port.

Enjoy one of Aruba's magnificent sunsets from the sprawling deck of a state-of-the-art catamaran. The fun begins with a short walk down the pier where the friendly crew will have everything ready and waiting for you the moment you step aboard. Then, relax as the captain sets a course along the island's south coast and up the gorgeous west coast past famed Palm Beach, a sparkling stretch of white sand fringed by coconut trees and dotted with glamorous high-rise hotels and trendy restaurants. Sit back and enjoy an unlimited assortment of cocktails, sodas, fruit juices, and snacks from the open bar while keeping a lookout for bottlenose and spinner dolphins. Don't forget to have your cameras handy for the best view of the stunning sunset! Once the twinkling stars come out, you'll cruise back to port.

Your four-hour sea and land adventure begins when you board a ferry at the pier then transfer to the Seaworld Explorer for a narrated tour of the wreck of the Antilla, a German freighter that was sunk off the coast of Aruba during World War II. The semi-sub is a surface vessel in which you sit five feet below the waterline. You will view sea life and coral and may even spot some pelicans. Then, board your air-conditioned motorcoach for an island driving tour that begins with the California Lighthouse, where you'll take in stunning views of Aruba's coast. Then, drive to the Casibari rock formations to view the outer-worldly landscape, formed by diorite boulders the size of small houses. Finally, head to Aruba's rugged north coast to view the breathtaking Baby Natural Bridge, carved by the surf from solid coral and limestone. Your route back to port takes you past the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins.

Relax and take in the views of Aruba's pretty coastline on board the Mi Dushi, a colorful, four-level-deck watercraft. Specially designed for comfort, the Mi Dushi offers spacious areas for walking and large outdoor decks under the glorious Aruban sun. The vessel also has plenty of shaded areas and an easy entrance platform to the water for snorkeling. On board, delight in the cool trade winds and warm hospitality of the captain and his crew. Two snorkeling stops are made at beautiful shallow reefs, and a third one will allow you to explore a sunken WWII German freighter, the famous Antilla. Feeling daring? Take the plunge off the exciting wet and wild rope swing into the sparkling azure sea. After snorkeling, you will be served a tasty island treat accompanied by a cold beverage from the open bar. Snorkeling equipment and snorkel vest are included, as are professional instruction, supervision and complimentary beverages.

Imagine relaxing aboard a luxury 115-foot wooden Schooner, as the sun sets all around you, igniting the sky in a burst of color. An unforgettable evening awaits on a two-hour sail that makes the most of the golden light of a Caribbean sunset. As you watch the sky transform, snap photos of the splendor along the island's west coastline. A sunset sail is the ideal way to celebrate something special, be it a birthday, honeymoon, anniversary or even the night you pop the question. With the wind gently blowing you across the sea, relax as the sunset slowly dissolves into a star-filled sky and see lively Palm Beach, lined with luxury hotels, shops and restaurants at twilight. Your friendly crew will delight you with exquisite service and regale you with island stories. Handcrafted cocktails and signature beverages are served, perfect for toasting to your good fortune. As the stars twinkle in the sky, return to port.

When the sun goes down and the stars come out, it's time for a night you'll never forget! This original nighttime adventure will take you into the countryside and down city alleys for a true island experience. Hop aboard the famous Kukoo Kunuku Party Bus and shake your maracas to the beat of Caribbean music. First stop is the beach where you'll kick things off with a champagne toast, followed by a stop at a local pub for a drink. Then, it's time to satisfy your craving for good food with a casual Caribbean dinner. After dessert, it's time to show off your signature dance moves as you hop from one local pub to the next (the first drink at each stop is included). As the evening draws to a close, the party bus will drop you off at the pier.

Explore beautiful Aruba in an open-air Land Rover. As you cross the island, your informative guide will share his knowledge of the many sights you'll see. After a short bus ride to the starting point, you'll meet your driver/guide and climb aboard your Land Rover vehicle. Be prepared for some heart-pounding twists and turns as the driver takes you through a landscape dotted with homes called "cunucu," past iconic sights like Baby Natural Bridge; the dilapidated Bushiribana Gold Mine, which processed gold ore during Aruba's 18th century gold rush; and the California Lighthouse, the 98-foot-tall lighthouse at Aruba's northwest tip. Arikok National Park beckons next. Once you arrive, you can take a refreshing swim or snorkel in a natural attraction called the "Conchi," also known as the Natural Pool. When it's time to call it a day, you'll climb back into your Land Rover and return to the pier.

Adventurous travelers will enjoy this four-hour excursion that showcases all that Aruba has to offer and takes in its backroad beauty. An informative guide will share his knowledge of the many sights you'll visit. After a short ride to the starting point, you'll climb aboard your 4WD Land Rover vehicle. Then, take off for Aruba's north and east coasts. Your first stop is Casibari Rock, a monolithic rock formation nicknamed "Aruba's Stonehenge." Next, it's Baby Natural Bridge, a natural coral limestone bridge, a powerful testament to nature's power. Continue on to explore the abandoned Bushiribana Gold Mine Ruins. Visit Alto Vista Chapel and, at the tip of the island's northern end, the California Lighthouse, offering picture-postcard views from its 98-foot-high perch. Finally, stop at Arashi Beach for an enjoyable dip in the Caribbean's crystal-clear waters (wear a swimsuit under your clothes). Return to port along a scenic beach route.

Attention, first-time divers! If you've ever wanted to learn how to scuba dive, then this is the adventure for you. You and three other beginners will have the full attention of a professional instructor as you practice the fundamentals in a swimming pool. Once in the weightlessness and comfort of the water, you'll learn how to use the included equipment, deal with water pressure and breathe through a regulator. Then, a dive boat that will take you to the Pedernalis shipwreck, an oil tanker torpedoed by a German submarine during World War II. As you dive 25 feet below the surface, feel free to explore the ship's remains of cabins, scattered out between wondrous and colorful coral formations. Have your underwater camera handy because the waters are full of tropical fish, stingrays and magnificent sea turtles. Back on the boat, you'll return to Oranjestad.

Take an unforgettable trip on a submarine to the magical, underwater world of the Caribbean on a two-hour Animal Planet recommended adventure. The Atlantis is specifically designed for comfortable, underwater passenger excursions – air-conditioned and streamlined. Take a short ferry ride to board the submarine off the coastline. The transfer from one ship to another is easy, but do remember to wear nonskid shoes. After you meet your captain and crew, the submarine will descend for approximately 50 minutes to depths of 130 feet. Once submerged in the crystalline waters, you will have a chance to view fascinating coral formations, a mysterious sunken airplane, or the sunken coaster "Morgenster" up close. You will also discover the many colorful fish that inhabit these waters, which can be identified using the exotic-fish chart attached to your seat. At the completion of your voyage, receive a certificate of participation in a submarine excursion. Return to port with wonderful memories.

Experience this pristine paradise on a Segway, the eco-friendliest way to soak up the island's exquisite sights. But before you hop aboard your 2x2, you'll meet an expert guide who will take you step-by-step through a comprehensive and personalized lesson on the operational and safety aspects of riding your personal transporter. Then you're ready to roll! With the cool ocean breezes kissing your face you'll glide along city streets, paved paths, through sand, and uphill and down. Soon, you'll zoom to the California Lighthouse, which sits at the northern tip of the island. Here, you can step off and sip a refreshing coconut water or other cool drink while enjoying the spectacular views of the island and coastline. After the tour, you'll be transferred to Arashi Beach for some time to swim, snorkel and relax. Later, a bus will take you back to the ship.

One of our most active tours, this three-hour horseback adventure is suitable for passengers who are in peak physical condition. The day begins with a short motorcoach transport to the horse ranch. Meet your friendly guides and your horse for the day. Once you've become acquainted with your ride, climb into the saddle and follow your guide on a slow-trot, 1.5-hour ride through Aruba's unspoiled countryside. Points of interest along the way include the island's famous divi-divi trees, other flora and fauna. Your guide will then lead you down to a beautiful, secluded beach while you and your steed soak up the surroundings. The tour does not include riding into the ocean or swimming. Continue on to photograph Baby Natural Bridge, a limestone formation that was pounded for thousands of years by waves and wind. Trot back to the ranch, say good-bye to your faithful ride and head back to the ship.

Fun in the sun awaits on a full-day adventure to exciting De Palm Island. Wear a swimsuit and bring a towel. A brief transfer brings you to the ferry landing, and a short boat ride across a protected lagoon drops you at this entertaining and colorful resort island. Upon arrival, you will receive an orientation to all De Palm Island has to offer, including beach areas. Additional activities include thrilling banana boat rides, a zip line, air jumpers, and the chance to play a game of beach volleyball. Your unique "passport" also includes the use of snorkeling equipment and lessons – a magnificent way of viewing the many tropical fish that live in these crystal-clear waters. Lounge chairs, freshwater showers, a complete lunch buffet, complimentary alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are provided. Return via the ferry at the conclusion of this sun-sational day.

This tour is for experienced, certified divers only. At port, a representative will assist you in completing the necessary waivers. Then, board the dive boat for a two-tank dive excursion. A 45-minute cruise will take you to the Antilla, the largest shipwreck in the Caribbean. Covered with giant tube sponges and coral formations and surrounded by lobsters and tropical fish, this dive spot has a depth of 60 feet, and the bottom time is approximately 40 minutes. Divers will be placed in small groups and guided by a dive master or instructor. After a 20-minute surface interval, the second dive will be at the shallow wreck of the Pedernalis, an oil tanker torpedoed by a German submarine during World War II. The wreck's several large pieces are spread out between coral formations. This dive has a maximum depth of 25 feet with a bottom time of approximately 35 minutes. Again, you will be split into the same smaller groups and guided.

The latest way to experience the wonders under the sea! Your 6.5-hour adventure begins with a short transfer across a protected lagoon to lively De Palm Island, where you'll be directed to the SEA TREK Underwater Helmet Walk area for an equipment orientation and safety briefing. Your helmet and air system, which allows you to keep your glasses on and your hair dry, will be put on your head as you enter the water down a ladder walking the sea walk up to 20 feet below. Your guided walk (with a helpful handrail) is a totally immersive experience with spectacular marine life. See exotic parrotfish, coral formations and even a sunken airplane. Once you have walked this incredible sea path, it's time to return to the beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy a light complimentary buffet (breakfast or lunch). Afterwards, explore De Palm Island's other amenities, including snorkeling, volleyball and a banana boat ride. Return to port after this awesome experience.

This thrilling three-hour adventure takes you off the beaten path and through the island's breathtaking scenery on a utility task vehicle. After instruction on how to properly drive your UTV, grab the controls and follow your guide on a two-hour-and-forty-minute safari. Your scenic route includes a stop at the charming Chapel of Alto Vista, originally built in 1750. The structure you see today was erected 60 years ago on the original site. Further on are the Gold Mine Ruins, the remains of a smelting plant built in 1872. Then, head to the island's northwestern tip for a look at Aruba's desert. Acres of windswept, white-sand dunes are studded with large boulders, the spectacular Ayo rocks. Visit the 100-year-old California Lighthouse, named for the USS California, which sank in 1908. Although you can't go inside, you can climb up the hill for panoramic views. At the end of your unforgettable journey, you'll head back to your ship.

Get ready for a heart-racing, trail-blazing adventure off-loading in a Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV). The adrenaline-pumping excursion begins when you board a bus bound for the UTV center. After a brief safety briefing and orientation, you'll step inside the two person UTV (this is where the fun really gets going!). You'll follow your guide caravan style through city streets, onto rock riddled dirt roads, along the rugged west coastline and past the Ayo rock formations (No). By the time you reach the Arikok National Park, you're ready to take a revitalizing dip in the Natural Pool, a unique rock formation carved through time in the form of a pool. Refreshed, you'll get back behind the wheel of your UTV and continue on to the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, a reminder of Aruba's Gold Rush days. Disembark, take photos and then get back behind the wheel for the return to the UTV center.