bonaire cruise port what to do

Bonaire Cruise Port Guide | 8 Best Things To Do In Bonaire Port

Welcome to Bonaire cruise port!

Bonaire is a lovely little island located in the Leeward Antilles, in the Southern Caribbean, around 80 km/50 miles north of the Venezuelan coast. Together with Aruba and Curaçao, it forms the ABC islands and has the status of a special municipality within the country of the Netherlands.

Renowned for its stunning beaches, desert-like sceneries, rich cultural heritage, and the Bonaire National Marine Park, the port of Bonaire is a popular stop in the Southern Caribbean cruise itineraries. In this Bonaire cruise travel guide, read about:

• Bonaire cruise port (Bonaire cruise terminal info, getting around the port)
• 8 best things to do in Bonaire port and best Bonaire shore excursions

Visit also our cruise guides to Curacao , Aruba ,  Cozumel , Costa Maya , Labadee , Roatan

Bonaire Cruise Port

Bonaire cruise terminal is located on the southwestern coast of the island, in the heart of the Bonaire capital of Kralendijk. The pier is very simple and doesn’t have any building or sheltered area except for the tent where the security gate is and that the security staff normally uses.

The port area is flat and suitable for wheelchair users and people with walking difficulties. Kralendijk downtown is easy to navigate and it takes a 5-minute walk to reach it.

Upon getting off your cruise ship and exiting the Bonaire cruise ship terminal, you’ll spot the South Pier Mall which consists of various jewelry and souvenir shops. There is a charming little café right across from the cruise ship.

Besides shops, within the mall you’ll find ATMs and a tourist information desk where you can get Bonaire maps and all the information you need. The South Pier Mall looks very attractive and is usually packed with people, but most of the items are overpriced.

I would advise you first to check out some shops downtown (which is literally a 5-minute walk from the dock), and then if you haven’t found anything, shop in the mall in front of your ship.

Upon exiting the mall area to your left, you’ll spot numerous local vendors selling tours and excursions, especially water taxi round-trip transfers to Klein Bonaire.

Getting Around Kralendijk Bonaire

• The best way to get around Bonaire is on a guided tour or by taxi , as public transport doesn’t really work as we are normally used to. Instead, there are many taxis offering round-trip transfers to popular beaches and places of interest, for a relatively small fee. The taxi vehicles vary from regular 4-seaters to minivans, and the drivers usually wait for more passengers to gather and then hit the beach or other places of interest. The island is very small so everything is within a short driving distance from the port.
• The taxi rank is located outside the Bonaire cruise terminal, right at the exit of South Pier Mall.
• The buses in Bonaire are smaller than regular ones and cannot accommodate a lot of people. The roads may be bumpy, which can be challenging for passengers with serious back or neck issues.
• The shore excursion meeting place is normally on the pier, in front of the ship. Unfortunately, the pier is not covered/sheltered, which is unfortunate in case it starts to rain or the sun is too strong.
• The ABC islands, including Bonaire, are located outside of the hurricane-affected Caribbean areas, and the weather is pleasant throughout the whole year. 
• The currency in Bonaire is the US dollar. ATMs are available in town and credit cards are widely accepted.
• Bonaire International Airport is the only airport in Bonaire and is located 3 km/1.8 miles (a 7-minute drive) south of the cruise port.
• Explore Bonaire tours and activities
• Find the best Caribbean cruise deals

Watch my YouTube video on Bonaire cruise port and the top things to do in Kralendijk!

8 Best Things to Do in Bonaire Cruise Port

The island of Bonaire is small: 38 km/24 miles from the south to the north, and between 5-8 km/3-5 miles from the east to the west, which makes it relatively easy to reach any place on the island within a 30-45 minute drive.

1. Explore Kralendijk

Kralendijk is a small city easy to explore in a couple of hours. It boasts colorful, typically Dutch architecture, a scenic waterfront promenade, an authentic craft market, and a few other historic landmarks.

Below is the list of the major Kralendijk attractions:

Fort Oranje – Upon leaving the South Pier mall area, turn left, follow the waterfront promenade and after 300 meters (less than a 5-minute walk), you’ll reach Fort Oranje, or Fort Orange – a small, 17th-century fortification built by the Dutch for the defensive purposes.

Bonaire Arts and Crafts Market – Only a few minutes’ walk from Fort Oranje, you can explore this lovely market where the locals sell handmade products, such as cosmetics, jewelry, scarves, clothes, paintings, souvenirs… You can try delicious authentic food, and get to talk to the friendly locals who are always more than happy to help! The prices are decent, so make sure you have some cash on you.

Kaya Grandi – Located only a few minutes’ away from the Arts and Crafts Market and around 600 meters from Bonaire cruise terminal (less than a 10-minute walk), Kaya Grandi, or the “main street” is full of shops, restaurants, and bars. A great place for a walk, shopping, or cocktails, although you can find some great cocktail bars along the promenade as well!

Bonaire Museum of Natural History – The museum is a nice place to visit and is located around 1 kilometer away from the Bonaire cruise terminal (or a 15-minute walk). The museum is situated in a small orange house, and the entrance is free of charge. The owner is very knowledgeable and will guide you through the history of Bonaire, the archaeology of the island, its people, and customs, and share information on the biodiversity and ecosystem of Bonaire.

San Bernard Catholic Church – The church is one of the main religious landmarks of the city and is usually included in Kralendijk sightseeing shore excursions as one of the stops. It is located 1.2 km/0.7 miles from the pier (or a 15-minute walk), right by the Museum of Natural History. It was built in the 20th century and painted in yellow.

2. Bonaire Beaches

There are several beaches in Bonaire near the cruise port and the best way to get there is by local taxi. Very often, the taxi vehicles are minivans that can accommodate up to 6-8 people, and in that case, they have fixed prices they charge per person. Here is the list of the best beaches:

2.1. Sorobon Beach

This is the best beach in Bonaire for windsurfers, kite-surfers, kayak lovers, and all those who enjoy water sports! It is located on the southeastern coast of the island, approximately 10 km/6.5 miles from the Bonaire cruise terminal (a 15-20 minute drive).

It is a trendy and busy beach, with several beach bars and a parking lot , so the taxi drivers usually drop you off there. Sorobon Beach has a unique watercolor and quite shallow water that is not really good for swimming, but if you are into watersports – you’ll find it ideal. 

2.2. Lac Bay Beach

This beautiful sandy beach is nestled in the peaceful lagoon on the southeastern coast of Bonaire, 11 km/7 miles (a 15-minute drive) from the Bonaire cruise port and only around 300 meters from Sorobon Beach. It is popular for windsurfers, but it’s also a nice spot for swimmers!

2.3. Lac Cai

The beach is located on the opposite side of Sorobon Beach and Lac Bay Beach, on the other side of Lac Bay. The distance between the Bonaire cruise port and Lac Cai is around 10 km/6.5 miles or a 20-minute drive. The whole area is part of the protected Bonaire Mangrove Reserve and Lac Bay National Park.

The beach is secluded and peaceful, not very crowded, and boasts postcard-perfect crystal-clear water ideal for swimming and snorkeling. There is one beach bar at the beach – Lac Bay Bar , offering great food and a variety of drinks.

2.4. Te Amo Beach

This is the closest beach to the Bonaire cruise port (around 3 km/1.8 miles away from the pier), located on the southwestern part of the island. It is perfect for snorkeling, so make sure you bring your own snorkel equipment.

In case you get hungry or just want to refresh yourself, you can get some delicious food and drinks at the food truck at the beach. A very nice and relaxing beach with an outstanding view of the capital of Kralendijk and gorgeous sunsets.

2.5. Palu di Mangel Beach

Only 3.5 km/2.2 miles away from the Bonaire cruise terminal and only 500 meters further down Te Amo Beach, Palu di Mangel Beach has a lot of natural shade, which makes it perfect for families with kids and locals.

It is great for snorkeling activities as well, so make sure you bring your gear, including water shoes as the shore is quite rocky.

This beach is also called Donkey Beach , due to the great number of donkeys on the island, and the Donkey Sanctuary located in the vicinity of the beach.

2.6. Bachelor’s Beach

This secluded beach is located 4.5 km/2.8 miles from the port of Bonaire, and it takes less than a 10-minute drive to get there. It is located further south of Palu di Mangel beach and is known for its thin strip of sugar-white sand from where the divers can easily access the coral reef. It is a beautiful place to relax if you want to avoid crowds and have more privacy.

2.7. Divi Flamingo Beach Resort & Casino

Within 600 meters from the cruise terminal, Divi Flamingo Resort offers a lot of facilities such as pools, casinos, dining areas, bars, a spa, scuba diving, and snorkeling activities… If you enjoy this type of resort, you’ll have a fun-filled and amazing day here!

There are a few more resorts located in the vicinity of the pier (2-3 km, less than a 10-minute drive) that you can check out, such as Coco Beach Club , Spice Beach Club , Eden Beach Resort, and others.

2.8. No Name Beach

This beach is located on the Klein Bonaire islet that belongs to the protected area of the Bonaire National Marine Park. The beach doesn’t offer any facilities, but the snorkeling site is absolutely extraordinary!

You can reach Klein Bonaire islet by water taxi which you’ll find outside the pier, in the vicinity of your cruise ship. Some cruise lines also offer water taxi services, as well as shore excursions to the Klein Bonaire.

3. Catamaran Sail and Snorkel

Catamaran sailing and snorkeling in Bonaire Marine Park are a must if you are visiting Bonaire for the first time. The cruise lines normally offer catamaran shore excursions, but these are usually fully booked, so if you want to join your cruise ship shore excursion, make sure you book in advance!

There are various boat/catamaran tours offered (with/without lunch, drinks, etc.) and each tour stops at popular snorkel sites where you get to discover Bonaire’s fascinating sea life. Whether you choose to book a tour with your cruise line or with an independent tour operator, make sure it’s cruise ship friendly and that you return to the ship by All aboard time.

Insider tips : These tours’ activity level is moderate. You need to be able to walk around 10 minutes to reach the dock where you’ll embark on your catamaran. Snorkeling is optional – you don’t have to snorkel if you don’t want to. Stops for snorkeling are usually in the open sea and you will use a ladder to go down into the water.

Explore catamaran and snorkel tours in Bonaire

4. Island Sightseeing 

Bonaire is a very scenic island boasting a variety of natural treasures and rich flora and fauna. Below are the main Bonaire attractions:

4.1. Goto Lake (Gotomeer Lake)

Located in the north of the island, 22 km/14 miles (a 30-minute drive) away from the Bonaire cruise port, Goto Lake is a saltwater lagoon and one of only a few pink flamingos nesting places in the world. If you book a guided tour, the guides usually take you to the observation point from where you can see flamingos in their natural habitat.

From there, you can also enjoy the views of the Washington Slagbaai National Park, an ecological reserve covering a large area of the northern part of Bonaire.

4.2. Rincon Village

Situated in the north of Bonaire, around 19 km/12 miles (a 25-minute drive) from the Bonaire cruise port, and only a few kilometers away from Goto Lake, Rincon is the oldest village on the island, founded by the Spanish in the 16th century.

4.3. 1000 Steps

This is a beach that you can reach by a steep staircase, but don’t worry, it doesn’t have a thousand steps! It is a beautiful sandy beach surrounded by limestone cliffs that you can also visit if you are into diving or snorkeling – sea turtles can often be spotted in its crystal clear, shallow waters!

This is a frequent stop in the sightseeing tours of the north of the island due to the gorgeous views of the coast. The beach is located on the way between the Bonaire cruise port and the Rincon village (9.5 km/6 miles away from the cruise dock).

4.4. Slave Huts

Old slave huts are located in the south of Bonaire, 12.5 km/8 miles from the Bonaire cruise terminal (a 15-minute drive). The Bonaire slave huts were constructed in 1850 during the slavery time, and are located along the main road in the vicinity of the salt flats, another Bonaire attraction.

The huts were built for the slaves who were extracting salt from the salt ponds, which was exported from Bonaire as one of the island’s major export products. Six slaves used to share one hut – they slept here and kept their personal belongings and working equipment.

The huts represent an important historic heritage of Bonaire and are impressive to see, but the story behind them is dark and sad.

4.5. Salt Flats

Located in the southern part of Bonaire, less than a 15-minute drive from the Bonaire cruise port, salt flats are a truly stunning place to visit. Some of the purest salt has been produced in the Bonaire salt flats, and in the distance, you can see white salt pyramids.

The Flamingo Sanctuary is a few kilometers away and sometimes you can spot these fascinating birds as well, although they are quite far. On a sightseeing tour, the bus normally pulls over and you get some free time to take pictures of the area.

Explore Bonaire sightseeing tours

5. Washington Slagbaai National Park  

Established in 1969, Washington Slagbaai National Park was the first ecological reserve in the former Netherlands Antilles. This fascinating wildlife sanctuary covers a large area of northern Bonaire and boasts impressive flora and fauna that you can explore in the presence of a tour guide.

The reserve can only be accessed by 4×4 vehicles, so get ready for an off-the-beaten-track exploration of the nature reserve, with stops at the visitor center museum, secluded bays, beaches, lighthouses, and blowholes.

See the list of Washington Slagbaai National Park tours

6. Lac Bay Lagoon 

Bonaire boasts a mangrove reserve that is part of the Lac Bay National Park, located a 20-minute drive from the cruise port. The 700-acre lagoon is an area of unspoiled nature that you can enter only with a professional tour guide.

The underwater marine life in Lac Bay is truly fascinating to explore, and the place is perfect for those in search of a tranquil oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the town. The most popular excursions to Lac Bay include clear-bottom mangrove kayaking, snorkeling and swimming.

Explore Mangrove reserve kayak and snorkel tours

7. Bonaire National Marine Park 

Bonaire National Marine Park (aka BNMP) is one of the top-rated snorkeling and diving destinations in the world. It is one of the oldest marine reserves in the world covering 2700 hectares (6700 acres) of coral reef, seagrass and mangrove vegetation. Klein Bonaire , a small uninhabited islet off the coast of Bonaire, is a world-class scuba diving spot that will amaze you with its mind-blowing underwater treasures.

There are more than 85 scuba diving and snorkeling spots in Bonaire. Cruise lines, independent tour operators and local vendors offer a wide range of snorkeling and scuba diving tours, and you can choose between snorkeling, professional scuba diving and “discover scuba diving” (scuba diving for beginners).

Explore Bonaire National Marine Park tours and activities

8. Land Sailing Experience

This adventure guarantees a fun, memorable, and absolutely one-of-a-kind stay in Bonaire! I haven’t done it myself, but I’ve had so many guests coming and saying they had a hilarious time on their land sailing tour. You get to discover the wild side of Bonaire and enjoy a unique land sailing experience.

The best part is – the tour is family-friendly and everyone can join it, as you control your speed and it’s super safe! You are provided with the helmet, gloves, safety equipment and briefing, so all you have to do is relax and wait for the adventure to start!

Check out the Bonaire Landsailing tours

Wrapping Up

Although small in size, Bonaire is such a wonderful place to visit, full of natural beauties and an incredible underwater marine world. All the attractions of the island are within a short driving distance from the Bonaire cruise port, which makes it an attractive Caribbean cruise destination and easy to explore in one day.

Visit also our cruise port guides to  St Maarten , St Thomas , San Juan , Tortola , St Lucia , Puerto Plata , Punta Cana , Barbados , Antigua , Grand Turk

You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean , Caribbean , Western Europe , Baltic & Scandinavia , USA & Canada , Australia & New Zealand

This article contains affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see my disclaimer  here.

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• Travel Destinations

Bonaire Cruise Port Guide, Things To Do, Shore Excursions

Published: August 25, 2023

Modified: January 3, 2024

by Tomi Bates

• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Welcome to the beautiful island of Bonaire! Located in the southern Caribbean Sea, Bonaire is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a range of exciting activities. Whether you’re arriving on a cruise ship or planning a day trip, Bonaire has something for everyone.

With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, Bonaire is a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. But this small island has much more to offer than just underwater wonders. From exploring the intriguing cacti-laden landscapes of the National Parks to immersing yourself in the local culture and indulging in delicious Caribbean cuisine, Bonaire has a myriad of experiences waiting to be discovered.

In this comprehensive cruise port guide, we will take you on a virtual journey through Bonaire, providing you with valuable information on the island’s top attractions, activities, and shore excursions. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, embark on an adventure-filled day, or simply immerse yourself in the local culture, Bonaire has it all.

Are you ready to explore the hidden treasures of Bonaire ? Let’s dive in and discover all that this exceptional island has in store for you!

About Bonaire

Located in the southern Caribbean, Bonaire is a Dutch Caribbean island known for its unspoiled natural beauty and diverse marine life. The island is part of the ABC islands, along with Aruba and Curaçao, and is often referred to as the “Diver’s Paradise”. Bonaire is renowned for its commitment to conservation, with the entire coastline designated as a marine park and a national park covering a large portion of the island.

What sets Bonaire apart from other Caribbean destinations is its pristine reefs, abundant marine biodiversity, and exceptional visibility. The island offers some of the best diving and snorkeling opportunities in the world, attracting both beginners and experienced divers alike. With over 80 marked dive sites, you can explore colorful coral gardens, encounter sea turtles, and marvel at countless species of tropical fish.

Beyond its underwater wonders, Bonaire boasts a unique landscape characterized by arid deserts, rugged hills, and sprawling cactus forests. The island’s semi-arid climate creates an ideal habitat for a variety of wildlife, including flamingos, iguanas, and parakeets. Exploring the natural beauty of Bonaire’s national parks, such as Washington Slagbaai National Park, is a must-do for nature lovers.

Bonaire’s cultural heritage is equally captivating. Influenced by its Dutch and Afro-Caribbean roots, the island’s culture is a vibrant mix of traditions, music, and cuisine. Take a stroll through the colorful capital city of Kralendijk, visit local art galleries and boutiques, and savor the flavors of traditional dishes like keshi yena (stuffed cheese) and kabritu stoba (goat stew).

Known for its warm and welcoming locals, Bonaire offers a safe and friendly environment for visitors. English and Dutch are widely spoken, making it easy to communicate with the locals and navigate the island.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Bonaire has something to offer everyone. Its untouched beauty, vibrant marine life, and unique blend of cultures make it an unforgettable destination that will leave you yearning to return.

Overview of Bonaire Cruise Port

The Bonaire cruise port is located in the capital city of Kralendijk, a charming and picturesque town known for its colorful Dutch colonial architecture. The port welcomes cruise ships from all over the world, offering passengers a convenient and accessible gateway to explore the wonders of Bonaire.

The cruise port is well-equipped with modern facilities and amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit. Upon arrival, you will find a variety of services, including duty-free shops, restaurants, and tour operators, making it easy to plan your day in Bonaire.

As you disembark from your cruise ship, you will be greeted by the warm Caribbean breeze and breathtaking views of the turquoise waters. The cruise port is conveniently located within walking distance of Kralendijk’s main attractions, allowing you to explore the town at your leisure.

Bonaire’s compact size makes it an ideal destination for a day trip. With limited time on the island, it’s important to plan your itinerary wisely to make the most of your visit. Whether you’re looking to relax on pristine beaches, immerse yourself in the local culture, or embark on exciting adventures, Bonaire has something for everyone.

Bonaire offers a range of transportation options to explore the island. Taxis are readily available at the cruise port, providing a convenient and hassle-free way to get around. If you prefer more independence, car rentals are also available, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

One of the highlights of visiting Bonaire is the opportunity to explore its underwater wonders. The cruise port offers easy access to some of the best snorkeling and diving sites in the Caribbean. Crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life await you just a short distance from the shore.

Whether you choose to spend your day exploring the natural beauty of the island, indulging in local cuisine and shopping, or embarking on thrilling shore excursions, the Bonaire cruise port provides an excellent starting point for an unforgettable adventure in this tropical paradise.

Transportation Options

Getting around Bonaire is a breeze, thanks to its well-developed transportation infrastructure and compact size. Whether you’re looking for convenience, flexibility, or adventure, there are several transportation options available to explore the island and make the most of your time in Bonaire.

Taxis: One of the easiest ways to get around Bonaire is by taxi. Taxi services are readily available at the cruise port and throughout the island. Taxis in Bonaire are identifiable by their distinctive yellow license plates. It is recommended to negotiate the price with the taxi driver before starting your journey to avoid any misunderstandings. Taxis are a convenient option for traveling short distances or for those who prefer not to drive.

Car Rental: If you’re looking for more independence and flexibility, renting a car is a popular choice in Bonaire. Several car rental companies operate on the island, with options ranging from compact cars to jeeps and SUVs. Renting a car allows you to explore Bonaire at your own pace and venture to remote areas that may not be easily accessible by other means of transportation. It’s important to note that a valid driver’s license and a minimum age requirement of 21 or 25 years old, depending on the car rental company, are typically required.

Bicycles and Scooters: Bonaire’s flat terrain and scenic landscapes make it an excellent destination for cycling enthusiasts. Many rental shops on the island offer bicycles and scooters for rent, allowing you to explore the island while enjoying the fresh Caribbean air. Cycling around Bonaire provides a unique way to experience the island’s natural beauty and immerse yourself in its relaxed atmosphere. Just be sure to wear sunscreen and carry plenty of water, as it can get quite hot.

Public Transportation: Bonaire also has a public bus system, which is a cost-effective option for getting around the island. The bus routes cover major areas, including Kralendijk, the airport, and popular tourist sites. However, it’s important to note that the bus service may be less frequent on weekends and holidays, so be sure to check the schedule in advance. The bus stops are clearly marked, and the buses are easily recognizable with their bright yellow color.

Walking: With its small size and pedestrian-friendly streets, walking is a convenient and enjoyable way to explore the town of Kralendijk. Many of the main attractions, including shops, restaurants, and waterfront areas, are within walking distance from the cruise port. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, soak in the picturesque views, and embrace the laid-back atmosphere of Bonaire.

In short, Bonaire offers a range of transportation options to suit every traveler’s needs. Whether you prefer the convenience of taxis, the flexibility of a rental car, the freedom of cycling, the affordability of public transportation, or the charm of exploring on foot, you’ll find the perfect way to navigate this enchanting island and create lasting memories.

Attractions and Activities in Bonaire

Bonaire is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering a wide range of attractions and activities to suit all interests. From the stunning beaches and vibrant coral reefs to the fascinating cultural and historical sites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this Caribbean paradise.

Beaches: Bonaire boasts some of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches in the Caribbean. Picture-perfect stretches of white sand and turquoise waters beckon visitors to relax, swim, and soak up the sun. Some popular beaches include Sorobon Beach, Te Amo Beach, and Bachelor’s Beach. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot or a lively beach with amenities, Bonaire has a beach to suit your preferences.

Underwater Wonders: One of Bonaire’s biggest draws is its incredible underwater world. With crystal-clear waters and flourishing coral reefs, the island is a mecca for snorkelers and scuba divers. The Bonaire National Marine Park offers more than 80 dive sites, allowing you to explore vibrant coral gardens, encounter colorful fish, and even spot sea turtles and dolphins. Don’t miss the famous Salt Pier and the 1000 Steps dive sites, known for their unique marine biodiversity.

Klein Bonaire: Just off the coast of Bonaire lies Klein Bonaire, a small uninhabited island that provides an idyllic escape. Accessible by boat or water taxi, Klein Bonaire offers pristine beaches, incredible snorkeling opportunities, and peaceful solitude. Spend a day exploring the island, basking in the sun, and snorkeling alongside a stunning array of marine life.

Washington Slagbaai National Park: For those seeking adventure and natural beauty, a visit to Washington Slagbaai National Park is a must. This sprawling nature reserve covers over 13,000 acres and features diverse ecosystems, including desert-like landscapes, rugged hills, and picturesque beaches. Explore the park’s hiking trails, spot unique flora and fauna, and take in panoramic views from the park’s observation points.

Flamingo Sanctuary: Bonaire is home to a flourishing flamingo population, and witnessing these elegant birds in their natural habitat is a truly memorable experience. Visit Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary, located in the southern part of the island, to observe these graceful creatures in their vibrant pink hues. It’s an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Cultural Exploration: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Bonaire by visiting the island’s historic sites and museums. Explore the colorful streets of Kralendijk and admire the Dutch colonial architecture. Visit the Bonaire Museum to learn about the island’s history and culture, or stop by the Mangazina di Rei to discover Bonaire’s agricultural past. Don’t forget to indulge in local cuisine, try traditional dishes like krioyo (local creole food), and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Bonaire’s local festivals and events.

From soaking up the sun on pristine beaches to exploring underwater wonders, embarking on thrilling adventures, and immersing yourself in the local culture, Bonaire offers a wide array of attractions and activities that will leave you with unforgettable memories of this Caribbean paradise.

Top Shore Excursions in Bonaire

Bonaire is a paradise for cruise passengers, offering a plethora of exciting shore excursions that allow you to make the most of your time on this captivating island. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Bonaire has a variety of unforgettable experiences to offer. Here are some of the top shore excursions to consider during your visit:

1. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Bonaire is renowned for its exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities. Explore the vibrant coral reefs and encounter a stunning array of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins. Join a guided diving or snorkeling excursion to discover the underwater wonders of the Bonaire Marine Park and gain insights from knowledgeable local guides.

2. Island Sightseeing Tour: Take a guided tour of the island to get a comprehensive overview of Bonaire’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visit historic sites, such as the salt flats and slave huts, and learn about the island’s history and traditions. Explore the diverse landscapes of the Washington Slagbaai National Park, including the iconic Brandaris viewpoint, and marvel at panoramic views of the island.

3. Kayaking or Stand-Up Paddleboarding: For an active and unique experience, consider a kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding excursion. Glide through the calm and clear waters along the coastline, taking in the breathtaking scenery and keeping an eye out for marine life. Paddle to secluded beaches, explore hidden coves, and enjoy the tranquility of Bonaire’s coastal landscapes.

4. Mangrove Forest Exploration: Join a guided tour to explore the fascinating mangrove forests of Bonaire. Navigate through the intricate network of roots and channels, with the opportunity to observe a variety of bird species and marine life. Learn about the important role mangroves play in protecting Bonaire’s coastline and the unique ecosystems that thrive within these intricate habitats.

5. Windsurfing or Kiteboarding: Bonaire’s consistently strong trade winds make it a paradise for windsurfing and kiteboarding enthusiasts. Join a lesson or rental session to experience the thrill of riding the waves and harnessing the power of the wind. With shallow and crystal-clear waters, Bonaire offers perfect conditions for both beginners and experienced riders.

6. Visit Klein Bonaire: Take a boat trip to the nearby uninhabited island of Klein Bonaire, a pristine paradise famous for its crystal-clear waters and exquisite marine life. Spend the day snorkeling, sunbathing, or simply immersing yourself in the tranquility of this idyllic island. Don’t forget your snorkeling gear to explore the underwater wonders just off the shore.

7. Culinary and Cultural Tour: Delve into the local culture of Bonaire by joining a culinary and cultural tour. Visit local eateries and sample authentic Bonairean dishes, such as keshi yena and kabritu stoba. Learn about the island’s traditions, music, and crafts, and interact with friendly locals who will happily share their stories and traditions.

These are just a few examples of the exciting shore excursions available in Bonaire. Whether you’re seeking adventure-filled activities, serene escapes into nature, or immersive cultural experiences, there’s something for every type of traveler. Plan your shore excursions wisely to make the most of your time on this enchanting island.

Snorkeling and Diving in Bonaire

Bonaire is often referred to as the “Diver’s Paradise” and for good reason. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life, Bonaire offers exceptional snorkeling and diving opportunities for enthusiasts of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, the underwater world of Bonaire is sure to leave you in awe.

The Bonaire National Marine Park encompasses the entire coastline of the island, making it a protected haven for marine life. With over 80 marked dive sites, Bonaire has something to offer everyone, from shallow reefs perfect for snorkeling to exhilarating deep-sea excursions.

The pristine reefs of Bonaire are teeming with diverse marine life, including colorful coral formations, tropical fish, and other fascinating creatures. The excellent water visibility ensures that every dive or snorkeling excursion is a feast for the eyes. You can expect to encounter turtles gracefully gliding by, schools of vibrant fish swirling around you, and the possibility of spotting creatures such as octopuses, rays, and even seahorses.

One of the unique features of diving and snorkeling in Bonaire is the freedom of exploration. With a shore diving system in place, you can access many dive sites directly from the shore, making it easy to explore at your own pace. Simply gear up, walk into the water, and embark on your underwater adventure right from the beach. The shore diving infrastructure includes convenient entry points, easily accessible Rinse Stations to clean your gear, and well-maintained dive flags to ensure safety.

For those who prefer a guided experience, there are numerous dive shops and tour operators in Bonaire that offer equipment rental, guided dives, and snorkeling excursions. These professionals are knowledgeable about the best sites to visit based on your skill level and can provide valuable insights into the underwater world of Bonaire.

Notable dive sites in Bonaire include the iconic Salt Pier, a favorite among divers for its stunning visual appeal and diverse marine life. The Hilma Hooker wreck offers a thrilling dive experience, where you can explore the remains of a sunken cargo ship. And for those seeking a unique adventure, the East Coast offers the opportunity to dive along dramatic cliffs and encounter pelagic species.

Whether you choose to snorkel or dive in Bonaire, it’s important to remember to practice responsible and sustainable diving and snorkeling. Be mindful of the delicate coral formations and marine life, avoid touching or disturbing the creatures you encounter, and never remove anything from the ocean. With proper care, we can ensure that Bonaire’s underwater ecosystem remains protected for future generations to enjoy.

Whether you’re a snorkeler or a certified diver, exploring the underwater world of Bonaire is an unforgettable experience. With its pristine reefs, vibrant marine life, and easy accessibility, Bonaire is truly a paradise for snorkelers and divers alike.

Exploring the National Parks

Bonaire is not only renowned for its stunning underwater world but also for its breathtaking natural landscapes. Two national parks on the island offer visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in Bonaire’s unique flora, fauna, and rugged terrain. Exploring these national parks is a must-do for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.

Washington Slagbaai National Park, located in the northwestern part of Bonaire, covers over 13,500 acres of diverse landscapes, including desert-like terrain, rocky hills, and stunning coastline. The park is home to an array of wildlife, such as the native Bonairean parrot, iguanas, and flamingos. Explore the park’s well-marked hiking trails, ranging from short and easy walks to more challenging treks that offer breathtaking panoramic views.

As you hike through the park, you’ll encounter unique geological formations, ancient petroglyphs, and hidden caves. Take a refreshing dip in the Blue Lagoon, a natural pool nestled within the park, or visit the impressive natural blowholes near Dos Pos for a mesmerizing display of the island’s natural forces.

The Bonaire National Marine Park, encompassing the entirety of Bonaire’s coastline, is another natural gem. Although primarily focused on protecting the underwater world, the marine park also extends to the surrounding mangroves and coastal areas. A visit to the Lac Bay Mangrove Forest is a must to witness the beauty and importance of this delicate ecosystem. Join a guided kayak tour through the mangroves, observing a variety of plant and animal species that rely on this unique environment for survival.

Exploring Bonaire’s national parks is not only an opportunity to witness the island’s natural beauty but also a chance to learn about its conservation efforts. Visitor centers within the parks provide valuable information about the local flora and fauna, as well as the ongoing initiatives to preserve and protect the island’s ecosystems.

It’s important to note that both national parks require an entrance fee and have specific guidelines in place to ensure the preservation of the natural environment. Visitors are urged to follow these rules and regulations, such as staying on designated trails and not disturbing the wildlife or vegetation.

Whether you’re an avid hiker, birdwatcher, or simply appreciate the wonders of nature, exploring Bonaire’s national parks is a rewarding experience. Immerse yourself in the island’s unique landscapes, breathe in the fresh air, and discover the hidden treasures that make Bonaire a true natural paradise.

Shopping and Dining Options

When it comes to shopping and dining, Bonaire offers a delightful mix of local specialties, international flavors, and unique handmade crafts. From exploring vibrant local markets to indulging in delicious Caribbean cuisine, Bonaire has something to satisfy every palate and cater to every shopping desire.

Kralendijk, the capital city of Bonaire, is a hub of activity with a variety of shops and boutiques. Along Kaya Grandi, the main street in town, you’ll find an array of shops selling everything from Caribbean souvenirs and local artwork to high-end fashion and jewelry. Bonaire’s charm is its blend of local Caribbean culture with Dutch influences, so be sure to seek out shops offering traditional crafts, such as hand-woven baskets, wooden carvings, and colorful ceramics.

For those interested in diving and snorkeling, there are numerous shops that offer equipment rental, snorkeling gear, and souvenirs related to marine life. Take the opportunity to browse through these shops and find the perfect memento to remind you of your underwater adventures in Bonaire.

In addition to shopping, Bonaire is a food lover’s paradise. The island boasts a diverse culinary scene that brings together flavors from around the world. From local seafood delicacies to international cuisine, there are plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds.

Food trucks and local eateries serve up mouthwatering dishes, such as fresh seafood, BBQ, and traditional Caribbean fare. Don’t miss the opportunity to try local specialties like conch fritters, keshi yena (stuffed cheese), and grilled fish prepared with local seasonings.

There are also numerous waterfront restaurants offering stunning views of the ocean as you savor your meal. From upscale dining establishments to charming beachside cafes, there’s a dining option for every occasion.

For those seeking a unique dining experience, Bonaire offers a “pasa bon” (“dine-around”) program where you can sample a variety of cuisines in different restaurants throughout the island. This allows you to savor the best culinary offerings of Bonaire while exploring different dining venues.

To truly immerse yourself in the local culture, make sure to visit the Mangazina di Rei, a cultural and heritage center where you can learn about Bonaire’s traditions and culinary heritage. The center offers cooking workshops where you can learn to prepare local dishes and discover the secrets behind the island’s flavors.

When it comes to shopping and dining in Bonaire, you’ll find a delightful mix of local treasures, international cuisines, and unforgettable culinary experiences. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, handmade crafts, or delectable meals, Bonaire’s vibrant shopping and dining scene will leave you spoilt for choice.

Local Culture and Heritage

Bonaire is not only known for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures but also for its rich cultural heritage. The island’s heritage is a captivating blend of Dutch, African, and Caribbean cultures, resulting in a unique and vibrant identity that can be experienced through its music, arts, cuisine, and local traditions.

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Bonaire’s local culture is by exploring the charming capital city of Kralendijk. The colorful Dutch colonial architecture that lines the streets adds to the town’s picturesque charm. Stroll along the waterfront promenade and enjoy the enchanting views of the Caribbean Sea while soaking up the laid-back atmosphere.

Art lovers should make a point to visit the local art galleries and studios scattered throughout the island. Bonaire is home to many talented local artists who showcase their work, inspired by the island’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. From paintings to sculptures and unique crafts, there’s something to suit every taste.

Music is an integral part of Bonaire’s cultural heritage. Traditional music forms, such as tumba, played during local festivals, and the joyous rhythms of salsa and merengue can be heard throughout the island. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself tapping your feet and moving to the infectious beat of the music.

Food plays a significant role in any culture, and Bonaire is no exception. The island’s culinary scene is a fusion of traditional Caribbean flavors and international influences. Indulge in the local cuisine and savor dishes like keshi yena (stuffed cheese), kabritu stoba (goat stew), and the infamous Bonairean cactus liquor, Cadushy. Exploring local markets is also a great way to discover fresh produce and sample regional delights.

Bonaire’s cultural heritage is celebrated through various festivals and events held throughout the year. The Simadan Harvest Festival, typically held around the beginning of the year, is a vibrant celebration of the island’s agricultural traditions. Witness traditional dances, music performances, and taste local dishes prepared using freshly harvested ingredients.

During the month of February, Bonaire comes alive with the vibrant colors and rhythms of the Carnival. This annual event features colorful parades, energetic music, and elaborate costumes, inviting both locals and visitors to join in the festivities.

Safety Tips for Bonaire Cruise Visitors

Bonaire is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a safe and enjoyable destination for cruise visitors. However, it’s always important to prioritize your safety and take necessary precautions to ensure a worry-free experience during your time on the island. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind:

1. Be Mindful of Your Belongings: While Bonaire is generally regarded as safe, it’s always wise to be cautious and keep an eye on your belongings. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry and be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded places. Utilize safe valuables storage on your cruise ship when going ashore.

2. Protect Yourself from the Sun: Bonaire’s year-round warm climate means it’s crucial to protect yourself from the sun’s rays. Wear sunscreen with a high SPF, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to shield yourself from harmful UV rays. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

3. Follow Water Safety Guidelines: Bonaire’s crystal-clear waters may be tempting for swimming and water activities, but it’s important to adhere to water safety guidelines. Always swim in designated areas and pay attention to any safety flags or signs. If engaging in water sports or activities, ensure that you are accompanied by trained professionals and follow their instructions.

4. Respect Marine Life and Coral Reefs: Bonaire’s coral reefs are pristine and fragile ecosystems. While snorkeling or diving, avoid touching or stepping on the coral, as it can be easily damaged. Refrain from chasing or harassing marine life, and never remove anything from the ocean. By being mindful and respectful, you can help preserve Bonaire’s remarkable underwater world for future generations.

5. Use Licensed and Reputable Tour Operators: When booking shore excursions or activities, choose licensed and reputable tour operators. They have the knowledge and experience to ensure your safety during your adventure. Research and read reviews before committing to any tour or activity to ensure the operator meets your expectations and safety standards.

6. Stay Informed About Local Laws and Customs: Familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs of Bonaire to avoid any misunderstandings or unintended offenses. For example, public displays of affection may be frowned upon, and drug use is strictly prohibited. Respecting the local customs will not only keep you safe but also show respect to the local community.

7. Stay Connected and Be Prepared: Ensure that you have a way to stay connected with your fellow travelers and, if possible, have a means of communication with your cruise ship while exploring Bonaire. Carry a mobile phone or walkie-talkies, and familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers. Additionally, have a basic understanding of the layout and location of the cruise port and nearby facilities.

By following these safety tips, you can have a worry-free and enjoyable experience during your visit to Bonaire. Embrace the island’s charm, immerse yourself in its natural beauty, and create lasting memories in this welcoming Caribbean paradise.

Bonaire, with its mesmerizing natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, is a dream destination for cruise visitors. From snorkeling and diving in the crystal-clear waters to exploring the national parks and immersing yourself in the local culture, there are endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and discovery.

Whether you choose to spend your day lazing on pristine beaches, embarking on thrilling shore excursions, or exploring the colorful streets of Kralendijk, Bonaire offers something for every traveler. The underwater wonders of the Bonaire Marine Park are a highlight, with their diverse marine life and stunning coral reefs captivating divers and snorkelers from around the world.

As you explore Bonaire, it’s important to prioritize your safety and be respectful of the island’s natural environment and local customs. Be mindful of your belongings, protect yourself from the sun, and follow water safety guidelines. Engage with licensed tour operators, respect the marine life, and stay informed about local laws and customs.

Bonaire’s cultural heritage adds another layer of enchantment to your visit. From the vibrant music and arts scene to the delectable local cuisine and colorful festivals, Bonaire offers a rich tapestry of traditions and flavors. Immerse yourself in the local culture, visit art galleries, enjoy traditional music, and savor the island’s culinary delights.

Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor adventures, peaceful relaxation, or cultural immersion, Bonaire is sure to exceed your expectations. With its commitment to conservation and preservation, the island remains an unspoiled sanctuary where natural beauty and cultural traditions harmoniously coexist.

So pack your sunscreen, snorkel gear, and a sense of adventure, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in the captivating island paradise of Bonaire. Whether you’re arriving on a cruise ship or planning a day trip, Bonaire awaits you with open arms and endless opportunities for exploration and wonder.

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Bonaire (Kralendijk) Cruise Port Guide: Review (2023)

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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

By: Editor-in-Chief Update: May 28, 2023

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.

Bonaire is the smallest of the ABC trio and until recently the forgotten Island in the South Caribbean itineraries. Scarcely populated (around 19,000 inhabitants in an area 6 times the size of Manhattan) with a small capital with only 3,000 inhabitants, Bonaire's natural wonders and laid-back ambiance are main tractions to enjoy and discover on a cruise in the Caribbean.

Where cruise ships dock in Bonaire

How to get around.

• Top things to do on a cruise to Bonaire
• Shore excursions (Shorex)

Local flavors, restaurants and bars

Must-know: tourist info, language and currency.

• Safety, emergencies, and basics

Kralendijk (Bonaire) - Port of call

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling, beach activities, and a couple of usual cultural attractions and landmarks are the top highlights of Bonaire. More about Top Things To do and See Below.

The Divi Flamingo Beach is within walking distance.

Photo © IQCruising.com

For decades, Bonaire was not regularly visited by mega-ships of major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival or NCL. But in recent years Bonaire has been 'discovered' and now there are many cruises calling at the port of Kralendijk both on south and western Caribbean itineraries.

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

The two piers are suited to moor up to three cruise ships, although only very seldom this happens. If there are two cruise ships docking, the larger one will always moor on the Southern Pier and the smaller on the Northern Pier.

Northern pier

The northern pier is perpendicular to the coast, just over 200 feet long, with the exit gates opening directly into a pedestrian street right in front of the Wilhelmina Park. This pier is next to the Old Fort and very close to the Sea Promenade (a long and beautiful street along the coast) and Kaya Grandi one block behind, which is the main shopping street of Kralendijk.

Southern pier and terminal

The Southern Pier aka New Pier is parallel to the coast and to get to the main street the cruise traveler will have to walk through a well maintained, small cruise terminal.

This open-air shopping complex is known as Harborside Mall. Naturally, it is always a delight to walk down the gangway right into the city center but even when docked at the Southern Pier the cruise passenger is at less than 300 feet (100 meters) from the start of the Plaza Wilhelmina and the Sea Promenade officially known as Kaya J. N. E. Craane.

Southern Pier Terminal

Regardless of where cruise ship docks, the cruise traveler will always be within walking distance of all main attractions in Kralendijk and with all major services to explore on your own just a stone's throw away. Very close to both cruise piers you will find the following:

• The official tourist office
• Local tours operators
• Scuba diving operators

Terramar Museum

• Restaurants

Cruise travelers may have read elsewhere that there is third docking spot in Kralendijk known as Ro-Ro Pier - this is, in fact, an inshore ramp not used by cruise ships.

Due to the proximity of the cruise piers to Kralendijk, walking is undoubtedly the best way to explore this beautiful, small and quaint Caribbean capital. It is easy and affordable to travel farther in the Island, be it to spend the day on one of the many, small and secluded beaches, or to discover the island's attractions. Most of the population working directly with tourists speak good English, are very helpful but not pushy.

Taxis by the Pier

Taxis are affordable, in good shape, with AC and available next to the exit gates of both the Northern and Southern Piers.

Shuttle and Public Buses

Considering that cruise ship dock next to Kralendijk, there is no need for a shuttle. Bonaire does not have Public Buses although there are private services that cruise travelers will find complicated to navigate.

Car, scooter and bicycle rental

The cruise traveler contemplating the idea of exploring the island at leisure may look into renting a car, a scooter or a bicycle. Any of these can be fun and allow great independence.

Car rentals, scooters, and bicycles are available within walking distance of both piers. Keep in mind that driving is on the right and that the island does NOT have stoplights. Maximum speed in towns is 25 mph (40 km/h) and 35 mph (60 km/h) outside the urban areas.

Water taxi to Klein Bonaire

Water-Taxi to Klein Bonaire

For the cruise passenger planing to explore Klein Bonaire (a major highlight for scuba diving and snorkeling) there are water taxis within walking distance of the piers.

Until a few years ago there were two different operators in two different spots. But for the last couple of years only one is operational - north of the Northern Pier, no more than 500 feet (150 meters), next to the famous Karels Beach Bar.

Things to do on a cruise to Bonaire

Considering that the Island is small - 38 km long and between 5 and 8 km wide), the cruise passenger can easily explore all the major attractions in Bonaire on a day docked at Kralendijk. Known as one of the Top Scuba diving sites in the World, and promoted as such to exhaustion, many cruisers not interested in diving or snorkeling frequently wonder what else to do or see. The good news is that there is a good number of interesting attractions to explore and discover besides the ones found underwater.

Scuba and snorkeling

For those interested in oceanic wonders, Bonaire is paradise underwater. All the waters surrounding the island, including the coral reef, sea-grass and mangroves are in fact a protected National Park . Scuba diving and snorkeling with local operators is, obviously a perfect way to do it. But there are other ways to explore this pristine beauty of Bonaire's crystal clear waters - on a water taxi to Klein Bonaire to snorkel, on a semi-submarine or on a glass bottom boat.

Beaches and active pursuits

If you prefer above water sports, Windsurfing at Jibe City, Kayaking, Kite-surfing, Sailing or Fishing are top activities to enjoy in Bonaire.

With over 20 beaches in Bonaire, there is a handful of famous spots like the 1000 Steps Beach , No Name Beach in Kein Bonaire, Playa Palu di Mangel , Sorobon Beach or Te Amo Beach .

Within walking distance, the Divi Flamingo Resort (400 meters south of the Southern Pier ) is a nice spot to enjoy a day on the beach. Not far from the Northern Pier (1.3 miles - 2 km) the Spice Beach Club of the Eden Resort is another good option.

Check the folowing websites to find out more about what to do on your own:

• Windsurfing in Jibe City
• Kite Boarding
• Kite School
• Divi Flamingo Resort
• Bon-Sea Semi-submarine

Besides the water-related activities, the cruise passenger has other options. Have in mind that most attractions are in a way scenic and/or ecologically oriented. The island is known for its salt production and a visit to the flat salt pans, ponds, and shop (La Placita) is included in many tours of Bonaire. The sites where the salt is produced have become such an attraction that the Bonaire Salt Park is expected to open sometime in 2018.

Flamingo spotting

Flamingo spotting is another major attraction. The Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary is by the Salt Ponds and you may be able to spot them at a distance. But Flamingo spotting is one of the main reason to visit the Washington Slagbaai National Park . On this wonderful sanctuary, the cruise visitor will also have the opportunity to learn about the endemic species of Bonaire like parakeets, iguanas, sea turtles and many other species of birds and reptiles.

Natural wonders

For those interested in mother nature's travails, the Echo's Conservation Centre is an attraction to check and so is the Mangrove Center . You may have read ravishing reviews about the Butterfly Garden but be aware that this has been closed for some time. However, the even more famous Donkey Sanctuary is very much open and can be fun especially for those traveling with young ones.

Cultural attractions

On the cultural side, a visit to Ricon (the oldest settlement of Bonaire) is a must do. This small village has a few landmarks not to be missed like the Gruta Lourdes (a pilgrimage site), the Catholic Church (opened in 1837) and the Protestant Church (opened in 1934), the Bonaire Heritage Foundation and the Cadushy Distillery , where the cruise passenger can taste the world's only liqueur made from cactus. Close by, there are small, secluded and scenic beaches but not all are suitable for swimming.

Kralendijk landmarks

Kralendijk is such a small town that all top attractions can be easily explored on foot and is a delight to walk. Landmarks like the Fort Orange and lighthouse, the Queen Wilhelmina Plaza or the Government Office Building are impossible to miss.

Shops and shopping in Kralendijk

On Kaya Grandi - Kralendjik's main shopping street - the cruise visitorwill find some shops but don't expect to find the typical and ubiquitous ones found all over the Caribbean. Certainly, Bonaire is not a shoppers paradise like the sister islands of Aruba and Curacao.

Although located in the center of Kralendijk, the one attraction that is not self-evident is the Terramar Museum . If you don't spot it straight away do ask for directions - this small museum is really worth a visit as it will take you on a journey through 7,000 years of Caribbean history.

Bonaire tours, cruise and shore excursions

As much as there are lots of nice and easy things to do on your own when calling at the port of Bonaire, all cruise lines and independent local tour operators offer excellent shore excursions , which cruise passengers should consider. In particular the tours to sites that will be advantageous to have a knowleadgable guide.

Obviously, all cruise lines offer many and diverse shore excursions in Bonaire (Kralendijk) cruise port. Celebrity Cruises offers as many 44 shore excursions and Royal Caribbean has 49 cruise excursions . Carnival lists 23 shore excursions . Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has available 22 shore excursions . Oceania Cruises organizes 14 shore excursions , Holland America offers 19 cruise excursions , and Princess has 29 excursions available.

Besides the cruise excursions organized by cruise liens, there are also shore excursions and tours offered by the following reputable private online services:

• Tours by Locals
• Shore Trips
• Shore Excursions Group
• Shore Excursioneer

Kralendijk is also a delight for those, like the Editor, that enjoy local, fresh food with a gourmet touch. There are many excellent restaurants in town and a few bars with stunning settings to enjoy a cocktail, the local Polar Beer or a smoothie.

Regardless of being criticized as over expensive, Karels Beach Bar has unquestionably the best location in Kralendijk. Not far, the restaurant It Rains Fishes is a gourmet delight with impeccable service.

Karels Beach Bar

Whatever you choose to see and do in Bonaire, it is easy and affordable to explore the Island on your own. With just a couple of streets to meander, Kralendijk is a jewel not to be missed, which is very for comfortable for disabled travelers. For those that wish to explore different sights and tractions, it is advisable to book a tour or an excursion.

Tourist Information

The Tourist Information Office in Kralendijk

You will find Tourist Information Kiosks near the exit gates of the Cruise Piers but these tend to close early (after most passengers exit the ship). If you find the kiosks too busy or closed, the main (and larger) Tourism Office is located behind the Protestant Church on Wilhelmina Square, right at the start of Kaya Grandi.

Bonaire Tourist Office Map

English is widely spoken in all tourist areas and tractions. However, the official languages of Bonaire are Dutch and Papiamento. The latter is a traditional language derived from African and Portuguese dialects also influenced by Spanish, Dutch and English. Papiamento is very different from the Creole and Patois spoken in other Caribbean Islands.

Money matters: currency

The official legal tender in Bonaire is the US Dollar. The USD has been adopted since January 1, 2011. All major credit cards are widely accepted, with exception of American Express that is not as ubiquitous. The cruise passenger will find useful to have cash for small purchases like souvenirs, taxis and tipping. You can cash money easily in Bonaire.

Banks and ATM: There are many Banks, most with ATM's, in Kralendijk. All within walking distance from the Cruise Piers like the RBC, Girobank Bonaire or Banco di Caribe (on Kaya Grandi - the main shopping street). The easiest ATM to find is next to the main entrance of the Tourism Office, at the start of Kaya Grandi. Banks are open between 8AM and 4PM

Safety, US travel advisory and basics

For comprehensive and updated information about traveling to Bonaire see the U.S. Department of State website page evolving advisory.

Covid-19 advise for cruises to Bonaire (Kralendijk)

For updated coronavirus (Covid-19) information and travel advice to Bonaire (Kralendijk) cruise port visit the website of the U.S. Consulate in Curacao . For more Traveler's Health advice to Bonaire see the CDC Website .

Although Bonaire cannot be considered a completely off-the-beaten-track cruise port, not all cruise lines include it in their itineraries. Cunard, Viking or MSC, for example, do not have any call scheduled for the next couple of years. Cruise lines like Azamara, Crystal, Disney, Fred Olson, Regent, Seabourn, Silversea only call at the port in Kralendijk sporadically, on re-positioning cruises or on an exceptional itinerary.

By contrast, major cruise lines - Carnival, Celebrity, Holland & America, P & O, Princess, and RCI - have many itineraries visiting Bonaire between the months of October and as late as May. NCL (with the Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Dawn, and Norwegian Jade) also calls a few times and so does Oceania (Insignia and Riviera).

But if you would like to cruise on a ship calling at Bonaire, these are the cruise lines and ships which regularly call at the port of Kralendijk: Carnival (Sunshine and Victory), Celebrity (Eclipse, Equinox, Reflection and Silhouette), Costa Magica, Holland & America (ms Eurodam, ms Koningsdam, ms Nieuw Amsterdam, and ms Zuiderdam), P&O (Britannia), Princess (Crown, Regal and Royal) and Royal Caribbean (Adventure Of The Seas, Freedom Of The Seas, Navigator Of The Seas and Serenade Of The Seas).

Finally, it should be noted that the German cruise lines Aida and Mein Schiff also call frequently at Bonaire, the British Marella has a few itineraries including Bonaire and the Spanish Pullmantur Monarch visits Kralendijk almost every week.

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The information on this page was accurate when last updated and published but changes may have occurred without notice. It is advisable to confirm details with local tourist information before planning your cruise, tour or excursions of Bonaire. If any inaccuracies are found or if there are any suggestions to improve the content of this page please let us know.

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Best Things to Do in Bonaire on a Cruise – One Day Itinerary

Are you looking for the best things to do in Bonaire on a cruise? Then I got you covered in this amazing Bonaire One Day Itinerary!

Bonaire is a beautiful small island located in the Caribbean Sea. Together with Aruba and Curacao, it forms the ABC-island chain.

Many Caribbean Cruises have Bonaire listed as a port-of-call in their itinerary. As an avid cruiser, I know how hard it can be to plan for every single port.

To make this easy for you, I have created four amazing cruise itineraries – featuring the best things to do in Bonaire on a cruise!

Let’s dive right in (pun intended)!

Table of Contents

Deciding what to do in bonaire on a cruise, northern pier, southern pier and terminal, private klein bonaire snorkel tour (5/5*), private north and south tour with local guide (4,5/5*), highlights of bonaire and cultural experience (4,5/5*), best bonaire boat trips for snorkeling, best places to visit in bonaire from cruise ship, 1. visit the best beaches in bonaire from cruise ship, 2. washington-slagbaai national park, 3. see the flamingos of bonaire, 4. visit the pink lakes by the salt mines, 5. visite the donkey sanctuary, 6. see the slave houses, 7. go snorkeling or diving, 8. go to klein bonaire, 9. get sporty in bonaire, 10. explore bonaire’s nature, spend the day in kralendijk, wrap-up: best things to do in bonaire on a cruise, frequently asked questions, more 1 day cruise itineraries, about the author.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Read my  disclaimer  for further information.

The island of Bonaire is quite small.  The cute little island is 111 square miles, with a  width that ranges from 3 to 7 miles and a length of roughly 24 miles .

This makes it quite easy to explore the island in one day. However, you still need to think ahead of what to do in Bonaire from the cruise ship.

As a cruiser, I find it important to plan my shore days with some contingencies. I have therefore only assembled info about totally flexible providers and itineraries.

You basically have three options to choose from when picking your things to do for one day in Bonaire on a cruise:

• Book a half-day trip or shore excursion
• Book a rental car/golf cart and make a road trip
• Spend the day in Kralendijk

Bonaire Cruise Port Guide

Cruise ships dock in one of two piers in Bonaire. Both piers are located right by the capital city of Kralendijk. They are called the Southern Pier and the Northern Pier .

The two piers have a capacity for up to three cruise ships, although this does not happen very often. If there are two cruise ships docking, the larger one will always dock on the Southern Pier.

The smaller one will then dock on the Northern Pier.

The ports are small and intimate – no tender boats necessary!

Both Piers are located within walking distance of the capital city Kralendijk. Cruise passengers have access to amenities such as:

• Tourist Office
• Local tours operators
• Scuba diving operators
• Terramar Museum
• Restaurants

The Northern Pier is perpendicular to the coast. It is just over 200 feet long. The exit gates are opening directly into a pedestrian street.

The pier is located right next to the Old Fort. It is only a few steps away from the Sea Promenade and Kaya Grandi. This is the biggest shopping street in Kralendijk.

The Southern Pier is also referred to as the New Pier. It is located parallel to the coast and it has a small cruise terminal adjacent.

The Southern Pier and Terminal has a small, open-air shopping complex, called Harborside Mall, attached.

It is located about 300 ft (100 m) away from the Plaza Wilhelmina and the Sea Promenade.

Best Guided Shore Excursions and Day Trips in Bonaire

If you are traveling with a group of people, this Private Klein Bonaire Snorkel Tour is an amazing experience. You will travel to the small, uninhabited island and explore three amazing snorkel sites.

The tour can accommodate up to 8 people and costs about USD 900 for the whole group. This is an amazing deal for a four-hour private trip.

Pick-up from the cruise port is included. And you have the option to cancel for free – in case there are delays or the ship has to change the route. Snorkel gear, snacks, and refreshments are included.

This private, three-hour North and South Tour takes you to the most beautiful points of the island. You will be able to see about 30 (!) different points of interest and all major landmarks!

You get to change the tour if required since it is totally private. I love this tour because it includes all the flexibility you need! And as a bonus, you get to try local food and drinks!

See amazing landmarks, like the Goto meer, Rincon, the Donkey Beach, and many more interesting things! The local guide will tell you all you need to know about this tour.

See the best of Bonaire’s cultural highlights, like the Salt Hills and a flamingo refuge in the South of the island with this tour. You will visit the Slave huts, the lighthouse, and the 1000 steps dive site!

This three-hour tour will start at the Bonaire cruise port and take you around the island with a local guide. I love tours that give some historical background of the islands – and this one definitely covers all the bases.

The cancellation option is free. The tour is offered in English and Spanish!

I have created an in-depth post about the best boat tours for snorkeling in Bonaire. Bonaire is famous for its beautiful marine life, so snorkeling needs to be on top of your list of things to do in Bonaire on a cruise.

There is an amazing offer out there of Bonaire Snorkel Tours, so be sure to pick something that aligns with your cruise schedule and your departure times.

Find out how to explore the Lac Bay Marine Resort and the cute island of Klein Bonaire.

Book a Rental Car/Golf Cart for a Road Trip

Another great way to discover Bonaire is with a road trip. The island is quite small, so you can explore everything in one day.

Lots of people rent golf carts in Bonaire to explore the island. There are some upsides to this. There is not a lot of traffic on the island and the carts are easy to navigate.

However, the golf carts are usually already booked months in advance.

We preferred renting a car. This gives us the opportunity of bringing more stuff along and locking our valuables away while we sit at the beach.

If you are looking for things to do in Bonaire for non-divers , make sure to check out my post for more information and inspiration.

Here are our favorite stops during a one-day Bonaire road trip marked in a helpful map!

If you are looking to explore Bonaire a bit by yourself, I have created an interactive map for you that can help.

Find all my favorite places that you should visit when you are coming to Bonaire on a cruise on this map.

10 Things to Do in Bonaire Cruise Port

By driving around on the island we discovered many small but  beautiful beaches. Most beaches in Bonaire are rocky or stoney. The water quality is amazing and you can bring your snorkel gear to all of the Bonaire beaches.

The nearest beaches to the cruise port are the following: Coco, Bachelor’s, Te Amo and Flamingo , and Chachacha Beach. You can reach all of them either with a bit of walking or by taking a cab. Coco Beach is less than two miles away from the cruise port, so it is super convenient to visit.

Bachelors Beach is three miles south of the cruise port.

Some of the nicest sand beaches are  Playa Lechi,   Seven Body Beach,  and  Te Amo Beach . These beaches are great to relax and get that picture-perfect Caribbean Beach moment.

If you love snorkeling or diving, head over to  Wayaka Beach, Playa Benge,  or Chachacha Beach. These beaches offer the best access to Bonaire’s amazing marine life.

For an even more exciting beach day head over to the Washington-Slagbaai National Park. The Washington-Slagbaai National Park also has three major beaches— Boca Cocolishi, Boca Slagbaai, and Playa Funchi.

Boca Cocolishi Beach is located on the north coast. Keep in mind that it is not well-suited for swimming. There is a strong surf. However, it is a black sand beach with lava-formed pools. It is very appealing for hikers.

Boca Slagbaai is especially popular because of the flamingos. It is above all a good swimming and snorkeling site. It has facilities and you can buy some drinks there.

Playa Funch i is an amazing snorkel site. There are stunning coral formations, lots of tropical fish, and calm waters. It has no sand or facilities. There are flamingos.

There are many more things to see in Washington-Slagbaai Park besides flamingos and beaches. See hidden bays, geological caves, and super-tall Kadushi cacti.

The Park is open every day from 08:00 am to 05:00 pm. The entrance fee is USD 45,00.

There are two driving routes in the Park that you can check out on your visit. The shortest one is 1,5 hours long, the longer one takes about 2.5 hours.

There are a couple of different locations to see the flamingos in Bonaire outside the Washington-Slagbaai National Park.

The best spots to see them are the  Pekelmeer in the south of Bonaire and Lac Bay. You can also encounter them at the Gotomeer which is located in the north of Bonaire.

Make sure to get your expectations straight before going. The flamingos of Bonaire are not as accessible as they are in Aruba, so you will most likely only see them from a distance.

A great place to see the flamingos is at the Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary.

The pink lakes by the salt mines are called Gotomeer . Technically, it is a saltwater lagoon separated into small salt pans. It is located in the northern part of the island.

There are also quite a few more saltwater basins in the southern part of the island. The  lakes turned pink  as a result of the salt mining.

The effect happens because of the evaporated seawater.

Visiting the donkey sanctuary is one of my favorite things to do on Bonaire.

The donkey sanctuary provides a home to a huge amount of donkeys rescued from the street . They were used by the slave drivers a long time ago and then simply left on the island.

You can drive through the sanctuary and feed them from your car. Such a sweet experience! We could even pet some of them from the car.

Make sure to  donate  at the end of the tour, so these great people can keep doing this important work!

The former Slave houses can be found all over the island.

Most of them are super small and white and barely fit a grown person in them.

They are an interesting reminder of the gruesome time that Bonaire had to endure during the slave trade.

Go snorkeling or scuba diving in Bonaire’s pristine coral reefs. They are known for their incredible biodiversity.

While I suggest booking a guided snorkeling or diving boat trip , you can also go underwater by yourself. Just make sure to bring the right gear and then head out to explore!

Take a boat tour to Klein Bonaire and be prepared to be amazed!

Klein Bonaire is a small uninhabited island off the coast of Bonaire. The easiest way to get there is with a guided boat trip or with a water taxi.

You can relax on its beautiful white-sand beaches or go snorkeling.

You can take a windsurfing or kiteboarding lesson and enjoy the island’s ideal wind and water conditions. This is one of the most fun things to do in Bonaire on a cruise if you ask me.

You can also go kayaking or paddleboarding in the calm turquoise waters along Bonaire’s coast. There is a huge offer of water sports and other activities on the island.

Visit Lac Bay! It is not only a popular spot for windsurfing but also a nature reserve known for its mangroves and bird-watching opportunities.

Maybe you can even explore the underwater sculptures at the Bonaire National Marine Park, an art installation that doubles as an artificial reef.

Since the capital city of Kralendijk is right next to the cruise port, you can also spend the day there.

The city is super small, so you can just spend some nice hours walking around there and exploring the colorful buildings and the lovely street art.

The biggest shopping street in Kralendijk is called Kaya Grandi. You can buy authentic souvenirs there.

The Caribbean-style houses in Kralendijk are well-preserved. There are nice water-front eateries and usually some small markets.

Check out the Plaza Wilhelmina and the Bonaire Museum. You can see impressive seashells there and learn about Bonaire’s history. A great souvenir from local production is bath salt.

Do you need travel insurance in Bonaire? Yes, travel insurance in Bonaire is highly recommended. Unsafe roads, water sports accidents, and food poisoning are only a few examples of when travel insurance could come in handy.   EKTA offers worldwide travel insurance  with 24/7 service and no hidden fees or restrictions.

There are many fabulous things to do in Bonaire on a cruise and I hope you like them as much.

I suggest renting a car and checking out the most amazing points of interest. See the Gotomeer, the flamingos in their natural habitat, and the slave houses. If you are adventurous, you can have a lot of fun in Bonaire with a rental car.

Booking a guided day trip to Klein Bonaire is also a great option for one day in Bonaire. Guided shore excursions are a great way to get to know the island without having the hassle of arranging things for yourself.

Lastly, you may just want to walk over to the colorful capital of Kralendijk and have a fun day shopping and exploring.

Check out my Aruba Cruise Itinerary and Curacao Cruise Itinerary for your Caribbean Cruise. Headed to the Dominican Republic next? I got you covered with a report about the Dominican Republic Cruise Ports.

Bonaire is one of the best Caribbean Islands to visit in December – give it a go.

Bonaire is best known for pink salt lakes, flamingos, and amazing marine life. It is a famous spot for water sports, snorkeling, and diving.

Yes, Bonaire is definitely worth seeing. There are many fabulous things to do in Bonaire and the small island is very charming and safe.

Yes, you can walk around in Bonaire. The island is super safe and people are not driving scarily. From the cruise port, you can reach Kralendijk and some beaches by foot. For other attractions on the island, I suggest booking a rental car.

It takes about 3-4 hours to drive around Bonaire. The island has no stoplights and barely any traffic, which makes it a great place to drive.

Yes, you can walk to a beach from the Bonaire cruise port. The closest beaches to the Bonaire cruise port are Coco Beach, Bachelor’s, Te Amo and Flamingo , and Chachacha Beach. You can reach all of them either with a bit of walking or by taking a cab.

No, cruise ships usually don’t tender in Bonaire. There are two big piers in Bonaire cruise port, that can service all the incoming cruise ships. Tender boats are usually not used in Bonaire.

No, it is not necessary to bring cash to Bonaire. You can mostly pay with a credit card or debit card on the island. If you do bring cash, you can either bring Euros, US Dollars, or Gulders.

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🚢 1 Day in Curacao from Cruise Port

🚢 1 Day in Bonaire from Cruise Port

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Sabrina is a passionate travel blogger and content creator, based in the Netherlands. She spends most parts of the year abroad at various destinations with her husband.

She provides slow-paced itineraries that focus on quality over quantity. Sabrina wants to help her readers to get more out of their travel experiences – while doing less. Read more.

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Bonaire Cruise Port: Your Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to the Bonaire cruise port, where your unforgettable adventure begins! In this ultimate guide, we’ll navigate you through the ins and outs of this captivating Caribbean destination, focusing on all things “Bonaire cruise port.”

Arrival at Bonaire Cruise Port

Cruise ships gracefully dock at one of two primary piers in Bonaire. The northern cruise dock, conveniently positioned in the heart of Kralendijk, and the southern pier, just a short stroll from the bustling main street, offer easy access to a plethora of restaurants and shops—all within walking distance of the port.

Taxis at Bonaire Cruise Port

For your convenience, taxis await you at the Bonaire cruise terminal. While these taxis do not employ meters, government-regulated rates ensure fair pricing. Always agree on the fare before your journey. Typically, a taxi ride costs approximately $25 per person for a two-hour excursion, never exceeding $25 for a one-way trip to any corner of the island.

Retail Therapy Near Bonaire Cruise Port

Though not renowned as a shopping haven, Bonaire still offers retail experiences worth exploring. Peruse the local outdoor market located right by the cruise docks. For more shopping options, venture to Kaya Grand, the island’s main street in Kralendijk. Both of these shopping locales are conveniently situated just a short walk from the Bonaire cruise port.

Watertaxi to Klein Bonaire

If you’re yearning for your own private island escape, don’t miss the opportunity to hop on a water taxi to Klein Bonaire, a picturesque islet just off the coast of Kralendijk. Departure is from the “It Rains Fishes” restaurant—precise details can be found on our map. The water taxi schedule offers flexibility with departures to Klein Bonaire at 10 am, 12 noon, and 2 pm, and returns to Bonaire at 12.30 pm, 02.30 pm, and 04.30 pm. This delightful round trip experience will cost you approximately $15 per person. Since Klein Bonaire is an uninhabited island, be sure to pack towels, drinks, sunscreen, and any other essentials for your day in paradise.

Exploration on Wheels

For land-based adventures, consider renting a bicycle, scooter, or car from Rento Fun Drive, conveniently located on Kaya Grandi 47, the main street in Kralendijk. Rates are approximately $10 for a bicycle, $30 for a scooter, and $40 for a car.

Washington Slagbaai National Park

Heading to the northern part of the island, you’ll find the awe-inspiring Washington Slagbaai National Park. It’s a scenic 30 to 45-minute drive from the Bonaire cruise dock, with an entrance fee of $25 per person. The park is renowned for its hiking trails and exciting 4×4 vehicle tours.

Beaches Near Bonaire Cruise Port

Near the Bonaire cruise port, you’ll discover the inviting Divi Flamingo Beach Resort & Casino, just a 10-minute walk to the south. Here, you can indulge in snorkeling, casino fun, and a pristine beach. Expect a chair fee of $5 to $10.

Sorobon Beach, often considered the island’s crown jewel, is a breezy 15-minute taxi ride from the Bonaire cruise dock, priced around $20. This beach is a haven for windsurfing due to its shallow waters, and it also offers snorkeling, massages, and swimming. Chairs are typically available for around $5 each.

Exploration at Your Fingertips

Within walking distance of the cruise terminal, you can explore Kaya Grandi, Fort Oranje, and more.

Venturing Beyond

For those eager to venture farther, consider these attractions:

• Washington-Slagbaai National Park
• 1,000 Steps Beach
• Landhuis Karpata
• Flamingo Sanctuary
• Willemstoren Lighthouse
• Donkey Sanctuary

With this comprehensive guide, you’re poised for an unforgettable Bonaire cruise port experience. Enjoy every moment of your journey on this mesmerizing island!

TOGETHER WE KEEP THIS CRUISE GUIDE UPDATED

Wat is your best tip, trick or recommendation for Bonaire cruise port?

Your experience and unique tips can be the guiding light for fellow cruisers, enriching their journeys and ensuring they uncover hidden gems, savor extraordinary moments, and create memories that last a lifetime. Share your wisdom and be a part of the global community that makes travel richer and more rewarding for all.

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Bonaire Cruise Port Excursions: 4 Ways to Do it On Your Own

Bonaire might be a small island but it offers a lot of snorkeling and sightseeing. If your cruise stops at the port of Bonaire, you’ll have your choice of shore excursions, but you’ve only got one day so make the most of it. This guide offers you three options for arranging your own DIY shore excursion at the Bonaire cruise port.

(This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you choose to purchase, I’ll make a small commission.)

Why DIY Your Bonaire Shore Excursion?

Having your ship arrange a Bonaire shore excursion for you is certainly easy. Just pay your $40-$100 for a pre-arranged tour. But then, everything on a cruise is easy. Which is usually great, but don’t you find that sometimes you want to bust out of the pre-baked itinerary and do your own thing? The Kralenkijk cruise port is a good place to do that. The island is small and very easy to get around. From Kralendijyk, to everywhere else is only 20 minutes by car. And there are also quite a few options close to town that don’t require a rental car.

Pro Tip : If you do decide to do an organized shore excursion, you should at least price shop it by comparing your ship’s pricing against purchasing your own excursion from Trip Advisor’s selection of Bonaire tours .

DIY Excursions for the Bonaire Cruise Port

1. things to do in downtown kralendijk.

The cruise port is right in downtown Kralendijk. When you disembark, turn left and breeze past the gauntlet of excursion providers toward downtown. You can spend a few hours having lunch, visiting the craft market on the square and hitting the shops. But the downtown area is small and it won’t keep you busy all day.

Once finished with downtown, you have a few options. You can take a 10 minute walk south to the Divi Resort. They charge cruise passengers a ~$10 day fee which gives you access to the property. However, the fee does not include use of the timeshare guest pool. But you can access the palapas, waterfront and restaurants. And you can also use the activity center. But if you want to rent equipment, it will cost extra.

Is your cruise also stopping in Aruba? If so, check out these 27 things to do in Aruba  and look sharp on your cruise with this packing list . Or, if you cruise is stopping in Curacao, check out this list of things to do there.

Read Also: Top Things to Do in Bonaire If You Don’t Dive

2. Kralendijk Cruise Excursion to Klein Bonaire

Taking a water taxi to Klein Bonaire is an easy and fairly inexpensive way to get in a good snorkel during your shore time. This is a great option if you don’t want to rent a car, or if you simply want to save some money by not purchasing an excursion tour from your ship.

Catch a 10 minute cab ride north to Eden Beach. From there, you can catch the Caribe Watersport taxi over to the island. They run it three times a day from the Karel’s Beach Bar and they will also have a kiosk as you exit the ship. They will shuttle you over to the island where you can drop your stuff. Then you get back into the boat and tell them how long you want to snorkel for. The boat will then take you the requisite distance south and drop you in the water. You then do a 1-way snorkel back to where you dropped your stuff on the beach. There are no services on the island but it has a nice sandy beach. The cost is $25 per person.

3. Take a Bike Self-Tour of the Southern Island

Bonaire is Dutch after all so make like the Dutch and get around on a bike. You can rent a bike from Bike Rental Bonaire  or Scooters Bonaire . They are both located downtown. Rates start at $16 for a regular bike but you can also upgrade to a mountain bike or an electric bike.

Pick up a tourist map from the bike shop or the Bonaire tourism bureau ( located here ) and then head south. Go ~8 miles (12.5/k) miles south to the slave huts. These huts once housed the slaves who worked at the Salt Ponds. Visualize yourself and other slaves crammed 12 to a hut and then be glad for the comfort of your cruise ship.

Head back north and stop to check out the Cargill salt ponds You can’t tour them but it is worth it to stop and spend time viewing them because they are such a striking feature of the landscape.

Right at the edge of the Salt Ponds, you’ll find Salt Pier. This is a working dock for loading the salt. But it’s also a fantastic place to snorkel. The pilings create a vertical column which brings the fish right up to the surface of the water.

Now head north to Te Amo beach. It’s located right at the edge of the airport. The reef drop off is very close to shore here, and the sandy beach is an easy entry. Grab a beer or a bite from the Wind City food truck and chill out on the beach. Then peddle back into town for an afternoon coffee, ice cream or beer before catching your ship.

Pro Tip : Bring your own snorkel gear as there aren’t places to rent on the southern island. Mind the rocky entry as it can be rough. And you can’t snorkel at Salt Pier if there is a boat at the dock.

4. Rent a Car and Do the Full Island

If you can rally a group of four, then renting your own car can be a cheaper option than taking the official Bonaire excursions. Rates start at $38 per day (+fees) for a passenger car. There are several local rental car companies which are a 10 minute walk southeast from the Bonaire cruise port dock.

You can rent from AB Car Rental . Check out their location maps prior to disembarkation or visit the Bonaire tourism office for directions and a map.

Once you have a car, you own the island. Check out my 5 day itinerary for Bonaire . It’s packed full of both snorkeling and sightseeing activities. You can easily do one of the itinerary days and have plenty of time for chilling out. Or you can get busy and cover two days worth of itinerary during your one day in port. Options include:

• Head south and visit the slave huts, salt ponds, Salt Pier, donkey sanctuary & Te Amo beach. This is a car version of the above bicycling itinerary combined with an added visit to the donkey sanctuary.
• Head north and snorkel at Andrea I, Karpata and 1,000 steps. Then drive up to the Goto Meer lake to see the flamingos and head into Rincon for a visit to the local Cadushy distillery.
• Head east and go windsurfing and swimming at Jibe City and take a kayak tour with the Mangrove Center in the mangroves on Lac Bay.
• If you want to rent dive gear and do a DIY shore dive, use this guide to the best Bonaire dive spots to plan your day.

Pro Tip : Reserve your car/bike and the mangrove kayaking tour well in advance as they both book up early on cruise ship days.

Choosing one of these DIY Bonaire shore excursions will give you maximum freedom to explore the island on your own. You can make the most of your time in the port of Bonaire and head back to your ship having had a good sampling of the island.

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Jack Legend

Thursday 4th of February 2021

Excellent blog post. Very interesting writing and informative post Thanks for sharing with us.

Bonaire Cruise Port: What Are Some Really Fun Things To Do Besides Diving?

By: Author Mona Marks

Posted on Last updated: October 14, 2023

Categories Destination Tips , DESTINATIONS

Bonaire, situated off the Venezuela coast, is a Caribbean Island of the Netherlands. This reef-lined coast is protected by the Bonaire National Marine Park. Bonaire is home to some of the most stunning coral reefs in the world, making it a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkeling.

But, if diving and snorkeling are not your thing, no worries! Bonaire is a stunning island that offers plenty of activities for visitors, including, hiking, bird watching, and horseback riding, as well as other cultural attractions. Keep reading for highlights of the wonderful opportunities you’ll find at the Bonaire cruise port!

This island has much to offer a passenger of a ship that stops at the Bonaire cruise port. For your excursion, take a guided tour which includes transport, or you could take a taxi to the sites you want to visit. The nearest town, Kralendijk, is only a 4- minute walk (about one mile, or 1.7km) from the Bonaire cruise port, if you prefer to do some sightseeing in the area. Or you could rent a scooter for shopping or beach excursions.

Take An Island Tour from Bonaire Cruise Port

Taking a guided tour by bus is one of the best ways to see the sights of Bonaire.

Board a bus from the Bonaire cruise port for a 4-hour tour starting from the capital city of Kralendijk. Along the way, you will stop at many sightseeing attractions. Some of these will likely include:

The Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary

You will visit the Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary , located on the vast salt pans on the island’s southern end. It is one of only four areas in the world where beautiful pink Flamingo breeds. The sanctuary is home to more than 10,000 flamingos, as well as a variety of birds.

Please note that the “sanctuary” is relatively literal: human visitors are not allowed on the property. Instead, you can view the flamingos from the nearby road. For close up views, take binoculars (or use the magnification feature on your smartphone).

Sorobon Beach

On the island’s east side near Lac Bay are the calm waters of Sorobon Beach. The bus tour will make a 2hr stop off at this beach. You and the family can enjoy a quick dip in the sea or relax and soak up the sun on the beach. Here you can watch the many windsurfers who make the most of Bonaire’s steady trade winds.

You can rent loungers for sitting on the beach, or there are a few lanais where the family can relax in the cool shade and enjoy a picnic. There are a few beach bars for cold drinks and light meals. If you and the children enjoy snorkeling, walk about 100 yards across from the beach, the water is only a few feet deep. Walk to the inside of the bay, where you will find a good spot for snorkeling. Be sure to snorkel a reasonable distance away from the windsurfers.

If you would rather spend the whole day at the beach, you could take a 20-minute drive by taxi from the cruise port to Sorobon Beach instead of taking the bus tour.

Bonaire Slave Huts

The Bonaire slave huts , built in the 19th century are world-famous. You have likely seen photographs of them even if you didn’t know exactly what they are.

They are a series of small, dark, and cramped stone huts that were built to house slaves who were working in the nearby salt pans. The huts are now a historical site and a reminder of the island’s history.

The small two-person stone houses have small doors and very low ceilings. The interior headroom is around 4 feet or so (only a little larger than the height of a 5-year-old child). It’s reported that these huts sometimes housed as many as six slaves.

The slave huts have been restored to their original state – although the original thatched roofs have been replaced with more durable coverings.

The Willemstoren Lighthouse

If you are fascinated by lighthouses, you will enjoy a stop at Bonaire’s first lighthouse, which was built in 1837. Since then, another four lighthouses have been constructed on the island. The Willemstoren Lighthouse was renovated in 2012 and is in good working order.

Visit The Bonaire Donkey Sanctuary

Enjoy a fun day visiting with donkeys that have been rescued, rehabilitated, and are now sheltered and protected. There are more than 400 donkeys at the Bonaire Donkey Sanctuary ; most were sick, wounded, or orphaned when rescued. 

The kids will enjoy petting and feeding the donkeys. Also, visit the gardens at the sanctuary, where you will see tortoises and iguanas among the lovely local plants. You can join a guided minibus tour, take a 10-minute taxi ride, or rent a golf cart in Kralendijk(a 5-minute walk) and drive to the sanctuary(6.3km).

The Bonaire Arts and Crafts Market

Just off the north pier in Wilhelmina Plaza, a 5-minute walk from the cruise port is the Bonaire Arts and Crafts Market. Browse the stalls of the more than 40 artists and crafters selling a beautiful selection of their items, all locally made. Enjoy some local food, tropical drinks, and exotic desserts. At the same time, you can listen to live music from some of the island’s musicians and singers.

Take A Bonaire EYE SEA Boat Trip (Klein Bonaire Island)

Take a fabulous trip on a glass-bottom boat and see the beautiful marine life at the bottom of the ocean as you travel to Klein Bonaire Island. The family can snorkel at various stops along the way; snorkel gear is provided by the tour guide. The duration of this trip is between 1.5 to 2 hours.

Klein Bonaire is a small uninhabited island about 0.8km from Bonaire. It is protected land and is home to turtle nesting grounds. One of the snorkeling spots is No Name Beach.

You can take a water taxi to No Name Beach on Klein Bonaire Island if you prefer not to take the boat tour. The water taxis travel from the cruise port to the island several times a daily. 

The Bonaire – Rancho Washikemba Horse Ranch

Take an exciting trip to the Washikemba Horse Ranch , only 7.8km from the cruise port. You can book the Ride and Swim tour, which is suitable for first-time and advanced riders. You will be transported from the cruise port to the ranch, where you will meet your horse companion for the tour.  

The ride (walking gait) will take you from the ranch to the beautiful Lagoon Bay, where you can swim and play with the horses in the sea. The guide takes a group of 5 people at a time, and a special package for a family can include lunch and transport to and from the cruise port. 

Alternatively, you can travel by taxi to the Washikemba Horse Ranch.

Take A Bonaire Semi-Submarine Tour

The Bon Sea is a semi-submarine that will partially submerge into the crystal, clear waters of Bonaire. The vessel is spacious and air-conditioned and will provide you with breathtaking views of the island’s marine life like turtles, moral eels, and beautiful corals. A special outing for the whole family!  

Visit The Bonaire Echo Conservation Center

Spend an hour at this conservation center learning more about the conservation programs to protect and preserve Bonaire’s beautiful nature. See the endangered, Yellow-shouldered Amazon Parrot as you follow the guide on a walk through a dry forest that has been replanted.  

You will also learn more about the native tree species on the island. Wear shoes for off-road walking and bring along some water shoes on this trip. You can take a taxi to Dos Pos (20.1km), where the tour guide will meet you and take you to the Echo Conservation Center .

Bonaire Shopping

Take the family shopping at a few of the lovely shops in Kralendijk. A quick walk from Bonaire cruise port, here you will find unique gifts and beautiful souvenirs. There is something for everyone:

• Something Sweet Bonaire – the children will love this candy store!
• Addo’s Books and Toys  – a large selection of books for divers and toys for the kids.
• I Love Bonaire Store – local Brand items, T-shirts, and more. 
• Salt Shop Bonaire – is a fun shop offering unique and authentic salt-related products.
• GN Art – a local artist using recycled material to create beautiful treasures.

Closing Thoughts

If you are lucky enough to stop at the Bonaire rruise port on your trip, you will not be disappointed. Dutch colonial architecture, coral reefs, flamingos ,and rich flora and fauna make this island a colorful and vibrant place to visit on your cruise.

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Best Things to do in Bonaire: Cruise Port Excursions You Can Do on Your Own

By: Author Christine Wheeler

Posted on Published: August 4, 2017  - Last updated: July 19, 2023

We only visited Bonaire for a day, but it quickly became one of our favorite Caribbean islands. We discovered Bonaire on a cruise we took one March for Spring Break. There are plenty of things to do in Bonaire on a cruise and lots of cruise port excursions you can do on your own by renting a car in Bonaire.

Living in Florida makes cruises and flights to the Caribbean easier and cheaper than from other parts of the United States or the world. We have visited Saint Lucia , several islands in the Bahamas with Groupon and Living Social , Jamaica, Turks & Caicos, the Dominican Republic, Bonaire, Curacao, and Aruba. All of these islands have something unique about them, and all of them have things we liked about them. Bonaire just had that little something extra that makes us want to go back and stay there for longer one day.

Spending the day in Bonaire with a rental car meant we had many of the places we stopped to ourselves. Since most people stayed close to the ship or took a cruise ship excursion in Bonaire, we were able to find beaches that had no one else around and to make a loop around the island to find all the best places to go in Bonaire.

Bonaire is not very popular with tourists compared to many other Caribbean islands. There are not many cruise ships that visit the island, so it is not overrun with tourists during the day or at night like nearby Aruba. Being off the beaten path appealed to us. It still has the beautiful beaches and crystal clear water you would expect in the Caribbean but without the crowds. The island has coral formations, salt pans, a flamingo sanctuary, and a perfect area to learn to windsurf.

If you like cruising, you’ll love our guide to getting free cruises with one credit card !

Renting a Car in Bonaire

We only had one day in Bonaire, but we made the most of it. Our first stop was a little seafood restaurant right near the pier overlooking the turquoise waters. There is a whole string of restaurants near the cruise port in Bonaire, and many of them serve fresh seafood while looking over the water and port.

Next we found our favorite rental car we have ever driven at Rento Fun (also partners with Bonaire Motorcycle Shop if you want to rent a Harley for your time on the island). The walk from the port to Rento Fun (map here) takes less than 10 minutes (.43 miles or 700 meters).

Because we don’t plan ahead, we walked in and asked what was available. Based on the options, we chose a Suzuki Jimmy for $38 a day. They also have everything from bicycles, scooters and motorcycles to cars, trucks, and vans. You can view the whole fleet and the prices here. We chose the Suzuki because it had the open top, perfect for cruising around the island for the day.

We loved the freedom of renting a car in Bonaire because we were one of the few cars on the road. Renting a car also meant that we could take off and go see the parts of the island that are not visited as often. Having a rental car gave us the freedom to see what we wanted and for as long as we wanted. At the end of the day, we simply dropped it back off and headed back to the cruise port.

Things to Do in Bonaire

There are plenty of things to do in Bonaire on a cruise or on a longer stay. If Bonaire is your cruise port, get ready to enjoy the idyllic scenery of the island for your day in Bonaire. The whole island has a relaxing and laid back vibe that makes it perfect for a Caribbean getaway. Whether you love just relaxing on the beach, finding adventure in activities or learning more of the island’s history, there is plenty to do in Bonaire to suit your individual tastes.

When we first arrived, we picked up a map with beaches and suggested snorkeling spots. The beaches had names, and the snorkeling spots had numbers. Along the road, little rocks had the corresponding names and numbers, making it easy to find the spots you wanted to see.

The southern coast of Bonaire was our favorite area. The road goes along the coastline, so you have water views the whole way. We only saw about ten cars the entire time we drove the southern coast, including stops. We stopped at beaches that had no one else in sight and snorkeled anywhere that looked like a good spot.

Snorkeling & Windsurfing in Lac Bay in Bonaire

We headed to the southern part of the island first. As we drove along the turquoise water, suddenly we found where everyone on the island was – Lac Bay. As it came into view, we saw lots of colorful windsurfing sails filling the bay. We pulled over on the side of the road to take it all in.

Windsurfing in Lac Bay

Lac Bay is perfect for windsurfing and has quickly become the capital of windsurfing in the Caribbean. I’d love to go back and learn here one day. The water is calm and shallow throughout the bay, making it ideal for beginners. With a constant wind blowing and warm waters year round, it is the perfect spot for windsurfing all year.

If you are looking to learn to windsurf or just rent equipment, there are plenty of shops along the beach offering both of those options. There is also a  hotel on Lac Bay if you are looking to stay here for a few days. Even if you aren’t windsurfing, the view and the water here is gorgeous. Plus, you can enjoy watching windsurfers of all skill levels cruise around the bay.

Snorkeling in Lac Bay

If snorkeling is more of what you are looking for, Lac Bay is perfect for snorkeling along the reef that borders the bay. Be sure to avoid the channel and be aware that on especially rough days, you will still have to fight a current in the usually calm bay. Wear water shoes as you have a long walk through shallow water to make it to the reef. While most of the bay has a soft sand bottom, there are parts of the bay with shells, urchins, or bits of corral.

You can find full directions including maps of the walking routes and best snorkeling areas here . It takes about a 20 minute walk to reach the reef, but Lac Bay is one of the best snorkeling areas in Bonaire.

Salt Flats, Pink Lakes, and Flamingos in Bonaire

At the south end of the island, you will find sparkling mountains made of salt and large pink lakes near the salt flats. Salt continues to be a major part of Bonaire’s economy even today. This area near the salt flats gives you unique views but also an idea of the island’s history.

Flamingo Sanctuary & Pink Lakes

As you drive along the southern part of the island, you will see pink lakes on one side of the road and the clear blue waters of the ocean on the other side. The contrast makes for a beautiful view along the drive. The waters of the pools look pink because of the brine shrimp that live in the water, giving both the water and the flamingos their pink coloring.

Keep your eyes open for flamingos on your drive. The Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary is one of only a handful of places were flamingos actually breed, and it is home to over 10,000 flamingos. The sanctuary is not accessible to tourists, but you can enjoy the flamingos from the road without entering the sanctuary. You can also see them from Pink Beach sometimes if you plan to stop there.

Slave Huts & Obelisks in Bonaire’s Salt Region

Just past the salt flats and ponds, there is a little row of houses and some obelisks along the beach. Signs nearby tell you the history of this area. These huts were built in the mid-1800s for the salt workers use.The slave huts were used for sleeping and storing belongings during the work week. On Friday afternoons, the slaves walked seven hours back home to Rincon to see their families. They returned every Sunday to be back in time to work on Monday.

The slave huts stand along the water’s edge. While you can easily tell how small they are just by standing next to them, you can also go inside to get a better idea of the tight living quarters. The houses are painted various shades of pink, orange, and white which contrast with the blue waters beyond them from the road.

In addition to the slave huts, this area also has four obelisks. The obelisks guided ships to the type of salt they wanted to purchase. Each obelisk is painted a different color to help the ships navigate. They are painted red, white, blue and orange, the four colors that have been used in the Dutch flag throughout history.

Pink Beach, Bonaire

We spent the majority of our day in the southern part of Bonaire. When I saw a beach on the map called Pink Beach, we had to check it out. I expected to see a truly pink beach, especially after the pink ponds at the salt flats. Pink Beach was not all that pink, but it was still beautiful.

Pink Beach gets its name because of the pink tint the sand has thanks to millions of crushed shells. These shells come from microscopic pink single-celled organisms called foraminifera. Apparently the sand used to be much more pink, but that changed after a storm in the late 1990s. Hopefully one day the beach will regain its namesake pink color.

If you plan to drive around the southern part of the island, Pink Beach is still worth a stop. While the sand is not noticeably pink, it is still a beautiful area with the palm trees blowing in the breeze, the slight pink tint to the sand, and the calm waters in various shades of blue. This area is good for snorkeling and diving as well, but there are no shops, restaurants, or places to rent equipment at this beach.

East Coast of Bonaire

After exploring the south coast, we continued on our journey around Bonaire, driving up the eastern coast. The eastern coast differed greatly from the southern coast. The southern coast featured clear and calm waters with sandy beaches and some rocks. Along the eastern coast, waves crashed against large rocks and coral formations.

The waves slam into the coast with the waves splashing high into the sky. The posted signs about danger and death need to be taken seriously. There is no question while standing on this coastline that swimming is a bad idea, even for strong swimmers. We hiked along the rocks and enjoyed watching and hearing the waves crash, but swimming was out of the question.

Best Beaches in Bonaire & Klein Bonaire

Klein Bonaire is a small, uninhabited island off the west coast of Bonaire. To get there, catch a water taxi from the city center boardwalk or from Eden Beach. You can see the schedule and reserve seats online , but most days, especially in low season, it does not sell out in advance. Make sure to take food and water with you. This island is uninhabited, so there are no options to buy food or water there. Take plenty of sunscreen as well as there is little shade on the island.

The water taxi drops you off at No Name Beach, one of Bonaire’s best beaches. You can relax on the beach or find good snorkeling right off the water. If you are looking for more snorkeling options, walk down the beach to the south until you find a yellow post. This marks an open area in the coral reef where you can enter the water. You can also ask the water taxi captain to drop you off at the yellow post. From there, snorkel with the current back down to No Name Beach.

Other popular beaches include Te Amo Beach and Donkey Beach (local favorites), Bachelor’s Beach, Coco Beach (lots of activities), and Boka Slagbaai in Slagbaai National Park.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Bonaire

If you are looking for a Caribbean island to visit in the future, give Bonaire a chance. There are plenty of things to do in Bonaire whether you are on a cruise or staying for longer. There are several cruise lines that visit the island, so you can find a southern Caribbean cruise stopping there if you want to see more than just Bonaire. If you are looking for a hotel to stay in for a longer stay in Bonaire, you can start your search for a hotel here .

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Sunday 4th of August 2019

Wow, this looks absolutely amazing and offers so much to do. I just qualified for my Advanced Open Water and so now I'm planning all the places I want to travel to so that I can dive. Just added Bonaire to the list! ;)

Christine Wheeler

My husband is certified, but I’m not. I need to just do it so I can dive these places too.

Caroline (www.packthesuitcases.com)

Bonaire looks lovely, never heard of it before! I love the pink beach.

Thank you! It is definitely a lesser known Caribbean island.

Bonaire looks gorgeous! And that flamingo is so cool. I'd love to see one IRL one day - adding Bonaire to my ever growing list!

I know the feeling of an ever growing list :-) It really is a beautiful island!

travelingness

Saturday 3rd of August 2019

Bonaire looks amazing! The water is so beautiful and looks like a wonderful place to snorkel or dive!

Thank you! It really is perfect for snorkeling with such clear water!

Snorkeling and pink beaches?? Sign me up! Bonaire looks wonderful, I had considered a cruise itinerary that stopped there, but didn't know anything about it so I chose a different itinerary. Now I kind of wished I had chosen the one with Bonaire!

Agreed :-) We loved visiting all of the ABC islands, but we especially loved Bonaire because it was less commercialized and more quiet. Hopefully you'll find another itinerary with it in the future!

Bonaire Cruise Port: Top things to do When Visiting

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Bonaire Cruise Port

If you’re a cruiser looking for a Caribbean destination with a little something for everyone, hopping on a cruise ship to Bonaire is a great choice.

Located in the heart of the Caribbean, Bonaire is an island known for its stunning beauty, world-class diving, and abundance of outdoor activities. Known by cruisers as part of the ABC Islands,(Aruba, Bonaire & Curacao) Bonaire is a highly sought-after cruise port destination.

 There are two cruise piers in Bonaire (north and south pier). The Bonaire cruise terminal, also known as the port of Kralendijk, is located near the cruise port town of Kralendijk. While the capital city of Kralendijk is small, there is plenty to see and do in the town and surrounding area.

Right along the main street when you leave the port are many tour companies and options available for cruisers to the island of Bonaire

In this post, I’ll share some of the top things you can do when the Bonaire cruise port is on your cruise itinerary.

First, What to bring ashore for your Bonaire Cruise Port Adventure?

It’s important to bring the essentials with you for your fun day in Bonaire. Cruisers need to bring their ship card, photo ID, credit card, or cash. It’s also important to bring any reservations for excursions or activities you’ve planned ahead of time. For more tips on what to bring, check out these helpful posts.

Related Posts: What to Pack in Your Port Day Bag and Planning Your Excursions

The Beaches of Bonaire :

Explore the Beautiful Beaches: Bonaire is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. From secluded coves to pristine white sandy beaches, you can find a beach to suit every taste. Whether looking for a relaxing day in the sun or an adventurous day at sea, you won’t be disappointed. Bonaire is overflowing with an abundance of water activities with that small-town beach vibe.

I’ll mention just a few:

Bachelor Beach:

Located just a few miles from the cruise port, Bachelor Beach is the closest beach option for cruisers. While it’s not recommended to walk the 3-mile distance a taxi could have you snorkeling or lying in the sun in no time.

Sorobon Beach:

Sorobon Beach is a long and narrow stretch of white sand beach located on the east coast of the island. It is known for its shallow and calm waters, making it a popular spot for windsurfing and kiteboarding. There are also several beach bars and restaurants where you can relax and enjoy the view. – Jibe Bar is a lot of fun but not rowdy.

As a first-time cruise passenger to Bonaire, we took a friend’s advice and grabbed a taxi to Soroban beach. They referred to it as “Jibe City” which is actually the name of a fun beach bar and windsurfing shop. We could walk out for what felt like a mile and the snorkeling was amazing! We absolutely loved it! Whether you ask your taxi driver for Soroban Beach, Jibe City, or The Hangout Beach Bar, you’ll find yourself in the right spot!

Te Amo Beach:

Te Amo Beach is a secluded beach located on the island’s south coast, near the salt flats. It is a small beach with white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is also home to several beach huts and palm trees, providing a picturesque backdrop.

Pink Beach:

Pink Beach is a unique beach located on the island’s south coast. It is known for its pink sand, which is caused by tiny red organisms that live on the coral reef offshore. The beach is also home to several cactus trees and offers stunning views of the surrounding turquoise waters.

Bonaire is home to many beautiful beaches, each with its own unique features and charm. Whether you’re looking for a spot to relax, swim, snorkel, or windsurf, there’s a beach on Bonaire that’s perfect for you.

Klein Bonaire Island:

Klein Bonaire is a small uninhabited island located just off the west coast of Bonaire. It is home to several beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving.

The island is accessible only by boat, and there are several tour operators on the island that offer boat trips to Klein Bonaire. You can even water taxi to Klein Bonaire.

However, while it is fairly easy to access there are no facilities located on the uninhabited island. This can be especially tricky for young families as restrooms and food/beverages are not available.

It is known to be a snorkeler’s paradise though so be sure and pack your snorkel gear if you plan to head to Klein…or really, anywhere on Bonaire.

Related Post: Seavenger Snorkel Gear Review

Culture and Tours

If you’re looking for history and culture you won’t have to look far. Right outside of the port, you will see many vendors/tour companies set up to take you on a northbound or southbound tour of the island. You can even do both! Many tours help you explore the slave huts, experience the salt pans and even see the island’s pink flamingos.

Related: Cruise Port Day in Grenada

Flamingos :

When you think of Flamingos, Aruba may come to mind and that’s true. However, flamingos can be found at many places around Bonaire, especially at Pekelmeer in the south of Bonaire, Lac Bay, and also at Gotomeer, in the north of Bonaire

Explore 1000 steps:

A well-known haven for sea turtles, 1000 Steps is a cruiser highlight. While it’s not really a thousand steps down to the water (it’s actually 67 steps), you will want to make sure you are able-bodied to make the relatively steep descent down to the water. The hike back up will certainly feel more like 1000.

This island highlight is included on most island tours (to observe) or grab your snorkel gear and taxi there straight from the ship. I hope you see the turtles!

Slave Huts :

Built on the island in the 1850s in the southwest of the island near Bonaire’s Salt Lake. These stone structures are so small that the slaves could not stand upright in the huts. Colonial slaves in Bonaire were forced to work primarily in the salt flats although some others were forcibly brought to the island to cut maize or dyewood. Like the entire slave trade, not only in Bonaire, the stories will break your heart but history is worth learning so that this is never repeated.

Donkey Sanctuary:

Continuing to a happier tale is one you may want to “pin on”.

Donkeys have been living on Bonaire for hundreds of years. The animals were originally brought over by the Spaniards in the 1600s and used to perform hard labor. Once modern transport made these animals obsolete they were abandoned and left to survive on their own.

The Donkey Sanctuary of Bonaire has been hard at work for 30 years! They rescue, maintain care and educate the public on repeat. This stop is included on many tours and I’m sure you would benefit from a sweet ear scratch and learning how you can assist in their efforts.

Prior to your visit, you can even check out their live cam or revisit to check in on your new friends.

Visit the Local Markets:

The markets of Bonaire are a great way to get a taste of local culture. From fresh produce to handmade crafts, you can find something to take home as a souvenir. Plus, the markets are a great place to sample some of the island’s delicious cuisine.  Enjoy the food trucks!

Go Scuba Diving:

Bonaire is known as one of the top scuba diving destinations in the world.

The island is surrounded by some of the most spectacular coral reefs in the Caribbean, making it a great place to explore the underwater world. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, you won’t be disappointed. For open-water diving, I recommend booking your diving shore excursion prior to your cruise port day. It’s important you have a properly trained dive guide for a guided tour or stick to official dive sites for safety. If you are a diver, I’m sure you already know the necessity of diving with a partner!

Hop on a Golf Cart

Looking for a little solo adventure? Cruise visitors can rent a golf cart and explore the entire island on their own. Don’t worry, you won’t get lost. Everyone is very friendly if you need help. You’ll be given a map and I’d also recommend downloading a map of Bonaire from Google Maps for offline use prior to your visit.

When we return to Bonaire, we will be renting a golf cart from Bonaire Cruisers just like my in-laws did this year!

Experience the Nightlife:

Finally, If you are lucky enough to have an extra long or late evening port time, Bonaire has a vibrant nightlife scene. From lively bars to trendy nightclubs, you can find a spot to dance the night away. Plus, the island is home to some of the best restaurants in the Caribbean, so you can take a break from the party and enjoy a delicious meal. 

Conclusion:

Are you ready to check out the Bonaire cruise port? There is so much to experience on this small island, one port day won’t be enough. I’m sure this is why cruisers return again and again to this beautiful island gem. You can explore the beautiful beaches, learn about the local culture and its history, head to a dive site, or dine on some local treats. It’s all waiting for you in Bonaire.

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Kralendijk, Bonaire – Cruise Port

Everything you need to know before visiting the bonaire cruise port.

Have you booked a cruise that will be visiting the Bonaire cruise port? Or perhaps you are still deciding if a cruise docking here is the right vacation for you. In either case, we’re confident this guide will help you understand everything you need to know about what to see, do, and expect while you’re there!

Bonaire Cruise Port Overview

First of all, where is Bonaire? Bonaire is a small island off the coast of Venezuela. Bonaire is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Due to Bonaire’s history, the island offers a unique cultural experience combining the Caribbean and Netherlands cultures.

Unlike other busy ports, there is no true cruise terminal in Bonaire. Visitors will be happy to discover that shopping, ATMs, and restaurants are all within easy walking distance from where the cruise ship docks. Guides are also readily available for whatever excursion you have in mind, including water taxis, kayaking, or snorkeling.

When docking at Bonaire, your cruise ship will dock at one of two piers along the coast. These piers are known as the Northern Pier and the Southern Pier. Up to three cruise ships can dock at once in Bonaire.

Sightseeing and Activities in Bonaire

Bonaire is typically known for its beautiful beaches and is perfect for those that enjoy outdoor activities in nature. Popular outdoor recreation activities include hiking, diving, and wildlife viewing.

Snorkeling and Diving

All the waters surrounding the island are protected and known as the Bonaire National Marine Park . Just underneath the water’s surface is a diver’s paradise. Check out the diverse coral reefs, home to more than 350 types of fish. You may even get lucky and see a sea turtle!

On the island of Bonaire, there are 86 public dive sites. This can be overwhelming for someone just visiting for the day on a cruise. We recommend speaking with a local operator on the islands. After gauging your activity level and determining your interests, they can recommend the best diving spot suited for your needs.

If your feet are eager to stay on land after cruising around the ocean, why not go for a hike? Head to the northern part of the island to the Washington-Slagbaai National Park . There are three hiking trails to choose from with varying levels of difficulty.

If you want to summit the highest peak on the island, opt for the Subi Brandaris Trail. This hike takes about 45 minutes and is rated as medium in difficulty. Hikers can enjoy the beautiful desert landscape as well as views of the water. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen!

Kayak Through a Mangrove Forest

Rent a kayak or a solar boat and explore Bonaire’s magnificent mangrove forests. You never know what is just around the corner as you meander through thick trees on crystal-clear water. This activity is great for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers!

Shopping in Bonaire

Not in the mood for outdoor recreation? No problem. On the island of Bonaire, there are plenty of other ways to spend your time.

The Sea Promenade

The Sea Promenade is perfect if you want to stroll down a beautiful walkway. Along the promenade, stop and peek in at the shops lining the street. You’re sure to find souvenirs and will have the chance to chat with friendly locals.

Kaya Grandi

Just one block from the promenade is Kaya Grandi, the street most known for shopping. This is another excellent place to take a walk. You will have several opportunities here for shopping as well as finding a delicious restaurant for lunch or dinner

Harborside Mall

You will find several retail and souvenir shops in this open-air mall close to the port. There are also two restaurants located within the mall area. Strolling around the Harborside Mall and enjoying the lively and colorful downtown scene is a must-do when visiting Bonaire.

Dining in Bonaire

If you’re feeling hungry, don’t stray too far from town. Nearly all of the restaurants, food trucks, and markets are located within the capital city of Kralendijk. Let’s check out one of Bonaire’s top places to grab a bite to eat.

Stoked Foodtruck

Look for a red double-decker bus turned food truck parked near the water by the airport. You can’t miss it! Stoked Food Truck is a popular stop for American and Caribbean fusion food.

Known for fresh, quality ingredients and friendly service, Stoked has become one of the highest-ranked places to eat on the islands. A tourist favorite is the spicy mango cheeseburger. There are vegetarian and kids options as well.

Nearby Beaches to Check Out

You’re on an island in the Caribbean. It’s only natural to want to hit the beach, right?

Here are the top beaches to check out in Bonaire.

• Bachelor’s Beach
• Te Amo Beach
• Klein Bonaire
• Donkey Beach

And, of course, you can’t go to the beautiful island of Bonaire without heading to Pink Beach! The pink-colored sand gets its color from corals and shells.

Other Things To Do

You’ve shopped, eaten, and had your fill of outdoor recreation. What else is there to do before you report back to the ship? Bonaire is home to some fascinating historical and cultural sites you don’t want to miss.

Fort Oranje

This historical building dates back to the early 1600s and was built by the Dutch West India Company. In 1804, the British captured the fort, and it was given back to the Netherlands in 1816. It has served many purposes since then, including a prison, museum, and fire department.

Visit the Salt Pyramids

If you want to see something truly unique, check out the salt pyramids of Bonaire . Here you’ll see fifty-foot towers of salt adjacent to vividly pink waters. The water is pink due to microorganisms that thrive in high saline waters of the salt pans .

There can be 200,000 tons of salt pyramids waiting for shipment at any one time. This location is one of the largest salt producers in the Caribbean.

Currency in Bonaire

As of January 1st, 2011, the official currency in Bonaire is the U.S dollar. Many major credit cards are also accepted.

How to Get to Kralendijk from Bonaire Cruise Port

The good news is that the port is in Kralendijk, and the city center is easily accessible by foot.

Cruise Lines that Sail Here

Carnival Cruise Lines and Princess Cruise Lines both have ship routes that stop in Bonaire.

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Bonaire Cruise Port • The Best Things to Do in Kralendijk

Discover the very best things to do in Kralendijk, the colourful and super-pretty home of Bonaire Cruise Port. From flamingos and donkeys, to the underwater world of the coral reefs, there’s plenty of adventures to be had in this quiet pocket of the Caribbean.

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A very brief introduction to Bonaire

The ABC islands- that’s the Dutch islands of Aruba , Bonaire and Curaçao – are a big old contrast to the rest of the Caribbean islands. The climate is dry rather than humid, and cacti and succulents do well here, as opposed to the tropical rainforest-y flora of the more northerly spots. These islands are closer to the equator, after all, in fact Bonaire is a mere 50 miles off the coast of Venezuela.

But the strangest thing about Bonaire is that it’s really just one massive old coral reef.

Over time, volcanic activity around these parts pushed an expanse of the seabed upwards, where coral was able to grow as it got closer to the surface. Eventually this was pushed upwards too, creating Bonaire as a newly formed freshly born island. The coral obviously can’t survive out of water, and it’s common to come across coral skeletons across the whole island.

All these shenannigans occurred way back when; since then the Arawak people moved in (the earliest civilisation known in the Caribbean), and then the Spanish moved in, kicking the Arawak left right and centre, to work as slaves. (Classic.) Eventually the Dutch turned up, winning Bonaire in an almighty war, and turning the island into a major exporter of salt. Africans, Arawak and convicts were forced into slave labour on the island, until they were freed in 1862.

Nowadays, Bonaire is officially a special municipality of the Netherlands- it has its own local government which is run according to Dutch laws, and although Bonaire retains its own cultural identity, its residents are also Dutch citizens.

It also means that bitterballen are regularly spotted on menus here, so all bitterballen fans visiting Bonaire, REJOICE.

What’s so special about Bonaire?

In short: the fish and the flamingos!

The reason this island has the wow factor for me (and many others) is actually what lies beneath the water. Bonaire is surrounded by coral reefs, and some of the most stunning marine life I have ever layed eyes on; you can jump into the sea at practically any coastal spot, and be instantly surrounded by an absolute rainbow of gorgeous fish.

Read my guide to snorkelling in Bonaire.

Not only is the island popular with snorkelers, but there are also hundreds of diving opportunities to be found, and there are plenty of dive centres for divers of all levels and abilities. This was one of the world’s first protected marine parks, and the government (and locals) take the protection of their wildlife and waters very seriously; their dedication to the environment is impressive.

Overland, Bonaire is home to a massive colony of flamingos, and although its possible to see these beautiful birds at the pink salt flats of the Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary , they can also be spotted here there and everywhere across the island. It’s absolutely off-limits to approach the flamingos, so if you want to see them properly you might need to bring either a zoom lens for your camera, or some high-quality binoculars.

There are also wild donkeys on the island, although you can visit the Bonaire Donkey Sanctuary , who do a great job of protecting these lovely creatures. The donkeys are descendants of donkeys brought over by the Spanish when they were going about their island-conquering business; once humans had no use for them any more, they were left to wander the island.

Where is Bonaire cruise port?

Bonaire cruise port is in the capital city (which is more of a teeny-tiny capital town) of Kralendijk, right in the middle of the west coast. The vibe in Kralendijk is wonderfully chilled; you can see the city from both of the two cruise piers, and you can easily walk from your ship to the city in about 3-5 minutes.

What to do in Kralendijk

Kralendijk is an extremely safe city, and due to its tiny size and close proximity to the cruise piers, its also very walkable.

There are some very pretty historical sites in Kralendijk, all of which you can reach easily on foot. Fort Oranje is a very angular yellow lighthouse in the centre of town, and there’s plenty of other quaint but colourful colonial architecture to discover. If you want to get your learning cap on, visit the Terramar Museum to get to grips with Bonaire’s past.

There are also little jetties all along the waterfront in Kralendijk, which you can jump directly into the sea from. The water is wonderfully warm (say that three times fast), and if you don’t have a lot of time to explore the rest of the island, you can still enjoy the underwater treasures that Bonaire has to offer without going more than a few steps from the ship.

If you have time to explore a little further away on foot, you can walk all the way along the seafront to Eden Beach Resort (my go-to spot in Bonaire for snorkeling and chilling, plus you can sometimes spot flamingos en-route), or in the other direction to Te Amo Beach.

Alternatively, get yourself onto a water taxi across to Klein Bonaire. This little island is just across the water from Bonaire cruise port, and is an incredible snorkeling location. Read my snorkeling post for more information on getting to Klein Bonaire.

There’s a little shopping street which is nice for a wander, and some beautifully bright street art to spot, but for me the best things to see and do in Kralendijk is check out the restaurants and coffee shops. (There’s some truly delicious treats on offer.)

Where to eat and drink in Kralendijk

For ice cream- and truly amazing ice cream at that- go to Luciano . They do also have plenty of coffee and light food options on the menu, but the ice cream sundaes: oh em gee. (Luciano also has really brilliant wifi.) It’s right on the waterfront, and is a great spot to dash outside to if you’ve not got time for much else.

Maya’s Corner Cafe is another great little spot for lunch or an afternoon coffee stop. You can’t miss it because of the big old flamingo painted on the building.

I only visited Sunshine Food and Drinks during the day for coffee, but they have some amazing looking salads, and a great dinner menu as well.

For dinner, Mona Lisa is right in the centre of town and offers up some of the freshest Dutch-Caribbean dishes you could ever hope for. This family-run restaurant is considered an absolute institution in Bonaire, and have been popular for the twenty-five years they’ve been open.

El Pescado is another hugely popular spot, which specialises in fresh local fish dishes. The restaurant is directly on the waterfront and can get busy, but the delicious smells wafting out of the building are enough to make anyone and everyone want to get a table.

Bon Tapa is a great spot for tapas and some casual beverages (or fully party-party beverages, if you fancy it), and Sugar Thief is another popular bar and restaurant which serves lighter meals and home-brewed beers.

Best excursions from Bonaire cruise port

Washington Slagbaai National Park is a stunner of a place, and a big old contrast to other national parks you might have visited on your Caribbean cruise. This tour takes you off-road through the park , and out to some deserted beaches where you have time to snorkel away from the crowds. Lunch is included in the price, as well as pick-up and drop-off.

If you want to snorkel but would rather do it with a guide, you can book a guided snorkel tour. Not only will your guide take you to some of the best snorkelling spots in Bonaire, but they’ll also take photos of you on your underwater adventure. Check prices and book a snorkeling tour in Bonaire here.

For anyone travelling as part of a group, booking a private bus tour with a local is a really great way to see everything that Bonaire has to offer. Luc will pick you up from Bonaire cruise port, and take your group to all the main sites of the island- from the historic slave huts, to the flamingo sanctuary and some of the island’s most beautiful beaches and historic places. It’s a great way to cover everything in one day. Here’s another full tour of Bonaire which is better for smaller groups.

With less time on your hands, here’s a tour which sticks to the south of the island , heading to the salt flats and the slave huts, past the flamingos (who would want to bypass the flamingos!?), and on into the Marine Park where your guide will take you snorkelling.

Logistical Statisticals

• It may be part of the Netherlands, but the currency in Bonaire is US dollars.
• Bad luck if you head to Bonaire on a Sunday; a lot of the shops will be closed.
• There are always plenty of taxi drivers waiting at Bonaire cruise port when ships come in. Even if you don’t book a tour in advance, it’s still possible to arrange something with a local driver.

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Bonaire Cruise Port: Fun Things To Do & Excursions

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Bonaire Cruise Port: The Gateway to Exploring Bonaire Island

Located in the southern Caribbean Sea, Bonaire Island is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. With its crystal-clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and diverse marine life, it’s no wonder that tourists from all over the world flock to this island. And the best way to explore Bonaire Island is through its cruise port – the Bonaire Cruise Port.

Conveniently located in the capital city of Kralendijk, the Bonaire Cruise Port provides easy access to the island’s many attractions and activities. Visitors can take a short boat ride from the port to Klein Bonaire, a small uninhabited island known for its pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.

But what else is near the Bonaire Cruise Port? Well, there are plenty of options! For those who love nature, there’s Washington Slagbaai National Park – a protected area that covers almost 20% of Bonaire Island. It’s home to various species of birds, reptiles, and mammals. There are also hiking trails that lead visitors through scenic vistas of rugged terrain.

For history buffs, there’s Fort Oranje – an 18th-century fortification built by Dutch colonizers. It now serves as a museum where visitors can learn about Bonaire’s colonial past.

Now let’s talk about bonaire cruise port reviews. Many tourists who have visited the island have left positive feedback about their experience at the Bonaire Cruise Port. They praised how organized everything was – from disembarking off their ship to getting transportation around town. Others mentioned how friendly and accommodating the locals were.

If you’re wondering where exactly is the cruise port in bonaire or if you need a bonaire cruise port map – don’t worry! The port is located just five minutes away from downtown Kralendijk and can be easily reached by taxi or shuttle. And if you’re curious about the bonaire cruise port schedule, you can check online to see when your ship is scheduled to arrive.

So where do cruise ships dock in bonaire? Cruise ships typically dock at the Bonaire Cruise Port, which has two berths that can accommodate even the largest of ships.

Cruise Ships Visiting Bonaire: A Guide for Travelers

Exploring bonaire during a cruise ship stop.

Boasting crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife, Bonaire is a popular destination for cruise ships visiting the Southern Caribbean. With daily stops from various cruise lines, visitors have the chance to explore this beautiful island through various tours and activities.

Touring the Island with a Guide

One of the best ways to explore Bonaire is by joining one of the many tours available on the island. Boat and catamaran tours are particularly popular, offering visitors an opportunity to see some of Bonaire’s most breathtaking sights from a unique perspective. With a knowledgeable tour guide leading the way, you can learn about everything from local history and culture to marine life and conservation efforts.

Some of the top attractions to visit on the island include lighthouses and slave huts. These structures offer a glimpse into Bonaire’s past while also providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Willemstoren Lighthouse is particularly noteworthy, as it is one of only two remaining lighthouses in Bonaire. Meanwhile, the slave huts at Pink Beach serve as a reminder of Bonaire’s history as a former Dutch colony.

Options for Families

Families traveling with children will find plenty of options for exploring Bonaire during their day stop at the cruise terminal. Many tours cater specifically to families with young children, offering shorter routes or more interactive experiences that are sure to capture their attention. For example, glass-bottom boat tours are perfect for families looking to experience marine life up close without getting wet.

Prices for tours vary depending on the type of tour and number of people in your group. However, many operators offer discounts for large groups or early bookings made online. It’s worth doing some research ahead of time to find deals that suit your budget.

Shore Excursions at Bonaire Cruise Port: Tips and Options

Shore excursions are one of the most exciting parts of any cruise vacation, and the Bonaire Cruise Port offers a wide range of options for visitors to choose from. Whether you’re looking for an adventure on land or sea, there’s something for everyone here. In this section, we’ll explore some tips and options for shore excursions at Bonaire Cruise Port.

Diving into the Sea

If you’re a fan of water activities, then Bonaire is the perfect destination for you. The island is home to some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving spots in the Caribbean, with crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful marine life. There are several shore excursions available that cater to divers and snorkelers of all skill levels.

One popular option is a guided snorkeling tour to Klein Bonaire, a small uninhabited island just off the coast of Bonaire. This tour takes you by boat to some of the island’s best snorkeling spots, where you can swim amongst schools of tropical fish and even spot sea turtles if you’re lucky.

For those who want to take their underwater exploration to the next level, there are also scuba diving tours available that will take you to some of Bonaire’s famous dive sites. These tours typically include all necessary equipment rental and instruction from certified dive instructors.

Exploring on Land

If water activities aren’t your thing, don’t worry – there are plenty of land-based shore excursions available as well. One popular option is a visit to Washington Slagbaai National Park, which covers nearly 20% of the island’s total land area. Here you can explore rugged landscapes dotted with cacti and rock formations, as well as spot exotic wildlife such as flamingos and parrots.

Another great option for history buffs is a cultural tour of Bonaire’s capital city, Kralendijk. This tour takes you to some of the city’s most important landmarks and historical sites, such as Fort Oranje and the Bonaire Museum.

Booking in Advance

No matter what type of shore excursion you choose, it’s important to book in advance to ensure availability and avoid disappointment. Many popular tours sell out quickly, especially during peak travel seasons, so it’s best to book as early as possible.

It’s also important to be aware of any age or health restrictions for certain shore excursions, particularly those involving the sea. Some tours may have minimum age requirements or require participants to be in good physical condition.

Beaches Near the Cruise Port: Discover Bonaire’s Best Beaches

Kralendijk, the capital city of Bonaire, is a small island located in the southern Caribbean Sea. This beautiful island is famous for its stunning beaches and world-class diving opportunities. If you are planning to visit Bonaire on a cruise, there are plenty of beaches near the cruise port that you can explore. In this section, we will discuss some of the best beaches near the cruise port.

Bachelor’s Beach and Donkey Beach

If you want to spend some time relaxing on a sandy beach, Bachelor’s Beach and Donkey Beach are both just a short walk from the south pier. These beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the beautiful views of crystal-clear waters and white sand.

Sorobon Beach

For those looking for a more secluded spot, Sorobon Beach is located on the east coast of Bonaire. It is about a 20-minute drive from Kralendijk but well worth it! This beach features a long stretch of sandy shorelines and turquoise waters. Sorobon Beach is popular among windsurfers due to its strong winds making it an ideal location for water sports enthusiasts.

Diving and Snorkeling Opportunities

Bonaire is known worldwide for its vibrant coral reef system which makes it one of the top destinations for diving and snorkeling in the Caribbean. Many beaches around Bonaire offer access to these amazing reefs – including Kralendijk’s north pier which provides easy access to some great snorkel spots.

Nearby Aruba

Visitors who want to explore beyond Bonaire can take a short flight or ferry ride to nearby Aruba – one of the most popular islands in the Caribbean with some incredible beaches such as Eagle Beach and Palm Beach.

Explore Bonaire Your Way: DIY Excursions for Bonaire Cruise Port

Diy excursions for bonaire cruise port.

Exploring a new place can be exciting, but sometimes the guided tours offered by cruise lines may not appeal to everyone. That’s where DIY excursions come in – they offer the freedom to explore Bonaire on your own terms. Here are some ideas for DIY excursions from the Bonaire cruise port.

Rent a Car or Scooter

One of the best ways to explore Bonaire is by renting a car or scooter. This gives you the freedom to visit all of the island’s top attractions at your own pace. The rental process is relatively easy and affordable, with plenty of rental companies located near the cruise port.

Some popular destinations include Washington Slagbaai National Park, which offers stunning views and hiking trails, and Lac Bay, known for its crystal-clear waters and windsurfing opportunities. With a car or scooter, you can also stop at any of Bonaire’s beautiful beaches along the way.

Snorkeling and Diving

Bonaire is known for its world-class snorkeling and diving opportunities, with over 80 dive sites around the island. While guided tours are available through many tour operators, it’s also possible to explore on your own if you’re an experienced diver or snorkeler.

Some popular spots include Klein Bonaire, a small uninhabited island just off the coast of Bonaire that offers incredible underwater sights; Salt Pier, known for its abundance of marine life; and Thousand Steps Beach, which requires quite a climb down but rewards visitors with clear waters filled with colorful fish.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience in Bonaire, there are plenty of options as well. The island has several beautiful beaches perfect for lounging in the sun or taking a dip in the water. Some favorites include Sorobon Beach and Pink Beach.

For those interested in exploring local culture, a stroll through one of Bonaire’s charming towns is a must. Rincon, the oldest town on the island, offers visitors a glimpse into Bonaire’s history and traditions. Kralendijk, the capital city, has plenty of shops and restaurants to explore as well.

Enjoy the Natural Wonders of Bonaire: Washington Slagbaai National Park and Bonaire National Marine Park

Washington slagbaai national park: a natural haven in bonaire.

Covering almost 20% of Bonaire’s total land area, Washington Slagbaai National Park is a protected area that offers visitors the chance to explore the natural beauty of the island. The park is home to various attractions such as salt pans, iguanas, and fauna, making it perfect for those who want to experience the natural wonders of the Netherlands Antilles.

One of the highlights of Washington Slagbaai National Park is its diverse landscape. Visitors can hike or drive through rocky hills, lush green forests, and arid deserts all within one park. The park also has several lookout points that offer panoramic views of the island’s coastline and turquoise waters.

Another must-see attraction in Washington Slagbaai National Park is Boca Slagbaai, a stunning bay where visitors can swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. The bay is surrounded by towering cliffs and rock formations that provide shelter from strong winds. Visitors can also spot sea turtles and other marine life while snorkeling in this area.

Bonaire National Marine Park: A Diver’s Paradise

Bonaire National Marine Park is a world-renowned underwater park that boasts over 80 dive sites and is home to more than 500 species of marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and colorful fish. Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular activities in both parks, allowing visitors to explore the diverse marine life and underwater landscapes of Bonaire.

One unique feature of Bonaire National Marine Park is its commitment to conservation efforts. The park has strict regulations on fishing practices and boat traffic to protect its delicate ecosystem. Visitors are encouraged to follow these guidelines when exploring the park to help preserve its beauty for future generations.

For those who prefer staying above water but still want to enjoy the beauty of Bonaire’s marine life, Lac Bay and Wilhelmina Plaza are must-visit sites. Lac Bay is a shallow lagoon that is perfect for windsurfing, while Wilhelmina Plaza offers stunning views of the island’s coastline and is a popular spot for picnics and relaxation.

Discover Unique Experiences in Bonaire: Visit the Donkey Sanctuary and Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary

Donkey sanctuary: a safe haven for over 600 donkeys.

The Donkey Sanctuary in Bonaire is a non-profit organization that provides a safe haven for over 600 donkeys on the island. These friendly animals were once used as transportation and labor, but with modernization, their roles became obsolete, leading to many being abandoned and left to fend for themselves. The sanctuary was established in 1993 by Dutch Nationals Marina Melis and her husband Ed Koopman, who saw the plight of these animals and wanted to help.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the sanctuary and interact with the donkeys, feeding them and learning about their history on the island. The tour guides provide valuable insight into how the sanctuary operates, including its mission to care for these animals. The sanctuary also offers an adoption program where visitors can sponsor a donkey and contribute to its well-being.

Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary: A Home to Over 15,000 Flamingos

The Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary is located in southern Bonaire and is home to one of the largest breeding populations of flamingos in the Caribbean. With over 15,000 birds inhabiting this area during certain times of the year, it’s truly a sight to behold. These beautiful pink birds are known for their striking appearance and unique behaviors.

Visitors can observe these magnificent creatures from a distance while they feed or nestle in shallow waters. It’s important not to disturb their natural behaviors during your visit as they are protected under conservation laws. The best time to visit is between January and July when most of them breed.

Unique Opportunities for Nature Lovers

Both sanctuaries offer unique opportunities for nature lovers visiting Bonaire. They provide an excellent way to learn about and appreciate the diverse wildlife found on this small island in the Caribbean Sea. Visitors will get up close with these friendly donkeys and observe the stunning flamingos in their natural habitat.

The sanctuaries are also committed to conservation efforts, ensuring that these animals remain protected for future generations. By visiting and supporting these organizations, visitors can contribute to their mission of providing a safe haven for these animals.

Shopping and Dining in Bonaire Cruise Port: Where to Go and What to Eat

Bonaire Cruise Port is a shopper’s paradise, offering a range of shopping options that cater to all budgets. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs or high-end fashion, the port has it all. The souvenir shops are perfect for picking up unique gifts for friends and family back home. Local boutiques offer handmade crafts, jewelry, and clothing made by local artisans.

Don’t miss out on visiting the vibrant market where visitors can sample local cuisine and purchase handmade crafts. Here you’ll find everything from fresh seafood to locally grown fruits and vegetables. The market is an excellent place to try some of the island’s signature dishes such as goat stew or conch salad.

Bonaire Cruise Port offers a diverse range of dining experiences that cater to all tastes. From casual beachside bars serving burgers and fries to upscale restaurants serving fresh seafood, there is something for everyone. Be sure not to miss out on trying the island’s signature drink, the Cadushy of Bonaire, made from cactus and available at various bars and restaurants in the port.

For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, there are several fine-dining restaurants that serve fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen. These restaurants offer stunning views of the Caribbean Sea while you enjoy your meal.

If you’re looking for something more laidback, head over to one of the many beachside bars where you can enjoy a cold beer or cocktail while taking in the beautiful views of the ocean. Many of these bars also serve delicious food such as grilled fish tacos or ceviche.

Transportation Options in Bonaire Cruise Port: Getting Around and Island Tours

Water taxi: a scenic and convenient way to get around the island.

One of the best ways to explore the beauty of Bonaire is by taking a water taxi. The island has several water taxi services available at the Bonaire Cruise Port, offering a scenic and convenient way to get around. These taxis are perfect for those who want to enjoy the stunning views of the crystal-clear waters while traveling between different locations.

The water taxis can take you to popular destinations such as Klein Bonaire, an uninhabited island that is known for its pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling spots. You can also take a ride to Lac Bay, which is famous for windsurfing and kiteboarding. The journey itself is an adventure, with colorful fish swimming alongside your boat.

Island Tours: Discovering Natural Beauty and Cultural Highlights

Bonaire boasts amazing natural beauty, from its coral reefs teeming with marine life to its rugged landscapes dotted with cacti. Taking an island tour is one of the best ways to discover all that this paradise has to offer. Various tour operators offer guided tours of the island, showcasing its natural beauty and cultural highlights.

There are many types of tours available, including snorkeling tours that take you on an underwater adventure through colorful coral reefs. You can also choose hiking tours that lead you through breathtaking landscapes filled with wildlife or cultural tours that give you insight into Bonaire’s rich history and heritage.

Taxi: Easy Access To Popular Destinations

If you’re looking for easy access to popular destinations such as Kralendijk or Lac Bay, then taking a taxi may be your best option. Taxis are readily available at the port and can take you anywhere on the island quickly and conveniently.

Taxis in Bonaire are regulated by law, ensuring that they provide safe and reliable service. They have fixed rates for popular routes so you won’t have any surprises when it comes to the fare. Taxis are also perfect for those who want privacy and comfort while traveling.

Bike Ride: Exploring The Island At Your Own Pace

Renting a bike is a great way to explore Bonaire at your own pace. There are several rental shops located near the port, offering different types of bikes suitable for all ages and skill levels. Biking around Bonaire allows you to see the island’s natural beauty up close and personal.

You can take leisurely rides along the coast or more challenging routes through the rugged terrain of Washington Slagbaai National Park. Whatever your preference, biking in Bonaire is an excellent way to stay active while enjoying everything this beautiful island has to offer.

Road Trip: Freedom To Explore The Island

If you prefer to drive yourself, car rentals are also available at the port, allowing you to take a road trip around the island. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore every corner of Bonaire at your own pace. You can stop wherever you want, take pictures of stunning views, or visit hidden gems that only locals know about.

Driving in Bonaire is relatively easy as there is only one main road that circles around the entire island. However, it’s important to note that some areas require four-wheel drive vehicles due to rough terrain or unpaved roads.

Tour Packages: Everything You Need In One Place

Many tour operators offer package deals that include transportation and activities, making it easy to plan your day on the island. These packages are perfect for those who want everything taken care of in one place without having to worry about logistics such as transportation or activity bookings.

Tour packages can include anything from snorkeling tours and hiking trips to cultural tours and beach excursions. They’re an excellent option for families with kids or groups looking for a hassle-free way of exploring Bonaire’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Have Fun and Make the Most of Your Time at Bonaire Cruise Port

Bonaire Cruise Port offers a plethora of activities for travelers, from exploring natural wonders to indulging in shopping and dining experiences. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide how to spend your limited time on the island. But fear not! We’ve got you covered with our guide to making the most of your visit.

For those who love adventure, Bonaire’s national parks are a must-see. Washington Slagbaai National Park boasts stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, while Bonaire National Marine Park offers some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Caribbean. Both parks offer guided tours or self-guided options for those who prefer to explore at their own pace.

If you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, Bonaire’s beaches are sure to impress. From serene stretches of white sand to secluded coves perfect for snorkeling, there is something for everyone. And don’t forget about Lac Bay Beach, known as one of the best windsurfing spots in the world.

For animal lovers, a visit to the Donkey Sanctuary is a must-do activity. This non-profit organization provides a safe haven for over 600 donkeys rescued from abuse or neglect. Visitors can interact with these gentle creatures and even adopt one as a souvenir.

And let’s not forget about Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary – home to thousands of flamingos that flock here every year during breeding season. This protected area offers visitors an up-close look at these majestic birds in their natural habitat.

Bonaire has plenty of options too. From local cuisine like Keshi Yena (stuffed cheese) and fresh seafood dishes to international fare like Italian pizza and sushi – there is something for every palate. And don’t miss out on picking up some souvenirs at the local markets or boutique shops.

Getting around the island is easy with various transportation options available, from rental cars to scooters and bikes. Island tours are also a popular choice for those who want to see as much of Bonaire as possible in a short amount of time.

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Bonaire: A Caribbean Gem for Cruise Passengers

Bonaire is a small island in the Caribbean Sea, located about 50 miles off the coast of Venezuela. It is a popular destination for cruise ships, and for good reason. Bonaire offers stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a wealth of activities for visitors to enjoy.

In this article, we will explore some of the best things to do in Bonaire when you arrive by cruise ship. We will cover everything from swimming and snorkeling to hiking and biking. We will also provide tips on where to stay, eat, and shop.

So if you are planning a cruise to Bonaire, read on for all the information you need to make the most of your trip!

Bonaire is a small Caribbean island located about 50 miles off the coast of Venezuela. It is a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and abundant marine life. The island is also home to the Bonaire National Marine Park, which is one of the most popular diving destinations in the world.

If you are planning a cruise to Bonaire, there are many things to do and see. Here are a few of the top things to do in Bonaire cruise port:

2.1 Visit the Bonaire National Marine Park

The Bonaire National Marine Park is a must-see for any visitor to Bonaire. The park is home to a wide variety of marine life, including coral reefs, fish, turtles, and dolphins. There are over 30 dive sites within the park, each with its own unique features.

The best way to explore the park is by diving or snorkeling. There are many dive shops in Bonaire that offer guided tours of the park. You can also rent snorkel gear and explore the park on your own.

If you are not a diver or snorkeler, you can still enjoy the park by taking a glass-bottom boat tour. These tours offer a unique perspective on the park’s marine life.

2.2 Go hiking

Bonaire is a great place to go hiking. The island has a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. There are trails that lead to secluded beaches, waterfalls, and viewpoints.

Some of the most popular hiking trails in Bonaire include:

• The Bari Boulders Trail: This trail leads to a series of large boulders that are scattered across the hillside. The boulders are a popular spot for rock climbing.
• The Christoffel National Park Trail: This trail leads to the summit of Mount Christoffel, the highest point on Bonaire. The views from the summit are stunning.
• The Queen Wilhelmina Trail: This trail leads to a beautiful waterfall. The waterfall is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.

2.3 Visit the charming town of Kralendijk

Kralendijk is the capital of Bonaire and the largest town on the island. The town is located on the west coast of Bonaire and is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars.

Some of the top things to do in Kralendijk include:

• Visit the Fort Oranje: This 17th-century fort offers stunning views of the harbor.
• Explore the Kralendijk Market: This market is a great place to buy souvenirs and local produce.
• Have a drink at one of the many beach bars: There are a number of beach bars in Kralendijk that offer stunning views of the ocean.

2.4 Relax on one of the many beautiful beaches

Bonaire has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. The beaches are all white sand and clear water. Some of the most popular beaches in Bonaire include:

• Pink Beach: This beach is named for its pink sand, which is caused by the presence of microscopic organisms.
• Sorobon Beach: This beach is known for its calm waters and beautiful scenery.
• Klein Bonaire: This is a small island that is located just off the coast of Bonaire. The island is home to some of the best beaches in the world.

Bonaire is a beautiful island with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, Bonaire has something for everyone.

3.2 Go hiking in the Washington Slagbaai National Park

The Washington Slagbaai National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bonaire. It is located in the north-west of the island and covers an area of over 34,000 acres. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and mammals. There are also a number of hiking trails that wind through the park, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

One of the most popular hikes in the park is the Fontein Hill Trail. This trail is about 5 miles long and takes you to the top of Fontein Hill, which offers panoramic views of the island. Another popular hike is the Boca Prins Trail. This trail is about 3 miles long and takes you to Boca Prins Beach, which is one of the most beautiful beaches in Bonaire.

If you are planning to hike in the Washington Slagbaai National Park, it is important to be prepared. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes, bring plenty of water, and pack a lunch. It is also a good idea to bring a map of the park and a compass.

The Washington Slagbaai National Park is a beautiful and challenging place to hike. It is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Bonaire and get some exercise.

4.3 Take a boat trip to Klein Bonaire

Klein Bonaire is a small island located just off the coast of Bonaire. It is a popular tourist destination, thanks to its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and abundant marine life. There are a number of different ways to get to Klein Bonaire, but the most popular way is to take a boat trip.

There are a number of different companies that offer boat trips to Klein Bonaire. The cost of a boat trip typically ranges from $20 to $40 per person. The length of the trip will vary depending on the company, but it typically takes around 30 minutes to get to Klein Bonaire from Bonaire.

Once you arrive at Klein Bonaire, you will be able to enjoy the beautiful beaches, clear waters, and abundant marine life. There are a number of different activities that you can enjoy on Klein Bonaire, including swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and fishing.

If you are looking for a beautiful and relaxing day trip, then a boat trip to Klein Bonaire is the perfect option for you.

Bonaire is a beautiful island with a lot to offer visitors. There are a number of different activities that you can enjoy, including hiking, snorkeling, diving, and fishing. If you are looking for a tropical island getaway, then Bonaire is the perfect place for you.

What are the best things to do in Bonaire cruise port?

• Snorkeling and diving: Bonaire is known for its world-class snorkeling and diving. The clear waters and abundant marine life make it a popular destination for both experienced and novice divers. There are many different dive sites to choose from, each with its own unique attractions. Some of the most popular sites include Klein Bonaire, the Mushroom Forest, and the Coral Gardens.
• Hiking and biking: Bonaire has a variety of hiking and biking trails to explore. The terrain is relatively flat, making it easy for people of all fitness levels to enjoy. There are trails that take you through lush rainforests, past ancient petroglyphs, and along the coast.
• Visiting the capital city of Kralendijk: Kralendijk is the capital of Bonaire and is a charming town with a laid-back atmosphere. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars to explore. You can also visit the Bonaire Museum, which has exhibits on the island’s history and culture.
• Exploring the island by car: The best way to see Bonaire is by car. The roads are well-maintained and there are plenty of places to stop and explore. You can drive to the various beaches, visit the national park, or just drive around and enjoy the scenery.

What are the best beaches in Bonaire cruise port?

• Klein Bonaire: Klein Bonaire is a small island just off the coast of Bonaire. It is known for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. It is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
• Boca Catalina: Boca Catalina is a sheltered bay on the west coast of Bonaire. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. There are also a few restaurants and bars located in the area.
• Playa Lagun: Playa Lagun is a beautiful beach located on the east coast of Bonaire. It is known for its calm waters and soft sand. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and windsurfing.
• Playa NoName: Playa NoName is a secluded beach located on the north coast of Bonaire. It is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. It is also a great place to watch the sunset.

What is the best time to visit Bonaire cruise port?

The best time to visit Bonaire is during the dry season, which runs from December to August. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, with little rain. The water is also warm and clear, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

What is the currency in Bonaire cruise port?

The official currency in Bonaire is the U.S. dollar. However, most businesses also accept credit cards and euros.

What are the language(s) spoken in Bonaire cruise port?

The official language in Bonaire is Dutch. However, most people also speak Papiamentu, which is a creole language that is based on Dutch, English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

How do I get to Bonaire cruise port?

The best way to get to Bonaire cruise port is by plane. There are direct flights from a number of cities in the United States, Canada, and Europe. You can also take a connecting flight from a major airport in the Caribbean.

What are the customs regulations for Bonaire cruise port?

There are no restrictions on the amount of money that you can bring into Bonaire. However, you must declare any items that you are bringing into the country, including gifts, souvenirs, and electronics. You may also be required to pay duty on certain items.

What are the health requirements for Bonaire cruise port?

There are no specific health requirements for entering Bonaire. However, you should make sure that you have up-to-date vaccinations for measles, mumps, rubella, and tetanus. You should also be aware of the risk of malaria, which is present in some parts of Bonaire.

What are the safety precautions for Bonaire cruise port?

Bonaire is a safe destination for tourists. However, there are a few safety precautions that you should take, such as:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Don’t leave valuables unattended.
• Don’t drink too much alcohol.
• Be careful when swimming in the ocean.

Where can I get more information about Bonaire cruise port

Bonaire is a beautiful Caribbean island with a lot to offer visitors. From its stunning beaches and coral reefs to its unique culture and history, there is something for everyone on Bonaire. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous exploration, Bonaire has it all.

Here are some of the key takeaways from this article:

• Bonaire is a safe and easy-to-navigate island, making it ideal for first-time cruisers.
• The island has a wide variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts.
• There are plenty of things to do on Bonaire, including swimming, snorkeling, diving, hiking, and fishing.
• The island’s cuisine is a fusion of Dutch, Caribbean, and Latin American influences.
• Bonaire is a great place to learn about the island’s unique culture and history.

If you are looking for a beautiful and unforgettable Caribbean vacation, Bonaire is the perfect destination for you.

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Kralendijk – Bonaire

Last updated on February 1st, 2024 at 04:50 pm

Welcome to Kralendijk, the laid-back capital of Bonaire. Dive into a world of vibrant marine life with exceptional snorkeling and diving opportunities. Explore the stunning underwater landscapes of the Bonaire National Marine Park, discover the iconic pink salt flats, or simply relax on pristine beaches. Let the tranquility and natural beauty of Kralendijk captivate your senses.

U.S. Dollar – There are ATMs located in the downtown as well as several banks. Transactions must be accompanied by photo ID.

The official language is Dutch, but English is spoken by most people.

Where You Dock in Kralendijk – Bonaire

There are two cruise ship ports coming into Bonaire, just south of the main town of Kralendijk. Kralendijk offers visitors the greatest opportunity for things to do while on the island, especially if you are limited to a couple hours. Just a short walk from the pier is shopping, sightseeing, and travel opportunities if you wish to go deeper inland.

Getting Around Kralendijk – Bonaire

The island is relatively small, yet offers a variety of transportation if you wish to travel around the entire island or seek a specific destination.

Cars and scooters: You can rent scooters and vehicles within Kralendijk. You will need a valid driver’s license from the U.S., Europe, or Canada and rental ages range between 21 and 25-years old depending on the rental company, which may also restrict what you can rent depending on your age. Usually a security deposit, or credit card hold will be needed to rent, and it is also recommended that you place a reservation in advance, especially during holidays.

Bicycles: There are several bike tours, as well as bike rentals in Kralendijk. It is a popular, affordable, and eco-friendly way to explore the island.

Taxis: Taxis are available to get from one destination to another or, can also provide an hourly rate for offering island tours. The hourly rate may vary depending on the driver, number of occupants, and the type of tour you are looking for. Fares to get to the far north or south of the island will cost approximately $25.

Sightseeing buses: There are several sight-seeing busses run on the island from tour groups, many of which can be set-up by your cruise ship as an excursion. There are also many sightseeing tour that can be found in Kralendijk and can accommodate both small and large groups.

Shopping In Kralendijk – Bonaire

Most of Bonaire’s shopping is found in Kralendijk and is complimentary to most Caribbean Island shopping, offering dozens of boutique souvenir shops, advertising Bonaire, and the Caribbean. Pink Flamingoes are a popular attraction, as well as sea turtles and you will find more than your share of t-shirts, hats, and other items garnering the wildlife. Off the main street you will find several off-path shops, and strip malls.

All items are compatible with American and European prices, and ATM’s distribute money in U.S. dollars. You can also find fine shopping at resorts that offer delicious Dutch cheeses, Cuban cigars, and fine China.

Dining In Kralendijk – Bonaire

Bonaire has a unique distinction in that it produces no discernable food product itself, yet it is home to a rich array of cuisines, flavors, and international award winning chefs and restaurants. Due to the ethnic diversity of the island, as well as the tourist diversity, Bonaire has an eclectic blend of restaurants from haute cuisine, to other European dishes. There are also, barbecue, American, and strong Caribbean spices and ethnic blends, as well as seafood common to the islands.

Many of the islands restaurants offer themed-buffets, and there are the modern fast food places, as well as local favorites providing rice, beans, goat stew, and gumbo. The island is almost fanatical about providing some of the best food in the Caribbean to the point of sending many of its most up-and- coming young chefs to Italy on tours of ten-plus years to work in some of Italy’s finest restaurants.

The island has over 100 restaurants to choose from.

Things To Do in Kralendijk – Bonaire

Bonaire offers many activities whether you are staying a couple hours or a couple days. The island can boast some of the best snorkeling and SCUBA diving in the Caribbean with most of the islands being surrounded by a coral reef which has been protected longer than most reefs in the Caribbean. In addition, the beaches and resorts offer a wealth of beach and water sport activities such as windsurfing, kiteboarding, and kayaking.

There are several sightseeing tours and busses, however, one of the most popular tours on the island is the walking tour of Rincon which is the oldest settlement on the island. Walking tour booklets can be purchased for $5 at several Bonaire resorts and the Cadushy Distillery in Rincon.

You can also receive a guided walking tour for $5 on certain days of the week which is given in either English or Dutch.

The island also has several walking and biking tours of its natural habitats and sanctuaries, as well as historical plantation and salt mine heritage tours.

Many of Bonaire’s beaches are narrow coral beaches which can be problematic for people going in bare foot, but wonderful for photographers and amazing views. They are also immaculately clean, intimate and uncrowded. The leeward side of the island is popular for swimming, especially at Lac Bay Beach and Soroban which are both shallow water and popular for families.

However, the East side of the island is more rough, with strong waves, thick chunks of coral, and sea creatures such as urchin that can play havoc on your feet. Take heed of the dangers of the Eastern beaches, although if you are a photographer or want to take in some of the characteristic charm of Bonaire, you may want to take the short adventure to this side of the island.

A mile West of Kralendijk is No Name Beach which can boast Bonaire’s only white sand beach. It is also a popular location for snorkeling as parrotfish and yellow-tail snappers frequent the beautiful coral off the beach.

Other notable beaches are:

1000 steps beach which is a white sand and bleached coral beach with limestone crags and good diving and snorkeling, and hue-changing tropical seas although there are no amenities nearby.

Boka Slagbaai offers good snorkeling, diving, and picnic grounds as well as amenities in 19 th century buildings. You can also spend the night in one of the small rentals, and enjoy a drink as the breezy bar.

Of all the island’s beaches, Boka Cocolishi, may be the most unique. It is a great location for picnics, but not safe for entering the water. Algae transforms the water into a purplish hue, while the coral and mollusk shells provide a black beach. The sand dune, and crashing waves are worth the effort of a romantic getaway.

All Bonaire Excursions

Top Tours & Excursions In Kralendijk – Bonaire

North coast drive, rincon village & south side salt flats.

Learn about the history, culture and beauty of Bonaire and its people on this small group excursion. Tour through the residential and resort areas of Kralendijk, then head to Goto Lake, the best spot in the Caribbean to see flamingos. Visit Rincon Village, which was originally settled by the Spanish in the 1500s....

• Duration: 3 Hours
• Activity Level: Easy
• Food: Water provided

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Home » Ports of Call » Caribbean » Bonaire » Best Things to Do in Bonaire on a Cruise Updated for 2020

Best Things to Do in Bonaire on a Cruise Updated for 2020

If your cruise ship is visiting Bonaire, you will want to take a look at our list of the Best Things to Do in Bonaire on a Cruise updated for 2020.

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Bonaire is a Southern Caribbean island, along with Aruba and Curacao that are collectively referred to as the ABC islands. Bonaire is located 50 miles north of Venezuela and is the 2 nd largest ABC island. Bonaire offers a more laid-back style with less tourism traffic. It is known for its diving, not beaches, due to its rocky, coral coastline. If your cruise ship is stopping in Kralendijk, Bonaire, you will want to take a look at our list of the Best Things to Do in Bonaire on a Cruise updated for 2020 to help make the most of your visit to this island.

Explore the Coral Reef

Bonaire is one of the top dive destinations in the world, and thus snorkeling or scuba diving definitely tops our list of the Best Things to Do in Bonaire on a Cruise. As part of the Bonaire National Marine Park, the entire coastline has been protected for more than 30 years. With its protected ecosystem, the reefs that surround Bonaire and Klein Bonaire are some of the most beautiful in the world. Bonaire’s initiatives to preserve and restore these coral reefs, coupled with the calm waters, make it a prime location to view a diversity of marine life. We recommend taking a snorkel excursion with Woodwind Bonaire for one of the best snorkel experiences in the Caribbean. This drift snorkel tour comes complete with expert guides, an open bar, and lunch.

If you do not want to snorkel, other options are available to visit the National Marine Park, including glass bottom boat tours.

Make it a Beach Day

Sorobon Beach is located in a large protected bay with shallow waters which makes it an ideal location for swimming and popular island sports including windsurfing, kitesurfing, and snorkeling. Although Bonaire is not known for its beaches like Aruba, Sorobon Beach is rated as one of the best beaches on the island among cruisers. It has a restaurant, bar, and facilities as well.

Spice Beach Club at Eden Beach is another popular tourist spot. It offers a bar, restaurant, and entertainment in a very lively atmosphere. Here, water sport activities, snorkeling, kayaks, and even cabanas can be rented for an additional fee. 

Take an Off-Road Island Tour

Given its rugged terrain, Bonaire offers many 4×4 adventures along the island. Many cruisers also recommend renting a golf cart to tour the island on your own.

While in Bonaire, you must see the flamingos. Goto Meer Bay is a popular spot to view these shy, pink birds as is the flamingo sanctuary on the southern part of the island near the salt flats. This salt pond area is said to be one of the largest breeding grounds for flamingos. Bring binoculars or a camera with a good zoom as the creatures will be off in the distance.

The Salt flats of Pekelmeer are another must have photo-op in Bonaire. The contrast between the pink colored salt pans and the large white, dry salt mounds is unlike anything you will ever see back home.

The Willemstoren Lighthouse, located at the southern tip of the island, dates back 150 years and is another popular stop on an island tour of Bonaire. Although this lighthouse is not open to the public, it still makes a great photo-op.

You will also see slave huts during your drive along the southern coast. These stone structures, dating back to the 1800’s, were the “homes” of slaves working in the salt flats. Once you see these tiny buildings, it is hard to imagine that anyone could have ever lived there.

Visit Washington Slagbaai National Park

The Washington Slagbaai National Park, located on the northern most end of Bonaire, is comprised of two former plantations and totals close to 14,000 acres of land. It is located about 30-45 minutes away from the cruise piers. This natural preserve is home to an abundance of cacti, birds, and a variety of other flora and fauna. The park offers 2 different driving routes- the shorter (green) takes about 2 hours and the longer (yellow) takes about 4 hours. These trails are dirt roads for which 4×4 vehicles are recommended. On both trails, there are multiple stops along the way for swimming, snorkeling, or viewing of the landscapes and resident flamingos and donkeys.

There is also a hiking trail in the center of the park to the highest hill on Bonaire, which offers fantastic vistas of the island. You can choose to go it alone or book one of the tours that visit this park. Participation in these tours will require your ship to be in port for at least 8 hours.

Visit Rincon

Rincon, also located north of Kralendijk, is the island’s oldest settlement and cultural mecca. Rincon was once the home of the Spanish settlers and slaves brought from Africa. Today, it offers historical walking tours to allow visitors to explore the rich history and culture of this city. Be sure to stop by the Mangazina di Rei cultural park and learning center for more insight into this city.

The Cadushy Distillery, founded in 2009, is the only distillery on Bonaire. It is located in the city of Rincon. During your visit to the distillery, you will learn how the only liqueur created from cacti is made. Of course, you will also be able to sample some for yourself as you relax in the tasting garden. What better way to experience Bonaire than to taste the local flavor?

Boca Onima is a natural grotto and cave located nearby Rincon, which was inhabited by the island’s natives. Here, you can see cave drawings and inscriptions in a one of a kind art gallery of the Arawaks. These still undeciphered writings within Boca Onima are definitely worth a slight detour during your visit to Rincon.

Have you visited Bonaire on a cruise? If so, what are your favorite things to do on the island? Drop us an anchor below to tell us about your experiences in Bonaire.

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Best thing to do on Bonaire is a segway tour!!

DB & The Princess

Welcome Aboard! We are Don and Heidi, the husband and wife travel team behind EatSleepCruise.com. We took our first cruise vacation together 13 years ago and have been hooked ever since. Follow along as we share our travel tips, cruise reviews, information on ports of call, and the latest cruise news to help you plan the ultimate cruise vacation. Are you ready to embark on your journey to “sea the world, one port at a time”?

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Top Things to Do in Bonaire in a Day

See the top things to do in Bonaire in a day. You’ll be calling this Dutch Caribbean island paradise shortly after arriving.

Are you planning a Bonaire vacation? Is Bonaire port-of-call part of your Southern Caribbean cruise itinerary? What to do in Bonaire on a cruise?

There is nothing not to love about Bonaire.

Bonaire is a Dutch Caribbean island that is just the right size to spend a day or a week. The island is known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful turquoise water.

There is plenty to do on the island, from exploring the capital city of Kralendijk to diving, snorkeling, windsurfing in the clear waters, and exploring the island’s national park.

We are so thankful that we had the opportunity to visit Bonaire for the first time on our Celebrity Equinox cruise . If it weren’t for the cruise, we don’t think Bonaire would have ever landed anywhere on our radar.

Had we heard of Bonaire? Yeah, but only when the Southern Caribbean and Aruba were in the same conversation.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our  full disclosure  for details.

Cruising is a great way to discover new destinations and get a taste of what they are like, so you can then return for a longer stay. If you’re unsure about planning a whole Bonaire vacation, consider looking at cruises to Bonaire.

You can also trust me when we tell you Bonaire is worth some vacation time. Bonaire takes pride in their island and preserving what mother nature has blessed them with.

When you step onto the island, you will instantly feel relaxed and curious to see what it offers.

Bonaire is one of our favorite Caribbean islands thus far. The water there is glorious!

There are many things to do in Bonaire, including diving and snorkeling. They call it a “diver’s paradise” for a reason.

Table of Contents

Bonaire Cruise Port

What to expect in Bonaire cruise port?

The Bonaire cruise port is located in the capital city of Kralendijk. The port is small and intimate. It was the easiest and best cruise port we’ve ever experienced: the best part, is no tendering.

Is Bonaire a tender port?

No. Bonaire is not a tender port.

Once you step out of the gangway, bypass the NCL mascots outside for pictures, and walk off the short pier, you are on the island. A few booths are set up for local tour companies, like Bonaire cruisers and shops nearby. That’s about it.

We should disclose that the Celebrity Equinox was the only ship docked that day.

Things to Do in Bonaire

The island of Bonaire is almost 24 miles long. The drive along the scenic route took us less than 2 hours. You can fit in quite a bit for a day in Bonaire to explore what this beautiful island offers.

You can also head to the beach for the day or book a fun shore excursion. These are the things to do in Bonaire in a day.

Do you need to do an excursion in Bonaire?

Bonaire is not one of those ports where you must book a shore excursion to experience it. You can plan your do-it-yourself adventure by renting a golf cart or a car, walking around Kralendjik, or hopping in a taxi outside the pier to the nearest beach.

Golf Cart Rental: Rent One & Tour the Island

When we were researching ‘things to do in Bonaire on a cruise day, driving the island in golf carts continued coming up. Then we found out that the rentals are booked FAST.

We mean MONTHS in advance.

We didn’t think we would rent a golf cart at the time, but when we decided to explore the island with the time we had, we emailed Bonaire Cruisers immediately.

And guess what? The golf carts were booked on our requested date 4 months ahead.

Four months !

Bonaire Cruisers kindly added me to their waiting list. Within a few weeks, someone had canceled their booking, and they emailed me asking if we still wanted the golf cart. We booked it. Worse case, we’d cancel, but we kept our reservation.

Is a Golf Cart Rental in Bonaire worth it?

Yes, it’s a fun experience—at least something you can do once.

Do you think a car rental may be better?

Like anything else, everything has its pros and cons. I do think a car rental will get you to farther destinations faster.

Is the golf cart safe to drive around in Bonaire?

Yes. It’s the perfect island to drive around in a golf cart in. There was never any crazy traffic to watch out for, and regular vehicles would pass around us. It was very calm, and the main road was pretty empty.

How long does it take you to make a loop around the island?

It took us only 2 hours to drive around the island’s main road with a few stops. Once we made the first go around, we continued to 1000 Steps.

What are the cons of driving a golf cart?

1) A golf cart is slower than driving a car rental. But what do you need to go faster for? 2) The sun will shine on you, so be prepared to get sunburnt.

We suggest wearing a long sleeve rash guard or wrapping something around your shoulders as you drive around, on top of applying sunscreen. Also, bring a reusable water bottle with you from the ship.

We rented from Bonaire Cruisers.

There was excellent customer service from the very 1st email exchange until we dropped off the golf cart.

A Bonaire cruiser representative will meet you outside where the cruise ship docks. They check your name off the list and then direct you to their office, which is only a short walk away.

It’s a smooth process of checking you in. They go over safety, the map of the island, and instructions on how to drive the cart and then send you on your way to explore.

Rather take a tour? Check out this North and South Island Tour with a Local Guide: [ Book Here ].

Explore the Bonaire Beaches

There are over 22 beaches in Bonaire. You can’t go wrong with any of them. We didn’t see all of them, but you pass by quite a few on your drive.

Do not expect all beaches in Bonaire to have white sandy beaches. Instead, you may find beautiful beaches filled with hard coral and rocks.

What we loved about the beaches is that they are easy to find along the routes. Each beach entrance is marked with yellow bright rocks with the beach name written on them.

Can you walk to a beach from the port in Bonaire?

No. No public beaches or beach clubs are within walking distance from the Bonaire cruise port.

1000 Steps (North Shore)

We will start with our favorite time of our day on the North Shore of Bonaire at 1000 Steps beach.

Believe it or not, our golf cart made it to 1000 Steps beach. There were several cars parked along the side of the roads. A smaller vehicle helps when parking.

Why is it called 1000 steps? Because of the limestone steps, you must take to get to the beach. There aren’t 1000 steps, but it’s a pretty steep descent, and then you have to take them on the way back up.

We walked further down the shore and found the perfect enclave to sit under for shade. Hubby immediately went out to snorkel. There were at least a dozen snorkelers at this location. We even saw a few divers scuba diving.

I am not a strong swimmer, so I didn’t trust swimming too far from shore to snorkel without a lifeguard or a guide nearby. Hubby went and, to this day, raves about the snorkeling here. He even saw a sea turtle! Seriously, it made his entire day.

While he snorkeled, I was joined by these wonderful ladies vacationing in Bonaire from the Netherlands. It was their last day in Bonaire. After 3 weeks of exploring the island, they said 1000 Steps was the best spot they found during their time there.

They also insisted we visit the Netherlands soon and see more than just Amsterdam. We promised. We’ve been dying to visit anyways.

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Pink Beach (South Shore)

Earlier in the day, we made a quick stop at Pink Beach and were amazed at its sheer beauty. Nobody was around. The waters were not calm enough to swim in. It was such a nice spot to sit and take in.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kathy | Travel & Foodie Tips (@tastyitinerary)

Te Amo Beach

Not far South from the Bonaire airport and cruise port, you will find Te Amo beach. Since it’s so close to the port, it may be filled with cruisers.

Don’t let that stop you if you’re looking for a few hours at a beautiful beach.

Klein Bonaire

Klein Bonaire is a small islet off the West coast of the island of Bonaire. It’s uninhabited, and you can visit by taking a water taxi.

The taxi will drop you off at No Name Beach, where you can spend the day and return to the main island later.

• Book a Water Taxi in Advance to Klein

You can find a list of all the Bonaire beaches here .

Salt Pans & Pyramids

Salt is produced on the island of Bonaire.

These salt pans, at certain times of the year, turn pink. Isn’t that cool? It would have been cool to see, but it wasn’t the right time of year. We’d never seen salt pyramids before, so that was a first for us.

Imagine driving along the road, the blue Caribbean ocean and pink water on the other. We have to go back to witness this.

When can you see the salt pans turn pink? It all depends on the evaporation of the water and the crystallization.

There is more of a scientific explanation to it – and we’re not even going to try to dive into that web that isn’t ours, ha . But if you manage to visit when it’s pink, that’s a unique sight.

Beach Packing List

Ensure you have everything to hit the beach and enjoy your time there. This beach packing list covers all the essential items you will need for you and your family. Add this beach vacation packing list as part of your beach planning.

Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary

As you drive South, you will spot flamingos in their natural habitat. You can stop at Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary .

Note you can’t get too close, but you can still take photos and admire them from a distance. If you have a zoom lens to go with your DSLR, we’d recommend bringing it to zoom in on these pretty birds. Sadly, we have no great photos but a video we can share here .

It’s worth the stop.

Old Slave Huts

Part of Bonaire’s history is these slave huts that were built in the mid-eighteen hundreds. The huts are where the workers used to sleep and live.

Keep a lookout for the pointy structures called obelisks. There are 4 of them throughout the island, each representing a color of the Dutch flag. Ships coming into land would use these to navigate to shore.

Google Map it

Willemstoren Lighthouse

South of the Flamingos, you will find the lighthouse.

Driving around the coast, you will see wood assembled in triangular and pyramid shapes. Locals supposedly collect driftwood, and other items washed ashore by the lighthouse to assemble them.

Washington Slagbaai Park

Unfortunately, we did not have enough time nor the right vehicle to reach Washington Slagbaai National Park, Bonaire’s nature sanctuary. We include it because a planned day here is a great option.

If you’re in Bonaire for more than a day (lucky you), you can spend the day driving and exploring one of the two routes of the park. There are also three hiking trails available.

At this park, be ready to see beautiful vistas, beaches, native wildlife, local vegetation, flora, and beaches where sea turtles nest.

• Entry fee: $45 pp (Free if you already purchased a diving tag for Bonaire National Marine Park)

Tour Idea: Tour Washington Slagbaii Park with a Local Guide [ Book Here ] Photography tour Washington Slagbaai National Park [ book here ]

Bonaire National Marine Park

The marine life here is some of the best! If diving or snorkeling is your thing, you must make a day at Bonaire’s National Marine Park . This is the mecca for divers, and diving in Bonaire should not be missed.

There are excursions available that leave from near the port to the park to snorkel or dive.

• Entry-free to scuba dive: $45 | Other water activities: $25

Other Activities and Shore Excursions in Bonaire

Whare are other things to do in Bonaire? You can always book one of these tours.

Read more: Helpful Tips for Booking Shore Excursions Independently

1. Cave Tour

Did you know there are almost 400 caves in Bonaire? I didn’t either until I bookmarked this tour.

Explore two caves on the Northside of the island with a local guide. Explore ancient formations and even snorkel in crystal clear water in one of the caves.

[ Book Here ]

2. Kayak & Snorkel The Bonaire Mangrove

Start a Lac Car beach and take glass bottom kayaks to the Bonaire Mangrove reserve. Let an informed guide point out and share their knowledge of the untouched beauty in the mangroves.

3. Snorkel Trip on a Catamaran

Sail on Catamaran to Marine Park and snorkel at some of their best spots. Lunch is included with this tour and is cruise ship itinerary friendly.

4. Landsailing Adventure

Have you ever heard of land sailing? I sure haven’t. This unique and fun Bonaire adventure involves a blokart. Ride (or is it sail?) against others on tour for an hour in the windiest part of the island and see who wins.

Bonaire is Paradise

There is no doubt that Bonaire is special.

The breathtaking coastal views at every turn left us speechless at times. We couldn’t believe how blue the water was. Sometimes the color was like a neon turquoise; we’d pinch ourselves to ensure we weren’t dreaming.

The locals are super friendly and take great care of their island.

If you have a cruise day coming up and it’s your first time, we highly suggest touring the island and seeing as much of its beauty as possible. You will want to return for a longer vacation.

See highlights of our day in Bonaire on Instagram.

The things to do in Bonaire in a day are plentiful. If you tour the island, you’ll see all the highlights that make this island paradise.

Other Related Southern Caribbean Itinerary Articles:

Beach Hop Beautiful Curacao Beaches in A Day

An Adventurous Day in Aruba Cruise Port

Swimming with Stingrays in Grand Cayman

How to Spend Less than One Day in Key West

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

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12 Comments

We’ve been wanting to do a cruise to the ABC islands and of course you hear so much about Aruba. Now Bonaire is high on my list…for you know, when we can actually travel! Those beaches look absolutely incredible.

Also, I have to say, your site looks gorgeous. I love the updates.

The ABC islands are so worth it! I hope cruising opens up soon and its better than ever.

And, thanks. Still working on the site, but its coming along. 🙂

Oh my god no lie I seriously think I want this to be one of my first trips when travel is possible again! We still have to rebook Mexico one day because that’s what my Aunt and mom really want, but me, I’m going to Bonaire! It seriously does look like paradise. Love your beautiful pictures. Exploring the area by golf cart sounds like so much fun and I’m so jealous of the ladies you met who stayed there for three weeks. They were living the life! Those pyramids are so cool too. I want to see them when it’s pink. I gotta research that. Maybe I need to marry a scientist and we can honeymoon there when it’s pink??

I love all your tips too. Awesome post as usual!

If you’re looking to do a solo trip, I’d say Bonaire is a perfect choice. Especially after all the chaos going on in the world right now, Bonaire is great getaway after this is all over.

Now, the pyramids won’t turn pink, it’s the salt flats around them that will. I think it will be pretty special to experience.

So happy you loved the post. Hope you get to visit Bonaire after your Mexico trip. Ah, can’t wait for travel to be back better than ever.

I just realized that you changed up your blog theme! Where have I been?

Bonaire looks BEAUTIFUL. Nothing gets me more than coming up on a place and just seeing its striking beauty. I felt that way about Capri and the Greek islands. Of course, I was seasick too so the ground was even more magical lol! That port picture is gorgeous along with the turquoise waters and beautiful beaches. Sighhhh….

Your video is giving me total wanderlust. GAH, I am SO ready to travel right now! I’m even missing the Florida coastline.

I have never rented a golf cart… bucket list?

I snorkel with a lifevest. The ocean freaks me out, and like you, I am not an amazing swimmer.

Yes! New blog theme. I’ve been productive these days. Still working on it, but it’s coming along. =)

Bonaire is one-of-a-kind. I think out of all the Caribbean Islands it is my favorite. You will absolutely love it. Rent a golf cart, it’s fun.

I snorkel with a life vest too and I’m always too scared I won’t be able to swim back to shore haha. I like snorkeling from a boat best. I would love to take some swimming classes to get better at it.

Renting a golf cart sounds like so much fun!! I think a change from soft, white sand is always a good way to switch it up; those beaches sounds lovely. Those salt pans turning PINK?!?!? Too cool!! I would love to see that. Oooh, and I love your new look here on the blog, so sleek 😉

I wish my visit was during the time the salt pans are pink. If you look it up on Google, you’ll see amazing pictures of it. It’s so cool!

Thanks for the new blog theme comments. It’s a work in progress, but I’m loving it and happy to hear you like it too.

Happened uppi you for a Pinterest search. Just booked the Bonaire cruisers! I let them know if was from you!! Thanks!

That’s so fun! You will have a great time! Don’t forget to wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat while driving around. You’re going to love it.

Also, that’s so sweet of you to mention me to them. You do not have to though. I do not any affiliations with them besides renting the golf cart from them for our trip and we had a blast. Just happy to pass along our experience and recommendations to other cruisers.

Going to the ABC islands on Royal in October

That’s great! The ABC islands are beautiful! Loved Bonaire. Have a fantastic time!

• Getting to Bonaire

Cruise Ships Visiting Bonaire

Visiting bonaire on a cruise ship.

If you’re visiting Bonaire from a cruise ship for a day in port, you may have a variety of questions and may wish to maximize your time. Click here to view FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions). Are you looking for the cruise schedule? You will find the updated list towards the bottom of the page.

What to do during your day on Bonaire?

When visiting Bonaire, there are many activities for your group to enjoy. Whether its on your own or a guided excursion, you will surely have an amazing time!

Shopping near the Cruise port.

Bonaire has a variety of local shops in the heart of Kralendijk within walking distance of the North and South cruise port. Be sure you take time and wander around town and choose locally created items that will help you remember your wonderful day on Bonaire.

Guided Tours.

There are many guided tours on Bonaire to choose from in order to see the beautiful and majestic highlights of Bonaire. Bonaire is known for its nature. Don’t miss out on experiencing the best of the best when on Bonaire.

How to get around the island.

One of the most popular questions InfoBonaire receives is how cruise guests can get around the island on their own for the day. Many rental companies require guests to rent vehicles for a minimum of three days. Scooters Bonaire offers 1-day rentals which is perfect for cruise visitors! Exploring dushi Bonaire at your own pace during your visit and enjoy the sights.

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.

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I worked on cruises for 3 years. Here are 6 things I'd never do on board.

• I used to work on cruises. After many days at sea, there are things I'd never do on a cruise .
• I never wear my room key around my neck and try to avoid misnaming the ship.
• I never buy the drink package or pay for meal upgrades in the main dining room.

I've sailed around the world as a cruise-ship employee , and now I enjoy cruising as a passenger.

I love the salty sea air, waking up in a new country, and lazy days by the pool, but a week at sea could get more complicated this year with cruises predicted to be in high demand .

While fighting a little harder to secure a prime seat on the pool deck, you may as well also avoid some rookie mistakes.

Here are six things I'd never do on a cruise after working on them for three years.

Pay for upgrades in the main dining room

Typically, main dining room meals are included in the cost of a cruise. But in recent years, it's become common for cruise lines to charge guests extra if they want to upgrade to "supplementary" items like lobster or certain steaks.

I know $12 may not seem like much for a steak or lobster tail at dinner, but the cost of the cruise is supposed to include your food.

So, even though I enjoy lobster, I stick with the items without the upcharges.

Buy the drink package

I enjoy a piña colada by the pool or a Manhattan while listening to a jazz set after dinner. Even so, it doesn't make sense for me to pay in advance for 12 to 15 cocktails a day.

I've done the math on typical unlimited drink packages , and the cost simply isn't worth it for me.

This is especially true with a port-heavy itinerary. If I've gone ashore to explore all day, that means I'm not sidled up to the bar slurping down alcoholic slushies.

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I prefer to buy as I go and take advantage of happy hour and other drink specials that are available on certain cruise lines. I also check the beverage policy in advance and bring on my own wine, if allowed.

Touch shared contact surfaces with my fingers

Fellow guests will never see me touching the elevator buttons with my fingertips. Knuckles and elbows do the trick.

Some cruise lines are better than others at wiping down commonly touched surfaces, but I don't take any chances. I avoid touching things others frequently touch, and I wash my hands frequently.

This strategy has worked for me, as I have never contracted norovirus, even when it was running rampant on a ship I was on. It's quite contagious and can linger on your fingertips even after using hand sanitizer . I'd definitely rather be safe than sorry.

Wear my room key around my neck

I never walk around the ship with my room key around my neck, and I especially never do this when on land.

There are two reasons for this. First, I see many passengers using the room keys dangling from their necks to flaunt their cruise loyalty status . It just looks pretentious.

The sophisticated cruisers with the highest status, with the most days at sea, never show off their fancy room keys.

That's because they know the more important reason — safety. In port, that room key bouncing off your chest looks like an invitation to be robbed. It screams, "I have money! Come and take it from me."

Misname the ship

English is a funny language that has its quirks. Naming conventions make that even more complicated.

Ships have proper names, and so do not require a definite article. For example, "Tomorrow I am embarking on Discovery Princess," or "I enjoyed scenic cruising on MS Westerdam."

If you want to look like a savvy sailor, learn to drop the "the!"

Plan my port-day itinerary so tight that I may not make it back to the ship on time

Oh, the recurring nightmares I've had about not making it back to the ship on time during a port day.

I've never missed a sail away, but I have cut it too close at times and have had to run down a pier or two. Just recently, as a passenger, my taxi driver got lost returning our group to the port at night.

When I realized how late we were going to be, I forked over $8 per minute to be connected with the ship. I pleaded with them to wait for us. It was a sprint through the port to get back on and we received quite a scolding from the first officer.

That time, we got lucky. In the future, I'll be giving myself more time than I think I need to make it back.

Watch: Why it costs $1 million a day to run one of the world's biggest cruise ships

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How bonaire is fighting to keep its number one tourist attraction.

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A volunteer takes notes near a coral nursery near in Bonaire. Tending to a coral nursery is hard ... [+] work, involving hours of scraping PVC pipe in cold water.

Bonaire's number one tourist attraction is in trouble.

You can see it as soon as you submerge into the flat-calm, teal ocean and find a graveyard of bleached coral. Years of pollution, climate change and disease have taken their toll on Bonaire's marine life. The Caribbean island, perhaps one of the greatest scuba diving destinations on earth, is fighting to keep its once-vibrant reefs.

But if you look beyond the dead coral lining the shallow waters near the shore, you'll see something else: Trees made of PVC pipe, from which new coral is growing. These nurseries are part of Bonaire's efforts to save the reef — and tourism.

In Bonaire, sustainability is a do-or-die proposition. If this island doesn't do something soon, its reefs could perish — and the reason so many people come to this tropical island will evaporate. But there are other equally important sustainability efforts underway, including a focus on solar energy and an innovative cooking school that specializes in growing its own food.

Last week, in the first part of my series on tourism and sustainability, we visited Panama — a destination that has embraced sustainability despite the environmental destruction caused by the Panama Canal. Today, we're moving on to Bonaire, a small island off the coast of Venezuela that needs to become sustainable if it wants to survive as a tourism destination.

Bonaire is heavily dependent on tourism. In 2023, it had 169,706 overnight visitors , about the same as the previous year and surpassing the prepandemic 2019 numbers by almost 8%. Most visitors come from Europe, and most come to dive and snorkel its famous reefs. Tourism accounts for more than 40% of economic activity and generates hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue every year.

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Paul Coolen, manager of Buddy Dive Resort Bonaire.

“If there are no fish, there are no visitors”

Paul Coolen, manager of Buddy Dive Resort Bonaire , the location of one of the coral nurseries, says repairing the coral reefs is an existential issue.

"We want to be Buddy Dive," he says. "Not Buddy Dove ."

Buddy Dive and other dive shops in Bonaire are part of an island-wide effort to regrow coral. It's being coordinated through Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire , a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and restoring Bonaire’s coral reefs through a large-scale reef restoration program.

Coolen says there are two reasons to bring back the coral. Obviously, undoing the destruction caused by runoff from sewage and chemicals is the right thing to do. But it’s also good for business.

"If there's no coral, there's no fish," he says. "If there are no fish, there are no visitors."

How do dive shops like Buddy Dive help? They offer a special reef renewal class through the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI). After students complete a two-day course, they're qualified to help Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire tending the coral nurseries.

Coral farming is hard work. You spend an hour at the bottom of a reef, fighting currents, and scraping fast-growing algae off PVC pipe. But it is also rewarding. Some parts of the reef are already well on their way to recovery.

Caitie Reza of Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire holds coral samples at the nonprofit's offices in ... [+] Bonaire.

A coordinated effort to restore Bonaire's reef

Caitie Reza, the communications director for Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire, says the organization uses two techniques to restore threatened coral species.

The first is a process called fragmentation, which grows coral in nurseries and outplants them onto degraded reef sites around Bonaire. A second method, larval propagation, facilitates sexual reproduction in coral to produce genetically unique coral that can be transferred to reef sites.

Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire relies on 14 dive shops on the island to supply volunteers who can tend the coral nurseries. It's an opportunity for tourists to visit Bonaire, go diving, and do some good.

"It's also an example of a good mutual relationship between a non-profit and businesses on the island," she says.

There's more happening behind the scenes. Bonaire's current government has an ambitious tourism development plan to promote sustainability through local businesses. And it has been trying to protect the environment for years. The island is home to the oldest national park in the former Netherlands Antilles and all of the water surrounding the island is a protected marine park.

But divers aren't the only ones concerned about the environment on Bonaire. Across the island, a new boutique hotel is pushing the limits of sustainability.

Britt Thomassen of Belnem House Bonaire. The boutique hotel is one of the only hotels in the ... [+] Caribbean to be completely off the grid, thanks to this battery array.

“We are 99 percent off the grid”

Near the island's saltwater flats, the new Belnem House Bonaire is doing its best to reduce its environmental impact. Its solution is a system of solar panels and batteries that power the resort.

Belnem is boutique property with one-bedroom efficiencies on the lower floor and luxury apartments in a second wing. It caters to beach lovers, divers and foodies who come to Bonaire to try its exotic Caribbean cuisine.

All over the property, you'll find evidence of its sustainability efforts — recycling bins, no single-use soaps, and even sustainable toilet paper. But its biggest sustainability initiative is invisible to the average guest.

"We are 99 percent off the grid," says Britt Thomassen, general manager of Belnem House Bonaire.

Belnem installed 250 solar panels on its roof — they're so discreet that they look like part of the building — which generate around 500 kilowatt-hours per day. The hotel stores the energy in a shipping container with 60 heavy-duty lithium-ion batteries with a total capacity of 450 kilowatt-hours for use during the evening.

"It's very challenging to be sustainable in a place like Bonaire," she adds. "This is the kind of place where you have to bring everything from outside. But with the system, we are at least trying to give a little bit back to nature, as best we can. That's good not just for the tourists, but also for the hotel."

Saeed Lourens, owner of the Nature Cooking School in Bonaire.

Bringing sustainable food to the island

Saeed Lourens, owner of the Nature Cooking School , is promoting a different kind of sustainability in Bonaire, but it may end up being just as important as saving the reefs or reducing its carbon footprint.

Bonaire imports almost all of its food from elsewhere, but Lourens wants to change that. He's on a mission to persuade Bonairians to grow their own vegetables and learn how to prepare them.

Lourens tends to his own small vegetable garden, which contains rows of plants that can grow on a desert island. There's a variety of banana, guava, corn, and a small cucumber that's native to the islands.

"We're really planting an ecosystem to help grow these plants," he explains.

The idea is to inspire students, who range from curious tourists to disadvantaged youth, to grow and prepare their food and still eat well. Lourens demonstrates by cooking lunch in the school's kitchen. The menu includes rice and beans with peas and papaya, and veggie burgers made from beetroot and sweet potato.

"I think more than anything, I want people to reconnect with nature after they've been to one of my classes," he says.

Lourens is in the process of moving the Nature Cooking School to a new location and hopes to open a plant-based restaurant on Bonaire soon. But its sustainability is a struggle on this island. Even though the benefits are obvious, the price is high and the outcome is never guaranteed.

Will tourists go out of their way for homegrown, plant-based food? Lourens says he hopes so.

Femke Schut, the owner of QVillas at Villa Kas Koral. "Sometimes it's hard to be for the ... [+] environment," she admits.

A long way to go to becoming sustainable

Truth is, Bonaire still has a long way to go before becoming a truly sustainable destination. The reefs are still badly damaged, despite significant progress in restoring them. There are no other hotels off the grid yet. And Lourens' plant-based cooking school is still taking root.

Femke Schut, the owner of QVillas at Villa Kas Koral , a vacation rental company in Bonaire, says she's tried to make her rentals more sustainable by adding solar panels. But sometimes, it feels like a struggle, especially when her guests leave the air conditioning running all the time, even when they are out for the day.

"I've been here for 20 years, and sometimes it's hard to be for the environment," she admits.

Schut is eager to see the government get more involved in sustainability. She also wishes guests would do their part, even though they are on vacation. But on Bonaire, it's becoming increasingly clear that for sustainability to succeed here, it has to become everyone's problem.

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10 Things to Never do in Cruise Ports

A re you going on a cruise? It’s always a good idea to do your research so you familiarize yourself with the do’s and don’ts in cruise ports of call. You don’t want to get in harm’s way. Here are things to never do in cruise ports so your vacation goes smoothly and safely.

Things to Never Do in Cruise Ports of Call

1. don’t assume there will always be taxis.

It’s not a good idea to assume that you can easily hail a taxi or an Uber at the port. In some smaller ports, finding taxis can be difficult, which can lead to trouble. 

For example, during our British Isle Cruise, we docked at Cobh, which is a small town close to Cork and the Blarney Castle. We wanted to save some money, so we decided to get a cab to and from Blarney Castle instead of using the cruise shore excursion. We were able to get a taxi to Blarney Castle, but when it was time to come back to the ship, we couldn’t find any taxis. 

Uber kept canceling on us because there weren’t enough drivers available in the small town. I started to panic, but fortunately, we were eventually able to get an Uber back to the ship. 

However, if we hadn’t been able to get a ride, we would have been stranded at Blarney Castle, which was 38 minutes from the cruise port. This would have made us miss the ship! To be safe, it’s better to book a shore excursion from the cruise or through an independent tour operator like viator .

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2. Wear Your Cruise Lanyard

One of the things you should never do in the cruise port is to wear your cruise lanyard ashore. It can make you stand out as a tourist when you are off the ship. 

When you are out ashore sightseeing, shopping or at the beach, don’t wear your cruise lanyard. You will immediately look like a tourist and become a target for thieves and pickpocketers. 

I suggest keeping a low profile when you are on shore. You can store your keycard and other valuables in a secure pocket or bag. This way, you can avoid drawing attention to yourself and enjoy your shore excursion without any trouble. 

Check out: 16 Cruise Ship Embarkation Hack (How to Board the Ship Faster)

3. Miss the Ship

Similar to airplanes, cruise ships will not wait for you. If you miss the “all aboard time” you will have to find another way to get back on the ship by meeting your cruise at the next port! It’s a hassle and can be very stressful!

That is why when disembarking from the ship, it’s important to always check what time you need to be back on board. You can usually find the “all aboard” time in the daily planner and it will posted on a sign at the gangway. 

If you are forgetful, take a picture of the “all aboard time” sign and set an alarm on your phone. Also, make sure to check that your watch has the correct time since time zones can change. 

If you need to take a tender boat to the port, make sure you allocate enough time for it. Find out when the last tender departure time is, there is usually a sign near the tender gangway.

Check out: 10 Ridiculous Time Wasters to Avoid on a Cruise

4. Bringing Shells Back on Board

It’s important to remember that seashells, corals, flowers, plants, and even leaves are not allowed to be brought back to the cruise ship. Although it can be tempting to collect these items during your shore excursions, many cruise lines prohibit their guests from bringing them back onboard. 

For example, during a Caribbean cruise with my then 3-year-old son, he found a large leaf (as big as his head) on a beach in Dominica and wanted to bring it back to the ship. Unfortunately, the ship’s security wouldn’t allow it, and despite his tears, they couldn’t make an exception.

Check Out: How to Sleep Like a Baby on a Cruise (10 Tips from an Ex-Insomniac)

5. Forgetting Your Shore Excursion Ticket

In this day and age of e-tickets, shore tickets excursions are still printed on paper. Make sure you bring your tickets with you when you get off the ship to join your shore excursion. Whether it’s a cruise shore excursion or an independent tour, it’s safest if you have your tickets as proof. It will be a real hassle to have to go back to your cabin to retrieve your shore excursion tickets.

Check out: 9 Reasons Why I’m Skipping Port Days on My Next Cruise

6. Not Checking the Travel Advisory

You should always check with the US Department of State for the latest travel advisory of the places you are going to. Don’t assume that every port is safe. For example, the US Department of State has recently raised the advisory level for the Bahamas to Level 2 due to crime and water safety issues. Read about the new travel advisory: Beware Bahamas Travel Advisory Increases

If you’re going to a port where there is a travel advisory, just take extra precautions. Even in Europe where it’s common to fall victim to pickpocketers! I suggest using slash-proof bags like this anti-theft cross body bag because the strap and bag are slash-resistant and there is also RFID blocking so your card information is safe from identity thieves. 

7. Wear Expensive Jewelry & Designer Bags

Avoid attracting unwanted attention from potential thieves at the port. You don’t want to be a target! I suggest leaving your expensive jewelry and designer bags at home. 

Instead, you can bring some inexpensive accessories that match your outfits. This way, you can still look stylish and have fun without worrying about your belongings. It’s worth the peace of mind!

Check out: 11 Anti-Theft Cruise Tips that Every Cruiser Needs to Know

8. Leave Your Passport in Your Cabin

Always bring your passport down with you to the port. Don’t leave it in your cabin. Even though you can get in and out of the ship with your cruise card, you will still need your passport at the port. Some cruise ports will ask you to show your passport and/or cruise card to get back on the ship. It’s also a good idea to have your passport with you just in case you miss the ship and you have to fly to another cruise port to get back on the ship. 

Check out: I’ve Been on over 25 Cruises, Here are 17 Things I’ll Never Do on a Cruise

9. Drink too Much

One thing to never do at cruise ports is to drink too much. Many cruise ports, especially, the Caribbean cruise ports are surrounded by bars. Some shore excursions are party boats with unlimited alcoholic beverages. 

Although it may be tempting to spend the day drinking at popular places like Senor Froggy’s, it’s important to be careful. Drinking alcohol while being exposed to the sun can be a dangerous combination. Just be careful, because you don’t want to get too drunk that you miss the ship!

Looking to save money on your cruise? 21 Smart and Easy Ways to Save Money on a Cruise

10. Wing It if You are a Big Group

If you’re traveling with a large group, the last thing you want is to be stranded at the cruise port, unable to find transportation and wandering around aimlessly. It can be challenging to find taxis that can accommodate a big group, since you will need a van or multiple taxis. 

To avoid this, it’s always a good idea to pre-book shore excursions, either through the cruise or with independent tour operators. If you’re a large group, you should consider booking a private tour, since these offer a more personalized experience and allow you to explore destinations at your own pace. 

Plus, private tours may end up being the same price or even less expensive than the cruise shore excursions. A great platform to book tours is with viator . 

Check out: 9 Things I Wished I Knew When Planning a Large Family Cruise

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The post 10 Things to Never do in Cruise Ports appeared first on Suburbs 101 .

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At Celebrity Cruises®, we believe choice matters. That’s why we’ve pre-packaged our most popular amenities—drinks, and Wi-Fi— Tips charged separately. So you can now choose the most convenient way to get the best value from your cruise.

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Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Sat, Nov 23, 2024

Departs: 3:30PM

At Sea - Cruising

Sun, Nov 24, 2024

Mon, Nov 25, 2024

Oranjestad, Aruba

Tue, Nov 26, 2024

Docked: 8:00AM to 11:00PM

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Wed, Nov 27, 2024

Docked: 8:00AM to 8:00PM

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Bonaire Cruise Port: What You Need to Know

Book Your Next Amazing Cruise with Travel Leader, Jeffrey Cleary

Nestled right on the southern edge of the Caribbean, Bonaire is one of many stunning southern Caribbean Islands that are becoming hot spots for cruise tourism.

At the heart of this tourism boom is the Bonaire Cruise Port, capable of servicing full-sized cruise ships, so their passengers can explore this picturesque Caribbean treasure. 

With its turquoise waters teeming with tropical fish and the rich cultural tapestry found on land, the Bonaire cruise port offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and excitement, making it a must-visit location for any cruise enthusiast. 

Today, we are going to take a deep dive into this bustling cruise port so you can discover why it is considered by many to be the Caribbean’s best-kept secret. So, if you’re ready to discover paradise, let’s dive right in.

Where Is the Bonaire Cruise Port Located?

As the name implies, the Bonaire cruise port is located on the island of Bonaire. Alongside Aruba and Curacao, it is one of the “ABC Islands” dependent on the Netherlands. The three islands sit right at the southern edge of the Caribbean, so they are relatively close to the coast of Venezuela.

The Bonaire cruise port sits right at the center of the capital city, Kralendijk, on the island of Bonaire . Thanks to its location right at the island’s heart, it acts as a gateway to its unique offers. 

While most experienced cruise travelers will already know about Aruba and Curacao, relatively few know much about Bonaire. However, that does not mean it cannot be as beautiful and memorable to visit as the more well-known constituent parts of the ABC Islands. 

What Does the Bonaire Cruise Port Look Like?

The port consists of two main docking areas – the Northern and Southern Pier. Both piers can handle full-sized cruise ships, but larger vessels tend to be directed to the Southern Pier. In recent years, the port has decided to  move towards only allowing a single cruise ship  to dock at a time, intended to reduce crowds and make the experience more enjoyable for passengers as they disembark their ship.

With that said, both piers feature modern port facilities and equipment, including well-maintained washroom facilities, but you will be directed a short distance from them once you arrive.

This is to avoid overcrowding, but don’t worry, directions are very clear on where you should go, and there is plenty to do within a few steps of leaving the port itself. For those with mobility issues requiring assistance, there are also shuttle buses that can take you to public areas.

As mentioned, the Bonaire cruise port is a short distance from some of Kralendijk’s main attractions. This includes an open-air shopping area, numerous tourist-friendly restaurants and bars, cafés, and a museum.

Just outside of the port, you will also find representatives of a wide range of tours and excursions you can quickly and easily book, but we would still recommend booking these types of experiences  before you board or while you are on your cruise ship , as the cruise line will have partnered with local operators that understand the arrival and departure time of your ship. 

Those looking to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling excursions can take a dedicated water taxi directly to Klein Bonaire, where these snorkel and diving experiences occur. Don’t worry; they are very well-marked and will not come with an additional fee if you have pre-booked your experience.

What Does Stopping at the Bonaire Cruise Port Offer to Cruise Passengers?

Thanks to the southern location of the island, it offers the same year-round sunshine you would expect from both Aruba and Curacao, but it also offers its own unique charm.

The following are just some of the reasons why any fan of adventure and exploration should seriously consider visiting Bonaire.

Stunning Natural Beauty

One of the best things about a stop at the Bonaire cruise terminal is to experience the pristine natural beauty the island offers. Despite its relatively tiny size, Bonaire has dedicated significant resources towards protecting its white sand beaches and unique marine environment. Some of the best beaches in the area are Te Amo Beach, Sorobon Beach, and Pink Beach.

Bonaire’s coral reef is considered to be a  UNESCO World Heritage Site . This is partly thanks to the island’s efforts to preserve the varied and unique marine ecosystems off its coast.

Not only do you get the eye-catching turquoise waters found throughout the coastlines of the Caribbean, but you can also have the opportunity to see pristine marine environments firsthand.

Whether you are into snorkeling or scuba diving or want to witness the untouched beauty of a natural reef from land or a glass-floored boat, you will find everything you are looking for and more by visiting Bonaire. 

The locals understand the appeal of the marine beauty, so there are plenty of  shore excursion  options you can book that will allow you to see marine life for yourself. Colorful tropical fish, dense coral formations, sea turtles, and even sharks are all things you can have the opportunity to see during a stop at the Bonaire cruise terminal.

While the beaches and marine ecosystems may steal the show, there is plenty to do within the port itself and beyond! Cruise passengers should check out Wilhelmina Park or Bonaire Marine Park, one of the oldest marine reserves in the world.

A Rich Cultural Experience

By stopping at the Bonaire cruise port, you can explore Bonaire’s capital city. Kralendijk offers visitors the chance to experience a unique and colorful culture. 

Numerous bars and restaurants make it easy and affordable to try local dishes and drinks and some of the freshest seafood you are likely to find anywhere on the planet. The booming dining scene also caters to all budgets and preferences.

If you want a high-end dining experience, It Rains Fishes offers guests gourmet seafood with first-class service. For those looking for a more low-key experience, the famous Karel’s Beach Bar is directly on the water and offers a mixture of local dishes and crowd-pleasing favorites. For beer lovers, there’s even a microbrewery called the Brewery Bonaire that you can visit. 

While the food is incredible, it is not the only thing Bonaire’s capital city has to offer. The streets are also lined with historical Dutch architecture that will have you feeling like you have traveled back in time. The colorful buildings and murals also create the ideal setting for any photography enthusiast. 

As you walk the streets, you can purchase eye-catching, hand-made souvenirs and hear the unique sounds of local street musicians. If experiencing different cultures is your thing, make time to visit the Bonaire Museum, which is also located in Kralendijk. 

Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks

Bonaire’s marine ecosystems are great for those who want to see reefs, beaches, and marine life, but some cruise ship passengers want to enjoy more land-based natural beauty after spending time at sea.

Fortunately, the Bonaire cruise port can also act as the gateway to a wide range of natural environments you can enjoy on land. 

Depending on how much time you have, you can always explore the dramatic coastlines and rock formations found in the  Washington Slagbaai National Park .

Plenty of excursions will take you for a drive through the park and give you plenty of opportunities to get out and take photographs. Once you reach the park, you can also take ATV tours to some of the park’s highlights.

The unique island is also home to a world-famous flamingo sanctuary . This protected area is home to over 10,000 flamingos and flocks of many other bird species. Take the opportunity to see and photograph these colorful birds in their natural mangrove habitat. The sanctuary truly is a bird-watcher’s paradise! 

Is Visiting Bonaire Considered to Be a Standard Caribbean Cruise Port of Call?

While it is growing in popularity as a cruise destination, it is still relatively uncommon as a port of call. This is partly due to its location at the southern edge of the Caribbean Sea and the fact that nearby Aruba and Curacao have more robust ports.

That said, it is not difficult to find a cruise line that offers itineraries that stop in Bonaire, as Carnival Cruise Line, P&O, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, and other major cruise lines all visit Bonaire.

If visiting Bonaire and the other two ABC Islands appeals to you, we recommend booking between October and late April, as these are considered the best months to visit, so more cruise lines make stops during this part of the year. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What currency will you need if you visit bonaire.

Fortunately for most visitors, Bonaire recognizes the US Dollar as its official currency. You should also have no difficulty using major credit cards if dining in larger restaurants or purchasing in most stores. With that said, we would still recommend making sure you have some cash, as smaller, hand-made souvenirs will be much easier to purchase if you have a few dollars. 

If you do not have cash, the Bonaire cruise port and Kralendijk are teeming with ATMs. You should not have any difficulty pulling out money, especially near Kaya Grandi, the city’s main shopping district. 

Which language do they speak in Bonaire?

Bonaire is a unique island in many ways. One of its oddities is that it has three officially recognized languages – Dutch, Papiamento, and English. 

For English speakers, you should not have any difficulty communicating with locals, as most have a decent understanding of English. You will also find that most locals working in stores, restaurants, and tourist information kiosks fluently understand English. The same can be said for those hired to act as tour guides and excursion operators.

Is Bonaire safe to explore?

Yes! Bonaire is very safe. In fact, according to the  US Department of State’s travel advisory , it has the lowest threat rating, meaning you should practice standard precautions that you would at home. 

That said, we always recommend staying in the main tourist areas while stopping at any port of call, including the Bonaire cruise port. 

Final Words

Bonaire is an island paradise that offers visitors a unique blend of cultural enrichment and natural beauty. Thanks to its environmental preservation efforts on both land and sea, it is a stunning place to add to the itinerary of your next cruise vacation. 

If you get the chance, take the time to explore this beautiful island and its surrounding waters. You might make memories that last a lifetime!

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Jeffrey Cleary is an experienced travel advisor and cruise specialist with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in Caribbean and World cruises. With over a decade of experience in the travel industry, Jeffrey has developed a reputation as a trusted advisor for those seeking unforgettable Caribbean and/or World cruise experiences. "I bring a wealth of experience and knowledge in the cruise industry, along with real-world experience on many of the finest ships at sea. I love cruising myself, so I am often sailing (and reachable by clients) and experiencing the cruise lines first hand. I'll get to know you, your style, your ideal vacation and recommend an Amazing Cruise experience."