SHORE EXCURSIONS

OVERVIEW

Ride across the island in an open-air Jeep to a natural pool along the sea and a cave adorned with centuries-old pictographs. You will enjoy uninterrupted views of the gorgeous countryside as you travel through Aruba’s rugged interior, often on roads only accessible in a 4-wheel-drive vehicle. The seaside pool lies within the Arikok National Park, an environmentally protected wonderland that covers nearly 20% of the island. It will be immensely relaxing to ease into the crystal-clear waters of the secluded pool, which fills a bowl-like depression in the volcanically formed shoreline. Nearby, you will explore Fontein Cave, whose limestone walls are covered with reddish-brown drawings – some floor-to-ceiling – that the indigenous Arawaks created long ago. Anthropologists speculate that the artists may have been under the influence of psychedelics. To experience a weird sensation yourself, dip your feet into the freshwater pool nearby and enjoy a fish pedicure of sorts.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Ride through Aruba’s rugged interior, often on roads only suitable for a 4-wheel-drive vehicle.
• Enjoy panoramic views of the volcanically formed terrain, which at times is desert-like.
• Relax in a natural pool along the sea in the Arikok National Park.
• View centuries-old pictographs that the Arawaks drew in the depths of Fontein Cave.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing with a swimsuit underneath.
• Bring a towel and sunscreen.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Drive a 4-wheel-drive vehicle to the eastern shore of Aruba, a spectacularly scenic area full of natural wonders and a 19th-century gold mill. Your Utility Terrain Vehicle or UTV has better traction that most ATVs and is made for heavier duty, so it is ideal to negotiate the island’s rugged terrain. You can drive the 2-person UTV or ride along as a passenger. Either way, it will be a thrill. Although Aruba isn’t often associated with a gold rush, it did experience one after the precious metal was discovered in 1824. You will see evidence of the frenzy that followed at the ruins of the abandoned Bushiribana Gold Mill. Not far off, you will view beautiful Blackstone Beach, the island’s only beach made of volcanic black pebbles, and a natural rock bridge that the pounding of the sea created. Later, back on the island’s western shore, you can enjoy a refreshing swim at Mangel Halto Beach.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Drive a Utility Terrain Vehicle made for off-road adventure or ride along as a passenger.
• See a 19th-century gold mill that was abandoned after Aruba’s gold rush ended a century later.
• View the island’s only volcanic black-pebble beach and a natural bridge along the sea.
• Take a refreshing swim in the sea at a popular beach south of Oranjestad.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing with a swimsuit underneath.
• Bring a towel and sunscreen.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Sail on a catamaran, that’s been specifically designed and built for day cruises and snorkeling. It also features comfortable ladders to provide you with easy access to the water. You’ll see Aruba's beautiful beaches and resort hotels while relaxing on the open decks. The catamaran anchors at the West point of the island for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal clear water where tropical fish may be seen. After a 50 minute stop at the famous Antilla shipwreck, a German WWII freighter that is home to a variety of colorful, tropical fish, you’ll sail to the Pelican Marina to experience Aruba's most famous Palm Beach.

Here on this white sandy beach, you’ll be pampered by crew members serving unlimited drinks. This is a unique opportunity to relax on a beach lounge chair or to take a walk on our famous Palm Beach. The more adventurous can try one of the many water-sports activities available for their recreation. The pier offers Aruba's best and only Seafood Restaurant and Bar located on the water. Your hosts will provide a guided narrated tour of sights along the way. Snorkel equipment and instruction are provided and we recommend that participants wear swim attire and bring a beach towel.

Your adventure begins with a short transfer to the submarine aboard the shuttle vessel Subseeker. Board the submarine just off the southeast coast of Aruba for a thrilling dive to either the mysteriously sunken airplane or the retired Danish sailboat Mi Dushi I, together with the newly sunken coaster, the Morgenster. You’ll have the opportunity to get an up-close view of exotic marine life while diving to depths of up to 130 feet. Be amazed by colorful schools of tropical fish, huge sponge gardens and the mystical beauty of the coral fields. An educational and entertaining narration from your experienced, professional, and licensed crew will highlight this unique experience. All of this is in air-conditioned comfort and without getting wet!

Meet your guide for the day and board your comfortable air-conditioned bus and prepare yourself to experience Aruba at its finest. Enjoy your narrated tour while driving through charming Oranjestad with its Dutch Colonial architecture. Your first stop will be the Aloe Factory for a brief overview of the Aloe plantation and a tour of the Aloe Museum.

Then drive through the countryside and discover Aruba’s flora and fauna in route to the Casibari Rock formation – huge diorite boulders found in the center of the island. Board your bus and continue on to the mysterious California Lighthouse for a short stop to enjoy a breathtaking view of the island. A stop at the beach for a swim in the spectacular turquoise ocean concludes your tour, before returning to the cruise terminal.

Ride the ferry to secluded DePalm Island where you can enjoy a variety of activities from snorkeling to waterslides. Board your air-conditioned transportation for the brief transfer to the ferry landing. It’s a short five minute ride across the protected lagoon to the island. Upon arrival, receive a brief orientation to De Palm Island and its amenities including the Blue Parrotfish Water Park.

Enjoy approximately 6 hours of free time to snorkel, sunbathe, swim, enjoy the water parks and waterslides, banana boat rides or maybe even play a game of volleyball. Your beach day includes snorkeling equipment and lessons. Elegant flamingo’s are walking around on the private beach and can be viewed from a distance. Complimentary alcoholic beverages and soft drinks and a complete lunch buffet are included. Lounge chairs, freshwater showers and changing rooms are provided for your convenience. Wear a swimsuit, bring a towel and adequate sun protection. In case of a late arrival in port, the duration of the tour might be slightly shorter.

This is an off-road island adventure to Aruba’s most exotic sites. Travel in a Landrover caravan style to the Casibari Rock Formation, the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, the ocean-carved Natural Bridge Ruins, the picturesque Alto Vista chapel and the California Lighthouse, located on the islands most North Western tip. Your adventure ends with a splash in the crystal blue waters of the famous Arashi Beach.

Hop aboard the famous Kukoo Kunuku bus and shake maracas to the beat of Caribbean music on your drive along the coast to visit the Casibari Rock Formations and Alto Vista Chapel. Along the way, enjoy views of the unique countryside, colorful Cunucu houses, Divi Divi trees and possible wildlife. Then you’re off to one of Aruba’s favorite beaches. Here you‘ll have time swim in the azure waters, explore beautiful beaches or just relax in the sun. All guests will be provided with a complimentary beach chair. Wear or bring a swimsuit, beach towel and adequate sun protection. Complimentary ice water by the glass is available on the island tour. Food and other beverages are available for purchase.

Experience the full beauty of natural Aruba on a tour that will take you on a journey of discovery. You’ll first make the scenic trip to Aruba's number one ecological attraction - the Butterfly Farm. Step into a tropical garden teeming with butterflies and prepare to encounter some of the world's most colorful creatures. Your next stop will be the Aloe Factory where you’ll take a guided tour and see the production process first hand, from leaf cutting in the fields to finished lotions and creams. Then travel through the Aruba country side on your way to the Natural Bridge carved from solid coral by wind and sea. The excursion ends with the scenic drive through Oranjestad, the capital of Aruba.

Experience the beauty of Aruba on a tour that takes you around the island and under the sea! On the Seaworld Explorer you’ll sit in air-conditioned comfort five feet below the surface of the water and view amazing sea life through large, clear glass windows. You’ll also see the wreck of the Antilla.

Returning to shore, you’ll visit the California Lighthouse where you can admire the view of the crashing waves of the windward coast. Next are the Casibari Rock Formations where you may climb the rocks or wander in the gardens. You’ll then visit the baby Natural Bridge, a bridge of rock formed naturally by the wind and the motion of the sea. A scenic drive through Oranjestad returns you to the pier.

Board a custom-built catamaran and sail along Aruba’s south and west coast on a spectacular sunset cruise. Your friendly crew will pick you up at the cruise harbor and keep you comfortable and entertained during the two hour trip. Experience the joy of sailing and take advantage of the many picture perfect opportunities, as you glide over the clear turquoise water along the famous Palm Beach. At the end of your cruise, you’ll be returned to the cruise terminal. An open bar (except for beer & wine) and snacks are included.