Category: Kralendijk (Bonaire)

BONAIRE HIGHLIGHTS

Spend a few hours off the ship to explore some of the natural and historical highlights found on the beautiful Dutch Caribbean island of Bonaire, which is known for its Pink Flamingos, nature reserves and superb diving and snorkelling sites. The tour first travels north along an extremely scenic coastal route to reach the first stop, Lake Goto, a land-locked salt-water lagoon that supports a large colony of Pink Flamingos – well worth a photo or two. First passing by the Dos Pos freshwater well and then through the village of Rincon, the oldest settlement on the island. Here you’ll visit a popular outdoor venue where you sample locally produced liqueur made out of cactus and lime. Back on the bus you continue for a scenic drive with coastline views of crashing waves and the green lush hillside up to Seru Largu to enjoy sweeping views over Kralendijk, Klein Bonaire and the south of the island.

Continue to the southern part of the island and take some photos of the dramatic salt plains in the south – the colour contrast between the blue Caribbean Sea, the pink salt pans and the white of the towering mounds of dry salt is quite spectacular.

The tour also takes you past a number of huts that served as a basic form of shelter for slaves force to harvest the salt before you begin your return journey to the port and your ship

Mangroves, Flamingos & Beach Stop

Excursion details

Part of the Bonaire National Marine Park, Lac Bay is a large lagoon of around 700 hectares, tucked into a southeastern pocket on the island of Bonaire. You’ll be viewing some of the area’s natural attractions and wildlife on this safari excursion, lasting approximately two and a half hours. There’s also a stop at a beach for some downtime afterwards.

Begin by meeting your guide on the pier and boarding your beach bus, which is readied for off-road terrain. You’ll then set off on an approximately 45-minute safari ride, first travelling southeast from Kralendijk down to Lac Bay, where you’ll be greeted by the sight of thick mangrove forests.

Keep your camera ready, because you might be able to spot some of Bonaire’s many flamingos, which are known to visit the area. Lac Bay is known for its birdlife and you may see birds such as herons, pelicans, egrets and parrots, as well as other animals – but please note that sightings of any wildlife cannot be guaranteed.

After the safari tour comes to an end, you’ll stop at one of Lac Bay’s beaches for approximately 45 minutes. This is your chance to relax and enjoy the sunshine and sand, or perhaps take a dip in the Caribbean waters. During this time you’ll also receive a complimentary soft drink to keep you refreshed.

Following the beach stop, your safari vehicle will make the approximately one-hour scenic drive back to the ship, travelling past more mangrove trees and other scenery on route.

Important Information: Participants must be at least 8 years and no older than 70 years of age. Max. weight per guest: 225 lbs. The tour is not suitable for guests with mobility problems or back problems, guests recovering from any kind of surgery or pregnant women. This is not a self-drive tour; a driver/guide will be provided

BONAIRE 4X4 ADVENTURE

Excursion details

Travelling in a sturdy 4×4 vehicle is a fine way to explore Bonaire, as it allows you to tackle off-road terrain and other varied landscapes, as you’ll discover on this insightful excursion, lasting around three and a half hours.

After meeting your guide at the pier, a short briefing kicks off the adventure before you climb into your vehicle and begin by heading east. You’ll soon turn off the paved road and onto a dirt track, spending the next 65 minutes or so on the island’s southeastern coast. As your guide navigates the tracks, look out for all kinds of flora and fauna, although please note that wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.

You’ll also pass a mangrove forest as your 4×4 winds its way to the next stop, Sorobon Beach. Enjoy about 30 minutes of free time here, where you’ll be able to go for a drink at the bar enjoying the picturesque stretch of sand near Lac Bay, where an offshore reef keeps the shallow waters calm.

For the next 15 minutes or so you’ll continue onwards towards the striking salt plains in the south of the island, passing Willemstoren Lighthouse – built in 1837 – on the way. There’s then a brief stop at some of the small, white stone huts that once housed enslaved people who were forced to work in the salt mines. Your guide will explain some of the area’s harrowing history before a drive of around 15 minutes to the pink-tinged salt flats at Pekelmeer, where there’s another short stop.

Finally, an approximately 30-minute drive returns to the port, passing the photogenic Belnem neighbourhood on the way.

Important information: this tour is not recommended for pregnant women. All 4×4 vehicles are equipped with a sunroof and a PA system. This is not a self-drive tour; a driver/guide will be provided. Minimum age to participate 12 years

FUN CRUISE and SNORKEL

Make the most of your time on Bonaire by getting into the water and having FUN! The Bonaire National Marine Park is well known for its legendary clear waters & abundant fish life. With complete snorkel gear included and a guided snorkel on 2 snorkel sites, you are sure to get a close-up view of the park’s colorful inhabitants.

Aboard this spacious 46-foot cruiser built for group comfort & fun, the crew, and their personal service, will make you feel right at home. The large helm area is fully shaded and can seat many. For sun worshipers, the wide, easy stairs lead out to a deck filled with sun-pads or to the foredeck equipped with deck chairs & table. Spread out, relax & enjoy… Enjoy complimentary refreshments of beer, wine & soft drinks throughout this very special FUN Cruise! Smooth cruising, crystal clear waters, swimming, sunbathing, snorkelling. It’s all there and waiting for you. Bring your camera!

Please note: The minimum age to participate is 10 years old. Bring swimsuit under clothing and rubber soles. Guests must know how to swim. Guests with mobility problems, physical disabilities, leg injuries, chest injuries and/or recovery from any surgery cannot participate

SEA & SALT “CHILL OUT!” BEACH & SOUTHERN TOUR

Variety is the spice of life, they say, and this entertaining tour could be said to have a little of both. Beginning with a leisurely drive to the south of Bonaire, your first destination will be the salt flats. Your guide will not only explain how salt is produced, but will also point out the flamingo colony that lives in the protected sanctuary on the salt company’s premises. Also on the itinerary is a visit to the huts that once provided rudimentary shelter for slaves forced to work the salt flats in the 19th century as well as a photo stop at the Willemstoren Lighthouse, which is situated at the island’s southernmost point and is the oldest on Bonaire. And now for some fun in the sun…

At the Delfins Beach Resort you can enjoy some real Caribbean beach time! Located just a short ride from the ship this is the perfect beach to bask in the gentle island breezes, relax, sunbathe and enjoy a complimentary welcome drink in the shade of the palm trees. Take a dip in Bonaire’s largest the pool, snorkel on Bonaire’s world famous reefs, laze on your beach chair or solve the problems of the world over ice cold beers. Under the direction of ‘Michelin Star’ chefs from the acclaimed ‘De Librije’ Dutch restaurant in Holland, the beach bar serves a nice selection of cocktails, beers, wines, snacks & sandwiches that are sure to please everyone. Don’t forget to bring along a beach towel, water/reef shoes, sunscreen, swimsuit and a camera to capture the spectacular ocean views. Whatever you choose to do, this is your perfect Caribbean beach escape!

Please note: use of a beach chair is included in the price of tour and sunshade are available free of charge

BONAIRE BEACH CLUB

Excursion details

Pack your swimwear and beach towel for this excursion of around three hours, which transports you to the aptly named Eden Beach Resort for some leisure time. Board your bus to begin the excursion, ready for a transfer of about 15 minutes, which whisks you directly to Eden Beach Resort.

Once arrived, you’ll be given a short orientation and then left to enjoy the venue and its palm-fringed grounds for approximately two and a half hours. Taking a swim in the Caribbean Sea will be high on the agenda for many guests, so feel free to head straight into the water. There’s also a pool at the resort, if that’s your preferred swimming option.

Of course, you may just want to sit back and do very little for a few hours, in which case you’ll love reclining on your complimentary beach lounger on the sand, soaking up the coastal Caribbean views.

If you want to grab lunch or a cocktail during your time at Eden, head to the on-site restaurant and bar and take your pick (food and drink purchases are at guests’ own expense).

Once the free time finishes, take the approximately 15-minute transfer back to the port, fully relaxed.

Important Information: Expect coral stones at the entry of the ocean. To enter the sea comfortably you go down a stair from the wooden pier into 9 feet deep water. You cannot wade into the sea from a beach. Participant needs to be competent Swimmer. Shade is provided by an extended roof over the bar, sun canopies and palm trees.

Wear a swimsuit and bring adequate sun protection and water shoes. Swimming is at your own risk. There is no life guard. Bring cash to purchase beverages, souvenirs or rentals. Beach Lounge included

YACHT COASTAL CRUISE & SNORKEL

Escape aboard a sailing yacht that promises an intimate sailing experience. This tour begins as you board your van for a short drive to harbour. Upon arriving, you’ll board a comfortable, sailing yacht that caters to small groups of guests. You’ll sail along the coast of Bonaire to the renowned Bonaire Marine Park, where you’ll snorkel among fishes of every imaginable colour and corals, with some luck you even can see turtles.

Guides conduct briefings to educate visitors of the rare and sensitive marine life in the Bonaire Marine Park. You’re free to swim or simply relax under the warm Caribbean sun, and enjoy an open bar with soft drinks, juices, beer and wine.

Please note: Minimum age is 12 years old. Not recommended for guests with heart conditions or back problems.

Guests must know how to swim as this is unguided snorkelling. Please bring towel, sun glasses, swimsuit, sun protection. On board Sailing Yacht there are changing facilities

CITY TOUR WITH TROLLEY TRAIN

Experience the beauty and history of Bonaire on a trolley train tour that takes you through the capital Kralendijk. All along the trip, you will be able to photograph directly from the train as it moves slow enough for you to capture many beautiful sights. Drive through typical villages with picturesque 1800 and 1900s homes. Pass by the island’s largest church, the San Bernardo Church (1829) where your guide will share its history with you. Your tour continues through town where traditional and modern architecture stand side by side in a kaleidoscope of vibrant Caribbean colors.

The waterfront street offers a stunning view of the bay of Bonaire dotted with visiting sailboats, yachts and your cruise ship! The tour ends on the lively shopping street, Kaya Grandi, where you can enjoy a stroll through the craft market, street stalls and the local boutiques before returning on foot to the ship, just a 5 minute walk (approx. 100m). You can also remain on board and return to the ship directly, it is up to you! A fun way to see the sights!
Please note: Not recommend for passengers who are wheelchair bound. Wear comfortable clothing and footwear. Bring sunscreen

ELECTRO-CATAMARAN SNORKEL SAFARI

Glide aboard a zero-emissions electric catamaran and marvel at Bonaire’s waters, shifting through shades of blue. Explore the protected 6,700-acre Bonaire National Marine Park, snorkeling among fish and colorful corals. Visit two prime snorkeling spots chosen by your captain or relax on board soaking up the sun and ocean breeze. As you return to shore, unwind with a refreshing drink in hand, feeling completely refreshed and connected to nature. Guests must be at least 8 years old to participate.

Please note: Guests must be at least 8 years old to participate. This tour is not available for guests with hip, knee, back, or heart problems, and/or recovering from surgery. It is recommended that guests wear a bathing suit under a coverup, and bring biodegradable sunscreen, a towel, cash, and sunglasses. Guests must navigate 2 steps to board the vessel. There are stairs on the boat to the fly bridge and into the water for swimming and snorkeling

EAST COAST UTV OFF-ROAD ADVENTURE

Take the wheel of a UTV and explore Bonaire’s east coast on this thrilling off-road journey. After a short bus transfer and safety briefing, set off in your self-driven UTV along the scenic Bolivia Reservoir.

Keep an eye out for iguanas, wild donkeys, and goats as you navigate landscapes. Stop at Spelonk Lighthouse, the island’s easternmost point, then continue to a nearby cave—home to the unique Bonairean bats. Optional cave exploration offers a close-up look at these fascinating insect-eaters. On the return, enjoy ocean views through Bolivia before heading back to Kralendijk by bus. Guests must be at least 12 years old to participate, and 18 years old to drive with a valid driver’s license.
Please note: Each UTV fits 2 guests.

The listed price is per UTV (not per person); only one person needs to book, with tour payment chargeable to only one account. The name of a companion sharing the UTV with the paying guest must be registered at the Excursions’Desk. The minimum age to drive is 18 years old with a valid driver’s license. Guests must be at least 12 years old to participate. Guests must perform simple maneuvers to demonstrate competence and listen to a safety briefing.

It is mandatory to wear closed shoes. Long trousers and sunglasses are recommended. This tour is not available for pregnant women, or those with injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. UTV’s are automatic. A helmet will be provided and must be worn at all time. Guests must sign a waiver, which may only be available in English. The ride can get dusty or muddy.