Curaçao's reputation as a world-class dive destination has
grown to the extent that it no longer exists in the shadow of its sister island, Bonaire.
Its shores are surrounded by beautiful coral reefs and a number of wrecks including the Superior
Producer and two sunken tugboats. As the largest of the "ABC" islands, Curacao has miles
of coastline dotted with isolated beaches, a bustling downtown with great shopping,
historical sites and nightlife and exciting diving right offshore.
Curaçao is best known for its European atmosphere. Nowhere else in the world outside of
the Netherlands are there so many exquisite 17th and 18th Century
Dutch colonial buildings. The largest of the Netherland Antilles
islands, Curaçaos population of 150,000 is made up
of 55 nationalities. This diversity extends throughout the islands
culture, environment and topside activities. Historic Dutch architecture
abounds both in the capital city, Willemstad and throughout the
countryside where the Landhouses (Plantations) have often been converted
into public venues. In the center of down-town the famed floating
bridge divides Willemstad into two sides, Punda and Otrabanda
where the cruise ships dock and shopping is a favorite activity.
As the most populated island of the Netherlands Antilles, Curaçao
also has plenty of nightlife including rested-rants, casinos and
nightclubs, many with a distinct Dutch flavor.
Diving Highlights: While the majority of diving is done
from boats, there is a fair amount of shore diving available as
well. The wide range of siteswall, reef, and wrecksprovide
an extraordinary experience for every-one. Also enjoy windsurfing,
deep sea fishing, and sailing.
Average Air Temp: Day: 85° F Night: 76° F
Water Temp: 78° - 84° F
|
Weather: Located in the tropics, just 12° north of the
Equatorand outside of the hurricane beltCuraçao
has a warm sunny climate year round. Refreshing trade winds blow
constantly from the east, picking up in the spring months.
Curaçao is also rich in natural beauty. Its secluded bays, rich fauna and
flora, crystalline seas and beautiful reefs provide the perfect
opportunity for visitors to explore Curaçaos hidden
treasures.
A wide variety of hotels and resorts dot the coastline,
from small casual hotels to five star resorts. A growing number
of moored dive sites are located along the coast and include reefs
and wrecks. In addition, the Curaçao Seaquarium offers exciting
interactions with sharks, turtles and stingrays as well as an aquarium
hall with an extensive collection of marine life.
The combination of fine diving, active nightlife, loads of duty-free
shopping opportunities, good beaches and more make the island a
full adventurean excellent choice for divers and non-divers
alike. Where else in the Caribbean can you immerse yourself in Dutch
culture, European ambience and fine diving all at the same time?
Curaçao...the place to go.
Adventure and Sightseeing
Historic, beautiful, diverse architecture is found all over the
island. Explore interesting and easily accessible caves and stroll
across the floating bridge. Enjoy horse-back riding, golf, tennis,
cycling and many available museum and walking tours.
As Curaçao is a cruise ship port, there is plenty of shopping
and nightlife available to enjoy, in addition to several casinos.
Imports and locally produced products such as souvenirs, Arawak
clay products, tiles and replica landhouses.
|