MARELLA CRUISES

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Oranjestad Cruises, Aruba

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Nowhere showcases Aruba’s Dutch roots quite like Oranjestad. With its gable-topped houses and colonial clock towers, the island’s capital is like a little slice of Amsterdam. It’s got some typically Caribbean credentials, too – expect cushiony sands that stretch on for miles, and underwater spots that are great for snorkelling. Plus, all along the coast, you’ll find ramshackle beach bars serving up fresh seafood and rum cocktails.

• Head to De Palm Island to explore the underwater depths. Set just off the Aruban coastline, this private reef is home to a huge variety of exotic sea life.
• Explore the castle-like ruins of the Bushiribana Gold Mill. This place was at the centre of Aruba’s 19th-century gold rush, and is well worth a chunk of your time for its Medieval looks alone.

Map of Oranjestad

SHORE EXCURSIONS View all excursions

De Palm Island - Full Day

When it comes to snorkelling, De Palm Island has got it all. Set adrift off the Aruban coastline, this private reef offers up pristine waters and a huge variety of exotic marine life, it’s a first-class spot for an underwater exploration. Your day will start off with a short boat trip over to the island, where the friendly staff will be waiting to meet you. After a short safety briefing, you’re ready to slip on your mask and wade into the warm, clear waters. Expect to meet friendly blue parrotfish and angelfish. Back on dry land, there’ll be time to sprawl out on the sand, take your seat for a banana boat ride or visit the island’s small waterpark before heading back to the ship. Don't forget that a full buffet lunch and refreshments throughout the day will be included.

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Panoramic Aruba

This panoramic coach tour does exactly what it says on the tin, ticking off all the highlights of Aruba in one easy go. Your day starts with a drive to the lively Schooner Harbour. Look out for the marble statue of Queen Wilhelmina, the historical battlefield of Frenchman’s Pass and the 19th-century Gold Mill Ruins. Turning inland, you’ll head to Casibari Rock – a spectacular natural rock formation that’s a result of strong trade winds – before travelling along the rugged windward side of the island to the Natural Bridge Ruins. Formed by years of pounding surf, this coral limestone bridge counts as the number one must-see in Aruba. We'll then take you to the island's famous California Lighthouse and the small Alto Vista Chapel. Before stopping at the port, if you fancy a spot of shopping, you can choose to get off the bus in Oranjestad, rather than heading back. And if you’re treating yourself, try the Renaissance Mall – it’s crammed with designer stores like Louis Vuitton and Ralph Lauren.

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See & Sea

This full-circle tour lets you get to know Aruba from both dry land and under the sea. The day starts with a scenic boat ride to the Seaworld Explorer – a state-of-the-art semi-submarine that used to glide through the waters surrounding Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. The vessel doesn’t completely submerge, but its glass-fronted hull stretches five feet below the surface of the water, offering up great views of the area’s marine life. But the piece de resistance of the trip is manoeuvring over the wreck of Antilla, a 440-foot German freighter that was destroyed in the Second World War. Listen in as your guide gives you the lowdown on its violent past. After returning to shore, you’ll take a coach trip to the iconic California Lighthouse and the breathtaking Casibari Rock Formations for a photo stop. Next on the agenda is the ocean-carved Natural Bridge, Aruba’s top must-see. Lastly, you’ll drive past the Gold Mill Ruins before returning to Oranjestad.

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