Luxury Cruising Below the Hurricane Belt

Curacao & Bonaire: The Ultimate Dutch Caribbean Yacht Charter

Positioned just off the coast of South America in the Leeward Antilles, Curacao and Bonaire are part of the ABC Islands—celebrated for their year-round sunshine, world-class diving, and distinct Dutch-Caribbean charm. Far below the hurricane belt, this region offers exceptional cruising conditions even during the summer months, making it a compelling alternative to the more traveled charter routes farther north.

Expect vibrant coral reefs, historic colonial towns, protected anchorages, and a blend of natural beauty and cultural flair. This itinerary is perfect for travelers who value underwater adventure, cultural discovery, and peaceful island time—with a level of exclusivity that only a private yacht can offer.

  • World-Class Diving: Access over 80 marked dive and snorkel sites in Bonaire's protected National Marine Park.
  • Cultural Discovery: Explore the vibrant, UNESCO-listed Dutch colonial architecture and rhythm of Willemstad, Curacao.
  • Year-Round Exclusivity: Ensure exceptional cruising conditions and protected anchorages, safely positioned below the hurricane belt.
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Day 1

Curacao: Colorful Beginnings in Willemstad

Arrive in Willemstad, Curacao’s UNESCO-listed capital, where Dutch colonial architecture meets Caribbean color and rhythm. The yacht will be docked just minutes from Handelskade, the city’s iconic waterfront.

Spend the afternoon wandering through Punda and Otrobanda, crossing the Queen Emma floating bridge and visiting the island’s boutique shops, galleries, and open-air cafés. For dinner, enjoy waterfront dining at The Gouverneur, or stay aboard for sunset cocktails and your first evening under the stars.

Day 2

Kleine Werf, Curacao: Hidden Bays & Snorkel Stops

Cruise along Curacao’s sheltered southern coast to Kleine Werf, a quiet and scenic bay ideal for snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. This coastline is rich in hidden coves and vibrant reefs, many accessible only by boat.

Enjoy a casual beachside lunch or tender ashore to explore Jan Thiel Beach or the nearby Tugboat Wreck, one of the island’s most beloved snorkeling sites. This is a perfect day to ease into the rhythm of island cruising.

Day 3

Kuikbaai & Klein Curacao: Deserted Beauty & Underwater Magic

Cruise east to Kuikbaai, a serene inlet near the island’s rugged eastern coastline. After a morning swim, continue to the remote island of Klein Curacao, a flat, sandy cay known for its long, empty beach, rusted shipwrecks, and iconic pink lighthouse.

Snorkel or dive the coral walls offshore, walk the length of the island’s untouched coast, or enjoy a private beach setup in total seclusion. This is what yacht chartering is all about—the feeling of being alone in paradise.

Day 4

Bonaire: Arrival at Harbour Village Marina

Make the scenic passage to Bonaire, one of the most environmentally protected islands in the Caribbean and a true diver’s haven. Arrive at the elegant and private Harbour Village Marina, located just outside the charming capital of Kralendijk.

Spend the afternoon wandering through the town’s pastel streets, browsing artisan boutiques, or enjoying a cocktail at a waterfront café. For dinner, consider Brass Boer, an award-winning fine dining experience curated by a Michelin-starred Dutch chef.

Day 5

Bonaire: Dive, Snorkel & Explore

Bonaire is often ranked among the top diving destinations in the world—and for good reason. The entire island is surrounded by a marine park, with over 80 marked dive and snorkel sites accessible directly from shore or tender.

Snorkel the famous 1000 Steps, drift-dive over coral walls at Andrea I & II, or paddle through the island’s salt flats and mangrove forests. The day ends with sunset views over the Caribbean Sea, ideally with a cocktail in hand and salt on your skin.

Day 6

Klein Bonaire: Desert Island Dreams

Just offshore lies Klein Bonaire, a low-lying uninhabited island with perfectly preserved coral gardens and powder-soft beaches. Tender over for a day of sun, snorkeling, and solitude. The reef here is part of the Bonaire National Marine Park and is home to sea turtles, moray eels, and clouds of reef fish.

Set up a shaded beach lounge for the afternoon or opt for a guided drift snorkel along the western edge of the island. There are no buildings or roads—just water, sand, and silence.

Day 7

Washington Slagbaai National Park: Adventure Inland

Today is ideal for an inland adventure. Take a short drive or guided 4×4 tour to Washington Slagbaai National Park, a vast protected reserve on the northern tip of Bonaire. Here, visitors can hike, birdwatch, or snorkel in hidden coves surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs.

The park offers a rugged contrast to the rest of the week’s serene anchorages—complete with wild goats, flamingos, and panoramic viewpoints that make the journey well worth it. For a final farewell dinner, consider a beach barbecue on board or a relaxed evening at Harbour Village.

Day 8

Return to Curacao: Departure

Cruise back to Curacao in the early morning, taking in the last views of the Caribbean Sea along the way. Disembark in Willemstad, where private jet and commercial connections are readily available at Hato International Airport.

From the vibrancy of Curacao to the coral-covered shores of Bonaire, this southern Caribbean charter offers a mix of culture, calm, and untouched beauty—a hidden gem itinerary for those who believe they’ve seen it all.

Talk to a Charter Specialist

Your vision is unique. Your charter should be, too. Speak directly with a specialist who will hand-select the perfect yacht, crew, and itinerary from the global fleet, customizing every detail, from the cruising grounds to the chef’s menu.

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Disclaimer

Prices displayed in converted currencies (USD or EUR) are calculated based on real-time market rates. EJ Yachts makes no guarantee regarding the final exchange rate; the actual amount debited will be determined by the client's bank or payment processor at the exact time the transaction is completed.

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