Destination Overview:
Curacao is an island located just off the Venezuelan coast in the Southern Caribbean. It is part of the group of islands known as the Netherlands Antilles, as is sister island Bonaire, just 40 miles away. Also nearby is Aruba. In fact, the three islands together are known as the “ABC Islands” of the Lesser Antilles. Of the three, Curacao is the largest and most populous.

Diving Details:
Curacao offers over 60 dive sites, most of them accessible from shore. The island is bordered by 80 miles of pristine coral reef, which drops off steeply within a few hundred feet of shore. There’s a little something for everyone here…reef dives, wall dives, cave dives, even wreck dives. Snorkelers too will enjoy easy access to many stunning sites. Expect an abundance of hard corals, gorgonians, sponges, seahorses, eels, sea turtles, dolphins, and an amazing variety of tropical fish. Because the Southern Caribbean enjoys an arid climate with little rainfall, water temperatures range from 78-84 degrees and visibility usually ranges from 100-150 ft!

Insider Information:
Curacao is culturally and historically rich. From its Dutch Colonial architecture with a Caribbean flair, to its popular yearly Carnival, it offers a delightful mix of Old World charm and contemporary culture. Take a little time to experience the lively city of Willemstad. It’ll be a great way to round out your vacation.

Dive Operators

Dive Sites

CURACAO DIVE SITES

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Hotels

image All West Apartments
image Hilton Curacao

Restaurants

Non-Diving Activities

  • Go snorkeling…most dive sites are accessible from shore, making this a snorkeler’s paradise!
  • Lounge on a beach
  • Explore the lively city of Willemstad
  • Tour Hato Caves
  • Visit the Curacao Ostrich Farm
  • Explore Christoffel Park
  • Enjoy a dolphin encounter at Dolphin Academy Curacao
  • Visit Marco’s Fish Farm, a Tilapia Hatchery
  • Go mountain biking
  • Go windsurfing
  • Explore the turquoise waters via kayak
  • Embark on a jeep safari
  • Golf the Blue Bay Golf Course or the Hyatt Regency Golf Course (opening January 1, 2010)
  • Indulge in a luxurious spa treatment
  • Experience Curacao Carnival! (Begins early January, ends the day before Ash Wednesday)
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Frequently Asked Questions

Curacao, and its sister island Bonaire, are located just off the Venezuelan coast in the Southern Caribbean. Also nearby is the island of Aruba.

A non-stop flight from Miami takes 2 1/2 hours. A flight from Caracas, Venezuela takes 45 minutes. Total flight time will obviously depend on your departure city and connecting flights.

The official language is Dutch, although English, Spanish, and Papiamentu are also widely spoken.

Yes, you will need a valid passport to enter Curacao, as well as to re-enter the US. Visitors to the Netherlands Antilles may be asked to show onward/return tickets and proof of sufficient funds for their stay. Length of stay is granted for 14-30 days and may be extended for up to 90 days by the head office of immigration. Always check www.travel.state.gov before traveling for the most current information.

For legal reasons, we cannot make official recommendations regarding shots and immunizations. Please consult with your physician or visit www.cdc.gov for more information.

127 V, 50 Hz. US appliances will work, but may run hotter, and devices with internal time mechanisms will not keep the correct time.

Please check with your airline for luggage requirements and restrictions.

Yes, unless otherwise specified, we will arrange for your transfers to and from the airport.

Curacao offers over 60 dive sites, most of them accessible from shore. The island is bordered by 80 miles of pristine coral reef, which drops off steeply within a few hundred feet of shore. There’s a little something for everyone here…reef dives, wall dives, cave dives, even wreck dives. Snorkelers too will enjoy easy access to many stunning sites. Expect an abundance of hard corals, gorgonians, sponges, seahorses, eels, sea turtles, dolphins, and an amazing variety of tropical fish. Because the Southern Caribbean enjoys an arid climate with little rainfall, water temperatures range from 78-84 degrees and visibility usually ranges from 100-150 ft!

While the water is warm enough to go without, we recommend divers wear a 3mm wetsuit for protection.

Most dive sites are within a 15-20 minute boat ride of the resorts, and many are alternately accessible by shore.

Most dive operators offer a two-tank morning dive, followed by an afternoon dive. Late afternoon and night dives are typically scheduled once a week. Dolphin dives and special trips to Klein Curacao or Mushroom Forest are typically scheduled 2-3 times a week.

Airport departure tax ($22)