Bonaire
(Kralendijk) Cruise Port
Guide: Review (2023)

Panoramic photo of Bonaire with cruise ship docked in Kralendijk

Essential guide to Bonaire cruise port in Kralendijk: where cruise ships dock, how to get around, things to do, shore excursions, dining, and all you must know

By:
Update: May 28, 2023

Bonaire is the B on the island trio known as ABC - Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao. These island have a lot in common but cruise passengers shouldn't infer that if you “have seen one you have seen them all”.

The three islands are located off the coast of Venezuela and are all part of the Kingdom or Netherlands (or Holland, as many call this small European country) but all have very distinct aspects and completely different ambiance.

Bonaire is the smallest of the ABC trio and until recently the forgotten Island in the South Caribbean itineraries. Scarcely populated (around 19,000 inhabitants in an area 6 times the size of Manhattan) with a small capital with only 3,000 inhabitants, Bonaire's natural wonders and laid-back ambiance are main tractions to enjoy and discover on a cruise in the Caribbean.

Contents

  1. Where cruise ships dock in Bonaire
  2. How to get around
  3. Top things to do on a cruise to Bonaire
  4. Shore excursions (Shorex)
  5. Local flavors, restaurants and bars
  6. Must-know: tourist info, language and currency
  7. Safety, emergencies, and basics
  8. Kralendijk (Bonaire) - Port of call

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling, beach activities, and a couple of usual cultural attractions and landmarks are the top highlights of Bonaire. More about Top Things To do and See Below.

Photo of Divi Flamingo Beach in Kralendijk Bonaire Cruise Port

The Divi Flamingo Beach is within walking distance.

Photo © IQCruising.com

For decades, Bonaire was not regularly visited by mega-ships of major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival or NCL. But in recent years Bonaire has been 'discovered' and now there are many cruises calling at the port of Kralendijk both on south and western Caribbean itineraries.

Where cruise ships dock in Bonaire

Cruise ships dock in one of two piers on a wide bay on the Southern part of the West coast of the island of Bonaire, right by Kralendijk the main city and capital of the island known as:

  • Southern Pier
  • Northern Pier

The two piers are suited to moor up to three cruise ships, although only very seldom this happens. If there are two cruise ships docking, the larger one will always moor on the Southern Pier and the smaller on the Northern Pier.

Northern pier

The northern pier is perpendicular to the coast, just over 200 feet long, with the exit gates opening directly into a pedestrian street right in front of the Wilhelmina Park. This pier is next to the Old Fort and very close to the Sea Promenade (a long and beautiful street along the coast) and Kaya Grandi one block behind, which is the main shopping street of Kralendijk.

Southern pier and terminal

The Southern Pier aka New Pier is parallel to the coast and to get to the main street the cruise traveler will have to walk through a well maintained, small cruise terminal.

This open-air shopping complex is known as Harborside Mall. Naturally, it is always a delight to walk down the gangway right into the city center but even when docked at the Southern Pier the cruise passenger is at less than 300 feet (100 meters) from the start of the Plaza Wilhelmina and the Sea Promenade officially known as Kaya J. N. E. Craane.

Photo of Southern Pier Terminal in Kralendijk Bonaire Cruise Port

Southern Pier Terminal

Photo © IQCruising.com

Regardless of where cruise ship docks, the cruise traveler will always be within walking distance of all main attractions in Kralendijk and with all major services to explore on your own just a stone's throw away. Very close to both cruise piers you will find the following:

  • The official tourist office
  • Local tours operators
  • Scuba diving operators
  • Terramar Museum
  • Shops
  • Cafés
  • Restaurants

Cruise travelers may have read elsewhere that there is third docking spot in Kralendijk known as Ro-Ro Pier - this is, in fact, an inshore ramp not used by cruise ships.

How to get around

Due to the proximity of the cruise piers to Kralendijk, walking is undoubtedly the best way to explore this beautiful, small and quaint Caribbean capital. It is easy and affordable to travel farther in the Island, be it to spend the day on one of the many, small and secluded beaches, or to discover the island's attractions. Most of the population working directly with tourists speak good English, are very helpful but not pushy.

Photo of Taxis by the Pier in Kralendijk Bonaire Cruise Port

Taxis by the Pier

Photo © IQCruising.com

Taxis

Taxis are affordable, in good shape, with AC and available next to the exit gates of both the Northern and Southern Piers.

Shuttle and Public Buses

Considering that cruise ship dock next to Kralendijk, there is no need for a shuttle. Bonaire does not have Public Buses although there are private services that cruise travelers will find complicated to navigate.

Car, scooter and bicycle rental

The cruise traveler contemplating the idea of exploring the island at leisure may look into renting a car, a scooter or a bicycle. Any of these can be fun and allow great independence.

Car rentals, scooters, and bicycles are available within walking distance of both piers. Keep in mind that driving is on the right and that the island does NOT have stoplights. Maximum speed in towns is 25 mph (40 km/h) and 35 mph (60 km/h) outside the urban areas.

Water taxi to Klein Bonaire

Photo of Water-Taxi in Kralendijk Bonaire Cruise Port

Water-Taxi to Klein Bonaire

Photo © IQCruising.com

For the cruise passenger planing to explore Klein Bonaire (a major highlight for scuba diving and snorkeling) there are water taxis within walking distance of the piers.

Until a few years ago there were two different operators in two different spots. But for the last couple of years only one is operational - north of the Northern Pier, no more than 500 feet (150 meters), next to the famous Karels Beach Bar.

Things to do on a cruise to Bonaire

Considering that the Island is small - 38 km long and between 5 and 8 km wide), the cruise passenger can easily explore all the major attractions in Bonaire on a day docked at Kralendijk. Known as one of the Top Scuba diving sites in the World, and promoted as such to exhaustion, many cruisers not interested in diving or snorkeling frequently wonder what else to do or see. The good news is that there is a good number of interesting attractions to explore and discover besides the ones found underwater.

Scuba and snorkeling

For those interested in oceanic wonders, Bonaire is paradise underwater. All the waters surrounding the island, including the coral reef, sea-grass and mangroves are in fact a protected National Park. Scuba diving and snorkeling with local operators is, obviously a perfect way to do it. But there are other ways to explore this pristine beauty of Bonaire's crystal clear waters - on a water taxi to Klein Bonaire to snorkel, on a semi-submarine or on a glass bottom boat.

Beaches and active pursuits

If you prefer above water sports, Windsurfing at Jibe City, Kayaking, Kite-surfing, Sailing or Fishing are top activities to enjoy in Bonaire.

With over 20 beaches in Bonaire, there is a handful of famous spots like the 1000 Steps Beach, No Name Beach in Kein Bonaire, Playa Palu di Mangel, Sorobon Beach or Te Amo Beach.

Within walking distance, the Divi Flamingo Resort (400 meters south of the Southern Pier ) is a nice spot to enjoy a day on the beach. Not far from the Northern Pier (1.3 miles - 2 km) the Spice Beach Club of the Eden Resort is another good option.

Check the folowing websites to find out more about what to do on your own:

Salt lakes

Besides the water-related activities, the cruise passenger has other options. Have in mind that most attractions are in a way scenic and/or ecologically oriented. The island is known for its salt production and a visit to the flat salt pans, ponds, and shop (La Placita) is included in many tours of Bonaire. The sites where the salt is produced have become such an attraction that the Bonaire Salt Park is expected to open sometime in 2018.

Flamingo spotting

Flamingo spotting is another major attraction. The Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary is by the Salt Ponds and you may be able to spot them at a distance. But Flamingo spotting is one of the main reason to visit the Washington Slagbaai National Park. On this wonderful sanctuary, the cruise visitor will also have the opportunity to learn about the endemic species of Bonaire like parakeets, iguanas, sea turtles and many other species of birds and reptiles.

Natural wonders

For those interested in mother nature's travails, the Echo's Conservation Centre is an attraction to check and so is the Mangrove Center. You may have read ravishing reviews about the Butterfly Garden but be aware that this has been closed for some time. However, the even more famous Donkey Sanctuary is very much open and can be fun especially for those traveling with young ones.

Cultural attractions

On the cultural side, a visit to Ricon (the oldest settlement of Bonaire) is a must do. This small village has a few landmarks not to be missed like the Gruta Lourdes (a pilgrimage site), the Catholic Church (opened in 1837) and the Protestant Church (opened in 1934), the Bonaire Heritage Foundation and the Cadushy Distillery, where the cruise passenger can taste the world's only liqueur made from cactus. Close by, there are small, secluded and scenic beaches but not all are suitable for swimming.

Kralendijk landmarks

Kralendijk is such a small town that all top attractions can be easily explored on foot and is a delight to walk. Landmarks like the Fort Orange and lighthouse, the Queen Wilhelmina Plaza or the Government Office Building are impossible to miss.

Shops and shopping in Kralendijk

On Kaya Grandi - Kralendjik's main shopping street - the cruise visitorwill find some shops but don't expect to find the typical and ubiquitous ones found all over the Caribbean. Certainly, Bonaire is not a shoppers paradise like the sister islands of Aruba and Curacao.

Terramar Museum

 

Although located in the center of Kralendijk, the one attraction that is not self-evident is the Terramar Museum. If you don't spot it straight away do ask for directions - this small museum is really worth a visit as it will take you on a journey through 7,000 years of Caribbean history.

Bonaire tours, cruise and shore excursions

As much as there are lots of nice and easy things to do on your own when calling at the port of Bonaire, all cruise lines and independent local tour operators offer excellent shore excursions, which cruise passengers should consider. In particular the tours to sites that will be advantageous to have a knowleadgable guide.

Obviously, all cruise lines offer many and diverse shore excursions in Bonaire (Kralendijk) cruise port. Celebrity Cruises offers as many 44 shore excursions and Royal Caribbean has 49 cruise excursions. Carnival lists 23 shore excursions. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has available 22 shore excursions. Oceania Cruises organizes 14 shore excursions, Holland America offers 19 cruise excursions, and Princess has 29 excursions available.

Besides the cruise excursions organized by cruise liens, there are also shore excursions and tours offered by the following reputable private online services:

Local flavors, restaurants and bars

Kralendijk is also a delight for those, like the Editor, that enjoy local, fresh food with a gourmet touch. There are many excellent restaurants in town and a few bars with stunning settings to enjoy a cocktail, the local Polar Beer or a smoothie.

Regardless of being criticized as over expensive, Karels Beach Bar has unquestionably the best location in Kralendijk. Not far, the restaurant It Rains Fishes is a gourmet delight with impeccable service.

Photo of Karels Beach Bar in Kralendijk Bonaire Cruise Port

Karels Beach Bar

Photo © IQCruising.com

Must-know: tourist info, language and currency

Whatever you choose to see and do in Bonaire, it is easy and affordable to explore the Island on your own. With just a couple of streets to meander, Kralendijk is a jewel not to be missed, which is very for comfortable for disabled travelers. For those that wish to explore different sights and tractions, it is advisable to book a tour or an excursion.

Tourist Information

Photo of the Tourist Information Office in Kralendijk, Bonaire Cruise Port

The Tourist Information Office in Kralendijk

Photo © IQCruising.com

You will find Tourist Information Kiosks near the exit gates of the Cruise Piers but these tend to close early (after most passengers exit the ship). If you find the kiosks too busy or closed, the main (and larger) Tourism Office is located behind the Protestant Church on Wilhelmina Square, right at the start of Kaya Grandi.

Bonaire Tourist Office Map

Language

English is widely spoken in all tourist areas and tractions. However, the official languages of Bonaire are Dutch and Papiamento. The latter is a traditional language derived from African and Portuguese dialects also influenced by Spanish, Dutch and English. Papiamento is very different from the Creole and Patois spoken in other Caribbean Islands.

Money matters: currency

The official legal tender in Bonaire is the US Dollar. The USD has been adopted since January 1, 2011. All major credit cards are widely accepted, with exception of American Express that is not as ubiquitous. The cruise passenger will find useful to have cash for small purchases like souvenirs, taxis and tipping. You can cash money easily in Bonaire.

Banks and ATM:
There are many Banks, most with ATM's, in Kralendijk. All within walking distance from the Cruise Piers like the RBC, Girobank Bonaire or Banco di Caribe (on Kaya Grandi - the main shopping street). The easiest ATM to find is next to the main entrance of the Tourism Office, at the start of Kaya Grandi. Banks are open between 8AM and 4PM

Safety, US travel advisory and basics

For comprehensive and updated information about traveling to Bonaire see the U.S. Department of State website page evolving advisory.

Covid-19 advise for cruises to Bonaire (Kralendijk)

For updated coronavirus (Covid-19) information and travel advice to Bonaire (Kralendijk) cruise port visit the website of the U.S. Consulate in Curacao. For more Traveler's Health advice to Bonaire see the CDC Website.

Kralendijk (Bonaire) - Port of call

Although Bonaire cannot be considered a completely off-the-beaten-track cruise port, not all cruise lines include it in their itineraries. Cunard, Viking or MSC, for example, do not have any call scheduled for the next couple of years. Cruise lines like Azamara, Crystal, Disney, Fred Olson, Regent, Seabourn, Silversea only call at the port in Kralendijk sporadically, on re-positioning cruises or on an exceptional itinerary.

By contrast, major cruise lines - Carnival, Celebrity, Holland & America, P & O, Princess, and RCI - have many itineraries visiting Bonaire between the months of October and as late as May. NCL (with the Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Dawn, and Norwegian Jade) also calls a few times and so does Oceania (Insignia and Riviera).

But if you would like to cruise on a ship calling at Bonaire, these are the cruise lines and ships which regularly call at the port of Kralendijk: Carnival (Sunshine and Victory), Celebrity (Eclipse, Equinox, Reflection and Silhouette), Costa Magica, Holland & America (ms Eurodam, ms Koningsdam, ms Nieuw Amsterdam, and ms Zuiderdam), P&O (Britannia), Princess (Crown, Regal and Royal) and Royal Caribbean (Adventure Of The Seas, Freedom Of The Seas, Navigator Of The Seas and Serenade Of The Seas).

Finally, it should be noted that the German cruise lines Aida and Mein Schiff also call frequently at Bonaire, the British Marella has a few itineraries including Bonaire and the Spanish Pullmantur Monarch visits Kralendijk almost every week.

Share this Bonaire cruise port review

The information on this page was accurate when last updated and published but changes may have occurred without notice.
It is advisable to confirm details with local tourist information before planning your cruise, tour or excursions of Bonaire.
If any inaccuracies are found or if there are any suggestions to improve the content of this page please let us know.

Submit a Correction / Suggestion.