Boat Curaçao to Bonaire: your overview for island hopping
Boat Curaçao to Bonaire: your overview for island hopping
Do you want to sail from Curaçao to Bonaire and are you wondering what options there are for a boat trip between these islands?
What about sailing between Curaçao and Bonaire?
A boat from Curaçao to Bonaire seems like a logical way to travel between these two beautiful islands in the Caribbean Sea, but currently there is no regular ferry service operating. The Caribbean Fast Ferry Company offered a connection in the past, but this route was stopped. The governments of Aruba and Curaçao have held talks about reintroducing such a service to improve regional infrastructure , but so far no concrete date has been announced.
Instead of a boat from Curaçao to Bonaire, you can opt for a short flight with Divi Divi Air or Z Air, which fly daily between the islands. This takes only 30 minutes and gives you more time to explore Klein Bonaire , snorkel at the Bonaire National Marine Park, or visit the Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire. Don’t forget to pay the Visitor Entry Tax on arrival, and if you want to explore the island with flexibility, arrange a car in advance through a local provider such as AB Car Rental.
Blue Bird Tours & Travel is happy to help you plan your trip between the islands, so that you can enjoy your Caribbean adventure without any worries.
Why Plan an Island Hopping Adventure Between Curaçao and Bonaire
Discovering the charm of the Caribbean
The Caribbean offers a unique opportunity to explore multiple islands, each with its own distinct character. Bonaire is known for its unspoiled nature and diving paradises, while Curaçao surprises you with colorful architecture and lively beach clubs like Mambo Beach. By combining both islands, you will experience the best of both worlds. Blue Bird Tours & Travel will help you create a trip that naturally connects both destinations, ensuring that you move seamlessly from one adventure to the next.
Flying as a practical alternative
Since there is no regular boat available, short flights are the most efficient alternative. Airlines provide daily connections that take you from island to island in half an hour. This quick transfer gives you more time to visit the sights, such as the tranquil Lac Bay on Bonaire or the popular Eagle Beach on Aruba. For those looking for a longer sea voyage, there is also the option of a transatlantic sailing trip or renting a boat with a captain, although these are more adventurous alternatives for experienced sailors who have time.
Paying and arranging practical matters
Bonaire allows you to pay in US dollars, which makes it easy for many international visitors. Remember that you will have to pay a tax upon arrival, and that it is important to minimize your ecological footprint by respecting the natural areas. The Curaçao Tourist Board offers useful information about traveling between the islands, and you can sign up for the Curaçao newsletter to stay informed about new developments. Cruise Bonaire also publishes regular updates on regional connections and possible future ferry services.
Relax at beach resorts and day passes
A Resort for a day Curacao is a perfect way to enjoy luxurious amenities without booking a full stay. The Papagayo Beach Hotel, Delfins Beach Resort, Avila Beach Hotel , and Chogogo Dive & Beach Resort offer day passes that give you access to private beaches, pools, and restaurants. This gives you the flexibility to spend a day relaxing in between your island activities. Jan Thiel Bay is particularly popular for this type of package, with multiple resorts located on crystal clear waters.
Combining nature and culture
Bonaire has a rich range of nature parks and cultural attractions. The National Park on the island offers hiking trails and birdwatching points, while Hòfi Sint Joris introduces you to traditional architecture. Palm Beach is also a popular location for those who love lively beach scenes. For a deeper understanding of the regional developments, you can read the full article on the cooperation between the Dutch governments and local authorities through a Memorandum of Understanding, aimed at better connectivity in the region.
Have your trip put together
Blue Bird Tours & Travel offers the possibility to organize your island hopping trip completely according to your own wishes. Whether you choose diving, culture or relaxation, you will receive email messages after booking with all practical details and a secure payment link. Read on the website to discover your favorite places and combine different islands into one unforgettable adventure. This way you travel with confidence and enjoy every step in your Caribbean journey of discovery.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Which airlines fly between the islands?
For flights between Curaçao and Bonaire, you can opt for Divi Divi Air or Z Air, which provide daily connections with a flight time of around 30 minutes. These airlines also offer routes to Aruba, making it easy to plan a triangular trip. Ideally, book your flights at the same time as your accommodation and tours through Blue Bird Tours & Travel for a streamlined itinerary. Remember to check in early and pay your Visitor Entry Tax on arrival.
What are the benefits of a day pass at a beach resort?
A Resort for a day Curacao offers access to luxurious amenities such as private beaches, pools, sun loungers, and restaurants without having to book an overnight stay. The Papagayo Beach Hotel, Delfins Beach Resort, Avila Beach Hotel and Chogogo Dive & Beach Resort have attractive day passes available. This is ideal if you want to relax in between island activities or take a luxurious break. Jan Thiel Bay is particularly suitable for this type of package with several resorts on azure blue water.
Which nature reserves should I visit on Bonaire?
The Bonaire National Marine Park is a must-see for snorkelers and divers, with over 80 official dive sites and pristine coral reefs. On land, you can visit the Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire , where you will meet adopted donkeys in an open sanctuary. The National Park offers hiking trails and birdwatching points for nature lovers. Klein Bonaire, an uninhabited island off the coast, is also accessible by boat and perfect for a day of snorkeling. Minimize your ecological footprint by respecting nature reserves.
How do I plan a multi-day trip between Curaçao and Bonaire?
Blue Bird Tours & Travel helps you put together an island-hopping adventure combining both destinations. For example, start with a diving day at the Bonaire National Marine Park, followed by culture and beach clubs on Curaçao such as Mambo Beach. The short flights between the islands give you the flexibility to combine various activities without much travel time. Book accommodation, transport and tours through one platform and receive all details by email with a secure payment link. Recommended duration: at least three to four days per island.
What beaches are popular in Curaçao besides Mambo Beach?
In addition to Mambo Beach , Jan Thiel Bay is a favorite spot for visitors who enjoy lively beach scenes with restaurants and water sports. Eagle Beach in Aruba is often cited as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, but for those staying in Curaçao, there are plenty of smaller bays to discover. Blue Bird Tours & Travel can help you find your favorite places, including hidden beaches that are less touristy. Combine beach visits with other activities such as snorkeling or a visit to a Resort for a day in Curacao.
What is the role of local governments in improving island connections?
The governments of Aruba and Curaçao , together with the Dutch governments , have held talks about reintroducing a ferry service to strengthen the regional infrastructure . A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed to formalize the collaboration, but no concrete start date has yet been announced. The Curaçao Tourist Board and Cruise Bonaire publish regular updates on these developments. For the latest news, you can sign up for the Curaçao newsletter and read the full article about regional connectivity.
Can I rent a boat with skipper for a private trip?
For those looking for an adventurous sailing trip, there is the option of renting a boat with a captain for a private trip between the islands or along the coast. This is a flexible option for experienced sailors or groups who want a unique experience. A transatlantic sailing trip is a more extensive adventure that can last several weeks, but for island hopping, a shorter charter trip will suffice. Blue Bird Tours & Travel can refer you to reliable providers. Keep in mind that this is more expensive than flying and takes more time.
Where can I experience authentic Bonairean culture?
Visit Hòfi Sint Joris, a restored plantation that provides insight into Bonaire’s traditional architecture and history. The Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire offers a unique look at the role of donkeys in local culture. For water lovers, Lac Bay is a quiet lagoon where you can kite surf or enjoy fresh fish in local restaurants. Combine cultural attractions with nature experience by exploring the National Park . Blue Bird Tours & Travel helps you select tours that go beyond standard tourist routes.
Your journey, just the way you want it
Whether you dream of a private snorkeling tour, a surprise trip for a special occasion or just want to be completely unburdened, we will arrange it!
Together, we’ll put together a unique experience that perfectly suits your needs. Personalized, flexible and organized to perfection.
