Traveling from Bonaire to Curaçao by Boat
Traveling from Bonaire to Curaçao by Boat
Are you planning to explore the Caribbean islands and wondering how to travel from Bonaire to Curaçao by boat?
Your options for a sea trip between the two islands
The crossing between Bonaire and Curaçao by boat offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the Caribbean Sea . Although there were regular connections via the Fast Ferry in the past, the situation has currently changed. The governments of Aruba and Curaçao have held talks about improving regional infrastructure, but fixed ferry services have not yet been restored.
For travelers who still want to make the sea trip, there are alternative options. You can charter a private boat with a captain, which gives you the freedom to enjoy the Caribbean at your own pace. This option is ideal for those who appreciate luxurious amenities and want to combine a relaxing tour with visits to Klein Bonaire or other nature reserves. Remember that you will have to pay the Visitor Entry Tax upon arrival.
A more practical alternative is to fly via Divi Divi Air, which maintains daily connections between the two islands. Blue Bird Tours & Travel is happy to help you plan your island hopping experience, so that you can enjoy the Netherlands Antilles and discover your favorite places without any worries.
When boat travel becomes available again
The future of ferry connections in the region
The governments of Aruba and Curaçao recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the aim of strengthening the regional infrastructure . This collaboration with the Dutch governments focuses on sustainable transport solutions between the islands. Although the Caribbean Fast Ferry Company does not currently offer any services, stakeholders continue to work to reintroduce reliable connections. For you as a traveler, this means that the opportunity to sail comfortably on the Caribbean waters is getting closer and closer.
Flying as a practical alternative
Until boat transports return, Z Air offers frequent flights between the islands along with other airlines. The flight time is only 30 minutes and you pay in US dollars or local currency. Don’t forget to pay the Visitor Entry Tax on departure, which is automatically included in your ticket. Blue Bird Tours & Travel can combine your flight with accommodation and tours, so that your arrival fits seamlessly with your island adventure.
Relax at the best beach resorts
After arriving in Curaçao, a range of beautiful locations await. The Avila Beach Hotel offers historic beachfront charm, while Mambo Beach is brimming with modern energy. For an exclusive experience, you can book a Resort for a day in Curacao , where you can enjoy luxurious amenities without an overnight stay. On Bonaire, you will find peace and quiet at Sorobon Beach or comfort at the Chogogo Dive & Beach Resort, both ideal for snorkelers who want to explore the underwater world directly from the beach.
Diving and nature conservation
The Bonaire National Marine Park is known worldwide for its crystal-clear waters and protected coral reefs. You can dive or snorkel at Klein Bonaire, an uninhabited island that is perfect for a day trip. Many resorts such as the Delfins Beach Resort offer diving packages including equipment. The island takes nature conservation seriously and is actively working to reduce its ecological footprint. This conscious approach guarantees that future generations will be able to admire the same unspoiled nature.
Transport and exploration on both islands
For maximum freedom, you can go to AB Car Rental or similar providers on both islands. With a rental car you can reach hidden gems such as Hòfi Sint Joris on Curaçao or the Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire, where adopted donkeys roam freely. In Aruba, explore the iconic Divi Divi trees along Eagle Beach and Palm Beach. Blue Bird will help you create an itinerary that combines transportation, accommodation, and activities, so you can experience each island to the fullest without logistical worries.
Planning your island hopping adventure
Whether you’re dreaming of a transatlantic sailing trip or just want to explore two islands, good preparation makes all the difference. Sign up for the Curaçao newsletter to receive updates on new connections and events. Please consult the Curaçao Tourist Board for up-to-date travel information. Blue Bird Tours & Travel creates personalized itineraries that include all your favorite places , from cultural city walks to adventurous diving excursions. Read more on our website to put together your dream trip.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Which beach resorts offer day passes?
Several top locations offer Resort for a day Curacao packages. The Papagayo Beach Hotel combines pool access with beach loungers, while Delfins Beach Resort caters to divers with direct access to reefs. On Bonaire, Chogogo Dive & Beach Resort offers facilities near Sorobon Beach, ideal for snorkelers. The historic Avila Beach Hotel on Curaçao has a private beach with a colonial atmosphere. Blue Bird helps you book day passes that include luxury amenities like towels, water sports, and lunch vouchers.
What are the best beaches for families in Curaçao?
For families , Mambo Beach is excellent thanks to its calm waters and nearby restaurants. Jan Thiel Bay offers protected swimming areas with pedal boat and kayak rentals. The beach at Avila Beach Hotel combines historic charm with safe shallow zones. In Aruba, Eagle Beach and Palm Beach are popular for their soft sand and life-saving amenities. Blue Bird curates itineraries that connect these favorite places with kid-friendly activities like the Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire, where kids can pet adopted donkeys.
How does the cooperation between Dutch and local governments work?
The governments of Aruba and Curaçao signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Dutch governments to improve regional infrastructure . This collaboration focuses on sustainable transport and reducing the ecological footprint. Projects include reintroduction of ferry connections and improvement of port facilities. For travelers, this means easier access between islands in the future. Blue Bird monitors these developments and adjusts travel information as new connections become available, so that you benefit from improved infrastructure during your island hopping adventure.
Which nature reserves are protected on Bonaire?
The Bonaire National Marine Park encompasses all coastal waters up to 60 meters depth and protects coral reefs recognized worldwide for biodiversity. Klein Bonaire, an uninhabited island off the west coast, falls under this protection and is only accessible by boat. The Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire offers safe haven to adopted donkeys in a natural habitat. Hòfi Sint Joris in Curaçao combines cultural history with nature conservation. Blue Bird organizes eco-tours that respectfully explore these areas, with local guides explaining how islands minimize their ecological footprint .
What are the options for a sailing trip between islands?
Although the Caribbean Fast Ferry Company is not currently operating, you can charter a private boat with captain for tailor-made sailing trips. Some operators offer transatlantic sailing segments where you visit multiple islands. These charters let you stay overnight on Klein Bonaire or explore the Caribbean at your own pace. Costs vary depending on duration and season. Blue Bird connects you with reliable charter companies that meet safety standards and can combine sailing trips with land-based accommodation.
Which cultural sites should I not miss?
Hòfi Sint Joris in Curaçao showcases colonial plantation architecture with tours of renovated buildings. The Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire combines animal welfare with the history of transport animals on the islands. In Willemstad, you’ll explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites with pastel-colored facades along the harbor. The Divi Divi tree symbol in Aruba tells stories of trade winds that shaped nature. Blue Bird’s cultural tours are led by locals who share hidden history, from the Netherlands Antilles period to contemporary Caribbean identity, for a deeper understanding of your destination.
What practical matters do I need to arrange before arrival?
Upon arrival you pay the Visitor Entry Tax, usually processed in airline tickets but sometimes separately at ports. Payments are made in U.S. dollars or local currency at most amenities. For transportation, AB Car Rental will arrange pick-up service at airports. Blue Bird’s platform integrates these practical elements into your booking confirmation with clear instructions. Email messages contain all documents and contact details. Sign up for the Curaçao newsletter through the Curaçao Tourist Board for updates on regulations and events during your stay.
Which airlines connect the islands?
Divi Divi Air offers daily flights between Bonaire, Curaçao and Aruba with propeller-driven planes that allow for beautiful aerial views. Z Air maintains similar routes with flexible schedules. Flight times are 20-30 minutes between islands, ideal for efficient island hopping. Tickets can be booked in US dollars with Visitor Entry Tax included. Blue Bird can combine inter-island flights with accommodation and tours for seamless transitions. Small companies offer personalized service with more generous baggage arrangements than large carriers, useful for diving equipment or beach gear.
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.
