Experience a captivating excursion to Baru Island and snorkel within the Rosario and San Bernardo Corals National Natural Park. Beginning with a short walk to the pier, you’ll board a boat for the 35-minute ride to Baru Island. During the boat ride, marvel at the modern skyline of Cartagena and enjoy a panoramic view of the historic forts of San Jose and San Fernando in Bocachica, both crucial defenses against pirate attacks. Arriving at Baru Island, nestled within the spectacular Rosario and San Bernardo Corals National Natural Park, prepare for an exhilarating snorkeling adventure. Immerse yourself in the warm, brilliantly blue waters with vibrant coral formations and marine life. After your underwater exploration, enjoy a snack aboard the boat, featuring fresh fruits, sandwiches, and sodas. Sail back to Cartagena, taking in the breathtaking views, and conclude this journey with a short walk back to the ship.

With this tour you will have the opportunity to discover two highlights of Curacao, the Hato Caves and the famous City Center, which is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.  After a short drive, you will arrive at the impressive Hato Caves. It is home to beautiful limestone formations, the famous Madonna statue, and a colony of seldom seen long nose fruit bats. A small path will lead you to a variety of stalagmites and stalactites.  From here we drive back to the city where your walk through the city center will start. First you will visit the Curacao marketplace where the local people buy their food and ingredients. After this, you will pass by Curacao's former floating fruit & vegetable market, where Venezuelan schooners used to sell their products from their boats. Your last stop will be Fort Amsterdam, home to the governor of the Netherlands Antilles.  This fort was constructed in 1634 and served as the military fort and headquarters for the Dutch West India Company (WIC).  Afterwards, you'll pass the beautifully colored merchant houses on the quay of the harbor entrance on your way back to the ship. These houses provide a fantastic photo opportunity.

Please note: we recommend you wear walking shoes and bring a hat and sunscreen.

Explore Willemstad architecture, pastel-colored buildings, and ornate facades on a guided walking tour of the historic city. The Curacao city center is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers many great photo opportunities.  Your guided walking tour begins at the ship.  After a short walk to the city center, you will pass the main square.  From here, we will walk to the Hotel Kura Hulanda, which is one of the most well-known hotels in the Caribbean.  The hotel utilizes restored buildings and is situated right on the Harbor of Willemstad.  The old labor houses have been transformed into 5-star suites, giving this hotel a historic and luxurious feel.  After your hotel visit, you will walk towards the famous floating bridge that connects both sides of the city with each other.  From here, you'll cross the waterway and head to Willemstad's historic downtown district.  See Fort Amsterdam, finished in 1635 this fort is now home to the governor.  A beautiful church sits in the rear of the courtyard and various government buildings and old fortifications can still be seen amongst the seaside cafes and shops.  Continue along Main Street, passing the former floating market where fresh fruits and vegetables were brought from Venezuela by schooner. Your knowledgeable guide offers island history and provides commentary throughout your tour.  From the city center, you will have the ability to walk back to the ship, or you can stay in the city center and return at your leisure.

Please note: we recommend you wear walking shoes and bring a hat and sunscreen.