Explora Journeys Caribbean: 7 nights from San Juan with Explora II
Mar 26, 2026

Kralendijk

Kralendijk is the capital of the island of Bonaire in the Dutch Antilles, located in the Caribbean Sea off the coast of Venezuela. Surrounded by a coral reef that makes its fame worldwide, the city has a rich cultural heritage that attracts many tourists every year, thanks to its rich flora and fauna. The island of Bonaire was discovered by Alonso de Ojeda and Amerigo Vespucci in 1499, it was then part of Spanish territory. Then, in 1633, it was the turn of the Dutch to own the island. Subsequently, the Dutch Antilles became French, in 1805, after the conquest of Napoleon. In 1816, following the Treaty of Paris, it was returned to the hands of the Dutch. The abolition of slavery date occurred in 1863. Almost a century later, in 1943, Flamingo International Airport was built, promoting the development of the island. Bonaire obtained its independence on October 10, 2010. The boomerang-shaped port is full of cruise ships that stop to allow a visit to tourists. The city of Kralendijk offers paved roads with some shops, restaurants, and bars on the waterfront. Nearby is Fort Orange, built in 1639 to defend Bonaire's main port. The center of Kralendijk is the ideal place for shopping, shops are generally open from 8 am to noon and from 2 pm to 6 pm. This place is much quieter and more relaxed than the other ports in the Dutch Antilles. The splendid Bonaire National Park is considered one of the best diving destinations in the Caribbean, while Washington-Slagbaai Park in Brandaris is the highest point on the island. Other popular sites to see are the salt pyramids and the Willemstoren lighthouse.

Willemstad

Capital of the Dutch Antilles and largest city on the island of Curacao, this town, a large and small city at the same time, is full of life and attractions for all tastes.

The vibrant capital of Curacao is a welcoming, cheerful destination, with two distinct historic districts, divided by the beautiful bay of St. Anna. Punda, site of narrow, clean streets, is packed with shops and museums. Otrobanda, or "The Other Side", is a labyrinth of residential streets, in contrast to the organized grid throughout the bay. The colorful colonial architecture of Willemstad has been named a UNESCO heritage site. Diving and swimming with dolphins are popular and highly sought-after activities throughout the bay.

Aruba

Aruba stands as one of the most fascinating destinations in the Dutch Antilles, a true paradise for lovers of the sea, nature and culture. This Caribbean island, with its white beaches, crystal clear waters and always sunny climate, offers an ideal setting for an unforgettable vacation. Cruises to Aruba allow you to embrace the beauty of the island in a unique way, combining the luxury and comfort of cruise life with the adventure of terrestrial explorations rich in discoveries.

The nature of Aruba invites you to be explored. The island boasts a variety of landscapes ranging from the quiet beaches of Palm Beach and Eagle Beach, ideal for relaxation and water sports, to the wild heart of Arikok National Park. The latter offers adventurers the opportunity to discover mysterious caves, unique rock formations and a biodiversity that testifies to the uniqueness of the island's ecosystem. The local fauna and flora, together with the breathtaking views that open from its hills, make Aruba a place to be explored in depth.

In addition to the natural wonders, Aruba is rich in culture and history. Oranjestad, the colorful and lively capital, tells stories of a colonial past through its Dutch architecture, museums and local markets. The city is a crossroads of flavors, colors and sounds, where local traditions blend with external influences creating a unique atmosphere. Here, visitors can enjoy Creole cuisine, admire local handicrafts and immerse themselves in the traditions of an island that, despite its small size, has a lot to offer.

Opting for a cruise that includes Aruba in its itinerary means choosing a travel experience that satisfies both the desire for adventure and relaxation. Aruba, with its sober and welcoming style, promises a stay full of emotions, unforgettable landscapes and moments of pure pleasure, making each visit a precious chapter in every traveler's diary.

Gustavia

Gustavia is the capital of Saint Barthélemy, a Caribbean island that combines French charm with tropical warmth. During a cruise ship stop, there are many exciting activities to do and places to explore.

Start your visit with a walk through the center of Gustavia, where you can admire the colorful colonial-style houses, shop in luxury boutiques and enjoy local cuisine in fine restaurants and cafes. The port of Gustavia is also an ideal place for a relaxing walk, with breathtaking views of the boats and yachts moored there.

The island's history is well represented by Fort Gustav, which offers a panoramic view of the city and the harbor. The fort is a great place to take photos and learn about the colonial history of Saint Barthélemy.

For sea lovers, there are several nearby beaches that are worth visiting. Shell Beach, a short walk from the center, is perfect for swimming and relaxing. If you prefer a more adventurous experience, you can go snorkeling or scuba diving in the crystal clear waters around the island, exploring the rich marine life and coral reefs.

A visit to the many art galleries and museums in Gustavia cannot be missed, where you can discover local art and culture. Finally, end your day with a romantic dinner in one of the restaurants overlooking the sea, savoring French and Caribbean cuisine while the sun sets on the horizon.

In summary, Gustavia offers a perfect combination of history, culture, shopping, nature and relaxation, making your cruise stop an unforgettable experience.

San Juan

One of the largest islands in the eastern Caribbean, Puerto Rico's panorama includes mountains, caves, coral reefs, white sand beaches and an incredibly lush rainforest.

San Juan is the oldest city under the rule of the United States. San Juan is located in the northeast of Puerto Rico and features distinctly a century-old architecture, such as Spanish military fortresses built from 1540 to 1800, an active port, and a very active economic zone in the Hato Rey district. San Juan has magnificent beaches, hotels, squares, historical sites, and museums. San Juan is a Latin American city with Spanish culture mixed with African and Taíno traditions with American influence. The citizens of San Juan are very festive, as in the rest of the island.