Holland America Line Caribbean: 17 nights from with Zuiderdam
Dec 6, 2025

Grand Turk

Grand Turk may be small, but it is full of scenic flair and historical charm. An outpost to explore an enchanted island, dotted with old windmills, grassy trails and perfect beaches.

Grand Turk, the capital of the Turks and Caicos Islands, is a small island brimming with Caribbean charm, maintaining the look and feel of the Caribbean 40 years ago. Grand Turk was founded about three centuries ago and having been English it is surrounded by typically colonial, colorful houses that make the island a treasure to visit. It is recognized as one of the first places in the new world where Christopher Columbus stopped and also gained the attention of the whole world when John Glenn landed near Grand Turk on his historic first mission in space. Inland there are many attractions to explore such as the old prison, the lighthouse Park and the salt pan, the true beauty of the island is found underwater. Grand Turk is world famous for its healthy and beautiful coral reef that surrounds the island, extends almost to the 7,000-foot vertical wall off the coast.

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.

Charlotte Amalie

Charlotte Amalie, located on the island of Thomas, is the capital of the US Virgin Islands. It was founded in 1666 by Danish settlers and was named after Queen Charlotte Amalia, wife of King Christian V of Denmark. In the past, it was a lively trading center for pirates and sailors in the area. The culture of Charlotte Amalie is a mix of African, European and Caribbean vibes. The architecture showcases its Danish colonial past with colorful buildings and cobblestone streets.

Traditional music, dance and festivals are an important part of city life. A famous local legend concerns the "Three Queens of St. Thomas", three slave women who led a rebellion against Danish colonial rule in 1878.

This myth is a symbol of resistance and pride for the community and is celebrated in various cultural events around the country. The city has a number of historical places such as Fort Christian, the oldest building in the US Virgin Islands, built in 1671. Other notable places are Blackbeard's Castle and the 99 steps, a staircase made with bricks brought from Danish ships. Charlotte Amalie is surrounded by beautiful beaches, clear waters and tropical forests. The most famous beaches are Magens Bay and Lindbergh Bay. The city is known for duty-free shopping, which offers everything from jewelry to local handicrafts. The lively Market Square is perfect for experiencing a day of unbridled shopping.

The food in Charlotte Amalie is a tasty mix of Caribbean flavors, with African, Danish, and American influences. Fish is a central element in local cuisine, and one of the area's dishes is fish and fungi. This is a cornmeal dish similar to polenta, usually served with fried or stewed fish, seasoned with local spices. This dish highlights the mix of cultures and ingredients on the island. Charlotte Amalie is a major Caribbean cruise port. The port welcomes a lot of cruise ships, offering passengers the opportunity to explore the city's historical sites, reach the beaches, and go shopping. Cruises departing from or stopping in Charlotte Amalie often include itineraries in the Caribbean, where it is possible to visit places like St. John, St. Croix, and Tortola. These cruises are a great way to see the natural beauty and learn about the culture of the Caribbean.

Half Moon Cay

Half Moon Cay

Curacao

Curacao, located in the heart of the Dutch Antilles, is an island that fascinates visitors with its rich history, turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. This unique destination offers a perfect mix of culture, adventure and relaxation, making it ideal for those looking for a different vacation. Cruises to Curacao allow you to enjoy this wonderful island in all its beauty, offering travelers the opportunity to discover a Caribbean paradise where local hospitality meets breathtaking landscapes.

The island of Curacao is famous for its colorful and lively cities, where Dutch colonial architecture mixes with Caribbean and Latin American influences, creating a unique and welcoming atmosphere. Willemstad, the capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and enchants with its historic pastel-colored buildings that are reflected in the calm waters of the harbor. Exploring the city center offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture, discover craft markets and savor Creole cuisine that blends African, European and Asian flavors.

In addition to its fascinating urban culture, Curacao invites you to discover its natural resources. The island is surrounded by a coral reef accessible directly from the beach, making it a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The crystal clear waters hide an underwater world rich in biodiversity, with colorful corals and a variety of marine life that makes every dive an unforgettable experience. For those seeking terrestrial adventures, Christoffel National Park offers hiking trails through desert landscapes and endemic flora and fauna.

Opting for a cruise that stops in Curacao means choosing a journey that perfectly combines relaxation, discovery and adventure. The island, with its sober but charming style, promises to give its visitors unforgettable moments, between unspoiled nature, fascinating history and vibrant cultures, making every stay a unique and enriching experience.

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.

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.