Would like to see town in AM and then head to beach to snorkel - advice?

[tbmrt]

So undecided with so much to do in Curacao! We will be there on a Sunday from 8-6pm.

 

We were going to Porte Marie for its supposed great snorkling, but think it might be too far (and we'd be too tired!) to come back to see the shops, etc.

 

Would like to go to a nearby beach with good snorkeling, come back to ship to eat/shower and then do walking tour/shop.

 

What beach would be best for this?

 

Thanks

Barbara

[Isa65]

Unfortunately there is no nearby beach with good snorkeling.

 

The beaches that are nearest to the pier are - Sonesta public beach, Pirates Bay, Blue Bay, Avila beach hotel and then the beaches at Seaquarium. None of them have really good snorkeling.

 

Going to Porto Marie, Cas Abou, Lagun Beach is doable since you have so much time in port.

[cruiseapril]

Isa- Unless things have changed in the past few years, the snorkeling at Blue Bay was good. Blue Bay had snorkel equipment and lessons at that time- have things changed?

[Isa65]

There are still snorkel equipment for rent at Blue Bay. You will still see underwater life of course, but further West when the beaches have more coral there will always be more to see.

 

For guests who don't have lots of time in port to visit the Western beaches, Blue Bay is a good alternative.

[CarnieAddict]

How long does it take to get to a western beach from the ports?

[Isa65]

How long does it take to get to a western beach from the ports?

 

By car (taxi) anywhere between 20 - 40 minutes, depending on traffic.

[Shutterbug999]

I totally agree with what's been said - go to Porto Marie - you can rent any snorkel gear there - they have fresh water showers - so you can go straight out again sightseeing - there is a map of the reef of the dive shop wall

Great sightseeing on teh way to Porto marie - do stop at Nena Snachez gallery - lovely old Landhuis - free entry - do go upstairs and see the way they were set out in olden times - you may even see a flamingo or 2 at teh salt pans