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On foot
Kralendijk is compact and colorful. Step off the pier and you are right among the shops, restaurants and the waterfront. Perfect if you want to take it easy or just look around.
Cruise guide
Cruise day on Bonaire?
Your ship docks in Kralendijk and you have one beautiful day. Here is how to explore the island, what to do, where the beaches are and which ship arrives when.
The short version
The cruise pier sits right in colorful Kralendijk, a short walk from downtown. Bonaire is famous for shore snorkeling and diving, quiet beaches and striking nature. With a golf cart, taxi or rental car you are quickly at the best spots.
How to get around Bonaire
Five ways to explore from the pier.
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Golf cart
The most fun way to explore the island. Several rental companies operate in and around Kralendijk, within walking distance of the pier. On busy cruise days demand is high, so book ahead if you want to be sure.
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Taxi
Taxis wait at the pier and work on fixed rates rather than a meter, so agree the price up front. Ideal for a direct ride to a beach or dive site and back.
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Rental car
For exploring further afield, like the nature in the north or the salt pans in the south. Rental companies operate at the airport and in Kralendijk. On a busy cruise day, booking ahead is wise.
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Water taxi to Klein Bonaire
From the waterfront, a water taxi runs to Klein Bonaire, an uninhabited islet with white sand and excellent snorkeling. Check the last return crossing so you are back at your ship in good time.
What to do in one day
Plenty to choose from, even with limited time ashore.
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Shore snorkeling & diving
Bonaire is world-famous as a dive destination. The coral reef often starts right off the shore, so snorkelers see plenty too. Mind the mandatory nature fee (see tips below) and never touch the coral.
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Klein Bonaire
The uninhabited islet just offshore has white sand and clear water. The water taxi from the waterfront gets you there in minutes. Bring water and shade, there are no facilities.
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Flamingos & salt pans
In the south lie the pink salt pans with flamingos and historic slave huts along the coast. A scenic drive by rental car or taxi. Keep your distance from the flamingos, they are shy birds.
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Explore Kralendijk
The town center is colorful and compact: local shops, galleries, waterfront terraces and views of Klein Bonaire. Ideal if you want to keep it relaxed and stay close to the ship.
Bonaire cruise ship schedule
Ships calling at Kralendijk soon. Arrival and departure times are indicative; your own cruise itinerary is leading.
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The schedule for the coming period is being updated. Check back later or consult the official port schedule.
Practical tips for your day ashore
A few things that make the difference.
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Bonaire uses US dollars
Not euros. Cards are widely accepted, but small bills in cash are handy for taxis, small markets and tips. No currency exchange needed for US travelers.
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Nature fee for the water
The coastal water is a protected marine park. Anyone snorkeling or diving pays a mandatory nature fee to STINAPA. The rate differs for divers and non-divers, check stinapa.org for the current amount.
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Reef-safe sunscreen only
Since 2021, sunscreens with oxybenzone or octinoxate are banned to protect the coral reef. Bring a reef-safe option or buy one on the island.
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Tap water is perfectly drinkable
Bonaire produces excellent drinking water from desalinated seawater. Bring a reusable bottle and refill where you can, no need to buy plastic bottles.
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Be back on board in good time
Allow extra travel time if you head further out. The roads north and south are quiet but take time. Go by your ship's all-aboard time, not the departure time.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get from the cruise ship to the beach on Bonaire?
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The cruise pier is right in the center of Kralendijk, so downtown is a short walk. For the beaches, take a taxi (fixed rates, agree the price up front), rent a golf cart or car, or hop a water taxi to Klein Bonaire. Most beaches are a short ride from the center.
Where can I rent a golf cart on Bonaire?
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Golf carts are a popular and easy way to explore Bonaire. Several rental companies operate in and around Kralendijk, within walking distance of the cruise pier. On busy cruise days demand is high, so booking ahead is wise if you want to be sure of availability.
How much time do I have on a cruise day in Bonaire?
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It depends on your ship. Most vessels are in port from morning to late afternoon, often 7 to 9 hours. Check the arrival schedule on this page or your own cruise itinerary for exact times, and be back on board well before departure.
Do I need US dollars on Bonaire?
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Yes, Bonaire uses US dollars (not euros). Many shops and restaurants accept cards, but small bills in cash are handy for taxis, small markets and tips. ATMs are available in Kralendijk. Good news for US travelers: no currency exchange needed.
Do I have to pay to snorkel or dive on Bonaire?
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Yes. All the coastal water around Bonaire is protected as the Bonaire National Marine Park. Anyone entering the water to snorkel or dive pays a mandatory nature fee to the conservation organization STINAPA. The rate differs for divers and non-divers. See stinapa.org for the current amount and where to pay.
What language do they speak on Bonaire?
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The local language is Papiamentu. Dutch is the official language, and English and Spanish are widely spoken, especially in tourism. English will get you everywhere you need to go.
Bon biahé, enjoy your day!
One day is short, but Bonaire always leaves an impression. Take your time for the water, the nature and the easy island pace.
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