Klein Curacao Full-Day Boat Trip with Breakfast and Lunch

Spanish Water and the crossing

The day starts early at Spanish Water, a large sheltered lagoon on the south-east coast of Curaçao surrounded by green hills, marinas and fishermen's boats. Boarding is at 6:45 am at the Fishermen's Pier, where the crew welcomes you with a warm cup of coffee or tea before the boat heads out to open sea.

Klein Curaçao lies about 15 miles off the south-eastern point of Curaçao, and the crossing takes around two hours. The early start means you see the sun climb over the Caribbean and arrive while the island is still quiet. As the boat approaches, the lighthouse and the rusty shipwreck appear on the horizon, followed by a few fishermen's huts and an endless strip of white sand.

Klein Curaçao beaches and the beach house

Klein Curaçao, Dutch for Little Curaçao, is a low, wind-swept island of coral and sand of less than two square kilometres, without permanent inhabitants. Its west side is lined with brilliant white beaches and impossibly clear turquoise water, sheltered from the trade winds, while sea turtles come ashore to nest on its quiet sands.

Guests have exclusive access to a beach house with a large thatched-roof patio, restrooms, picnic benches and shaded palapas with beach chairs, a welcome shelter from the strong sun. Breakfast is served on arrival, and at midday the crew prepares a barbecue lunch with chicken, beef burgers, corn, salads and fresh fruit. There is even a beach volleyball court, and a massage can be booked on the spot.

The lighthouse and the shipwreck

The island's best-known landmark is its old lighthouse, standing alone in the low scrub with its faded pink walls. First built in the nineteenth century to warn ships of the dangerous reef, it is now a picturesque ruin and the favourite photo spot of every Klein Curaçao day trip. It is an easy walk across the flat island from the beach house.

On the rougher windward shore, waves crash against coral rubble and the remains of ships that ran aground here, including the large rusting hull seen from the boat. A walking-tour booklet included in the trip explains the island's history and points of interest. Wear sturdy shoes, a hat and sunscreen, as there is little shade on the walk.

Snorkelling and diving on the reef

For snorkellers and divers, Klein Curaçao is one of the best spots in the region, with beautiful coral formations, a vertical drop-off and a couple of underwater caves. Snorkel masks are provided free of charge, so you can swim straight from the beach over the reef and see tropical fish, coral and often sea turtles.

Scuba diving is available for an extra fee, with options for different levels of experience; ask us when you book and we arrange the details. The best time to snorkel at Klein Curaçao is in the morning, when the sea is calmest and the light is clear. Is Klein Curaçao worth visiting? For anyone who loves clear water and untouched beaches, it is one of the highlights of a trip to Curaçao.