Ripe for Discovery

Cruise to Kralendijk, Bonaire

It's always sunny in the port of Kralendijk, Bonaire, where the daylight shines for nearly 12 hours a day on pink salt flats and turquoise seas. The coral reefs surrounding its shores are home to more than 400 species of marine life, earning the island the nickname "Diver's Paradise." For some of the best snorkeling, head to the islet of Klein Bonaire. Hop on a glass-bottomed gondola for prime undersea views — no swimming required. Explore onshore at Washington Slagbaai National Park, which covers a fifth of the island and is home to birds, lizards and donkeys. You'll also find a wealth of cultural experiences throughout the island. With its dramatic desert landscape, mangrove lagoons and unrivaled dive spots, there are exceptional things to do in Kralendijk against the stunning backdrop of the Dutch Caribbean.

National Language Dutch, Creole Papiamentu

Currency Accepted U.S. Dollar (USD)

Things To Do in Kralendijk

kralendijk bonaire marine park coral school

Chief of the Reef

On your cruise to Kralendijk, explore some of the 86 dive sites at Bonaire National Marine Park. The Hilma Hooker is among the many shipwrecks accessible on a dive, along with plenty of fish in splashes of color seen through crystal-clear waters. Pristine conditions can be attributed to decades of Bonaire's stringent environmental monitoring and protections.

Seaside Deck on Sorobon Beach in Kralendijk, Bonaire

Beach is Up

Unwind onshore or go windsurfing in the tranquil, shallow waters of Lac Bay, the largest bay in the ABC islands. A favorite location of tourists and locals alike is Sorobon Beach. The island's near-constant trade winds and bathtub-warm waters make for a windsurfer's dream. It's also fun to watch the action from shore.

Close up of Bananaquit Bird, Birdwatching, Kralendijk, Bonaire

For the Birds

Hike through Bonaire's historic plantations while mingling with parrots, parakeets and brown pelicans in Washington Slagbaai National Park. The island is a favorite of birdwatchers, with an estimated 210 species present. Bonaire is one of only four places in the world where Caribbean flamingos breed, which is why the flamingo has been named the national bird.

Local Cuisine

On your trip to Kralendijk, you'll find unusual local fare combining Spanish, Dutch and other influences. Sample keshi yena (Dutch Edam cheese stuffed with meat) and kabritu stroba, a goat stew that's the national dish. A popular treat is a half-moon-shaped meat or fish pie (pastechi). Vegetarian versions are stuffed with Gouda or Edam cheese.

Flamingo Shaped Souvenirs, Kralendijk, Bonaire

Shopping

For your fix of duty-free deals, head to Harborside Mall, just steps from the port in Kralendijk. You'll find luxury jewelry, flamingo-themed souvenirs and waterproof gear. The Bonaire Arts and Crafts Cruise Market sets up shop outdoors when ships are in port, and gives passengers the chance to browse art, handcrafts and snacks from local vendors.