Sailing in Aruba: A Nautical Adventure in the Caribbean
Aruba is a small 20nm island located in the southern Caribbean just north of the Venezuelan coast.
White sand beaches are one of the island’s primary draws. Over 300 cruise ships visit Aruba every year.
It is known for its turquoise waters, constant and often elevated trade winds.
The Allure of Aruba
Aruba’s location outside the hurricane belt means that it enjoys stable weather patterns throughout the year, with minimal risk of severe storms.
Marinas and Anchorages
1. Renaissance Marina
2. Varadero Aruba Marina and Boatyard:
3. Aruba Nautical Club: .
4. Anchorage at Spanish Lagoon:
Essential Tips for Sailing in Aruba
1. Navigation and Charts: While Aruba’s waters are generally safe for sailing, it’s crucial to have up-to-date nautical charts and GPS navigation tools – there are reefs and shoals to watch out for.
2. Weather and Wind Conditions: The trade winds blow consistently from the east, ranging from 15 to 25 knots. These winds provide excellent consistent conditions, but sailors should be prepared for gusty periods, particularly during the afternoons.
3. Customs and Regulations: Aruba is a pass through destination for international sailors, but it’s essential to clear customs and immigration upon arrival. Ensure you have all necessary documents, including passports, vessel registration, and proof of insurance.
4. Safety and Preparedness: Always have a well-stocked first-aid kit, life jackets, and emergency communication devices on board. Familiarize yourself with local emergency contacts and procedures.
5. Respecting the Environment: Aruba’s marine ecosystem is delicate and requires protection. Follow all guidelines for waste disposal, anchoring, and reef preservation. Avoid anchoring on coral reefs and be mindful of marine life.
Activities and Attractions
1. Snorkeling and Diving: Aruba’s clear waters are good snorkeling and diving. Popular spots include the Antilla shipwreck, Arashi Reef, and the coral gardens near Mangel Halto.
2. Beach Hopping: Aruba offers plenty of opportunities for beach hopping.
3. Cultural Experiences: Explore the vibrant culture of Aruba by visiting local markets, historical sites, and museums. The Bon Bini Festival in Oranjestad plus lot’s of traditional music, dance, and cuisine.
4. Dining and Nightlife: Aruba boasts a diverse food scene, with restaurants offering everything from local Caribbean dishes to international cuisine.
5. Water Sports: Auba is a hot spot for various water sports, including windsurfing, kiteboarding, The consistent winds and calm waters make it an ideal location for these activities.
Planning Your Sailing Trip
1. Best Time to Visit: While Aruba is a year-round destination, the peak sailing season is from December to April, when the weather is slightly cooler and the winds are at their best.
2. Provisioning and Supplies: Ensure you have all necessary provisions before setting sail. Major supermarkets and local markets in Oranjestad and surrounding areas provide a wide range of food, drinks, and other essentials. As it is an Island economy the cost of living in Aruba is, on average, 16.2% higher than in United States.
MARINAS
WEATHER
Wind
Swell
PILOT CHARTS
Aruba Pilot Charts provide historic points and aggregated information of wind flows, air and ocean temperatures, wave heights, rain, barometric weight, and climate conditions at various seasons. This data was acquired from oceanographic and meteorologic perceptions over hundreds of years starting in the late eighteenth century. These diagrams are planned to help mariners choose routes around and approaching Cuba with respect to the normal climate and sea conditions using prevailing seasonal wind information.
PORTS OF ENTRY
Clearance Procedure
Aruba has different procedure for clearing in and out as other islands in the Caribbean: At arrival, all vessels are required to go to an official port of entry first! The vessel will have to be cleared both by Immigration and by Customs.
For your convenience you can print and fill in the necessary clearance forms (three copies for Immigration, two copies for Customs).
Skippers and crew can initially stay 30 days. For yacht crew this can be extended to two times 90 days. 180 days per year maximum. Yachts can stay on the island up to 180 days. After this they will need to be imported. Exception: Yachts in dry storage at Varadero Aruba. While in storage the 180-day count is stopped.
For the latest information and travel advisory update from the Aruba Tourism Authority regarding the measures visit Aruba.com
Immigration
First clear with immigration then go to Customs.
When clearing in there is one point to keep in mind: We suggest that you ask immigration for a longer period then you intend to stay. Should your plans change you will not have to spend time to get an extension.
Visa requirements: None for citizens of the USA, Canada or the EC. Other nationalities download entry requirements.
Although Aruba is part of the Netherlands, visa for the Netherlands Antilles are not valid for Aruba.
Visa Requirements
None for citizens of the USA, Canada or the EU. Other nationalities please download: http://www.aruba.com/sigma/Entry_Req-Eng.pdf .
Visas must be specifically for Aruba. Visas for the Netherlands Antilles or the Netherlands are not valid for Aruba.
Visitors can stay up to a total of 180 days per year in Aruba but might get limited in to how long for each stay depending on the nationality. A vessel can stay 180 days in Aruba.
Customs
None for citizens of the USA, Canada or the EU. Other nationalities please download: http://www.aruba.com/sigma/Entry_Req-Eng.pdf .
For people requiring a visa: Visa must be specifically for Aruba. Even though Aruba is part of the Netherlands, visa for the Netherlands Antilles or the Netherlands are not valid for Aruba.
Visitors can stay up to a total of 180 days per year in Aruba but might get limited in to how long for each stay depending on the nationality. A vessel can stay 180 days in Aruba.
Pets
Require a certificate of health from your last port of call not older then 30 days.
Anchoring Permit
In Curacao an anchoring permit is required if you want to anchor outside of Spanish water.
In Aruba there is no permit required. If you are anchored in a less frequented anchorage the Coast guard will probably pay you a visit, just because you are doing something different.
Clearing in Barcadera harbor
DOCUMENTS
MUST SEE
- Arikok National Park
- Location: 12°30.148′ N 69°58.908′ W
- Description: Arikok National Park covers nearly 20% of Aruba, offering rugged landscapes, limestone cliffs, and ancient cave paintings. It’s home to diverse flora and fauna, including the island’s iconic divi-divi trees and the Aruban whiptail lizard. Visitors can hike to natural attractions like the Natural Pool and Fontein Cave, making it a must-see for nature enthusiasts.
- California Lighthouse
- Location: 12°36.902′ N 70°03.626′ W
- Description: The California Lighthouse stands on the island’s northwestern tip, offering panoramic views of the coastline and nearby sand dunes. Named after the S.S. California, a shipwrecked vessel off Aruba’s coast, the lighthouse is a popular spot for sunset views and exploring the island’s rugged northern landscape.
- Eagle Beach
- Location: 12°32.823′ N 70°03.967′ W
- Description: Eagle Beach is one of Aruba’s most famous beaches, known for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. It is also home to two of the island’s iconic Fofoti trees, which have become a symbol of Aruba. The beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water sports.
- Alto Vista Chapel
- Location: 12°34.202′ N 70°01.695′ W
- Description: The Alto Vista Chapel is Aruba’s oldest Catholic chapel, built in 1750 by Spanish missionaries. Located on a hill overlooking the sea, it offers a serene setting for reflection and is surrounded by a peaceful countryside. The winding road to the chapel is lined with white crosses, adding to its spiritual atmosphere.
- Natural Bridge
- Location: 12°33.994′ N 69°58.869′ W
- Description: The Natural Bridge was once one of Aruba’s most famous landmarks, formed by the relentless pounding of waves against limestone cliffs. Though the original bridge collapsed in 2005, its remnants still attract visitors, and the nearby Baby Bridge offers a glimpse of the island’s rugged natural beauty.
REPAIRS AND SERVICE PROVIDERS
Supplies & Services in Aruba
Chandleries
- East Wind Marine Services: Located at Wind Creek Marina, Oranjestad.
- Budget Marine: Located in Balashi.
- Boaters Paradise: Located in Cumana.
Hardware Stores
- Do-it: On the main road from Oranjestad to the airport.
- Wema: Various locations, largest in Ponton.
- Kooyman: In Cumana.
Fuel and Gas
- Wind Creek Marina: Diesel at fuel dock or truck delivery.
- Aruba Nautical Club: Diesel and Gasoline.
- Varadero Aruba: Truck delivery available.
Fuel prices are government-regulated. Propane is available at Arugas in Barcadera, with additional drop-off services at Wind Creek Marina and Varadero Aruba.
Provisioning
- Price Smart: Warehouse supermarket (day passes available).
- Kong Hing: Located in Oranjestad.
- Ling and Sons Supermarket and Superfood Supermarket: NW of Oranjestad.
Laundromats
- Aruba Laundry: Kerkstraat.
- Euro Laundry: Boulevard near the harbor.
- Oranjestad Laundry.
- Wind Creek Marina and Varadero Aruba: Drop-off/pick-up service.
Waste Disposal
Trash disposal at Wind Creek Marina and Varadero Caribe. For waste oil and batteries, contact Wind Creek Marina or Varadero Aruba.
EMERGENCIES AND SAR INFO
