When it comes to adventure and exploration, Curacao has something more to offer in addition to its natural lagoons, beautiful underwater life and hilly landscape with panoramic views. This special something is a small uninhabited island, called Klein Curacao (Dutch for Little Curacao) just 15 miles from the southern most point of Curacao. Its remote location with beautiful beach and interesting coral reef make it a popular spot for boaters and divers.

Boat trips are organized for tourists to spend the day on this little coral island and enjoy the long white sandy beach and turquoise water. On their way to the island, tourists may catch a glimpse of a school of dolphins and will have an opportunity to swim with the sea turtles once they reach Klein Curacao. By the end of the day it is easy to feel an attachment to such an island that it is hard to say goodbye.

A unique boat excursion, Zeelandia Mini Cruises, allows tourists to continue their island trip into the following day so there is no need to say goodbye just yet. The Zeelandia is the only live-aboard ship in Curacao which offers overnight cruises. It comes fully equipped with seven 2-person cabins and one 4-person cabin on the lower deck all complete with individual washroom facilities (shower, toilet), closet, beds and air-conditioning. The ship can take 18 people aboard for overnight cruises and can also hold up to 60 people for special events which can be fully adapted to guest preferences. Once a sport fishing vessel in Holland, this ‘classic lady’ has been transformed into a unique and comfortable charter ship in the waters of Curacao.

The owners of the ship, husband and wife Rob and Henriette, offer a very warm welcome and make tourists feel at home right in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. With such great service, quality and hospitality this couple adds a special touch to this mini-vacation and heightens the experience for their guests. They and their crew are always there for you, whether you need some snorkeling tips or a late snack. Their easy-going personalities and kindness transmit through the atmosphere creating a sweet home away from home and so much more!

On the 2-day all-inclusive mini-cruise to Klein Curacao, the Zeelandia departs Curacao bright and early in the morning from Piscadera Bay and smoothly travels along the southern coast of Curacao with views of downtown Willemstad and several beachfront resorts. Towards the southern point of Curacao guests get a chance to see the Fuik and Oostpunt conservation areas which are inaccessible by land. Whether you are sitting on the main deck at the cozy bar sipping on a drink (at happy hour prices) or on the top deck in the comfortable lounge, you will be surrounded by a tranquil environment with nothing but the sounds of the steady breeze and deep blue sea.

After 2-3 hours Zeelandia guests will know they are getting closer to their island paradise destination as they notice the abandoned lighthouse in the distance overlooking the long and colourful shoreline. As the ship approaches the shore, Captain Rob anchors the ship and the real excitement begins.

In contrast to other day boat trips that take many tourists to Klein Curacao, this cruise operates on days when there are little to no other visitors so Zeelandia guests essentially have the beach to themselves. This means that the tiki huts on the beach are always free to use and guests can access the beach by Zeelandia’s taxi boat or by simply swimming over. There is also the opportunity to take a dive as the ship is equipped with dive equipment and is conveniently anchored near the reef for easy access.

There is always something fun to do like snorkeling with the sea turtles, taking a dive or jumping off the boat, dancing to the music at the bar, sun tanning on the boat or beach or taking a walk to the lighthouse and shipwreck at sunset. Whatever you choose to do you will have an unforgettable experience filled with picture perfect moments. Throughout the day delicious meals and snacks are freshly prepared by Rob and Henriette and it is very probable that you will want to go back for seconds. The kitchen is always open and there are many options for meals such as vegetarian.

At the end of the day guests can settle into their private cabins, which are cooled all night long or sleep in the upper deck lounge under the millions of stars and dream of what tomorrow will bring. More adventurous guests can choose to sleep on the beach on the above-ground deck of a tiki hut or on a beach mat provided by Zeelandia. The constant breeze, starry night sky, and little to no mosquitoes make sleeping outside very appealing.

Such a good night’s rest will really re-energize the body so guests may want to continue their adventure right after breakfast the following morning. At around 3pm, the Zeelandia embarks on its journey back to Curacao and guests get a chance to relax in the lounge or at the bar and have some snacks and drinks while sharing their experiences. And as the ship re-enters Piscadera Bay, guests will feel a sense of satisfaction from getting a chance to really soak in all that Klein Curacao has to offer.

Zeelandia also offers a 4-day cruise to Klein Curacao which journeys to the west and east sides of Curacao to enjoy the beaches and coral reef and a 2-day cruise to Curacao’s west side. Day trips and theme cruises are also organized such as singles, dive and Curacao culture cruises. For overnight trips, the Zeelandia can be perfectly booked in combination with an accommodation on Curacao.

You will not want to miss out on this one-of-a-kind tropical experience for its comfortable accommodations, amazing hospitality, delicious meals, and friendly company. So come aboard the classic lady Zeelandia to experience this Caribbean home away from home.


More information about Zeelandia can be found on their website ZeelandiaCruises.com

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