A day trip to the uninhabited tropical island of Klein Curaçao. White sand, clear water, an old lighthouse and a shipwreck you can snorkel right next to. Compare the boats and prices.
Klein Curaçao is a small, uninhabited island of about 1.7 km² southeast of the main island. It is one of those places you really should see once: brilliant white sand, crystal clear turquoise water, an abandoned lighthouse on a hill and a rusted shipwreck just off the coast that you can snorkel right from the beach.
The only way to get there is by boat, and that is exactly its charm. Most boat trips take the full day, roughly 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with breakfast on board, lunch on the island and an open bar. From our villa at the Spanish Water, the departure harbours are only a 10 to 15 minute drive, meaning you do not have to get up too early and you are back home within minutes after returning.
No shops, no hotels. Just white sand, palm palapas and the sea.
Some boats include a stop at the Sea Aquarium area for snorkelling with turtles.
The wreck of the Maria Bianca Guidesman lies visible just off the coast.
Four things that set this island apart from every other beach on Curaçao.
On the highest point of the island stands an old, distinctly pink lighthouse from 1850. Today abandoned and partly decayed, but reachable via a short walk. From the top you have a unique 360 degree view over the bay and the Caribbean Sea.
Just off the coast lies the wreck of the Maria Bianca Guidesman, an Italian cargo ship that ran aground in 1985 during a storm. It rests so shallow that part of it sticks above the water and you can snorkel around it directly from the beach.
Klein Curaçao is an important nesting site for sea turtles. Especially in the morning you often see them swimming in the bay, sometimes very close. Always keep at least a few metres distance so you do not disturb them.
On the north side you find remains of several older shipwrecks, half buried in the sand. A photogenic and slightly haunting place that captures the island's history, when it saw only fishermen and stranded sailors.
On Curaçao about five major operators sail to Klein Curaçao daily. Below the main options, what they offer and starting prices. Prices are indicative, for current rates and bookings check the operator's site or via curacaoactivities.com.
Large modern catamaran with sporty sailing and excellent catering. Plenty of space on board, shaded areas and chill nets. BBQ lunch on the island included, plus an open bar.
Luxury motor yacht (Serendipity) that reaches Klein Curaçao in just 1 hour. Their own beach house on the island with shade, sun beds, toilets and shower. Includes breakfast and extensive BBQ.
Catamaran with viewing tower, own beach house with shade and great catering. Breakfast buffet, BBQ lunch and non alcoholic drinks included. Family friendly.
Catamaran with a fun, party vibe and a larger group on board. Breakfast, BBQ lunch and alcoholic drinks included. Sporty sailing, ideal for groups of friends or couples.
Super fast speedboat that reaches Klein Curaçao in 45 minutes. No seasickness because you fly over the waves. Departs only at 10:00, so you can sleep in. Suited for couples and thrill seekers.
What you need to know before booking. Prices are indicative.
The sun on the island is merciless and there is barely any shade outside the palapas. Apply generously and reapply often.
Rental available on board, but your own set fits more comfortably. The wreck just off the beach is especially worth snorkelling.
The sea between Curaçao and Klein Curaçao can be rough. Take an hour before departure for best effect.
The beach is fine white sand with no rocks. Flip flops and bare feet are fine.
Crew works for tips. Plan around USD 5-10 per person. Souvenirs on the island are cash only.
Bring only what you need. There is limited storage space both on board and on the island.
Our villa 3 Palabrua sits right on the Spanish Water in Jan Sofat. Most boats to Klein Curaçao depart from Fisherman's Wharf or Jan Thiel, just a 10 to 15 minute drive from the villa. No early departure with an hour-long transfer, just a sleep-in until 6:00 AM and straight into the pool when you get back.
The most common questions before booking a boat trip.
Plan your Curaçao days from a villa right on the water. No middleman, book directly with Jan & Wendy.
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