Which itineraries include Aruba Royal Caribbean?

Why Royal Caribbean Includes Aruba in Select Itineraries

Not all Royal Caribbean cruises visit Aruba, and there are good reasons for that. Aruba’s location, distance from Florida, and the characteristics of various Royal Caribbean ships influence which itineraries can include it.

The Allure of Aruba for Royal Caribbean Cruises

Aruba is part of the ABC island trilogy—Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao—one of the most sought-after combinations in the Caribbean. Royal Caribbean selects this island for certain itineraries because of its unique atmosphere and appeal.

1. Ideal Weather Year-Round

Unlike many Caribbean islands affected by tropical storms, Aruba lies outside the hurricane belt. This makes it reliable and attractive for cruise scheduling.

2. Distinctive Landscape

While most Caribbean islands are lush and tropical, Aruba has:

• Desert scenery

• Cacti-covered hills

• Bright blue waters

• White-sand beaches

This variety makes the destination stand out in Royal Caribbean’s portfolio.

3. Long Shore Excursion Windows

Royal Caribbean prefers ports like Aruba because ships can dock for extended hours, sometimes until late evening, making it ideal for:

• Sunset beach outings

• Romantic dinners

• Nightlife excursions

• Full-day adventures

4. Perfect for Adventure Seekers

Aruba offers shore excursions such as:

• Off-roading

• Cave exploration

• Snorkeling in shipwreck sites

• Catamaran cruises

These align well with Royal Caribbean’s focus on active, family-friendly experiences.

5. Aruba’s Global Traveler Appeal

Aruba attracts tourists from North America, Europe, and South America. Including Aruba in itineraries increases cruise demand.

Which Itineraries Include Aruba Royal Caribbean?

Aruba is mostly included in Southern Caribbean itineraries because of its location near the northern coast of South America. These routes typically require a longer travel time, which is why Royal Caribbean features Aruba in cruises that are 7 nights, 8 nights, 9 nights, 10 nights, 11 nights, or more.

Below is a complete breakdown of the ship classes and itineraries most likely to include Aruba.

1. Southern Caribbean Itineraries (Most Common Aruba Routes)

Southern Caribbean routes are the primary category where Aruba appears. These itineraries often include two or all three ABC islands.

Royal Caribbean ships that commonly feature Aruba in Southern Caribbean sailings include:

Ships That Frequently Visit Aruba

• Explorer of the Seas

• Rhapsody of the Seas

• Vision of the Seas

• Adventure of the Seas

• Jewel of the Seas

These ships sail longer itineraries that comfortably travel further south.

Typical Southern Caribbean Route Including Aruba

A common 7–10 night itinerary may include:

• Aruba (Oranjestad)

• Curaçao (Willemstad)

• Bonaire (Kralendijk)

• St. Lucia

• Barbados

• St. Kitts

Ships usually depart from:

• Miami

• Fort Lauderdale

• Tampa

• San Juan (a major Southern Caribbean hub)

2. Aruba on Eastern/Southern Combination Itineraries

Some Royal Caribbean itineraries combine Eastern and Southern Caribbean destinations, offering stops like:

• St. Maarten

• St. Thomas

• Curaçao

• Aruba

These extended routes appear on 9-, 10-, or 11-night sailings.

Ships offering hybrid itineraries include:

• Jewel of the Seas

• Explorer of the Seas

• Adventure of the Seas

These routes are ideal for travelers wanting a broader Caribbean experience.

3. Special Seasonal Repositioning Itineraries

During repositioning between homeports, Royal Caribbean sometimes includes Aruba as part of specially designed itineraries.

For example:

• When moving a ship from the U.S. to South America

• When transitioning from summer to winter cruise seasons

• When redeploying vessels to operate new Caribbean routes

These repositioning cruises often include:

• Aruba

• Panama Canal-adjacent ports

• South American spots

• Expanded Southern Caribbean stops

4. Long Voyages and Ultimate Caribbean Collections

Royal Caribbean occasionally launches premium-length itineraries like:

• 12-night Southern Caribbean

• 14-night Ultimate Caribbean

• Holiday sailings

Aruba is frequently included because ships have more time to reach the southern region.

Detailed Look at Aruba Port Stops on Royal Caribbean Cruises

Aruba is more than just a beach destination. Its port, Oranjestad, is colorful, lively, and full of Dutch-Caribbean charm.

What to Expect When Your Royal Caribbean Ship Arrives in Aruba

Ships typically dock directly in Oranjestad, allowing passengers to step right into:

• Restaurants

• Shops

• Beaches

• Museums

• Excursion meeting points

1. Aruba’s Cruise Dock Convenience

The dock is only a short walk from downtown. No tender boats needed.

2. Extended Time in Port

Many Royal Caribbean itineraries give guests 8–12 hours in Aruba, allowing:

• Morning beach trips

• Afternoon water sports

• Evening dining and nightlife

3. Shore Excursions Offered by Royal Caribbean

Aruba shore excursions commonly include:

• Snorkeling at Antilla Shipwreck

• ATV and UTV desert rides

• Explore Arikok National Park

• Eagle Beach and Palm Beach packages

• Catamaran adventures

• Sunset cruises

4. Aruba Beaches Popular with Royal Caribbean Guests

• Eagle Beach — top-rated, wide beachfront

• Palm Beach — calm waters, bars, and resorts

• Baby Beach — shallow waters perfect for snorkeling

• Arashi Beach — low crowds, great water clarity

Why Travelers Choose Royal Caribbean Cruises That Visit Aruba

Choosing an itinerary that includes Aruba isn’t just about visiting another island—it’s about adding a unique Caribbean flavor to your vacation.

Top Reasons Passengers Love Aruba on Royal Caribbean Itineraries

1. Unique Dutch-Caribbean Culture

Guests experience:

• Colorful Dutch architecture

• Caribbean food

• European influence

• Friendly locals

2. Crystal-Clear Waters Perfect for Snorkeling

Aruba’s marine visibility makes it ideal for:

• Wreck snorkel tours

• Turtle sightings

• Underwater photography

3. Arikok National Park Adventures

Unlike many cruise ports, Aruba offers desert exploration:

• Rock formations

• Natural pools

• Caves

• Wildlife

4. Shopping and Dining in Oranjestad

Cruisers enjoy:

• Jewelry shops

• Boutiques

• Dutch treats

• Island cuisine

5. Consistent Weather

Aruba’s dry climate means cruise stops rarely face cancellations due to storms.

Tips for Choosing the Best Royal Caribbean Itinerary That Includes Aruba

With various Royal Caribbean routes visiting Aruba, here are expert tips for choosing the perfect cruise.

1. Pick Southern Caribbean Itineraries for Guaranteed Aruba Stops

These routes almost always include Aruba, often paired with Curaçao and Bonaire.

2. Choose Longer Itineraries for Maximum Value

9–11 night sailings allow:

• More island time

• More excursions

• A relaxed pace

3. Depart from San Juan If You Want More Island Stops

From Puerto Rico, ships reach Aruba faster, meaning more port-heavy itineraries.

4. Look for ABC Island Routes

These offer the classic Caribbean trifecta:

• Aruba

• Bonaire

• Curaçao

5. Consider Ship Size and Style

• Vision and Radiance Class → great for quieter, scenic routes

• Voyager Class → more onboard activities

6. Book Balcony Cabins for Southern Caribbean Routes

Views approaching Aruba are breathtaking—turquoise water and desert scenery.

7. Travel in Winter or Early Spring

Weather is ideal, and seas are smoother.

Example Itinerary Formats You’ll See for Aruba Cruises

To give you an idea of what Royal Caribbean Aruba-including itineraries look like, here are realistic examples (generalized and not referencing any schedules).

Example 1: 7-Night Southern Caribbean (San Juan Departure)

• Day 1 – Depart San Juan

• Day 2 – Sea Day

• Day 3 – Aruba

• Day 4 – Curaçao

• Day 5 – Bonaire

• Day 6 – Sea Day

• Day 7 – St. Kitts

• Day 8 – Return to San Juan

Example 2: 10-Night Southern Caribbean (Florida Departure)

• Aruba

• Curaçao

• St. Lucia

• Barbados

• St. Maarten

• Two sea days at beginning and end

Example 3: 11-Night Ultimate Caribbean

• Aruba

• Bonaire

• Curaçao

• Antigua

• St. Croix

• St. Thomas