Safe beaches in port for solo female?

[Hydro ergo]

Hi All,

 

I have a cruise booked for the week of Thanksgiving on Princess stopping in Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao. Long story short, my travel partner isn't able to make the cruise any longer. So, I am trying to decide what to do. I would like to still go, but I am wondering if I will be unable to find fun and safe things to do while in port. On this thread I am asking specifically about Aruba, but any port info is helpful. I love snorkeling and beach time, but hate these types of activities as organized shore excursions. I will be in port from 8am - 10pm...lots of time, so more feedback that just beachy stuff is welcome. I am in my 30s and active, love the outdoors. I am comfortable traveling on my own, have done so in many large cities, but always like to make sure that I'm not doing anything stupid!

 

Thanks so much for your help!

[KenNMB]

ABC Islands are very safe.

In Aruba, take a bus/cab to Eagle Beach or (further) to Palm Beach, or the other direction to Baby Beach. Beaches are great, all public, and safe. Many restaurants and bars. You sound smart, don't get stupid, and you'll have a good time. Try a Balashi!

 

 

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[Hydro ergo]

Thanks Ken, I appreciate the feedback. I will check out the beaches you mentioned!

Happy sailing!

[Hlitner]

Eagle and Palm are certainly the most popular (and safe) beaches....but neither are particularly good for snorkeling since they both have sandy bottoms. The only two half decent snorkeling beaches are Arashi ( or nearby Boca Catalina) which afford beach access to an offshore reef (its a pretty long swim)...or Baby Beach (at a part of the island more difficult to get to....for a solo).

 

Hank

[cb at sea]

You will NOT be the only cruiser on the beaches! you will notice many others from your ship...look at the towels! You might be "by yourself", but you will NOT be "alone"! Aruba is safe.

[VACARITraveler]

Snorkeling in Bonaire is spectacular, do some research and you can find vendors who take you by boat to Klein Bonaire to the coral reefs (it's close by, you actually are near the cruise ship and can see it from the snorkeling area). They do fill up so reservations are needed. The vendor we use was a 5 minute walk from the ship dock.

 

 

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[OCruisers]

You might also want to consider a catamaran excursion for Aruba if snorkeling is important to you. If you don't want to do it thru the ship there are independents offering these. :)