8 Aruba Cruise Mistakes First-Timers Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Ah, Aruba. The word alone conjures up images of sugar-white beaches, sapphire waters, and that ever-present trade wind tousling your hair like a flirtatious island breeze. But if you’re not careful, your “One Happy Island” cruise stop can turn into “One Big Travel Oops.” Don’t worry—I’ve sailed into Aruba more times than I can count (probably because I stopped counting after the third frozen mojito), and I’m here to make sure your first time is smooth sailing.

Let’s dive into the classic rookie mistakes—and how to dodge them like a local in flip-flops running for happy hour.

1. Staying Too Close to the Cruise Port

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Oranjestad’s colorful Dutch colonial buildings are adorable, sure. But many first-timers think the port area is the main show. Spoiler: it’s just the welcome mat.

What to do instead: Venture beyond the shopping strip. Rent a car (yes, they drive on the right) or hop in a taxi to Arashi Beach for tranquil turquoise waters, or explore the lesser-known Mangel Halto for epic snorkeling. The real magic is off the tourist trail—trust me, your Instagram will thank you.

2. Not Booking Shore Excursions Ahead of Time

Aruba might be small, but cruise excursions sell out faster than free samples on deck 12. I once overheard a couple at the port say, “We’ll just wing it.” Spoiler: They didn’t get wings—or anything fun, really.

Fix it: Pre-book your top picks—particularly catamaran snorkels, UTV tours through Arikok National Park, or the famed Kukoo Kunuku party bus. Bonus: Booking in advance often saves you a few bucks and guarantees your spot.

3. Forgetting to Factor in Island Time (Literally!)

Aruba doesn’t observe Daylight Saving Time. Some cruise ships do. That’s your cue for an “oops moment” when your watch says 1:30 and your ship says “Bye, Felicia” at 2:00.

Insider Tip: Always triple-check your ship’s “onboard time” vs. local time. Better yet, switch your phone to airplane mode and use a reliable wristwatch so you’re not relying on that confused time-zone-hopping smartphone. Aruba is lovely, but you don’t want an unplanned overnight stay.

4. Skipping the Lesser-Known Beaches

Everyone flocks to Palm Beach. It’s beautiful—but so is Costco, and both are full of people and no parking.

Try this instead:

• Eagle Beach: Frequently ranked among the best beaches in the world, and for good reason—it’s wide, soft, and blessedly less crowded.
• Baby Beach: Ideal for kids (and adults still learning to snorkel without drinking half the sea). Shallow, clear, and calm.
• Boca Catalina: A hidden gem for snorkeling straight from shore. Bring a waterproof camera—you’ll likely meet some curious parrotfish and maybe a sea turtle or two.

5. Wearing the Wrong Shoes on Island Adventures

I get it—you packed those bejeweled sandals “just for Aruba.” But when you’re climbing rocks at the Natural Bridge or checking out the caves in Arikok, you’ll wish you had something sturdier than beach bling.

My advice: Bring comfy, closed-toe shoes. I swear, sneakers have saved more cruise marriages than onboard couples’ trivia night.

6. Overlooking Aruba’s Culinary Scene

Resisting the urge to go back to the ship for lunch? Good. You’re ready for Aruba’s underrated culinary delights. First-timers often miss the gold mine of local cuisine because they stick close to the port or don’t know where to look.

Don’t miss:

• Zeerovers: A local favorite in Savaneta where the fish is so fresh it asked you not to eat it.
• The Dutch Pancakehouse: Trust me, you haven’t had a pancake until you’ve tried one topped with bacon, cheese, and apples. Just… go.
• Pastechi: Think of it as an Aruban empanada. Flaky, fried, filled with cheese or meat, and found at nearly every corner store or bakery.

7. Not Bringing Cash (in Small Bills!)

Aruba uses the florin, but US dollars are accepted everywhere. Still, many tourists forget to bring small denominations—and then get stuck paying $20 for a $7 cab ride because “nobody ever has change.”

Pro tip: Bring $1s and $5s for taxis, tips, and buying souvenirs like that coconut carved with your name (that you’ll proudly display for six months and then “accidentally” leave at your cousin’s house).

8. Assuming Wi-Fi Is Everywhere

Yes, Aruba has modern infrastructure. No, that doesn’t mean your phone signal will magically cooperate everywhere. Even seasoned cruisers sometimes forget that beach bars aren’t known for stellar upload speeds.

Avoid this trap: Download offline maps, save e-tickets/screenshots in advance, and let your camera roll instead of your feed. Besides, you’ll appreciate the disconnect (and so will your blood pressure).

Bonus Tips to Elevate Your Aruba Game

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• Visit the Aloe Vera Museum: Aruba has been farming aloe since 1890. The museum is small and quirky, and your sunburned shoulders might thank you with a gentle “ahhh.”
• Bring a dry bag: Perfect for boat tours or spontaneous swims. No one likes dripping phone drama or soggy dollars.
• Snap a photo of your taxi license plate number: It’s a simple safety move if your wallet or phone is left behind.

In Conclusion: Make Your Aruba Moment Count

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Aruba is more than just a beautiful pit stop—it’s a soulful, sun-soaked invitation to unwind, explore, and maybe discover that you’re a bit more adventurous than you thought. Avoiding these common cruise traveler mistakes isn’t just about dodging mishaps; it’s about making room for spontaneity and joy. When you plan smartly, you leave space for magic. And in Aruba, magic tends to happen when your toes are sandy, your schedule is flexible, and there’s at least one pastechi in your bag for later.

So go ahead—wander farther, eat boldly, snorkel wildly, and let Aruba surprise you. Just remember: don’t forget your watch…and your sense of humor!