Cruise port - Kralendijk, Bonaire
Posted by: 
InGodsHands
N 12° 08.982 W 068° 16.675
19P E 578563 N 1343211
This is the cruise port in Bonaire.
Waymark Code: WM9PNY
Location: Bonaire, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba
Date Posted: 09/15/2010
Views: 44
What is the size and population of Bonaire? Bonaire is a small island with a population of approximately 15,000. Most people live in the main town of Kralendijk and about 1800 live in the smaller town of Rincon, found in a valley in the north. The island is approximately 112 square miles, ranging from three to seven miles in width and twenty-four miles in length. The north part of the island is hilly and has a national park. The south side is flat with salt pans. Both parts are unique as well as beautiful. Bonaire is located approximately fifty miles north of Venezuela. Approximately one mile away from Bonaire is the small island of Klein Bonaire (literally, "Little Bonaire" in Dutch). It is uninhabited, so be sure to bring sunscreen and water if you visit. The beach is very nice and the snorkeling is excellent. A water taxi is available.
What is the history of Bonaire? Bonaire was originally inhabited by a branch of the Arawak Indians who sailed from Venezuela over 1000 years ago. The first Europeans to arrive were the Spanish in 1499. They did not stay long as they decided not to develop the island, but they took the Indians who were here as slaves, leaving the island uninhabited. After that, there were also visits by the French, Portuguese and the Spanish convicts who returned, leaving their imprint and influence. In 1633, the Dutch took possession of the island, along with Aruba and Curacao. They imported African slaves to work the plantations and the salt mines. Bonaire’s ownership changed hands several times until 1816, when the Dutch maintained leadership. Slavery was abolished in 1863 and around this time Bonaire started attracting more inhabitants. Early in the 20th century, visitors started arriving on Bonaire; eventually a pier was built, further attracting tourism, and in 1943, the airport was built.
What is Bonaire’s political status today? Bonaire is part of the Netherland Antilles, consisting of Bonaire, Curacao, Dutch St. Maarten, St. Eustatius, and Saba, although the breakup of this union is planned for October 10, 2010, when Bonaire (along with Saba and St. Eustatius) will become a "special municipality" of Holland.
What languages are spoken? The official language is Dutch and the spoken language of the local people is Papiamentu, which is a Creole language based on seven different languages, reflecting the mixed culture and history of the island. English is spoken by most people and Spanish is also widely spoken.
What is the temperature? The air temperature averages about 83°F/29°C, although it can be hotter from August through October. The water temperature varies from 79°F/26°C to 84°F/29°C.
How is the snorkeling and diving? Bonaire is one of the top destinations in the world for snorkeling and diving. The waters surrounding Bonaire form a marine park. Shore access is easy at most dive sites for either diving or snorkeling. Visibility is often 80 to 100 feet and the reefs are alive with coral and fish. Touching or standing on corals or other marine life can be harmful to both the marine organisms and the snorkeler/diver, so please take care! Woodwind Snorkel & Sailing Cruises offers excellent snorkel trips for either a beginner or advanced snorkeler.
How do we get around? If you stay in Kralendijk, most places are in easy walking distance. For visiting the beaches, in most cases, a taxi will be needed.
What about taxis? Taxis will be available directly in the area of the pier where you disembark; costs will vary depending upon the destination. Generally, fares to either the north and the south of the island are about $25.00.
What currency is used? The U.S. dollar is accepted along with the local currency, the Netherlands Antilles florin, commonly referred to as the guilder. It's planned that effective January 1, 2011, the U.S. dollar will become the official currency.
Are there banks nearby? There are several ATMs in the downtown area as well as several banks. All transactions must be accompanied by a photo ID.
What is the shopping like? Near the cruise ship pier is an outdoor market in nearby Wilhelmina Park which sells local wares and foods. Kaya Grandi, the main street in Kralendijk, also has shops with clothing, souvenirs, jewelry, snorkeling and diving equipment, and a pharmacy. Grocery stores are nearby. Note that many local shops will use a conversion rate of 1.75 to the U.S. Dollar, if prices are marked in guilders.
Are there restaurants or bars in the vicinity of the cruise piers? There are several restaurants and bars in the downtown area, well within walking distance.
Is there an Internet café nearby? Yes. There is one in the Harborside shopping mall by the sea.
Are public toilets available on the island? Yes, but they can be very busy on days when cruise ships are in port.
How far is it to a beach and what amenities are available? Bonaire is not known for many sandy beaches, since it's much better known for its underwater beauty. However, some sandy beach areas are available at select resort areas.
Name of the Cruise Ship if one is in 'Port'.: Crown Princess
Date you visited or photographed this 'Cruiseship and Port ': 12/13/2006
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