Aruba

Aruba combines Caribbean and Dutch influences and lies on common southern Caribbean routes between the Windward Islands and the western Caribbean. Its position below the hurricane belt means it is frequently permitted by yacht insurance policies during the hurricane season.

One of Aruba’s main attractions is its capital, Oranjestad, known for its nightlife and historic architecture. The town offers dining, shopping, and cultural sites, and serves as a convenient stop between sailing legs. A free tram runs through central Oranjestad and is widely used by visiting cruisers to get around and view the historic colonial buildings.

Along the north-west coast, near the island’s popular beaches, the wreck of the SS Antilla is one of Aruba’s best-known dive sites. Lying in shallow water, it is frequently visited by cruising sailors.

Places to stay

Below are the most popular and highly rated places to stay, based on feedback from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

	Arashi	4.5 ★	Review summary: Anchoring at Arashi presents some challenges due to the mostly rocky bottom with light sand cover. Optimal conditions allow for great snorkeling opportunities with clear waters nearby. It's recommended to anchor during low wind situations to ensure a secure stay.
	Rodger’s Beach	3.3 ★	Review summary: Navigating Rodger’s Beach is straightforward with easy in and out access. Some Reviews highlight the calm conditions and excellent holding, making it a serene spot for anchoring. However, the quiet setting is contrasted by occasional swell and legality concerns that require verification with authorities.
	Surfside beach	3.0 ★	Review summary: Surfside Beach offers favorable holding conditions for anchoring, although caution is advised due to the busy water traffic from taxi boats and the airport's proximity. Visitors may find relocating within the bay beneficial to avoid wakes and improve the anchorage experience.
	Eagle Beach	2.2 ★	Review summary: Access to Eagle Beach requires navigating jet ski activity, especially during the day, which can affect anchoring comfort. Despite these interruptions, it is favored for being a short distance from shopping amenities like Super Food. Visitors experience good holding and clear waters for anchoring.

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Marinas

Wind Creek Marina (Formerly Renaissance)

4.8 ★

Review summary: Visitors frequently stay at Wind Creek Marina due to its access to Renaissance resort amenities, including pools, gyms, and a private island. The marina features a friendly and helpful staff, ensuring a pleasant stay with prompt assistance for any issues.

Boatyards and services

Below are the most popular and highly rated boat services, based on feedback from the noforeignland community:

Boatyards

Varadero Aruba Marina & Boatyard

4.5 ★

Review summary: Varadero Aruba Marina & Boatyard offers facilities for self-repairs, with additional conveniences like high-quality desalinated water. Challenges include a consistent 20-25 knot wind, affecting some outdoor work. Accessibility to shopping requires cycling or a vehicle, with limited on-site supplies.

Chandlers

	DeepWater Marine	4.0 ★	Review summary: DeepWater Marine is a small chandlery owned by Varedero Marina. It focuses on paint, sandpaper, and fiberglass supplies, catering to boatyard maintenance needs. Specific sailboat hardware is limited or unavailable here, making it primarily useful for repair work.
No image	Ship Chandler	4.0 ★	Review summary: This chandler offers a selection of Harken blocks, pumps, and fishing gear, catering to specific sailing needs. While the prices are high, the availability of essential equipment in a small location can be beneficial when they have the required items.
No image	Budget Marine Aruba	3.0 ★	Review summary: Budget Marine Aruba offers a friendly atmosphere with helpful staff. The store provides a selection of sailing lines and most essential items, but some specific products may be lacking. Visitors can check available stock online before visiting.

This table summarizes first-hand reviews from sailors who have checked in to Aruba.

Useful yacht clearance links

The weather patterns around Aruba are stable, with prevalent trade winds from the east providing good winter sailing conditions. While the island lies outside the primary hurricane track, skippers should confirm that their insurance cover applies here.

Aruba lies outside the main hurricane belt, and many yachts remain year-round.

• Best times of year to sail here: January to June
• Most common type of power: 127V 60Hz, with 220–240V available in some marinas
• Cost for provisioning: High
• Currency: Aruban Florin (AWG)
• Personal security: Generally low risk, with standard precautions advised.
• Emergency phone numbers:
  • Police: 100
  • Fire and ambulance: 911
  • Coast Guard: 913
• International dialing code: +297
• Time zone(s): UTC -4

Aruba's history is marked by its strategic maritime location, initially valued by indigenous tribes engaged in coastal trade. Arrival of the Spanish in 1499 shifted the dynamics significantly, eventually leading to Dutch colonization in the 17th century. The island became a pivotal point in regional maritime routes, facilitating the movement of goods and cultural exchange across the Caribbean.

Colonial eras brought economic changes, highlighting Aruba’s role in the trade networks of the Dutch West India Company. The focus was on salt, gold, and aloe exports, necessitating robust maritime logistics. Fort Zoutman, the oldest building, remains a tangible link to these periods, symbolizing Aruba's strategic maritime importance.

The 20th century introduced modern shipping and tourism, reshaping the maritime landscape yet retaining old-world charm. Aruba's harbour developments transitioned the island into a key yacht and cruise ship destination. Modern-day sailors can explore this blend of past and present through accessible coastal attractions, enriching their understanding of the island's layered maritime legacy.