Aruba cruise high season is bringing more activity back to Oranjestad’s port, with taxi drivers reporting an immediate improvement in work as ship calls increase after the quieter summer period.
October schedule includes 29 cruise calls
According to 24ora, high season officially runs from October 1 through April 30, while the busiest stretch usually falls between December 1 and January 31. Aruba’s October schedule includes 29 port calls, creating opportunities for taxi drivers, tour operators, shops, restaurants and other businesses serving cruise visitors.
Taxi drivers told the outlet that demand for transportation and excursions drops sharply during low season, which runs from May through September. They said the renewed port movement is already increasing their chances to earn income.
Freedom of the Seas makes extended visit
Freedom of the Seas visited Aruba on October 11 with a scheduled stay from 8 a.m. until 11 p.m. The roughly 15-hour call gave passengers time for tours, beach visits, shopping and dining during both daylight and evening hours.
The Royal Caribbean ship entered service in 2006 and carries approximately 3,750 passengers, according to the source.
Cruise visitors support the wider tourism economy
Data cited from the Aruba Tourism Authority’s 2025 Cruise Survey Report put average passenger spending at US$197 per visit, with visitors spending about four hours and 50 minutes ashore. The source also cited Cruise Lines International Association research indicating that six in ten cruise passengers return to a destination they first encountered on a cruise.
Source: 24ora
