WILLEMSTAD, CURACAO

 We will enjoy a narrated tour of the coral reefs along the south coast of the island. Just offshore is a wall dropping sharply to the depths of several hundred feet

By coach we will travel to the boarding place of the Seaworld Explorer – a state-of-the-art semi-submarine originally developed for use on the Great Barrier Reef. The vessel does not submerge, but we descend into the hull of this cruising underwater observatory, one-and-a-half metres (five feet) below the surface of the water, to watch sealife through the clear glass windows. We will enjoy a narrated tour (lasting approximately 50 minutes) of the coral reefs along the south coast of the island. Just offshore is a wall dropping sharply to the depths of several hundred feet, which we will clearly be able to observe. We should spot dozens of tropical fish such as yellowtail snapper, sergeant majors, parrotfish and queens angelfish, together with delicate colonies of coral, which have taken thousands of years to form. A camera is a must, as a diver will hand-feed the surrounding hungry fish.After a truly memorable experience, we will board a coach to cross over the Queen Juliana Bridge, 200 feet above Willemstad. Before crossing over the bridge we will take a 5 minutes photo stop to enjoy a magnificent view over Punda and Otrabanda, the 2 sides of the natural harbour St Ana Bay. We will also enjoy a taste of the world famous Blue Curacao at the Chobolobo Liqueur Factory.Back in lovely Willemstad, we may choose to be dropped in town, or taken back to our ship.Please note that there is a walk of around 400 metres (1,300 feet) to board the tour transport; steps to negotiate onboard the semi-submarine, which is reached by a walk of around 5 minutes. What marine life may be seen is obviously unpredictable, as is the clarity of the water at the time of our call. Not recommended for passengers who suffer from claustrophobia.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2007 CARIBBEAN SEASON