WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao welcomed one of the world's largest cruise ships on Thursday, November 12, 2026, as Royal Caribbean International's Wonder of the Seas made its maiden call at the Port of Willemstad, marking another milestone for the island's cruise tourism industry.
The impressive Oasis-class vessel arrived alongside Carnival Horizon, bringing two major cruise ships to Curaçao's port on the same day.
Wonder of the Seas, which entered service in 2022, measures approximately 362 meters in length and ranks among the largest cruise ships in the world.
Its arrival represents an important addition to the list of major international cruise vessels that have visited Curaçao, highlighting the island's position as a destination for large-scale cruise tourism.
To commemorate the ship's inaugural visit, a traditional plaque exchange ceremony was held onboard.
Representatives of the Curaçao Ports Authority (CPA), Curaçao Tourist Board (CTB), local shipping agent Maduro Shipping, Customs and Immigration, and the ship's captain participated in the ceremony.
The exchange of commemorative plaques is a longstanding maritime tradition used to recognize a vessel's first official visit to a port and strengthen relations between cruise operators and local authorities.
A Major Vessel in Royal Caribbean's Fleet
Wonder of the Seas is part of Royal Caribbean International's Oasis class, a generation of cruise ships known for their exceptional size and extensive passenger facilities.
Since entering service in 2022, the vessel has become one of the most recognizable ships in the international cruise industry.
At approximately 362 meters long, Wonder of the Seas is significantly larger than many conventional cruise vessels, reflecting the continued development of increasingly large ships designed to accommodate thousands of passengers.
The ship's visit also demonstrates the importance of port infrastructure capable of receiving vessels of this size.
Another Milestone for Curaçao's Cruise Tourism
The arrival of Wonder of the Seas alongside Carnival Horizon underscores Curaçao's continued appeal to major international cruise operators.
Cruise tourism contributes to economic activity in Willemstad and other parts of the island, particularly through passenger spending on excursions, transportation, restaurants, retail businesses, and tourist attractions.
Visits by large cruise vessels create opportunities for local businesses that depend on international visitors.
The inaugural call also provides Curaçao with additional exposure among passengers traveling aboard Royal Caribbean's fleet.
While the number of passengers arriving aboard Wonder of the Seas was not disclosed, the ship's maiden visit represents a significant occasion for the island's maritime and tourism sectors.
The plaque exchange ceremony formally marked the occasion, welcoming the vessel and its crew to Curaçao for the first time.