Kayak round trip Spaanse Water

Getting started

In case you plan on kayaking with a group, there are several nearby water sports organizations around the Caracasbaai Marina. There you will be able to rent several kayaks for one or two persons. Villa Leoni provides a one person kayak for you to use free of charge. With the kayak on the trolley, you walk down the hill in the direction of Caracasbaaiweg and take the first left. Follow this street until the beach entry. It takes just a few minutes to get there on foot. You can put the trolley in the net on the back of the kayak before hitting the water. As you embark on your journey, the first part of the kayak trip takes you eastbound and against the wind and small bumpy waves. However, the breathtaking views of the bay and its surroundings make the effort worthwhile.

Seru Kabritu and the Quarantine House

The route as described in this article was taken the counterclockwise direction. Of course, the route could as well be taken in the clockwise direction. As you paddle around the bay, you will pass by several landmarks, including the Caracasbaai marina and Windsurfing Curaçao. As a matter of fact, the Spaanse Water is a bay with several peninsulas and inlets, and each one offers unique views and experiences. The first inlet takes you towards Seru Kabritu and the Quarantine house. This historical building sits majestically on top of the hill. Especially with yachts in the foreground, it is a marvelous sight to see.

Santa Barbara and the Santa María replica

The second waterway to your right is a channel to Santa Barbara Beach and the Caribbean Sea. Consequently, you will see many boats coming in and out of Spaanse Water here. Additionally, the north bank of the channel is scattered with several very good looking villas. If you venture further to restaurant Boca 19, you can even spot a gorgeous replica of the Santa María. This ship was originally the flagship and supply ship of Christopher Columbus who discovered America in 1492.

Mangroves

The third inlet takes you to Seru Boca marina, where many beautiful yachts are harbored. Here will be treated to an astonishing view of the table mountain. As you turn north, you will continue along the mangroves and holes of the Old Quarry Golf Course. The scenery here is breathtaking. Moreover, the calm waters allow you to enjoy a peaceful and serene moment on the halfway point of this kayak route.

Waterfront villas and private island

As you turn back, you will have the wind behind you, making the remainder of the journey much more comfortable. On your right, you will see the first waterfront villas of Jan Sofat, while on the left, a private island with a luxury villa. The next three inlets on your right allow you to admire more waterfront villas and mansions. Many of them have their own pier with one or more of the most amazing yachts. It is a great section for architecture lovers and those who seek inspiration for success.

Final stage of the route

After passing by the Curaçao Yacht Club and the Kima Kalki Marina, the next inlet takes you to the Asiento sailing club, which is the home of the YSCO youth sailing club that Leoni attends. From here, you can see Villa Leoni on the top of the hill, which is a welcome sight after a long day of kayaking.

Finally, you kayak around the Brakkeput Abou peninsula to get back to the starting point. After you disembark, the last challenge is to wheel the kayak back up the steep hill that leads you back to the villa. Then, it is time to give your arms some well-deserved rest and look back at a fantastic adventure on the water.

Let’s go kayaking!

In conclusion, kayaking around the Spaanse Water is an experience that you will never forget. With its stunning views, relatively tranquil waters, and exciting landmarks, this route offers an unforgettable adventure for all kayaking enthusiasts. So, the next time you’re in Curaçao, make sure to add this kayaking trip to your itinerary and get ready to explore the beauty of this magnificent island from a unique perspective.