"The name Curaçao is most likely derived from the Portuguese word for "cured". Early Spanish sailors, suffering with scurvy, found themselves miraculously healed after landing here, most likely from eating local fruits rich in vitimin C. And to this day, Curaçao offers curative properties in the form of pearly-white beaches, balmy waters and a playground of cultural activites that nourish the mind, body and soul." Princess Cruises Curaçao Port Guide.
Due to some operational issues, I believe it was engine cooling/fresh water production, we were late arriving and our excursion was cancelled.
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A point of interest in Willemstad is the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge Origin —Built in 1888 by Leonard Burlington Smith, and named after Queen Emma (1890–1898), this bridge connects the Punda and Otrobanda districts. Points of interest —16 floating pontoon boats support the “Pontoon Bridge.” Also known as the “Swinging Old Lady,” it swings open using two powerful ship motors, allowing ships to access the port. From 1901 to 1934, people had to pay a toll to cross the bridge — with the exception of pedestrians going barefoot. When the bridge is open to let ships from the harbour pass, pedestrians are transported free of charge by the ponchi, a small ferry. The bridge has recently been restored to its glory. All asphalt was taken off and replaced by original wooden boards, the pontoons were repaired or replaced, and at night the "swinging old lady" now swings in living color with her new lights.
Queen Emma pontoon Bridge Return to Caribbean Princess Page Return to Retirement Page