Coronavirus in Curacao – NEWS UPDATES
The Coronavirus in Curacao (COVID-19) is dynamic situation that is on all of our minds. The health and safety of you, your family and your friends is of paramount concern. With that in mind, please check back as we will do our best to keep you informed about the latest developments regarding travel and tourism on Curaçao.
Latest NEWS from DIVE NEWS CURAÇAO
Coronavirus in Curacao – Covid-19 Government Announcements
Updated: July 20, 2021
Coronavirus in Curaçao Update: July 19, 2021
Country Classification List has been updated – scroll down for the full details.
Canada along with Germany and many other countries have be re-classified by the Government of Curaçao to “Very Low Risk Country“. This re-classification means that countries appearing in this list no longer require a negative PCR TEST on arrival or a 3rd Day Antigen Test after arrival.
Curacao PRESS Conference – Latest Developments
Curacao makes Coronavirus (Covid-19) PCR testing mandatory for all visitors from the Netherlands
As of Monday July 19, 2021, The Netherlands will be considered a ‘very high-risk country’. This means that tourists can still come to Curaçao, however they have to do a PCR test prior to departure and then complete an Antigen test on the 3rd day after arrival. The choice for travelers from NL to do an Antigen test 24 hours before departure is no longer an option. Prime Minister Gilmar ‘Pik’ Pisas announced this today, Thursday June 15, 2021.
According to the Prime Minister, “all passengers arriving in Curaçao must be able to hand over a negative test result. Everyone must have an antigen test three days after arrival. Visitors who prove positive must remain in isolation for ten days. The antigen test is already mandatory in Curaçao.”
Furthermore, the Government announced to have more strict inspections on social distancing and hygiene measures, and stricter checks on social distancing and hygiene measures at high spread events will be discussed.
The Government requests to push basic COVID measure awareness, which includes the 2-meter distance, hygiene measures, new signs etc. All businesses are also urged to talk to their staff once more about the importance of all these measures.
Protocols for when a guest tests positive after 3rd Antigen test
The protocols for when a tourist results in a positive Antigen test are as follows: GMN (GGD) will handle the situation directly, as they have the visitor’s information. After a positive result, GMN will provide a PCR test free of cost and if the PCR turns out positive as well, they will advise the tourist to inform the hotel by phone. The tourist needs to stay in isolation right after testing positive for Antigen test.
For more information on entry conditions and travel updates, keep SCROLLING DOWN.
Curacao PRESS RELEASE
Coronavirus in Curacao – Adjusted Government Travel Measures: June 10, 2021
In preparation for a busy summer season with increasing demand from North America, the Caribbean island of Curaçao Tourist Board announced today the latest coronavirus statistics, entry requirements and special offerings for travelers this season. Curaçao reports that 86,000 people of those eligible have been vaccinated, and over the past three weeks, documented a record-low positivity rate of 0.15%.
Curfews Removed
Considering these significantly reduced numbers, the nightly curfew has been removed for the first time in over a year. On-island restrictions have also been lifted with outdoor restaurants, bars and lounges allowed to operate at full capacity. Additionally, the airlift offered prior to the pandemic has resumed. Direct flights are available from major cities and airports including Miami (MIA) and Charlotte (CLT) via American Airlines and from New York (JFK) via JetBlue, making Curaçao an easily accessible destination.
Curacao Diving Promotions
To welcome back dive travelers, starting now through August 2, 2021, divers and their friends or family can take advantage of Dive Travel Curaçao’s “Sleep and Dive Package Specials”, which are valid for travel from now – December 22, 2021, with the Best Dive Resorts and Dive Shops in Curacao!
The island’s unbeatable location below the hurricane belt offers year-round sunshine and reliable weather, making it a favored destination for Caribbean enthusiasts, tropical vacation seekers and of course, divers!
“Having gone through a difficult 2020, the hospitality and tourism industry is now making an aggressive comeback and travelers are eager to getaway this summer,” states Paul Pennicook, CEO of the Curaçao Tourist Board. “Over the last 14 days, Curaçao has only seen 10 positive cases per 100,000 people. With an even bigger desire to serve our visitors, paired with new hotel deals and immersive outdoor adventures, Curaçao is primed for travelers to create meaningful experiences this season.”
Island-wide Activities
Internationally recognized for its European-inspired architecture, cultural and culinary delights, as well as a signature uncrowded and relaxed ambiance. Curaçao provides the perfect getaway for those looking to stay safe and socially distanced this summer.
There is no shortage of outdoor and al fresco activities to enjoy on-island, whether solo or with travel companions. Options include self-guided walking tours and private sailing trips, hiking and biking trails, kiteboarding, snorkeling and animal encounters.
Standing firmly as one of the best diving destinations in the world. Curaçao offers a roster of more than 70 world class dive sites ranging from shipwrecks and drop-off reefs teeming with marine life. In addition, with more than 35 dive sites that are accessible by beaches – Curacao is a shore diving haven!
Looking for some off the beaten path adventure? With varied landscapes that include rugged cove-like enclaves to breathtaking white-sand shorelines, we are sure that you will find it. Best of all, travelers to Curaçao can explore the island unrestricted. And, enjoy ample room to soak up the sun as all beaches are fully open.
Curacao Entry Requirements (Scroll Down for detailed information)
Current protocols require all potential visitors, both vaccinated and not, to show proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test. Meanwhile, government officials and a consulting team of respected doctors are discussing possible future amendments to this policy.
For more information on entry conditions and travel updates, keep SCROLLING DOWN.
Commercial and Charter Boat Operating Guidelines
General Guidelines
The operator keeps a registration of the visitors for the Epidemiology & Research department of the Ministry of Health, Environment and Nature, whereby the following information is processed:
- name and surname
- address
- at least two telephone numbers or at least one telephone number and an e-mail address
- time of arrival
- The information of the visitors is kept by the operator for a period of one month
- The operator encourages customers as much as possible to book in advance
- The number of persons on the vessel is fifty percent (50%) of the maximum number for which the vessel has been inspected (inspection card and navigation license) with an absolute maximum of twenty-five (25) persons
- A maximum of two (2) vessels can moor next to each other
- Background music is permitted in accordance with the appendix to the regulation; for live music, the musicians are included in the maximum number of people
- Gathering on piers, fleets or floaties is not allowed
Hygiene Guidelines
- Seats, table tops, trays, cutlery and plates are cleaned regularly
- Reusable menus and placemats are cleaned; If paper menus and place mats are used, they should be discarded after each use by the customer
- Toilet areas are cleaned and ventilated more than usual
- Self-service options for food and drink are not offered;
Guidelines for Safe Distance
During contact moments where maintaining a distance of two (2) meters between the service provider and the customer, whether or not temporarily, is not feasible, additional protective measures are taken, including at least the use of a mouth mask by the service provider;
Guidelines for Klein Curacao
When sailing to Klein Curaçao, this is reported to Fort Nassau via VHF channel 12 or via telephone number 461-4581
With the notification, the following information is provided to Fort Nassau:
- name of the vessel
- NC number
- number of people on board
- departure time
- arrival time
- Upon return to Curaçao, Fort Nassau will be informed through the same channels.
Are You Traveling to Curacao?
The government of Curaçao – as of June 9, 2021 – has adjusted the measures and guidelines to make sure your stay here is as comfortable as possible, while keeping Curaçao safe for our visitors and our local community.
The government of Curaçao requires all travelers to follow mandatory steps before departure. These steps are different for residents of Curaçao and international visitors.
The Complete Dive Travel Guide for Curaçao
If you are thinking, planning or just dreaming of your next Caribbean dive vacation, then you should read the complete dive travel guide to dive in to Curacao!
Over the years of living and literally breathing diving here in Curaçao, not to mention being a professional diver and attending countless international dive shows, it never surprises me to hear a lot of the same frequently asked questions about our Dutch Caribbean island. Some of the more regular questions include: Where is Curaçao?, Why should I dive in Curacao versus Bonaire?, How do I pronounce Curaçao?, Is there things to do on Curaçao?, and so many more.
As an international traveler, visiting Curacao, you are required to follow these four steps:
1. Fill out Digital Immigration Card
All international visitors are required to complete the Digital Immigration Card (DI card) online as soon as you have all your travel information. The Digital Immigration card is a mandatory card for all foreign travelers to clear immigration in Curaçao.
2. Fill out Passenger Locator Card
A Passenger Locator Card is mandatory for all travelers and includes country of departure, personal information, travel information and medical information. Travelers who depart from low risk countries are required to complete the online Passenger Locator Card form (PLC) within 48 hours prior to traveling to Curaçao and carry a printed document of proof with them.
The Public Health Authorities have classified countries into low risk and high risk. For the up to-date list of countries and their risk level, please click here.
3. Upload a negative COVID-19 PCR test result
Travelers departing from a high-risk country will be required to submit a negative PCR test result from an accredited laboratory. The PCR test needs to be taken within 72 hours prior to departure at an accredited laboratory. The traveler is required to carry a printed/digital copy of proof with them for both the PLC and the negative COVID-19 test result.
4. Book a lab appointment for 3rd day Antigen test in Curaçao
As of April 20, 2021, all travelers departing from a high risk country are required to undergo a mandatory Antigen test on the 3rd day in Curaçao.
For more information how to book the 3rd day Antigen test, click here.
Please note:
- Children aged 6 and under who don’t show COVID-19 symptoms, and whose parents/ caretakers can show proof of a negative PCR test, are not required to undergo a PCR/Antigen test.
- Only deep pharyngeal nose and throat PCR tests are accepted. Covid tests such as Gargle and pooling samples, Saliva and blood tests will not be accepted.
- In the eventuality that traveler test positive in Curaçao, strict isolation measures will be implemented immediately. All lodging and possible medical expenses, including but not limited to PCR/Antigen tests, are for the expense of the traveler.
Need a quick Coronavirus – Covid-19 Test in Curacao before you fly home?
How to Get a Quick Coronavirus (Covid-19) Test for before you travel back to the United States or Canada!
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the Government of Canada has issued interim orders requiring all air passengers arriving to the US or Canada from a foreign country to get tested no more than 3 days before their flight departs and to present the negative result or documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 to the airline before boarding the flight.
Coronavirus (Covid-19) testing facilities in Curacao
While you are on-island, or in case you must return to a country where a negative test is required, COVID-19 testing is available at the following locations:
Analytisch Diagnostisch Centrum (ADC)
Are you traveling abroad and a Coronavirus (Covid-19) PCR test is required to confirm that you have been tested negative?
Please contact ADC to make an appointment or to request more information.
Costs of the Covid-19 PCR test are ANG 159,- ($ 90) including a medical report with the results. The Medical report will be send within 24h after taken the test.
Additional Testing Facilities in Curacao
Lab de Med – www.labdemed.org
MLS – www.mlscuracao.com
More Information about Coronavirus in Curacao
Curacao is a Caribbean destination where you can enjoy a relaxing and safe vacation, and we are waiting to welcome you back with open arms, at an appropriate distance. With the sun on your back, you can gaze over the bright blue sea with a cold drink at your fingertips; the immediate worries of the coronavirus slowly slip away.
Curacao has restarted tourism in a controlled manner and the number of infections is under control. Because all tourists have to do a Coronavirus (COVID-19) PCR test and measures have been taken, COVID-19 is not so intrusive. Of course we want to keep Curaçao safe for you as a visitor, but of course also for our population.
Dushi Stay App
Curaçao reopened and we’re thrilled to welcome back our dushi friends from abroad. It is important that you stay informed and adhere to basic hygiene and physical distancing measures that are in place for the locals as much as they are for you. In the Dushi Stap App, you’ll find the most recent updates on the general guidelines that take place on Curaçao. Once you’re ready to come visit us, more information will be shared with you for each phase of your trip. Download the Dushi Stay App to be informed on the latest developments about the Coronavirus (Covid-19) on Curacao, available on Google Play and App Store.
The Curaçao Tourist Board is working in close collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health, Environment and Nature, the Ministry of Economic Development, the Curaçao Civil Aviation Authority and government agencies to guarantee a safe reopening. Guidelines have also been created and implemented in the tourism industry to avoid the spread of COVID-19.
It is important that you stay informed and adhere to basic hygiene and physical distancing measures that are in place for the locals as much as they are for you.
