Events

23-4-2026

International ships, sport and nature take center stage in May and June

Curaçao is preparing for a period in which the island will be active on multiple fronts. In May and June, three events will take place in succession, each appealing to a different audience. Offering a broad overview of both local and international developments. From historic sailing vessels in the harbor of Willemstad to competitive open water swimming in the Caribbean Sea and a joint effort to protect coral reefs, the coming months will be defined by activity, connection and engagement.

Maritime showcase in St. Anna Bay

From May 2 through May 8, St. Anna Bay will serve as the setting for the Velas Curaçao Rendez-Vous, an international Tall Ships festival. The event is part of a larger sailing route bringing impressive tall ships toward the United States in connection with the 250th anniversary of American independence.

During this period, several training and naval vessels will dock in Willemstad. In many cases, visitors will have the opportunity to view the ships up close and step on board. Participating vessels originate from countries including Spain and various Latin American nations, giving the event a strong international character.

Along the waterfront, particularly in Otrobanda and around Brion Square, cultural programming will also take place. Live music, local food offerings and maritime demonstrations are part of the schedule. Previous editions have drawn significant public interest, especially during the ceremonial arrival and departure of the fleet, when the ships sail in formation into and out of the harbor.

Open water swimming in Caracas Bay

Two weeks later, on May 16 and May 17, attention shifts to Caracas Bay for Oceanman Curaçao 2026. This international open water swimming event brings together participants from multiple countries to compete in the Caribbean Sea.

The program includes several distances, ranging from an ultra-race of 10 kilometers to shorter races of 5 and 2 kilometers. There are also categories for children and teams, allowing both experienced and recreational swimmers to participate. Races typically start and finish in the area around Caracas Bay beach.

While the focus is on athletic performance, the event is also open to spectators. Crowds gather along the shoreline to follow the swimmers. Oceanman is internationally recognized for its safety standards, including escort support from boats and kayaks, as well as clearly marked and visually engaging swim routes.

Purpose driven diving in June

On June 13, a more local and small-scale initiative will take place: the Free PADI AWARE and Green Fins Clean-Up Dive. This diving day is fully dedicated to removing waste from coral reefs and surrounding marine areas.

Dives will be conducted at locations including Pierbaai Reef and the Car Pile, both well-known dive sites. Participants, primarily certified divers, work alongside dive schools and organizations to remove debris from the ocean while raising awareness about marine conservation.

The format differs from the earlier events. There is no festival program, but rather a structured activity centered on awareness and collaboration. A briefing is held beforehand, followed by a coordinated dive, and typically concluded with time for evaluation and community exchange.

Diversity in programming

These three events highlight the wide range of activities taking place during this period. While the Tall Ships festival is primarily focused on public engagement and experience, Oceanman provides a platform for international sport. The clean-up dive adds a social and environmental dimension. Together, they present a varied picture of what the island has to offer in the months ahead.