Curaçao Liqueur Distillery – Curaçao
The Curaçao Liqueur Distillery at Landhuis Chobolobo is one of the island’s most historic and culturally meaningful attractions. This is where the famous Blue Curaçao liqueur is created using the dried peels of the local Laraha citrus fruit. Visitors come here to explore the grounds, learn about the traditional production process, and enjoy a tasting of the island’s signature flavors. It’s an easy and educational stop that fits smoothly into any cruise‑day itinerary.
Fun Facts
- The distillery sits inside Landhuis Chobolobo, a bright 19th‑century mansion.
- Blue Curaçao comes from the peels of the Laraha, a bitter citrus fruit native to Curaçao.
- The liqueur is naturally clear, and the blue color is added for visual appeal.
- Traditional copper stills remain part of the production process.
- Several flavors are available, including orange, coffee, and chocolate.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Your visit begins with a short walk through the exhibits. These displays explain how Curaçao Liqueur is made from start to finish. You’ll see the copper stills, learn about the citrus history of the island, and watch parts of the production process through viewing windows. The information is simple to follow, and the layout guides you from one step to the next.
After the exhibits, you can enjoy a tasting. The staff offers samples of several flavors, and each one highlights a different side of the liqueur. The on‑site shop sells bottles, souvenirs, and locally made products, so it’s easy to bring home a gift or a flavor you enjoyed. The entire experience is relaxed, self‑paced, and easy to navigate, which makes it a convenient stop during a busy cruise day.
Why It’s Worth Visiting
This attraction is ideal for travelers who enjoy history, culture, and local flavors. It adds variety to your day and doesn’t require much time. The tasting flight is a fun highlight, especially if you like trying new flavors. You can also purchase authentic Curaçao Liqueur made right on the island, which makes this stop feel even more special.
Because the distillery sits close to other popular attractions, it pairs well with a beach visit or a stop at the Sea Aquarium. It works as a standalone activity too, especially if you prefer short, easy experiences that still offer a sense of place.
Where It’s Located
The Curaçao Liqueur Distillery is located at Landhuis Chobolobo in Willemstad, only a short drive from the cruise port.
How to Get There From the Cruise Port
It takes about 10–15 minutes to reach the distillery by taxi. Some cruise excursions include a stop here, and parking is available if you rent a car for the day. The location is central, so it’s simple to combine this visit with other attractions.
Best Time to Visit
Morning and early afternoon offer the quietest experience. Tastings run throughout the day, and the grounds are easy to explore at your own pace. If you want to avoid crowds from cruise excursions, arriving earlier helps.
Tips for Visiting
- Try the tasting flight to sample several flavors.
- Bring a small bag if you plan to buy bottles or souvenirs.
- Visit earlier to avoid crowds from cruise groups.
- Pair this stop with Mambo Beach or the Sea Aquarium.
- Check hours ahead of time, especially on weekends or holidays.
Common Complaints
Some visitors say the tour feels short because it’s self‑guided. The tasting area can also get busy when several groups arrive at once. The experience focuses on education rather than a large production facility, so travelers expecting a long tour may be surprised.
Final Thoughts
The Curaçao Liqueur Distillery is a fun and flavorful stop that adds history and culture to your cruise day. With its iconic Blue Curaçao, historic setting, and easy access from the port, it’s a great addition to any itinerary.
For more ideas to plan your day, explore my full Curaçao Cruise Port Guide for the best things to do on the island.
