Waterfort, Coastal fort in Willemstad, Curaçao

Waterfort extends along the entrance of Sint Anna Bay with thick stone walls and defensive positions overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The structure features internal chambers and galleries built within substantial limestone walls that remain intact today.

A first fort on this spot dated from 1634 but was abandoned. In 1825 William I sent Lieutenant General Krayenhoff to strengthen Curaçao's defences; the plan, approved on 10 August 1826, paired Waterfort on the east side of Sint Anna Bay with Rif Fort on the west, and construction began in 1827. The Willem III Barracks housed 178 marines from 1858; the fort was obsolete by 1917, reopened in World War II, and in 1955 the marines moved to Marinebasis Parera and the barracks were demolished for the Plaza Hotel Curaçao.

The fort represents Dutch colonial military architecture and serves as a central point where visitors learn about Curaçao's maritime past. The structure shows how defense needs shaped the harbor's development over time.

The fort is accessible daily from the Punda district, with guided tours available that explain the defense systems and harbor operations. Comfortable shoes are recommended since pathways cover stone surfaces throughout the site.

The fort's predecessor on this spot dated from 1634 and was abandoned before the 1827 rebuild. The Willem III Barracks, built inside in 1858 for 178 marines, were demolished in 1955 to make way for the Plaza Hotel Curaçao. The fort is part of the UNESCO World Heritage listing of Willemstad's historic centre and harbour.