St. John's, Antigua

A must-see destination is Nelson's Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the only continuously working Georgian-era dockyard in the world. Located in English Harbour, about a 30-45 minute taxi ride from the port, it offers beautifully restored historic buildings, a museum, shops, and restaurants.

For breathtaking panoramic views of English Harbour and the surrounding coastline, a visit to the Shirley Heights Lookout is essential. It is just a short drive from Nelson's Dockyard and provides one of the most famous scenic overlooks in the Caribbean.

Antigua is famous for its 365 beaches, and many are easily accessible from the port. Dickenson Bay, one of the most popular, is only a 10-15 minute taxi ride away and offers pristine white sand, calm turquoise waters, and various water sports activities.

The Museum of Antigua and Barbuda, located within walking distance of the port in an old colonial courthouse, provides insight into the nation's history from its geological formation to its independence.

English Harbour, located on the southern coast of the island, is a hub of history and yachting culture. It is approximately a 30-45 minute drive from St. John's and home to several key attractions.

For a glimpse into the island's colonial past, visit the historic Betty's Hope sugar plantation. This site, about a 25-minute drive from the port, features restored stone windmills and tells the story of sugar production in Antigua.

On the eastern side of the island, about a 40-minute drive away, is Devil's Bridge National Park. This dramatic natural attraction features a limestone arch carved by the Atlantic Ocean over centuries, offering spectacular scenery and photo opportunities.

The St. John's cruise port is ideally situated directly in the heart of the capital city. Cruise ships dock at one of two adjacent piers: Heritage Quay or Redcliffe Quay.

This prime location means that passengers can disembark and immediately walk into the main shopping and dining districts of St. John's. No shuttles are required to explore the downtown area.

The port area itself is a vibrant destination, with the modern Heritage Quay complex offering numerous duty-free shops, and the more historic Redcliffe Quay featuring charming boutiques, art galleries, and cafes in restored warehouses. Ships nearly always dock directly at the pier, so tendering is not expected.

The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), which is pegged to the US Dollar at a fixed rate of approximately US$1 to EC$2.70.

US dollars are widely accepted in all tourist areas, including shops, restaurants, and by taxi drivers. However, you may receive change in XCD.

Credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. ATMs are readily available at the cruise terminal and throughout St. John's for withdrawing both XCD and sometimes USD.

St. John's is generally considered a safe destination for tourists, especially in the main port and shopping areas during the day. As in any tourist destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions.

Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry. Secure your valuables, and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places to prevent petty crimes like pickpocketing.

While exploring the downtown area near the port on foot is safe, it's advisable to use a licensed taxi or a registered tour for travel to more remote parts of the island. Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas after dark.

Antigua enjoys a warm, tropical marine climate year-round, making it an ideal cruise destination. The main cruise season, from December to May, coincides with the island's driest and sunniest period.

Average daily temperatures hover comfortably between 77°F and 85°F (25°C to 29°C), with constant, cooling trade winds. Rainfall is typically low during this season, and when it does occur, it's usually in the form of brief, passing showers.

The official Atlantic hurricane season runs from June to November. While a direct hit is rare, cruise lines monitor weather systems closely and will alter itineraries for safety if necessary. Visitors should pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.

Taxis are the most common and convenient form of transportation for cruise passengers. They are readily available at the cruise terminal, and fares are regulated by the government for standard routes. It is always wise to confirm the fare with the driver before beginning your journey.

Public buses offer a more local and inexpensive way to travel around the island, but they may not adhere to a strict schedule and can be crowded. They are a good option for the more adventurous traveler but are not typically used to visit major tourist sites on a tight schedule.

Rental cars are available for those who prefer to explore independently. Remember that driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are not generally available in Antigua.

Shopping is a major attraction right at the port in St. John's. The Heritage Quay complex is a modern, two-story shopping center offering a wide array of duty-free goods. Here you can find jewelry, watches, designer fragrances, liquor, and cigars.

Adjacent to Heritage Quay is the more charming and historic Redcliffe Quay. This area features restored Georgian buildings that now house unique boutiques, art galleries, and craft shops. It's the perfect place to find local souvenirs, such as Antiguan rum, handmade pottery, hot sauces, and locally designed clothing.

While prices in the main duty-free stores are fixed, you may find some room for friendly negotiation with vendors at smaller stalls or local craft markets.