The Leeward Islands offer you diverse Caribbean ports to explore.
You’ll find French culture in Guadeloupe, active volcanoes in Montserrat, and luxury shops in Gustavia.
Basseterre welcomes you with colonial architecture, whilst Dominica showcases rainforests and waterfalls.
Most cruise ships dock directly at the ports, but you’ll need tender boats for smaller harbours like Little Bay.
The main terminals provide you with:
- Duty-free shopping centres
- Local craft markets
- Quick access to nearby beaches
- Tourist information points
- Transport links to attractions
You can reach most island highlights within 30 minutes from each port.
The modern facilities make your arrival and departure smooth, whilst the local guides help you navigate each destination’s unique features.
Blowing Point, Anguilla Cruise Ship Port Guide
Blowing Point operates as Anguilla’s main ferry terminal, not a cruise port. You’ll find it on the island’s southern shoreline, connecting you directly to St. Martin.
Your journey through the terminal includes:
- Immigration and customs checks
- A comfortable waiting area
- Local taxi services
- Tour booking facilities
You need to:
- Keep your passport ready for immigration
- Check the ferry schedules beforehand
- Allow time for customs clearance
Getting to Anguilla’s attractions is straightforward:
- Regular ferries run throughout the day
- Local taxis take you to beaches and resorts
- Tour operators offer island excursions
Though cruise ships don’t stop here, you can easily visit Anguilla via St. Martin’s ferry connection. The terminal’s simple setup helps you move quickly from ferry to your island destination.
St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda Cruise Ship Port Guide
When you arrive at St. John’s port, you’ll dock directly at Heritage or Redcliffe Quay in central Antigua. Your cruise ship connects straight to the main shopping areas, where you can browse duty-free goods at Heritage Quay or find local crafts at Redcliffe Quay.
You can easily explore St. John’s Cathedral, known for its distinctive white baroque towers. The Museum of Antigua and Barbuda sits nearby, offering you insights into local history. Fancy a swim? Take a quick 10-minute taxi to Dickenson Bay‘s beautiful white beaches. Make time to visit Fort James – you’ll get great harbour views and learn about the island’s colonial past.
Key highlights for you:
- Direct cruise ship access to city centre
- Two main shopping quays
- Historic cathedral with twin towers
- Museum for island history
- Nearby beach at Dickenson Bay
- Fort James viewpoint and heritage site
Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis Cruise Ship Port Guide
Your cruise ship docks at Port Zante‘s modern deep-water harbour in Basseterre. You can explore the terminal’s duty-free shops, craft markets and local restaurants right after disembarking.
Downtown Basseterre sits just a short walk from your ship. You’ll discover Independence Square‘s Georgian buildings and the National Museum nearby. The Berkeley Memorial Clock stands at The Circus, marking the heart of the historic district.
Tour operators at the port can take you to popular attractions across St. Kitts:
- Brimstone Hill Fortress
- Romney Manor
- St. Kitts Scenic Railway
The port’s central location makes it easy for you to explore both the terminal facilities and the city’s main sights on foot. You can combine shopping, sightseeing and local dining without needing transport.
Charlestown, Saint Kitts and Nevis Cruise Ship Port Guide
When your cruise ship arrives at Nevis, you’ll take a tender boat to reach Charlestown’s waterfront pier. The island’s port doesn’t have deep-water docking facilities, so this short boat transfer is part of your arrival experience. The tender service runs regularly throughout the day, making it easy for you to plan your time ashore. Your ship’s crew will provide clear instructions about tender schedules and meeting points at the pier.
The tender journey offers lovely views of Nevis Peak and Charlestown’s colourful waterfront buildings. Keep your camera ready for these photo opportunities during the short crossing. You’ll disembark at the central pier, placing you right in the heart of Charlestown’s historic district.
Gustavia, Saint Barthélemy Cruise Ship Port Guide
Gustavia welcomes you to a charming harbour in Saint Barthélemy. You can walk straight from your cruise ship into this French-style town centre.
You’ll discover designer shops along the main streets and find plenty of cafĂ©s and restaurants nearby. Shell Beach sits just 10 minutes from the port, making it perfect for a quick swim or sunbathing session.
The waterfront path lets you see luxury yachts up close. You can climb up to Fort Gustav for the best harbour views – bring your camera for great photos.
The town connects you to several beach clubs and quiet beaches around the island. You can reach most attractions on foot from the port area. Local buses and taxis help you explore further spots on the island.
Key spots near the port:
- Shell Beach (10-minute walk)
- Fort Gustav viewpoint (15-minute walk)
- Designer boutiques (5-minute walk)
- Waterfront restaurants (2-minute walk)
- Beach clubs (taxi required)
Marigot, Saint Martin Cruise Ship Port Guide
Marigot sits on the French side of Saint Martin, offering you a blend of European and Caribbean culture. You’ll walk through colonial streets lined with boutiques and waterfront shops. Fort Louis stands above the harbour, giving you clear views across to other islands.
You can eat at the marina’s cafes, choosing between French dishes and Caribbean cooking. The Marigot Market lets you shop for local crafts, Caribbean spices and island-grown fruit. At Marina Royale, you can watch luxury boats come and go whilst enjoying a drink at sunset.
Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Cruise Ship Port Guide
Your cruise ship arrives at Philipsburg’s Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facility on the Dutch side of Saint Martin. You can walk straight from the dock to Front Street, the main shopping area.
Front Street offers you duty-free shopping at:
- Local boutiques
- Jewellery stores
- Caribbean restaurants
Great Bay Beach runs alongside the waterfront, where you can:
- Swim in clear waters
- Relax at beachfront bars
- Meet other travellers
You have two ways to reach downtown:
- Walk from the terminal
- Take the water taxi service
The port’s compact layout makes it easy for you to explore the main attractions on foot. Your ship’s central docking location puts you right in the heart of Philipsburg’s activities.
Fort Bay, Saba Cruise Ship Port Guide
Getting to Fort Bay
You’ll anchor offshore at Saba, as the port can’t fit large cruise ships at its dock. Small local boats (tenders) will take you to the concrete pier at Fort Bay.
Port Facilities
The port area offers:
- Tourism information office
- Public toilets
- Local vendor stalls
- Tour guide services
Finding Your Way
The port’s small size makes navigation straightforward. You can:
- Book island tours at the pier
- Meet your guide at the harbour
- Connect with other cruise visitors easily
- Access basic amenities within walking distance
Key Port Features
- Offshore anchoring required
- Tender service to shore
- Concrete pier for disembarking
- Basic visitor facilities
- Local guides available on-site
All services centre around the main pier area, making it simple to start your Saba adventure.
Oranjestad, Sint Eustatius Cruise Ship Port Guide
Your Cruise Stop in Sint Eustatius
You’ll need to take a tender boat to reach Oranjestad’s port, as cruise ships anchor offshore. The tender drops you at the main pier in Lower Town.
Top Attractions:
- Fort Oranje stands on a hilltop, offering sea views across the Caribbean
- Old Gin House serves as a restored boutique hotel with colonial architecture
- The Historical Museum displays local artefacts and colonial exhibits
- Clear waters near the old city walls provide excellent snorkelling spots
Essential Tips:
- Pack a water bottle for your walks
- Wear sturdy shoes for the uneven cobblestone streets
- Take local currency for small purchases
- Allow 15 minutes for the tender journey each way
The compact Lower Town area lets you explore most sites on foot within a few hours. You can easily combine the fort visit with the museum and harbour walk in one morning or afternoon.
Little Bay, Montserrat Cruise Ship Port Guide
Little Bay sits on Montserrat’s northwest coast, offering you a unique Caribbean port experience shaped by volcanic activity.
You’ll need to use tender boats to reach the shore, as the port can’t accommodate large cruise ships directly. The Soufrière Hills volcano’s 1995 eruption reshaped the island, prompting the creation of this new port area.
You can visit key sites within walking distance:
- The Cultural Centre showcases local art and history
- The Volcano Observatory lets you learn about the active volcano
- The developing town centre offers shops and cafes
The port provides basic facilities:
- Tourist information desk
- Public toilets
- Local taxi stand
- Craft market
- Small dining options
Tips for your visit:
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Bring your camera for volcano views
- Take local currency for small purchases
- Check tender boat schedules early
You’ll find the locals friendly and eager to share stories about their island’s transformation and resilience.
Pointe-Ă -Pitre, Guadeloupe Cruise Ship Port Guide
Welcome to Pointe-Ă -Pitre, the largest city in Guadeloupe. This port city combines French and Caribbean culture in one lively destination.
You can explore these main attractions:
Place de la Victoire
- You’ll find local crafts and fresh produce at the market
- The square offers authentic local atmosphere
Saint-John Perse Museum
- You can view traditional colonial buildings
- You’ll discover local history exhibits
Nearby Beaches
- Gosier beach offers clear waters for swimming
- Sainte-Anne beach provides calm spots for sunbathing
Food Spots
- You can taste fresh seafood at harbour restaurants
- Local chefs serve traditional Creole dishes
Travel Tips:
- Book your shore excursions before arrival
- Plan your visit around the morning market hours
- Carry euros for local purchases
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for cobbled streets
You’ll find most locals speak both French and Creole, with some English in tourist areas.
Roseau, Dominica Cruise Ship Port Guide
You’ll find Roseau, Dominica’s capital and cruise port, directly south of Guadeloupe. The Roseau Cruise Ship Berth puts you in the city centre, making it easy to explore the main attractions.
You can walk from your ship to the Old Market and waterfront area in minutes. The Bay Front offers you local stalls selling fresh tropical fruits and traditional crafts. The Dominica Museum sits nearby, showcasing the island’s history and culture.
You can book guided tours at the port to visit Dominica’s natural attractions:
- Hot springs
- Rainforest trails
- Waterfalls
- Nature reserves
The port’s central location lets you explore independently or join organised excursions throughout your stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Cruise the Leeward Islands?
The best time to cruise the Leeward Islands is between December and April. You’ll experience ideal weather conditions with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 29°C. During these months, you can expect minimal rainfall and calm sea conditions, making it perfect for island-hopping and water activities. These months also bring steady trade winds, which ensure comfortable sailing conditions throughout your Caribbean journey.
Are There Any Visa Requirements for Visiting Multiple Leeward Islands Ports?
Most visitors on Caribbean cruises don’t need visas for the Leeward Islands. You simply need:
- A valid passport
- A tourist card (provided by your cruise line)
These documents let you travel freely between the islands during your cruise stops. Your cruise operator handles most of the entry requirements, making your island visits straightforward.
How Rough Are the Waters Typically Between the Leeward Islands?
The waters between the Leeward Islands stay mostly calm, with gentle waves throughout the year. You’ll experience the smoothest conditions during the dry season from December to April. The islands’ positioning acts as a natural barrier, blocking most of the Atlantic Ocean’s stronger waves.
When you sail these routes, you’ll benefit from the islands’ sheltering effect, making navigation straightforward. Trade winds help keep the sea conditions stable, though you should watch for occasional swells during the hurricane season from June to November.
Your journey through these waters rarely faces rough conditions, making it ideal for both experienced sailors and newcomers to Caribbean waters.
Which Cruise Lines Offer the Most Comprehensive Leeward Islands Itineraries?
Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises offer you the most comprehensive Leeward Islands routes. You can visit key destinations like St. Kitts, Antigua and Martinique through their regular sailings. These sister cruise lines provide multiple itineraries throughout the Caribbean region.
What Currencies Are Accepted Across Different Leeward Islands Ports?
Major currencies accepted in Leeward Islands ports:
You can use US dollars throughout most ports in the region. The Eastern Caribbean dollar serves as official currency across many English-speaking islands. You’ll need euros when visiting French territories like St. Martin and Guadeloupe.
Currency tips for your visit:
- Keep small US dollar notes for local purchases
- Exchange rates vary between ports
- Most shops and restaurants accept both local and US currency
- Credit cards work at larger establishments
Remember to check current exchange rates before your journey, as these can fluctuate.
