The Windward Islands offer you easy-to-access cruise ports from Martinique to Grenada. You can explore each island’s attractions directly from your ship’s berth.

Main ports include:

  • Fort-de-France (Martinique): You’ll experience French culture and local markets.
  • Castries (Saint Lucia): You can reach beaches and shopping areas on foot.
  • Soufrière (Saint Lucia): You’ll see the Pitons and volcanic sites nearby.
  • St. George’s (Grenada): You can visit spice markets and colonial buildings.
  • Bridgetown (Barbados): You’ll find modern shops and transport links.

Each port provides clear signage and tourist information centres. You can walk to most attractions or catch local taxis right at the terminal.

These Caribbean ports combine modern facilities with authentic island experiences, making your cruise stops straightforward and enjoyable.

Fort-de-France, Martinique Cruise Ship Port Guide

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You’ll find Fort-de-France’s cruise terminal on Martinique’s west coast, right in the city centre. The port offers direct access to this French Caribbean destination, where you can experience both French and Creole cultures.

You can walk straight from your ship to major attractions:

  • Schoelcher Library
  • St. Louis Cathedral
  • La Savane park
  • Fort Saint-Louis with bay views

The Grand Marché (main market) sits nearby, where you can buy:

  • Local spices
  • Handmade crafts
  • Fresh Caribbean fruits

Tips for your visit:

  • The port area has clear signage in French and English
  • Most shops accept euros and credit cards
  • You can reach most sights within 15 minutes on foot
  • Local guides often wait at the terminal entrance

The port stays busy between November and April during peak cruise season. You’ll get the best experience by visiting attractions early in the morning to avoid crowds.

Castries, Saint Lucia Cruise Ship Port Guide

Castries Harbour sits at the heart of Saint Lucia’s capital, placing you minutes from downtown. You’ll find two main shopping complexes at the port: Pointe Seraphine and La Place Carenage, both offering duty-free goods.

Top activities near the port:

  1. You can shop for local crafts at Castries Central Market
  2. You’ll discover historic buildings around Derek Walcott Square
  3. You can explore the impressive Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
  4. You’ll get the best city views from Morne Fortune lookout

Practical tips:

  • The port area connects directly to the city centre
  • Local vendors accept US dollars and Eastern Caribbean currency
  • Most attractions sit within walking distance
  • Taxis wait at designated stands for longer trips

You’ll find Castries easy to navigate with clear signage and friendly locals happy to point you in the right direction.

Soufrière, Saint Lucia Cruise Ship Port Guide

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Soufrière sits on Saint Lucia’s southwest coast between the famous Piton mountains. You’ll find this small port town combines French colonial charm with stunning natural scenery.

Your cruise ship will anchor in Soufrière Bay, and tender boats will take you to the town’s central dock. You can explore several nearby attractions:

  • Diamond Botanical Gardens with tropical plants and walking trails
  • Active sulphur springs with natural mud baths
  • Local waterfalls surrounded by rainforest
  • Protected coral reefs perfect for snorkelling
  • Marine areas beneath the Pitons for swimming

The town offers local guides at the dock to help you visit these sites. You’ll discover clear waters filled with tropical fish and vibrant coral formations right near the shore. The volcanic landscape and lush greenery create perfect photo opportunities throughout your visit.

Marigot Bay, Saint Lucia Cruise Ship Port Guide

Marigot Bay sits along Saint Lucia’s west coast, offering you a protected natural harbour. Local sailors call it “Hurricane Hole” because its steep cliffs shield boats from storms. You’ll spot both luxury yachts and fishing boats floating in the clear green waters.

Your cruise ship will anchor in the bay, letting you step into this bustling maritime community. The bay’s cosy setting gives you four main activities to enjoy:

  1. You can taste local dishes at waterfront restaurants
  2. You can sail the bay on evening catamaran trips
  3. You can browse unique shops at the marina
  4. You can relax on quiet, hidden beaches

The bay’s intimate size makes it easy for you to walk between attractions and fully experience this charming Caribbean port. Each spot gives you clear views across the water, making it simple to find your way around.

Pigeon Point, Saint Lucia Cruise Ship Port Guide

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Pigeon Point lies on Saint Lucia’s northern coast, offering direct access to Fort Rodney and Pigeon Island National Park.

You can explore the restored military ruins from the 18th century, where British naval forces once controlled Caribbean waters. The hiking trails take you through historic pathways to Fort Rodney’s summit, rewarding you with 360-degree views of the coastline.

You’ll find a peaceful beach below the fort where you can swim and relax after your walk. The site’s interpretation centre explains Saint Lucia’s colonial heritage through interactive displays and artefacts.

Local beach bars and restaurants sit just minutes from the port, serving traditional Saint Lucian dishes like green fig and saltfish. You can easily spend half a day here combining history, hiking and beachside relaxation.

Kingstown, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Cruise Ship Port Guide

Kingstown welcomes you with its bustling harbour and historic Caribbean charm. You’ll find the city centre just steps from your cruise ship, making it easy to explore the main attractions.

Key spots to visit during your port stop:

  1. Kingstown Market
    • You can buy local fruits, vegetables and Caribbean spices
    • Local vendors sell fresh produce every weekday
    • Best visiting hours: 8am-2pm
  2. St. George’s Cathedral
    • You can spot its distinctive Gothic features
    • The stone architecture dates to 1820
    • Open daily for visitors
  3. Botanical Gardens
    • You’ll discover 20 acres of tropical plants
    • The garden holds a 250-year history
    • Houses the famous breadfruit tree collection
  4. Bay Street Shopping
    • You can browse local craft shops
    • Find authentic island souvenirs
    • Most shops open 9am-5pm

Tips:

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets
  • Carry local currency (Eastern Caribbean dollars)
  • Most attractions sit within 15 minutes’ walk from port
  • Remember your camera for colonial architecture shots

Port Elizabeth, Bequia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Cruise Ship Port Guide

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Port Elizabeth welcomes you to Bequia, the second-largest island in the Grenadines chain. You’ll find a bustling harbour where fishing boats and yachts share the crystal-clear waters.

The waterfront walkway lets you browse local shops, restaurants and bars. You can buy handmade crafts, taste fresh seafood, or enjoy a cold drink whilst watching the boats.

Two main beaches await you:

  • Princess Margaret Beach offers peaceful swimming spots
  • Lower Bay Beach provides excellent snorkelling opportunities

The Whaling Museum tells you Bequia’s seafaring story through local artefacts and exhibits. You’ll discover how this small island played a significant role in Caribbean maritime history.

The town keeps its authentic Caribbean charm, making it different from larger cruise ports. You can walk everywhere easily, meet friendly locals, and experience genuine island life at your own pace.

Clifton Harbour, Union Island, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Cruise Ship Port Guide

Clifton Harbour welcomes you to Union Island in the southern Grenadines. You can easily access this Caribbean port by cruise ship or yacht, with clear views of the mountains and blue waters around you.

You can do these activities at Clifton Harbour:

  1. Take a water taxi to Tobago Cays Marine Park to see sea turtles and coral reefs
  2. Shop at the local market for island-made crafts and fresh produce
  3. Climb Mount Taboi to see the whole harbour from above
  4. Swim and snorkel near the harbour’s coral reefs

You’ll find both basic and modern facilities at the harbour. The small size of the port lets you connect with local life and meet island residents easily.

Mayreau, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Cruise Ship Port Guide

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Your cruise ship stops at Mayreau, the smallest inhabited island in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, nestled in the southern Caribbean.

You’ll take a tender boat from your anchored ship to reach the island’s shore. The beaches feature white sand and clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Salt Whistle Bay offers you excellent spots to explore coral reefs or relax under palm trees.

You can visit the island’s only village to buy local crafts and taste traditional Caribbean dishes. The locals will gladly chat with you about life on their peaceful island. The whole experience gives you an authentic glimpse of small-island Caribbean living.

Tobago Cays, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Cruise Ship Port Guide

The Tobago Cays sit just minutes from Mayreau, featuring five untouched islands within a protected marine park. You’ll find clear waters, thriving coral reefs and abundant marine life throughout this natural sanctuary.

You can enjoy these key activities at Tobago Cays:

  1. Watch green sea turtles swim in their natural feeding grounds
  2. Explore the colourful coral gardens at Horseshoe Reef
  3. Spot wild iguanas during a boat trip to Baradal Island
  4. Share a beachside barbecue with other visitors at Petit Rameau

Essential items for your visit:

  • Reef-safe sunscreen
  • Underwater camera
  • Snorkelling gear
  • Water shoes

The waters stay calm and clear year-round, making Tobago Cays ideal for swimming and snorkelling. You can access all five islands by small boat or dinghy, with each offering unique viewing spots for marine life.

St. George’s, Grenada Cruise Ship Port Guide

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St. George’s welcomes you at the Melville Street Cruise Terminal, right in the centre of Grenada’s capital city. You’ll step off your ship into a bustling harbour town known as the “Spice Isle.”

You can walk straight from the terminal into the historic district. Market Square sits nearby, where you’ll find local traders selling freshly ground spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. You can watch them prepare and package these aromatic seasonings right in front of you.

Fort George stands above the harbour, offering you clear views across the Carenage’s distinctive horseshoe shape. You can climb to the fort’s viewing points for the best photo opportunities of your ship and the colourful colonial buildings below.

Grand Anse Beach provides a perfect spot for your beach activities. You can swim in calm waters, lie on soft white sand, or snorkel around the underwater sculpture park. The water stays crystal-clear throughout the year, making it ideal for spotting marine life.

Bridgetown, Barbados Cruise Ship Port Guide

The Bridgetown Cruise Terminal sits in central Barbados, connecting you directly to the capital city. You can walk straight from your ship into a modern terminal filled with shops and services.

Inside the terminal, you’ll find:

  • Pelican Village shops with duty-free items
  • Open-air markets with local crafts
  • Tourist information desks
  • Taxi ranks and tour booking offices

Your location advantages:

  • 5-minute walk to St. Michael’s Cathedral
  • 10-minute walk to Parliament Buildings
  • 15-minute walk to Carlisle Bay Beach
  • 20-minute drive to Harrison’s Cave

Popular excursions from the terminal:

  • City walking tours
  • Mount Gay Rum Distillery visits
  • Beach trips
  • Cave explorations

The terminal operates from 8am to 5pm daily. You can store luggage, exchange money, and book local tours on-site. Free Wi-Fi helps you stay connected while you plan your Barbados adventure.

[This version is clearer, more direct, and includes specific details useful for visitors while maintaining a friendly, informative tone]

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Cruise the Windward Islands?

The best time for your Windward Islands cruise is December to April. You’ll experience optimal weather conditions: sunny skies, minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures averaging 25-28°C. These months offer reliable trade winds and calm seas, making your sailing smoother. You’ll find more cruise options during this peak season, though you should book early to secure your preferred dates.

Are There Any Visa Requirements for Visiting Multiple Windward Islands?

You don’t need visas to visit most Windward Islands – your passport is enough for tourism. This applies if you arrive by cruise ship or air travel. As a U.S., Canadian or European tourist, you can freely move between islands like Martinique, St. Lucia, Grenada and St. Vincent. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay. Each island might have different rules about maximum stay duration, so check specific entry requirements before your trip.

Which Cruise Lines Offer Windward Islands Itineraries?

Major cruise lines serving the Windward Islands:

  • Royal Caribbean
  • Princess Cruises
  • Celebrity Cruises
  • Norwegian Cruise Line
  • MSC Cruises

You can explore these Caribbean islands through standard itineraries that typically visit multiple ports. Each cruise line offers distinct routes, letting you choose a journey that matches your travel preferences. The routes cover key Windward destinations like Martinique, St Lucia, and Grenada.

How Rough Are the Waters Between the Windward Islands?

The waters between the Windward Islands stay mostly calm, with your best sailing conditions from December to April. You’ll experience gentle swells of 1-2 metres during normal weather patterns. Your journey becomes choppier when trade winds pick up, typically reaching 15-20 knots. You can expect smoother passages in the early mornings and late afternoons. Moving between islands, you’ll notice the waters remain consistent enough for comfortable cruising, even for novice sailors.

What Currencies Are Accepted Across the Different Windward Islands Ports?

Two main currencies are readily accepted across Windward Islands ports:

  • US Dollars (USD)
  • Eastern Caribbean Dollars (ECD)

You can use your credit cards at most established businesses, but keep these tips in mind:

  • Carry cash for small purchases
  • Local market vendors prefer cash payments
  • Small shops may have card payment minimums

The exchange rate stays fixed at 2.70 Eastern Caribbean Dollars to 1 US Dollar.