Antigua and Barbuda have reached a significant milestone in their tourism industry, welcoming the 500,000th cruise passenger of the year at St. John’s Harbour on May 9, 2024.
The historic event occurred in under five months, showcasing a rapid increase in cruise traffic compared to previous years.
Antigua Cruise Port’s Operation Manager Rawle Reynolds, highlighted the exceptional growth to the local media, saying, “In the years of being a cruise tourism destination, this is the first time at such a fast pace in the 4th month of the year that we’ve been able to reach 500,000 passengers at this time of the year.”
Heritage Quay, St. John, Antigua (Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald)
Antigua Cruise Port in St. John’s Harbour already received 496,000 passengers on 255 ship calls as of May 5 when Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Beyond and Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Sky arrived on May 9. The two ships brought over 4,000 passengers, pushing the total number of visitors past the half-million mark.
Cynthia Jacobs Browne, officer-in-charge at Antigua Cruise Port, expressed her enthusiasm over the achievements, stating, “These numbers are extremely exciting for us. Every passenger represents an opportunity for a taxi driver, restauranteur, shop owner, or tour operator to promote the best of Antigua and to make a better living.”
She went on to say, “We are on track for a record-breaking year, and we could not be prouder of our team and our success at this point. Bookings for the summer season are also up, and we are on course to outperform last year’s numbers. We look forward to sharing more record-breaking news soon.”
Antigua Cruise followed its half-million passenger count with the May 10 arrival of NCL’s 2,402-passenger Norwegian Jade. Princess Cruises’ 3,080-passenger Emerald Princess will also arrive this month.
Antigua Sets Eyes on Historic Cruise Tourism Numbers
Antigua’s surge in cruise activity has brought in more than 105,000 more passengers and an increase of 42 calls compared to May 2023. It’s worth noting that Antigua welcomed just over 500,000 cruise passengers for the entirety of last year.
The port anticipates a record number of visitors by the end of 2024, with projections to welcome over 800,000 passengers through 309 regular port calls and 27 turnaround calls.
Antigua’s unprecedented growth includes homeporting P&O Cruises’ 5,200-passenger P&O Arvia, Scenic Group’s 100-passenger Emerald Sakara, Star Clippers’ 277-guest Royal Clipper two ships from the SeaDream Yacht Club fleet.
Photo Credit: Antigua Cruise Port
Also contributing to the growth is the opening of the port’s new $30-million Oasis-class berth, which allowed P&O Arvia to homeport on the island. The largest ship to call Antigua home, the Excel-class ship also brings 1,800 crew members to the nation.
Earlier this year, the Antiguian government also announced it would begin developing Rat Island, north of St. John’s cruise terminal, as an extension of the Antigua Cruise Port. Rat Island will welcome small cruise ships and yachts, leaving the port’s Heritage Quay for larger cruise vessels.
The twin-island nation is also considering adding an entertainment and dining hub on Rat Island, similar to its offerings at Heritage Quay.
Although the development of a $100-million beach club, in partnership with Royal Caribbean International, was announced before the pandemic, it is uncertain if the private destination resort will be back on track in the near future. The beach club would be constructed at Fort James and be similar to the new beach club Royal Caribbean is building in Nassau, Bahamas, adding to Antigua and Barbuda’s thriving cruise industry.
In anticipation of the 250th anniversary of America on July 4, 2026, Princess Cruises has unveiled its new “Historic America Cruisetour,” a 14-night journey that blends a comprehensive land tour with a scenic Canada and New England cruise.
The cruisetour, which kicks off in 2025 from New York City, offers cruisers an in-depth exploration of the United States’ foundational history.
The itinerary begins with a seven-night land tour featuring stops in the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia, and Gettysburg and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Each destination has been chosen for its significant contributions to American history.
Photo Credit: Princess Cruises
Guests will then embark on the Enchanted Princess for a 7-day roundtrip cruise.
“Visiting our nation’s capital, nearby historic cities and landmarks always ranks high on travelers’ lists of places to visit in their lifetime,” said Terry Thornton, chief commercial officer at Princess Cruises.“We are making traveling to historic America easy, educational, and memorable with our knowledgeable and inspiring tour guides sharing the incredible stories of our country’s settlers, leaders, landmarks, and historic sites.”
The cruisetour includes hotel accommodations, motorcoach transportation, and most meals, alongside guided tours that highlight major historical sites.
Cruisetour Explores America’s Foundation
The Historic America cruisetour has 10 departure dates throughout August, September, and October 2025, beginning August 16 and ending with the last itinerary setting sail on October 18.
Guests will arrive in Washington, D.C., and explore its national monuments and museums, including an evening illumination tour of landmarks like the Lincoln and Vietnam War Memorials, with two full nights in a D.C.-area hotel.
The journey continues with visits to Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown Settlement in Virginia, home to the first permanent English settlement in North America. Travelers will enjoy dinner at a Colonial Williamsburg tavern, spend the night, and have a full day to enjoy the living-history Museum, which features costumed reenactors showcasing life in 18th-century Williamsburg.
Independence Hall, Philadelphia (Photo Credit: f11photo)
The tour also includes visits to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello estate, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as Harpers Ferry National Historic Park in Virginia and the iconic Gettysburg Battlefield, offering insights into both the Revolutionary and Civil War eras.
Finally, the land tour ends in Philadelphia, where guests will spend a full day and night visiting the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House, and other pivotal sites in the birthplace of American democracy, including Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776.
After completing the land tour, guests will travel to New York City and board the 141,000-gross-ton Enchanted Princess to sail along the picturesque coastlines of New England and Canada.
The 3,660-passenger cruise will call on Newport, Rhode Island, home to Gilded Age mansions and a vibrant waterfront; Boston, Massachusetts, which witnessed the start of the American Revolution; and Portland, Maine’s Old Port district.
The cruise also calls in Halifax, Nova Scotia, which became the refuge of Loyalists fleeing the newly independent American states.
Built in 2020 and launched in 2021 following the pandemic, the Enchanted Princess spends most of the year in the Caribbean, based in Fort Lauderdale, before relocating to New York City from August through October to visit New England and Canadian ports.
Its 2024 Canada and New England itineraries, as well as 7-night roundtrip voyages, stop in Newport, Boston, and Halifax and visit additional and varying ports, including Bar Harbor, Maine, and Saint John, New Brunswick. The 2025 cruisetour will be the first time the cruise will offer the extensive 7-night vacation package for these itineraries.
Crew members aboard Carnival Venezia smoothly handled an emergency situation that coincidentally happened during an emergency drill. The incident happened while the ship was docked in St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands on Friday, May 10.
St. Thomas was the first port of call on the ship’s current sailing, an 11-night Eastern Caribbean voyage from New York. Carnival Venezia departed the Big Apple on Monday, May 6.
It is common for crew safety drills to be conducted while a ship is in port and most guests are off the ship enjoying a new destination. This gives crew members plenty of room to work and ensure proper procedures are being followed, while being less confusing or disruptive for guests.
Fallen Carnival Crew Member Being Rescued
According to a report on Crew Center, the standard emergency drill was underway when a man overboard alert was called. A further announcement was made to clarify that this was not part of the drill, but was an actual emergency situation. A crew member had fallen overboard from Carnival Venezia‘s aft.
The ship’s rescue boat – a small, yellow craft that can be launched quickly and maneuvered easily – was immediately brought into service and sped to the crew member’s position in the water. He was easily taken aboard, and did not appear to have any severe injuries.
The crew member has not been identified, but was wearing a blue work jumpsuit and a bright yellow automatically inflating life vest that is easily visible in the water. Most likely, the crew member was working on the ship’s hull when he slipped and fell into the water.
Crew emergency drill turned into a real rescue operation after a crew member fell overboard from cruise ship.https://t.co/4LfpI0PP3w Video: Linda Spanky Warhaftig COPs Cruisers Opinion Page pic.twitter.com/tHFFohw0Kk
While cruise ships are docked, crew members often perform maintenance such as window or balcony washing, painting, and other tasks that are not possible to do while the vessel is at sea.
All emergency personnel responded swiftly to this unexpected incident, and carried out the rescue quickly and efficiently.
The brief emergency did not cause any disruption to Carnival Venezia‘s onboard activities, nor was the ship’s itinerary impacted in any way. After St. Thomas, the ship visited San Juan on Saturday, May 11, and still has calls to Amber Cove, Grand Turk, and Half Moon Cay on the itinerary before she will return to New York on Friday, May 17.
The 135,225-gross-ton Carnival Venezia can welcome 4,208 guests aboard for each sailing at double occupancy, or up to 5,260 travelers when fully booked. She is also home to over 1,200 international crew members.
Safety Drills for Guests and Crew
Cruise travelers are very familiar with the mandatory muster drill conducted on embarkation day on every sailing. Through brief presentations and online videos, guests are apprised of onboard safety procedures and must proceed to their muster stations to verify that they have checked in and understand the safety guidelines.
On most cruise lines, these e-muster drills are largely completed at guests’ convenience with individual muster check-ins. In years past, in-person muster drills were used, with large crowds of guests gathered at their muster stations while emergency information was read over the public address systems.
Carnival Venezia Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Mariusz Lopusiewicz)
At the moment, only Disney Cruise Line has returned to the in-person muster drills, which may be a more convenient option with young families. Because of the success of e-muster drills on other cruise lines, it is unlikely that in-person drills will become more widespread, though updates and changes are always possible.
Prior to a cruise ship departing its homeport, the safety signals (blasts on the horn) are sounded, and crew members report to their emergency duties for the brief drill. On ships using e-muster drills, guests do not participate at that time.
Cruise ship crew members also participate in other emergency drills every week. These may include simulations of different types of emergencies, tests of emergency equipment such as lowering lifeboats, and other essential tasks.
Frequent drills ensure that all crew members and guests onboard are familiar with any emergency procedures should they become necessary in a real life situation.
Cruises are supposed to be an opportunity for passengers to relax and unwind. But while these vacations offer a brief escape from reality, they don’t provide a break from other people.
With mega-cruise ships like Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seasable to accommodate up to 7,600 passengers at once, it’s simply inevitable that some personalities will clash.
In a Reddit forum dedicated to venting about “rude, demanding, entitled, memorable, or just plain odd” passengers, commenters have noticed a particularly high number of cruise ship Karens hanging out by the pool.
Cruise Ship Pool Loungers (Photo Credit: ODIN Daniel)
One anonymous poster shared that he and his wife decided to stay on the ship during a port call to relax by the pool. With fewer guests onboard, they were able to take advantage of “premium loungers” that were partially submerged in the shallow pool water.
It was a peaceful day until the poster got up to use the restroom. His wife and his things remained on his lounger, as he only intended to be away for a few minutes. But another lady saw this as her opportunity to swoop in and claim the spot for herself.
“I got up to go use the restroom and a lady jumped into my lounger and declared that I Ieft. All my stuff was sitting there along with my wife. I was maybe 10 feet away and came back to let her know I would be returning after I went to the bathroom. You would have thought I stole her puppy or something. Loudly complaining how it wasn’t fair, we had been there all day, blah blah blah,”wrote the poster.
The couple ended up staying as long as they possibly could, even beyond the length of time they intended to stay “just to listen to her complain.”
Apparently, those pool loungers are in extremely high demand, as one user witnessed an intoxicated woman urinate in her chair instead of getting up to use the bathroom because she didn’t want to risk losing her spot.
“I heard a person calling for staff and when I looked over I realized why. One drunk woman apparently didn’t want to get up and risk losing her chair so she decided to just lay there and urinate through her bathing suit and the chair, and the puddle was making its way to the pool,” wrote another user.
Luckily, crew members saw what was happening and were able to intervene. They cleaned up the mess, and after a struggle, had the woman removed by security.
Carnival Cracks Down On Lounge Chair Policy
While chair hogging has been an issue on many cruise lines, Carnival has had a particular problem with it. The 27-ship cruise line has been working harder to push its “chairing is caring” mindset and crack down on inconsiderate guests who claim prime poolside lounge chairs for hours without actually using them.
Beginning in February of 2024, the cruise line began placing extra emphasis on enforcing no chair saving rules through sticker notifications and time limits – although these rules have been in place for years. But now, designated “ChairShare” team members place stickers on empty chairs that contain unattended passenger belongings.
“We stopped by at _____ and found this chair empty,”the stickers read.“Hope you’re having a great time… but for the benefit of all we limit how long chairs can be left unattended. At _____ we’ll move your stuff to the towel hut for safekeeping.”
Chair Hog Carnival Enforcement
The crew members fill in the blanks with the time they found the “reserved” chair empty and the time in which the items would be removed.
This doesn’t mean guests can’t ever leave their lounges to use the restroom, quickly retrieve something from their cabin, grab a snack, or the like. It’s okay for passengers to step away for a few minutes. The policy is instead meant to prevent passengers from reserving chairs for extended time periods – or even the whole day – without actually using them.
A common practice, which goes against cruise ship etiquette, is for passengers to race up to the pool deck early in the morning to reserve the best available seats for themselves and their families, but not actually return to use them for a long time – which is unfair to other guests who would like a turn.
Ultimately, guests need to be respectful of other passengers while using the pool and go back to the old golden rules of “treat others how you want to be treated” and “sharing is caring.”
Additional pool etiquette to keep in mind is not letting food or drinks spill into the water, keeping an eye on children for their safety and to not disturb other cruisers, and save any nude sunbathing or skinny dipping habits for the privacy one’s own home.
St. Kitts, one of the two islands that make up the Caribbean nation of Saint Kitts and Nevis, is an enchanting destination that draws over one million tourists annually. With its natural island beauty, unique cultural heritage, and wide range of historical landmarks, it is no wonder that St. Kitts is one of the most popular ports of call for Eastern Caribbean itineraries.
We will provide cruise passengers with an in-depth breakdown of the St. Kitts Cruise Port, including its facilities, nearby attractions, and practical travel tips for getting the most out of their time on the island.
The main cruise port on the island of St. Kitts is strategically located in Basseterre, the nation’s capital city. The St. Kitts Cruise Port is known by its formal name – Port Zante. The port and its terminals are located right along the central coast of Basseterre, which is nestled along the island’s southeastern shore.
The exact address is as follows: 77RG PVQ, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevins
This convenient location allows cruise ships to pull directly alongside the city so their passengers can easily explore the heart of the capital city. Its vibrant mixture of Caribbean and Georgian Era architecture makes it the perfect location for culturally enriching exploration and adventure.
Number of Terminals and Piers
As mentioned, the island’s main cruise port is Port Zante, which has a single terminal. Until recently, the port operated around a single pier; however, at just over 1,000 feet in length and with a depth of 28 feet, this pier remains large enough to have two dedicated berths.
Aerial View of the Piers in St. Kitts (Photo Credit: Anthony Giarrusso)
It also means that Port Zante can welcome the world’s largest cruise ships, including Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class vessels. In 2019, the port was expanded to have a second pier, allowing four large cruise ships to dock directly in the port at any given time.
Port Zante’s cruise terminal is actually very impressive, with the entire port complex sprawling over 30 acres.
Port Facilities and Features
The port delivers a pleasant experience for visitors. The two piers offer many port-side services, including restaurants, duty-free shops, local vendor stalls, and a dedicated tourist information center.
A major food court even has a swimming pool that is open to visitors free of charge. The information center is located within the terminal facility, and you can also purchase excursion packages and tickets to local attractions here.
The port also offers free Wi-FI to visitors. Simply connect to the public hotspot, Port Zane FREE Wi-Fi, and you should have immediate internet access. This is a relatively rare feature of a Caribbean cruise port, so it is very welcome. If, for whatever reason, you have trouble connecting, you can also find free Wi-Fi at the Sweet Beach Bar & Restaurant, which is just outside of the terminal.
St. Kitts Cruise Terminal (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)
The main terminal also has banking facilities, ATMs, public telephones, and plenty of well-maintained bathroom facilities. A steel band and street performers wearing colorful costumes welcome most visitors to the island.
This effort to make navigating the cruise terminal such a passenger-friendly experience reflects that tourism is a critical component of the country’s economy. In fact, tourism accounts for one-tenth of the country’s GDP, so it is no surprise that they invested a significant amount of public funds into developing the cruise port and its facilities.
Accessibility within the Port
Port Zante’s piers and terminal building were designed to welcome all passengers, making the entire port wheelchair-friendly.
Cruise Lines that Use the Port
As mentioned, Saint Kitts and Nevis is one of the more popular Caribbean Islands for cruise ships, so it is no surprise that many major cruise lines visit Port Zante.
Cruise Ships Docked in St. Kitts (Photo Credit: SKNIS)
Just some of the cruise lines that regularly visit include Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises, Virgin Voyages, Norwegian Cruise Line and Disney Cruise Line.
Port Zante’s berthing arrangements are incredibly well-organized, so multiple cruise ships can be seen coming and going at any given time. There are very few delays, which makes for a more enjoyable experience for visitors.
Options for Transportation
Visitors tend to use taxis to get from the port to the core of the city and the surrounding area. With a designated Taxi Terminal just outside Port Zante, exploring the city and surrounding attractions is straightforward and convenient.
To get a taxi, simply wait in the fast-moving line. Most taxi drivers offer flat rates to some of the city’s main attractions.
St. Kitts Port Area With Buses (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)
Some of the larger cruise lines also offer complimentary shuttle services to popular attractions, providing an affordable and hassle-free way to explore the city. If this is the case, you will probably be informed by checking your cruise line’s app.
Traffic can be a little bit congested in Basseterre during peak tourist season, especially if you are looking to get to the downtown area. However, the taxi pickup zone within the port is very well-organized, so you shouldn’t have to wait long to get a cab, even with traffic.
Important Facts About St. Kitts and Nevis
Language
As a former British colony, English is the official language of St. Kitts and Nevis. This explains why it is one of the more popular destinations for Caribbean cruises.
Currency
The country’s official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar, which is pegged to the US Dollar at a rate of roughly ECD 2.7 to USD 1. With that said, American currency is also widely accepted, but usually just in smaller denominations, so avoid bringing $50 and $100 bills.
Time Zone
St. Kitts and Nevis operate on Atlantic Standard Time (AST) throughout the year, meaning they do not observe daylight savings time. Instead, the entire country follows a set clock year-round.
Nearby Amenities and Attractions
One of the best things about visiting the port is that the city and its attractions are within reasonable walking distance. We recommend the following:
The National Museum of St. Kitts
National Museum of St. Kitts (Photo Credit: quiggyt4)
The museum is located just steps outside the port. Built in 1894, it is a former British treasury building. The historical structure displays exhibits that showcase the island’s culture, colonial history, and pre-empire indigenous past. Given that it can be walked to in under five minutes, it is always worth visiting.
St. Kitts and Nevis Independence Square
This compact park is just a 10-minute walk from the cruise terminal and centers around a 19th-century water feature. With shaded benches and eye-catching tropical gardens, it is a great place to sit back and get a feel for the city.
The park is also located a short distance from a traditional British red phone box, making you feel like you’re in a tropical version of London, England.
Port Zante Shopping
You don’t even have to leave the cruise port to enjoy an afternoon of shopping and eating. With the Pelican Shopping Mall built directly into the Port Zante area, plus a wide range of souvenir, duty-free, and jewelry stores, the port offers some of the city’s best shopping. Plus, there are ice cream shops, a bar, and several restaurants.
Shopping in Basseterre (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)
Distance to Popular Attractions
If you have more time to explore the city and the surrounding area, plenty of amazing sights and attractions are within a relatively short taxi ride. The following are just some of the more popular options:
Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park
Brimstone Hill Fortress (Photo Credit: quiggyt4)
Located roughly 12 miles from Port Zante, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers visitors an opportunity to explore a well-preserved 17th-century British military outpost. Not only is the colonial fortress worth exploring, but the surrounding area was granted national park status, and it provides stunning, panoramic views of the island’s coastline.
The St. Kitts Scenic Railway
Located less than two miles north of the port, the Scenic Railway allows visitors to take a three-hour round trip along a 20th-century railroad. The tracks follow the island’s coastline for roughly 30 miles, making it one of the easiest ways to see the island’s national beauty. Plus, the train is open-air, so you can really get a feel for the sights and sounds.
Historic Zone of Basseterre
Located just a short walk, the city of Basseterre is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site of its own. The entire historic downtown core is incredibly well-preserved, with examples of French colonial architecture, as well as British architecture that followed English colonial rule. The area is located just a short cab ride from the cruise port, but it’s also possible to walk, as it’s only about a mile away.
Picadilly Circus Square in Basseterre (Photo Credit: EQRoy)
Take the opportunity to wander around and explore. There are plenty of shops and restaurants offering hand-made souvenirs and local dishes. Don’t forget your camera!
Seasonal Weather and Best Time to Visit
While St. Kitts and Nevis is a year-round tourist destination, weather conditions and average temperatures vary throughout the year. In general, most people consider the months between November and March to be the best time to visit. This is because temperatures are pleasant but not overly hot and humid. There is also a reduced risk of tropical storms during this time of year.
These ideal conditions also mean that the island is at its busiest with cruise traffic and other forms of tourism, so it can get slightly crowded. If you go during different times of the year, you can save some money and encounter fewer crowds.
View of St. Kitts (Photo Credit: Anthony Giarrusso)
Fall and Winter: Temperatures range from 75°F to 80°F, with relatively low humidity and a consistent breeze. This makes the fall and winter the ideal seasons to spend time outdoors sightseeing.
Spring and Summer: Temperatures tend to sit around 85°F, but humidity can make it feel warmer, especially in the mid-summer months. The likelihood of rain also increases substantially, especially between June and September, which also happens to be Hurricane Season.
Popular Beaches and the Distances from Port
Frigate Bay: Located roughly 4 miles from Port Zante, you’ll probably need a cab or shuttle bus to get to Frigate Bay, but it is one of the most popular beach destinations on the island. With its white sand, clear ocean waters, and a number of beachfront restaurants and bars, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon.
Frigate Bay (Photo Credit: Kevin Ruck)
South Friars Bay Beach: At 6 miles from the port, South Friars Bay Beach requires a slightly longer drive, but its tranquil atmosphere and notoriously calm waters are perfect for swimming and water sports. Whether you want to snorkel or enjoy a relaxing beach day, it’s worth visiting.
Cockleshell Bay: Although it’s an 8-mile taxi ride away, Cockleshell Bay offers visitors the opportunity to spend the day on a truly stunning beach. Not only is the white sand exactly what you want out of a Caribbean beach, but you can take in amazing views of the Caribbean Sea and even Nevis Peak in the distance. Since it’s a bit farther than the other tourist-friendly beaches, it has a quieter and more secluded atmosphere.
Visiting Nevis from Saint Kitts
As you may have guessed, Nevis is the second island that makes up the nation of Saint Kitts and Nevis. For those wanting to see more of the country, a regular ferry service offers a scenic and enjoyable ride across “The Narrows” gap that separates the two islands. The ferry takes about 45 minutes, and it leaves from the same port that cruise ships dock in, so the commute is really easy.
Welcome Sign at Port of Charlestown on Nevis Island (Photo Credit: Mystic Stock Photography)
If you do make it across to the sister island of Nevis, we recommend visiting the Alexander Hamilton Birthplace. Now a museum, this Georgian-era house is located in the center of Charleston, the capital of Nevis. History buffs will love the opportunity to learn about the interesting history of Alexander Hamilton and the island’s colonial past.
You can also spend the day on Pinney’s Beach, which offers the same crystal-clear waters, palm trees, and white sand as the beaches of St. Kitts but with smaller crowds. Nevis is also home to the Nevis Volcano, which gave the island its name. No longer active, this volcano and the lush forests that cover it make it a favorite for hiking enthusiasts.
Dining Around St. Kitts Cruise Port
Thanks to the booming tourist industry and the unique blend of cultures that have mingled throughout the island’s complex past, the country and its cities have amazing restaurant scenes.
While you can find some of the more recognizable American-owned chains, the real charm is the family-owned restaurants that serve up the authentic flavors and ingredients of St. Kitts and Nevis.
If you do want to take in some of the local cuisine, we recommend trying stewed saltfish, stewed goat, conch fritters, and pretty much any of the seafood restaurants. You can also find plenty of stands blending up fresh fruit smoothies. St. Kitts and Nevis also has plenty of its own rum distilleries, so make sure you sample some of the local stuff!
No Rush Bar at Port Zante (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)
We have a soft spot for Four Ways Restaurant & Bar in Basseterre. The open-air seating is the perfect setting for trying some of the island’s most iconic dishes and cocktails. It’s also just a short walk from the port, but far enough that you won’t have to wait long to get a table.
If you’re looking for a few cold drinks and the opportunity to relax in a true St. Kitts gem, you can also visit places like Jabou’s Hideaway. Friendly locals and tourists alike frequent bars like this, providing a more authentic experience than you will get in the bars found within Port Zante itself. If you want to embrace the experience, don’t forget to sample the local rum and Caribbean beers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you walk around St. Kitts from the cruise port?
Yes, the city of Basseterre is immediately outside of the cruise port, so you can easily walk into town for quick access to shops, restaurants, and attractions.
How far is the beach from St. Kitts cruise port?
Sea Glass Beach is the nearest beach to the cruise port, just under three miles away. However, most people travel slightly further to Frigate Bay Beach, which is much nicer and is located a short distance from Dolphin Discovery at St Kitts.
Is St. Kitts a tender port?
No, Port Zante functions primarily as a docked port, but tendering is possible at some of the island’s smaller ports. Typically, this is only done by some of the smaller cruise lines.
Coinciding with Mother’s Day weekend festivities, Carnival Cruise Line celebrated more than 150 military women aboard the 110,000-gross-ton Carnival Conquest during Miami’s first-ever Fleet Week.
The ceremony included presentations and the distribution of commemorative coins to the servicewomen of the United States Armed Forces, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard.
“As America’s cruise line, we carry more active military members and veterans than any other cruise line, so it’s our honor to host this special salute to military women as part of Fleet Week in Miami, where we’re headquartered and sail five of our beautiful ships,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.
She added,“We want all members of the military to know that we greatly appreciate their service and their sacrifice.”
Navy veteran Vera Lannek, vice president of strategic sourcing for Carnival Corporation, shares a commemorative coin with a service member. (Photo Courtesy: Carnival Cruise Line)
During the tribute, Vera Lannek, a U.S. Naval Academy alumna and vice president of strategic sourcing for Carnival Corporation, expressed her gratitude towards the women who have served in the military. The event was part of a broader initiative to honor the contributions of military personnel.
Carnival Cruise Line’s engagement in Miami’s inaugural Fleet Week, formerly held in Fort Lauderdale for more than three decades, was one of many ceremonies taking place during the week-long event.
Beginning on May 5 and concluding on May 12, Fleet Week serves as a platform for various community outreach initiatives and events to honor the United States Armed Forces.
Throughout the week, attendees had the opportunity to participate in activities, including concerts performed by the Navy and Marine Corps bands, guided tours of active military ships, military demonstrations, and airshows.
Military ships in port available for tours include the naval aircraft carrier USS Bataan, guided missile cruisers USS Normandy and USS Leyte Gulf, and Coast Guard cutter USCGS Seneca.
Carnival’s Year-Round Military Appreciation
Carnival Cruise Line’s military appreciation extends beyond Fleet Week. In 2023 alone, Carnival Cruise Line hosted over 1,500 military appreciation gatherings, expanding most events to encompass a Military Appreciate Day across the fleet during North American sailings.
Initiated in July 2023 and held on sailings taking place the week of July 24, the day-long commemorations are an extension of the previously held veterans’ gatherings. On Military Appreciation Day, guests aboard the ships can experience a variety of tributes, including the display of unique messages about military service on the Seaside Theater screens and a ceremonial raising of the American flag in the atrium for voyages lasting at least four nights.
Carnival Sunrise Heroes Tribute Bar
In a bid to honor veterans more permanently, several ships in the Carnival fleet, including Carnival Celebration, Carnival Freedom, Carnival Glory, Carnival Panorama, Carnival Pride, Carnival Radiance, Carnival Sunrise, Carnival Venezia, Carnival Vista,Mardi Gras, and the new Carnival Jubilee and Carnival Firenze, feature the Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge. The bar will soon be added to Carnival Legend.
Moreover, Carnival Cruise Line maintains a partnership with Operation Homefront, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting military families in the U.S. Through the partnership, veterans and their families receive proceeds from group photos taken at military appreciation events, along with sales of souvenir glasses sold at Heroes Tribute Bar and the exclusively brewed onboard “Heroes American Pale Ale.”
The pale ale created from Veterans Blend Hops, also introduced in 2023, is available on Carnival ships with breweries, including Carnival Celebration, Carnival Horizon, Mardi Gras, Carnival Panorama, and Carnival Vista.
Authorities in Majorca are moving forward with proposals to renew restrictions that prevent large cruise ships from docking in Palma, the capital of the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands.
According to the island’s local news channel, a proposal has been submitted by the Committee on Tourism, Trade, Employment, Culture and Sport to manage the impact of mass tourism on the island.
The plan, awaiting final approval from the Balearic Islands Port Authority (APB) and Palma City Council, calls for the renewal of a 2022 agreement reached between the city and the International Cruise Line Association (CLIA) that caps the daily arrival of cruise ships to three, with only one allowed to carry over 5,000 passengers.
Palma de Majorca (Photo Credit: Peter Turansky)
That ban, established in May 2022, limited the number of visiting vessels in an attempt to preserve the island’s environment and maintain the quality of life for its residents.
Local business leaders and tourism advocates in Majorca have voiced concerns over the ban, citing the economic repercussions of limited cruise traffic. They argue that cruise tourists contribute significantly to the economy through their spending. A report from Majorca Daily Bulletin highlighted an 18% drop in cruise passengers following the 2022 ban.
Despite the limitations enforced on Majorca, its ports welcomed 2,324,157 cruise passengers between January and October 2023, which was over 45% more than recorded in the same time frame in 2022.
Majorca’s peak season is from May to October, although 2024 began with a call from MSC Cruises’ 2,550-passenger MSC Poesia, arriving on January 8.
This month alone, the port will receive 82 calls as it welcomes nearly every major cruise line, including Costa Cruises, AIDA Cruises, Oceania Cruises, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Cunard, Crystal Cruises, Virgin Voyages, Celebrity Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, P&O Cruises, and Silversea.
Multiple ships docked in Palma de Majorca (Photo Credit: MEDIAIMAG)
Palma de Majorca is the third most popular port in Spain and the world’s third most polluted by cruise ships, according to a Transport & Environment report.
Spanish ports, in general, are seeing a surge in cruise passenger traffic, with 2023 numbers more than 12% greater than pre-pandemic numbers. The number of cruise ships passing through Spanish ports last year also increased nearly 6% over pre-pandemic figures.
The ports of the Balearic Islands, consisting of Majorca, Ibiza, Formentera, and Menorca, are second in popularity to Barcelona, which received over 3 million cruise passengers in 2023.
In turn, the Catalonian capital imposed its own limits last October in an effort to control tourism. The partial ban limits the number of simultaneous cruise ship arrivals to seven and prohibits cruise ships from docking at Barcelona Nord’s northern terminal, instead sending ships to the south side of the city to dock at Moll d’Adossat.
Despite these measures, the broader Spanish context complicates the enforcement of such bans. Recently, the Spanish government indicated that while it acknowledges the local impacts of cruise tourism, it lacks the legal authority to enforce outright bans on cruise ship entries.
The stance was revealed amid discussions in Madrid, where national policymakers debated the implications of imposing stricter regulations on the cruise industry.
Spain is not the only country attempting to limit cruise ships and scores of passengers. Most notably, Venice, Italy, banned large cruise ships from its historic center in 2021 to preserve the Venice Lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Similarly, Amsterdam banned cruise ships from entering its city center. Others have restricted cruise arrivals and passenger counts, such as the two per day cap in Bruges, Belgium, and Dubrovnik, Croatia’s 5,000 passengers per day constraint.
Norwegian Cruise Line is celebrating Military Appreciation Month with a series of initiatives throughout May 2024 that show the line’s support for veterans, active duty troops, and families of those who gave their lives in service of the country.
As the lead partner of Fleet Week Miami, which began on May 5 and runs until May 12, the cruise line welcomed the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan to its terminal at PortMiami. The vessel is one of four participating in the Fleet Week activities, along with the USS Harry Truman, the USS Leyte Gulf, and the USS Normandy.
USS Bataan arrived at the cruise line’s terminal on May 5, 2024, officially launching the celebration. Hosted by the US Navy, Fleet Week Miami features a busy schedule of events to welcome and entertain the sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen visiting the city this week. Activities include free concerts by Navy and Marine Corps bands, tours of the Navy ships, and more.
Celebrating Fleet Week on Norwegian Breakaway
In addition to Fleet Week Miami, Norwegian Cruise Line also is a partner in the upcoming Coca-Cola 600, the NASCAR Cup Series race held annually during Memorial Weekend, and participates in Honor and Remember, the group that honors fallen service members.
“Throughout Military Appreciation Month and every day on board our ships, it is our privilege to recognize and honor the brave men and women who have served in the US military and their families for their sacrifice,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line.
“Supporting the military community is a shared passion for the entire NCL family and we are proud to team up with fantastic organizations like Fleet Week Miami, Coca-Cola, and Honor and Remember to make an impact for this community,” added Herrera.
The cruise line president served with the Army National Guard and works alongside other veterans at the cruise line, including Matthew Lewis, a former US Navy Seal who is a member of the executive team at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, parent company of the line.
Lewis addressed Miami officials and others during the Fleet Week Miami Mayoral Welcome press conference held on May 6, 2024, and presented a ceremonial plaque from the cruise line to US Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro.
“Many of us personally understand the sacrifices this community has made for their country, and to be able to have a positive impact and provide an opportunity to reconnect with their loved ones is a privilege,” said Matthew Lewis, senior vice president and chief security officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.
Both Herrera and Lewis hosted top Navy officials Admiral Daryl Caudle and Lt. General Brian Cavanaugh and others aboard Norwegian Breakaway at PortMiami on May 8.
Special Event Planned to Honor Gold Star Families
During Memorial Weekend, the cruise line will partner for the second year with Coco-Cola to honor Gold Star families at the Coca-Cola 600 NASCAR race, held at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, North Carolina, on May 26, 2024.
Norwegian Cruise Line Terminal in Miami (Photo Credit: Ceri Breeze)
The cruise line president will host the families at a special luncheon, and word is that some fun surprises are in store. At the 2023 event, Herrera gave away free cruises to all of the Gold Star families attending the race.
The cruise line is also continuing its support of the nonprofit Honor and Remember organization. In addition to flying its flag on all Norwegian Cruise Line ships, the line will make a $75,000 donation to the group.
Onboard its ships, Norwegian Cruise Line provides active-duty troops and veterans with special perks and amenities, and cruise fare discounts of 10%. Since the cruise line’s Military Appreciation Program rolled out in 2022, some 220,000 military members have registered with the program, and 120,000 of those who have registered have cruised with the line.
Other cruise lines also participate in various veteran appreciation programs. Carnival Cruise Line, for example, holds special onboard events for military members who book cruises, and the line held six commemorative veteran events onboard its ships in the week before Veterans Day in November 2023.
Carnival Cruise Line has reached out to guests booked on the May 19 departure of Carnival Pride with an optimistic update that the ship may return to Baltimore on their sailing. This comes immediately after guests aboard the May 12 cruise were informed that they would both start and end their sailing in Norfolk.
The difficult part is that the May 19 cruise will likely still begin in Norfolk, but will return to Baltimore at the end of the voyage.
This will create some logistical difficulties for travelers, but the cruise line is planning chartered buses to assist travelers between the homeports. Furthermore, passengers who are driving to the port for embarkation are advised to drive to Baltimore and use the shuttle service to Norfolk so they do not need to return to Virginia to pick up their vehicles after the cruise.
Carnival Pride (Photo Credit: PIXAS / Shutterstock)
“Thank you for your patience as we work through plans regarding your upcoming cruise. We remain in close contact with the US Coast Guard, state of Maryland, and Port of Baltimore officials regarding plans to resume maritime operations in Baltimore Harbor,”the notification read.
“Based on guidance from port officials, we are planning to embark your cruise in Norfolk but expect to conclude in Baltimore.”
The cruise terminals in Norfolk and Baltimore are 240 miles (386 kilometers) apart, an approximate 4-5 hour drive depending on the exact route and traffic conditions.
Carnival Cruise Line is providing free bus service between the ports, but guests must sign up and pre-register for the service to reserve their space.
“We are encouraging guests to use our complimentary bus service between Baltimore and Norfolk for the embarkation on Sunday, May 19, so that they will not have to return to Norfolk to get their car, should they have planned to drive,”the email said.
A light snack and water will be provided on the shuttle buses. The cruise line will arrange for as many buses as necessary, but it is critical that travelers register properly so adequate space is available.
Carnival Cruise Line will provide additional information and the means to register in the week before the sailing, and travelers will need to respond immediately to that update to ensure their shuttle reservation can be confirmed. Signing up for text alerts and updating contact information with the cruise line can help guests receive all updates right away.
It should be noted that the cruise line did consider other options rather than beginning and ending the 7-night Bahamas cruise in different homeports.
Cruise Ship in Baltimore, Maryland (Photo Credit: Port of Maryland)
“I realize that starting in Norfolk and ending in Baltimore is going to involve some extra travel time. I promise though that we will take great care of you, help you with transportation and provide you will all the assistance we can,”explained John Heald, Carnival Cruise Line Brand Ambassador.“The alternative was to cancel or shorten a cruise and neither we or I am sure any guest wants that.”
At this time, other than the change in homeports, there are no anticipated changes to Carnival Pride‘s itinerary. During the week-long cruise, the 88,500-gross-ton, Spirit-class ship will visit Nassau, Princess Cays, and Freeport (weather and unexpected circumstances permitting).
As with other sailings that have been temporarily relocated to Norfolk, Carnival Cruise Line is still providing a $100 (USD) onboard credit per stateroom in appreciation for guests’ understanding.
Update on the May 26 Departure
While the May 19 sailing is now anticipating leaving from Norfolk but returning to Baltimore, Carnival Cruise Line has also reached out to travelers on the following cruise. The May 26 departure is a 14-night Carnival Journeys cruise to Greenland, with additional port visits in the Canadian maritime provinces.
That longer cruise is scheduled to conclude on June 9. If, indeed, Baltimore Harbor is able to resume passenger cruise operations by the end of May, it is very likely the sailing will both begin and end in Baltimore as originally scheduled.
To be clear, Carnival Cruise Line has not yet confirmed those plans owing to the unprecedented nature of the situation, and more information will be provided closer to the departure date.
“We expect to have more definitive information in the coming week, so kindly keep a close eye on an email from us with an update,”the alert to guests read.“As you know, this situation remains beyond our control, and we appreciate your patience and understanding.”
Staying in contact with guests booked on that special cruise is a helpful step to ensure everyone is informed of the arrangements as the departure date approaches.
