Plan a CruisePortsmouth Cruise Port Guide
Portsmouth, Dominica, often called "The Nature Island of the Caribbean," offers a unique cruise experience with its unspoiled natural beauty and low-hassle environment. Known for its lush flora, varied fauna, and extensive natural park system, it's one of the least developed Caribbean islands. Ships dock about one mile north of Portsmouth, providing easy access to the island's northern attractions. Dominica is also home to one of the only surviving populations of the indigenous Carib people, who originally named the island Waitikubuli, meaning ‘Tall is her Body.’ While the town center of Portsmouth offers only basic shopping, its docking location is ideal for exploring Cabrits National Park and some of the island's few white sandy beaches. The island is highly mountainous, featuring volcanic peaks and the world's second-largest thermally active lake, Boiling Lake.
Getting Around from the Port
Upon arrival, you'll be docked approximately one mile north of Portsmouth. This is a short 5-minute drive or about a 20-minute walk into the town center. Taxis and shuttle services are typically available at the port to take you into Portsmouth or to other island attractions. Getting around Dominica is straightforward, with taxis and small public buses/vans readily available. Official taxi fares are posted at airports and are often listed in Eastern Caribbean dollars (EC$), so keep the exchange rate in mind.
- To Portsmouth Town Center: A 5-minute taxi ride or a 20-minute walk from the port.
- To Cabrits National Park / Fort Shirley: Very close, often walkable or a very short taxi ride from the port.
- To Roseau: The capital, Roseau, is 48km (30 miles) southeast of Portsmouth, approximately a one-hour drive. Taxis can be arranged.
- To Trafalgar Falls / Screw's Spa: These are located inland, closer to Roseau, and would require a taxi ride of about 1 hour-1 hour 15 minutes from Portsmouth.
Attractions and Activities
Dominica is a haven for nature lovers and hikers, with diverse activities for all fitness levels. Given 8-10 hours in port, here are some recommended excursions:
- Cabrits National Park & Fort Shirley: Located very close to your docking point, this restored 18th-century British garrison offers stunning views and historical insights into the island's colonial past. Explore the ruins and learn about the famous battle between the French and English for occupation.
- Indian River Boat Ride: Easily accessible from Portsmouth, take a peaceful boat ride up this scenic river. It's a unique way to experience the rainforest canopy and is known for its serene beauty.
- Hiking the Waitukubuli National Trail: Dominica boasts nearly 300 miles of footpaths. You can hike a segment of the newly constructed Waitukubuli National Trail, offering spectacular scenery.
- Trafalgar Falls: For novice hikers, a relaxing 15-minute stroll (after reaching the park entrance) leads to photographic vistas of twin cascades, warm pools, and rushing streams. Be prepared for the journey to the falls, which involves roughly 180 steps up and 180 steps back to the entrance. There is a $5 entrance fee to the park.
- Warm Sulphur Pools at Screw's Spa: After a hike, relax and soak in one of the warm sulphur pools. You can also see natural hot springs where water boils from a distance, with steam rising from the water.
- Champagne Reef Snorkeling: Experience unique snorkeling where warm bubbles, like "champagne," rise from the seabed. The reef offers a good variety of fish and coral.
- Other Water Activities: Options include river tubing, canyoning, snorkeling, and whale watching. Check local operators for availability and booking.
- Kalinago Territory: Visit the home of the indigenous Carib people, offering a cultural experience. This is a longer trip, requiring about 1.5-2 hours drive from Portsmouth.
It is advisable to compare prices and options with your cruise line's tours versus booking independently with local operators.
Dining & Shopping
The town center of Portsmouth, about a mile from the dock, primarily offers basic shopping options and doesn't have an extensive array of restaurants or high-end shops. For souvenirs, look for local crafts and products. Specific dining establishments directly at the port are limited. Most businesses operate Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with a lunch break from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. On Saturdays, merchants are open from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., but banks are closed.
Safety
Dominica is known for having one of the lowest hassle factors among Caribbean islands, making it a generally safe destination for independent travelers. When exploring nature, stick to marked trails, especially when hiking. The emergency contact number for Police, Ambulance, and Fire Department is 999.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC$). The exchange rate is approximately EC$2.67 to US$1.00. United States Dollars, British Pounds, and Euros are widely accepted throughout the island. While credit cards are accepted at some larger establishments, it's always wise to carry some local currency for smaller purchases, taxi fares, or entrance fees like the $5 park fee for Trafalgar Falls.