Plan a CruiseKingstown Cruise Port Guide
Kingstown, the bustling capital of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, is situated on a broad bay on the island's southwest coast. Cruise ships dock at a deepwater pier that can accommodate two vessels. If more than two ships are in port, passengers will be tendered ashore. The cruise terminal building itself features approximately 20 shops selling duty-free items and handicrafts, a communications center, post office, tourist information desk, a restaurant, and a small food court. The vibrant downtown area of Kingstown is just a short 5-10 minute walk from the terminal.
Saint Vincent offers diverse scenery, with a rugged Atlantic (Windward) coast featuring dramatic landscapes and a scenic Caribbean (Leeward) coast known for most of the island's beaches. The most beautiful beaches are found along the south coast, particularly around Villa, about four miles from Kingstown. Just outside the town, Fort Charlotte sits on a hill overlooking Saint Vincent Bay, offering historical exploration.
Getting Around from the Port
Kingstown's central downtown area is easily accessible on foot, a mere 5-10 minute walk from the cruise terminal. For destinations further afield, taxis are readily available. It's important to note that taxis are unmetered, so always agree on the fare with the driver before beginning your journey. The government sets taxi rates, generally around $30 per hour.
To reach the Botanical Gardens, a short taxi ride from the town center is recommended. Villa Beach, a popular south coast beach, is about a 10-minute drive from Kingstown, also best reached by taxi. For an island-hopping experience, a local ferry to Bequia departs from near the cruise pier. This trip takes approximately one hour and costs about $25 one way.
Attractions and Activities
Given 8-10 hours, independent exploration or organized tours offer a range of activities:
- Kingstown Exploration (On Foot/Short Taxi): Start by walking into downtown Kingstown from the terminal.
- Botanical Gardens (Short Taxi): A short journey from the town center, these are the oldest botanical gardens in the Western Hemisphere (established 1765). They are a significant conservation site, particularly for the St. Vincent parrot.
- Fort Charlotte (Short Taxi): Located just outside Kingstown on a hill overlooking Saint Vincent Bay, this historic fort offers great views and is well worth exploring.
- Villa Beach (10-minute Taxi): Head south for about a 10-minute drive to Villa Beach. This narrow strip is popular for its tranquil waters, making it safe for swimming, and features several simple cafes and watersports stands.
- Day Trip to Bequia (1-hour Ferry): For a taste of the Grenadines, take the local ferry from near the cruise pier to Bequia. The one-hour journey costs approximately $25 one way.
- Eco-Adventures (Guided Tours): Saint Vincent is renowned for eco-tourism. Options include diving and snorkeling, as well as more strenuous hikes to the 4,000-foot active volcano, Mt. Soufriere. These typically require booking guided tours, which can be arranged independently or through your cruise line. It's advisable to compare options and prices.
Dining & Shopping
The cruise terminal itself houses about 20 shops where you can find souvenirs, local handicrafts, and duty-free items. Just a 5-10 minute walk away, the bustling streets and markets of downtown Kingstown offer additional shopping opportunities for local goods and souvenirs.
For dining, the cruise terminal has a restaurant and a small food court. At Villa Beach, a 10-minute taxi ride away, you'll find numerous simple cafes offering refreshments and local fare. Downtown Kingstown also provides various local dining options.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC$). English is widely spoken throughout the island. Most businesses generally operate from 8 AM to noon and 1 PM to 4 PM on weekdays, with half-day hours on Saturdays.