Plan a CruiseScarborough Cruise Port Guide
Scarborough, located on Tobago's southern coast, serves as the main cruise terminal for the island. Most cruise ships dock directly at the deep-water pier, which is conveniently situated in the center of town. Some ships, however, may anchor off the western tip of the island and tender passengers to Pigeon Point, which is approximately 8 miles (13 km) from Scarborough.
The cruise terminal itself offers duty-free shops, local craft and music stores, tour operators, and a tourist information office. Just outside the building, you'll find an ice-cream parlor and a small pub, ideal for a quick refreshment before reboarding. Tobago, the smaller of Trinidad and Tobago's two main islands, is known for its beautiful beaches, particularly in the southwest around Crown Point, Store Bay, Pigeon Point, and Buccoo Reef. The island also boasts excellent diving opportunities due to its southerly coral communities. Scarborough, with a population of about 17,000, is Tobago's largest town and is overlooked by the historic Fort King George, an 18th-century fortification now housing a museum.
Getting Around from the Port
The cruise terminal is centrally located in Scarborough, allowing for easy walking access to much of the town. For destinations further afield, taxis are readily available. You can find many taxis at the pier; head to the back of the terminal, turn right, and you'll find a waiting area where drivers pair up passengers. A large board displays fixed prices for various island locations. All official taxis can be identified by their 'H' registration plates. While private taxis are an option, they are generally more expensive. It's crucial to confirm the fare and the currency (USD or TT dollars) with your driver before starting your journey, as the tourism industry often rounds the exchange rate to $1.00 USD = $6.00 TT, differing slightly from the official $1.00 USD = $6.30 TT. For example, a taxi to Pigeon Point typically costs between $20-25 USD. Renting a car is not recommended due to narrow roads and challenging traffic conditions.
Attractions and Activities
For those with 8-10 hours in port, Tobago offers a range of activities:
- Pigeon Point Beach: A popular choice for beach lovers. Take a taxi from the port (around $20-25 USD) to Pigeon Point. The beach has restroom facilities, a bar, food vendors, and plenty of shaded areas. There is an entrance fee of $18.00 TT. Remember to bring your own towels, as snorkeling is not possible directly from the beach.
- Buccoo Reef & Nylon Pool: From Pigeon Point, you can take a boat tour to Buccoo Reef for snorkeling (approx. $15 USD). Glass-bottom boat tours to Buccoo Reef Marine Park and the shallow Nylon Pool typically depart at 11:30 AM from Pigeon Point.
- Island Scenic Drive: Explore Southern Tobago's highlights, including the mysterious tombstone, Store Bay beach, and historic forts like Fort James and Fort King George (which also houses a museum and arts center in Scarborough).
- Rain Forest & Argyle Falls: For adventure seekers, venture into the Main Ridge Forest Reserve, the oldest in the Western Hemisphere, for a hike. Or visit Argyle Falls, a three-tiered waterfall where you can swim in natural pools. The Tourist Information Office inside the terminal can provide recommendations and assist with booking excursions. It's always a good idea to compare the offerings and prices of independent tours with those provided by your cruise line.
Dining & Shopping
Inside the cruise terminal, you'll find duty-free shops, local craft stores, and music shops, perfect for souvenirs. Immediately outside, there's an ice-cream parlor and a small pub for refreshments. For a more authentic local experience, visit Scarborough Market, a bustling hub where you can immerse yourself in local culture, buy fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts, and interact with residents.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Trinidad and Tobago Dollar (TT), often pronounced "teetee." US dollars are widely accepted throughout the island. The official exchange rate is $1.00 USD = $6.30 TT, but within the tourism sector, it's often rounded to $1.00 USD = $6.00 TT. Always confirm the currency when quoted prices, especially with taxi drivers. Visa and Mastercard are commonly accepted in many stores, while American Express, Diners' Club, Discover, and JCB have more limited acceptance. ATMs (ABMs) supporting Cirrus and Plus networks are available for withdrawals in TT dollars, converted from your home currency. The official language is English.