Port Zante

The basics

One of the few cruise ports in the Caribbean that is located right in the heart of the action, St. Kitts’ Port Zante has always been a popular stop for cruise ships. However, recent redevelopments, including a second pier and a hotel, have really cemented its place on the cruising map. Meanwhile, the luxury duty-free shops and great dining and drinking options do a great job attracting non-cruising visitors, too.

Things to know before you go

• Port Zante is said to be one of the safest cruising ports in the Caribbean, but it’s still worth keeping your wits about you and your valuables out of sight.

• Port Zante is within easy walking distance of Basseterre and all the main sights in the historic capital. It’s also no more than a 30-minute drive from most of the island’s other attractions.

• There are no ATMs or currency exchanges in the port, however, USD is accepted almost everywhere and some stores will take cards. The nearest bank is a 5-minute walk away.

• If you have not pre-booked any shore excursions, you can book them on arrival. Note: Official tour guides and licensed vendors always carry identification badges.

• There are plenty of taxis around as well as a nearby car rental service if you do not feel like joining a shore excursion or guided tour.

How to get there

Port Zante is located just outside Basseterre, the capital of St. Kitts and Nevis. Most visitors to Port Zante arrive at the port via cruise ship, but if you’re boarding a ship from Port Zante—or just want to swing by to explore the shops and restaurants—you can easily reach the port by taxi or on foot from Basseterre. It’s also next door to the Basseterre Ferry Terminal, which runs daily ferries back and forth from Nevis and is just a 10-minute drive from St. Kitts’ Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport.

When to get there

Most cruise ships pull into port between December and April when the weather is warm and dry. The most popular time to visit Port Zante is the week beginning on Christmas Eve, the biggest (and busiest) week of Carnival celebrations in St. Kitts. Most cruise ships avoid sailing into the area during the hurricane season, with September and October being the quietest months.

Shore Excursions from Port Zante

Many cruise ship passengers have less than a day to explore St. Kitts and Nevis before setting sail to their next destination. If you count yourself among them, shore excursions are a great way to maximize your time on the island. There are plenty of different options for shore excursions, but some of the best include visits to the UNESCO-listed Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, Mount Liamuiga, Frigate Bay, the St. Kitts Scenic Railway, and Timothy Hill Overlook.