Basseterre, St. Kitts
Basseterre, St. Kitts is a vibrant and historic port city on the island of St. Kitts. It's a fantastic destination for cruisers, with a port that places you right in the heart of a lively waterfront and a short walk from the capital's historic downtown. St. Kitts is known for its lush, volcanic landscape, pristine beaches, and a rich history shaped by its British and French colonial past.
⛵ Port Introduction
Your cruise ship will dock directly at the Port Zante Cruise Port, a modern, purpose-built facility that can accommodate up to four large cruise ships at once. You can walk right off the ship and onto a short pier that leads to the terminal. A tram is available for cruisers with mobility issues to take you from the gangway to the terminal plaza.
⚓ Terminal Information
The Port Zante Cruise Terminal is a colorful and vibrant, open-air complex. It is well-designed with a variety of shops, bars, and restaurants for those who prefer to stay at the port. The pier is a short walk, and once you exit the terminal, you'll find a large, open area with a colorful "St. Kitts" sign that is a perfect photo opportunity.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
Port Zante is a destination in itself. You'll find a wide range of duty-free shops, from jewelry and electronics to local vendors selling handmade crafts. There are also a variety of bars and restaurants where you can get a drink or a meal. The terminal has restrooms, a tourist information desk, and a photo op area with monkeys. Free Wi-Fi is available in the port area and at most bars and restaurants. Tour pickups and a taxi stand are located just outside the terminal plaza.
🗣️ Language
The local language is English, and you will have no problem navigating, communicating, or exploring the area.
A few useful phrases:
"How you doing?" - A common friendly greeting.
"Me and you" - A local phrase meaning "you're welcome."
💰 Money
The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$), but the U.S. Dollar (USD) is widely accepted everywhere, and many prices are listed in both currencies. It's often easier to use U.S. Dollars, but it's important to note that you may receive change in EC$. Credit cards are widely accepted at most restaurants and shops. ATMs are easy to find at the port and in town, and they will dispense EC$.
🚗 Transportation
To get from the cruise port to other parts of the island, you have a few options.
Walking: The town of Basseterre, with its historic sites and local market, is a short, 5-10 minute walk from the Port Zante Cruise Terminal.
Taxis: Taxis are available at a dedicated taxi stand just outside the terminal. The taxis are mostly vans that can accommodate up to 10-12 passengers. Rates are fixed for up to four people, but it is a good idea to confirm the price with the driver before you get in. Taxis are a good option for a group.
Public Bus: The public bus system, consisting of privately owned minibuses with "H" on their license plates, is an affordable way to get around the island. The main bus stations are located in the town of Basseterre.
Ride-Sharing: There are no ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft in St. Kitts.
♿ Accessibility
Basseterre has an accessibility rating of 3 out of 10. The cruise pier and the port area are flat and smooth, with ramps and accessible restrooms, which is a great start. However, the town of Basseterre has uneven sidewalks and a lack of curb cuts that make it challenging to navigate. The main attractions, like Brimstone Hill Fortress, have some accessible sections, but the upper levels and much of the terrain are difficult to navigate for people with limited mobility.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
The best way to get to the main town area is to simply walk. The port is located right in the heart of the city's waterfront, and you can easily walk to all the main attractions.
🚽 Toilet
Public toilets are not very common in Basseterre. Your best bet is to use the restrooms in the cruise terminals or in restaurants and bars. Some places may charge a small fee.
💊 Drugstore
City Drug Store: The closest drug store is located on the main streets of Basseterre.
St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank: The bank has ATMs at Port Zante and in Basseterre's downtown, which is a short walk from the port.
✨ Authentic Experience
Explore the Historic Town of Basseterre on Foot: Instead of a long tour, take a walk through the historic town of Basseterre. You can visit Independence Square, the Circus (a roundabout with a clock tower similar to London's Piccadilly Circus), and the Berkeley Memorial. It is a great way to get a feel for the city's rich history and its vibrant atmosphere.
Dine on Local Seafood at a Beachside Bar: The best way to experience St. Kitts' culinary scene is to take a taxi to a local beach, like Frigate Bay, and dine at a local beachside bar. You can get fresh seafood, like grilled fish or conch fritters, and a refreshing drink while enjoying the stunning view of the ocean.
Take a Ride on the St. Kitts Scenic Railway: For a unique and unforgettable experience, take a ride on the St. Kitts Scenic Railway. This narrow-gauge railway, originally built to transport sugar cane, offers a scenic tour of the island's coastline, with stunning views of the ocean, lush green fields, and dramatic cliffs.
