Roseau, Dominica
Roseau, Dominica is a beautiful and unique Caribbean island that stands out from its neighbors with its lush, rugged volcanic landscape and untouched natural beauty. Often called the "Nature Island," Dominica is a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers. As a cruise port, Roseau is a bustling hub that connects you to the island's many natural wonders, including rainforests, waterfalls, and hot springs, all of which are a short trip away from the port.
⛵ Port Introduction
Your ship will likely dock directly at the Roseau Cruise Port, which is located on the western coast of the island. The port is a simple T-shaped pier where ships dock parallel to the shore. You will walk right off the ship and onto a pier, and from there you are just a few steps from the town's main attractions.
⚓ Terminal Information
There is no large, enclosed terminal building at the Dominica Cruise Port. You will disembark directly onto a narrow pier that leads you to the town. Despite lacking a physical terminal building, the port itself offers numerous opportunities for visitors to shop, dine, and arrange last-minute tours and excursions
🚻 Terminal Facilities
While there is no main terminal building, you will find a handy and well-stocked tourist information center directly across the street from the pier exit. There are also local shops and vendors selling crafts and souvenirs. You can find public restrooms to the right of the building that houses the tourist information center and the Dominica Museum, though there may be a cost to use these facilities. Free Wi-Fi is also available at the port.
🗣️ Language
The national and official language is English, and you will have no problem at all navigating or communicating. A French Patois is also commonly spoken on the island.
💰 Money
The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$). However, the U.S. Dollar (USD) is widely accepted and used everywhere, and many prices are listed in both currencies. It's often easier to use U.S. Dollars, but you may receive change in local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted at most restaurants and shops. ATMs are available on the main streets in town.
🚗 Transportation
Roseau is a very compact city and is easy to navigate on foot. To get to the main attractions outside the city, you will need transportation.
Walking: The best way to explore Roseau is on foot. The Old Market, the Botanic Gardens, and the Dominica Museum are all within a short walk of the cruise port.
Taxis: Taxis are available at the cruise port. The taxis on Dominica do not have set fares, so it's a good idea to agree on the price with the driver before you start your journey. You can also hire a taxi for a set number of hours for a private tour.
Public Bus: Dominica has a public bus system of privately owned minibuses, which is a very affordable way to get around the island. The fare is fixed by the government, and you can simply flag down a bus on the street.
Ride-Sharing: There are no ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft in Dominica.
♿ Accessibility
Dominica has an accessibility rating of 2 out of 10. While cruise ships can dock directly at the pier, which is a big advantage for mobility-impaired visitors, the town itself presents a variety of challenges. The streets and sidewalks can be uneven, and there are deep drainage ditches that can be difficult to navigate. Many of the main attractions, like the rainforest and waterfalls, are located on steep, rugged terrain that would be very difficult for a person with a wheelchair or limited mobility.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
The best way to get to town is to simply walk. You are already in the heart of the city as soon as you step off the pier.
🚽 Toilet
Public toilets are not very common in Roseau. Your best bet is to use the restrooms in the Dominica Botanic Gardens or in local cafes and restaurants. Be aware that you may have to pay a small fee to use them.
💊 Drugstore
Jolly's Pharmacy: 8 King George V St, Roseau, Dominica.
Bull's Eye Pharmacy: 6 Federation Drive Ross Boulevard, Roseau, Dominica.
✨ Authentic Experience
Dine at the Old Market: For a taste of authentic local life, walk across the street from the cruise port to the Old Market. This historic market is now a place where you can find an array of fresh fruits, local crafts, and souvenirs. It's a great place to get a feel for the local atmosphere and chat with the vendors.
Explore the Dominica Botanic Gardens: For a peaceful escape from the city, walk to the Dominica Botanic Gardens, which are located near the port. The gardens are home to a beautiful spread of tropical plants and are a great place to see some of the island's unique flora.
Visit Trafalgar Falls and Soak in a Hot Spring: For a truly unique experience, take a taxi to Trafalgar Falls, where you'll find two stunning waterfalls. After a short walk, you can relax and rejuvenate in the nearby natural hot springs. It's a fantastic way to experience the island's famous volcanic heritage.
