Cruises to Barbados

History & culture

Docking at Barbados’ Bridgetown cruise port puts you minutes away from exploring historic Bridgetown. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this is the spot to see colonial architecture, monuments and museums that showcase aspects of the island’s military colonial history. Outside Bridgetown, the sugar cane plantations and distilleries reveal the secrets of Barbados’ world-renowned rum exports. While a stroll along the streets will be set to the soundtrack of jazz, reggae, soca, calypso and reggae that play out from the island’s rum shacks, piano bars and restaurants.

Food & drink

Ask anyone about food highlights on a Barbados cruise and you’ll likely hear Oistin’s Fish Fry mentioned. This Friday night tradition may not fit in with your Barbados cruise itinerary, but you can still drop by to taste the best barbecued Mahi Mahi on the island. At lunchtime, the local speciality is a ‘cutter’ , a Bajan sandwich of fried fish, salad, cheese and egg layered into a salt bread bun. A carby treat that’s perfectly portable for beachside strolling. And to drink? Rum punch cocktails are a cooling treat at lunch if you’ve overdone it on the fiery Bajan pepper sauce.

Carlisle Bay

Beaches on a Barbados cruise are a must. And helpfully, on this island, you don’t need to travel far for a sparkling stretch of Caribbean coast. Just a 30 minute walk - or 10 minute taxi ride, from the Barbados cruise port, Carlisle Bay is a soft sand cove that really wows. Historic sights, watersports and beach front restaurants make Carlisle Bay attractive for explorers and sunseekers alike.

Hastings

To mix coastal Caribbean life with Bajan cuisine and local crafts, head south to Hastings. The wooden boardwalk along the shore takes in the best of the coastline - without getting sand in your shoes. The high-end malls give you a glimpse into luxe life Barbados style and the coral reefs are the place to hang out with the local turtle population.

Speightstown

Before Bridgetown became Barbados’ cruise port and commercial centre, Speightstown was the island’s major hub. Today it’s a rustic village on the north coast of Barbados that’s worth a visit. Colonial architecture, fishermen landing the daily catch and fresh fruit stalls selling the local produce all depict a different side of Barbados you won’t find on the south coast.

• Bridgetown Cruise Terminal

Mount Gay Rum Distillery

A cruise to Barbados gives you the chance to not only taste the world’s oldest rum, but create your own rum blend during a tour of this historic distillery. Mount Gay is very much the birthplace of rum and the 2.5 hour tour is a field-to-glass experience rum and history enthusiasts won’t want to miss. 

Harrison’s Cave

One of Barbados’ best features is hidden deep underground. Harrison’s Cave is a 2.3km long, limestone wonder. The stalagmites, speleothems, waterfalls and stalactites can all be seen from the comfort of the caves tram system - or you can get adventurous and swim, crawl and climb through parts of the caverns.

Barbados Flower Forest

For a glimpse of the island’s tropical side, take time to explore the 53 acres of flowers, plants and trees in the Barbados Flower Forest. This former sugar plantation has been transformed into a botanical beauty. Birdsong, the sweet smell of nectar and vibrant colours line the walkways and the Forest Cafe is the perfect place to rest up and try some island eats.
Want more? Check out our advice on top things to do in Barbados.

Currency considerations

The Barbados Dollar is Barbados’ official currency. Pegged to the US Dollar, it carries the same value. US Dollars are also accepted across the island, along with major credit cards in larger stores and restaurants. Using a credit card may incur foreign currency fees so it may be helpful to carry a small amount of dollars for your time ashore for smaller purchases.

Customs / traditions to be aware of 

In Barbados, it pays to pay attention to your wardrobe, especially if you’re travelling with children. On the island, camouflage cannot be worn in any form. This includes shoes, belts, swimwear, trousers and t-shirts and includes all colour variations.

Making the most use of short durations in port

Barbados is a relatively small island and travel times to even the furthest beaches and attractions are short. Hopping on an excursion or tour gives you the chance to see the wider island and still be back in Bridgetown with time spare to shop or soak up the sights.

Transport

As the majority of taxis aren’t metered in Barbados, be sure to agree a fare and check if the driver accepts US dollars. There are standard, agreed fares for most attractions on the island - so do check before booking any independent travel.

• Caribbean Cruises

• MSC Cruises
• P&O Cruises

• How far is it from Barbados’ airport to the cruise terminal?

The drive from Barbados’ airport to the cruise terminal takes just over 30 minutes. Your cruise may include a shuttle that covers the 18km journey along Tom Adams Highway. If not, there are taxis, shuttles and bus services that offer airport transfers.

• Where do cruise ships dock in Barbados?

Cruise ships dock at the Bridgetown Cruise Terminal in Barbados. This large port, on the south east coast of the island, hosts over 60 shops and kiosks selling souvenirs, along with a Visitor Information Centre to help you make the most of your day in Barbados. 

• What is there to do near the cruise terminal in Barbados?

With Bridgetown just a short walk away, there are plenty of things to do near the cruise terminal in Barbados. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage listed spots such as National Heroes Square, the Barbados Garrison and the Parliament Buildings to see historic Bridgetown. Catch a cricket match, head to Broad Street for shopping or simply relax on a nearby beach.