St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda

Discover the Beauty of St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda

St. John's, the vibrant capital of Antigua and Barbuda, is a captivating cruise destination known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and lively atmosphere. With its warm Caribbean charm and welcoming locals, St. John's beckons travellers to explore its colourful streets and natural wonders. Cruising to St. John's offers an incredible opportunity to relax on pristine beaches and immerse yourself in the island's unique culture. Fun fact: St. John’s Harbour is one of the largest natural harbours in the Caribbean, providing an ideal stop for cruise ships!

Activities and Attractions in St. John's

When your cruise ship arrives at St. John's, you will find there’s no shortage of exciting things to do:

• Explore Nelson’s Dockyard: Visit this historic site that was once a British naval base and now serves as a national park. Wander through the beautifully preserved buildings, enjoy the marina, and explore hiking trails with stunning views of the coastline.
• Relax at Dickenson Bay: Known for its soft sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, Dickenson Bay is perfect for sunbathing or enjoying water sports. Try jet skiing or simply unwind at one of the beachside bars.
• Visit St. John's Cathedral: This beautiful 19th-century cathedral is an architectural gem featuring stunning stained glass windows. Take a moment to appreciate its history and serene atmosphere while enjoying the views of the nearby park.
• Shop in St. John's Market: Immerse yourself in local culture by exploring the bustling market, where vendors sell fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts. It’s a great place to find souvenirs and taste local delicacies!
• Go Snorkelling or Diving: The waters around St. John are teeming with marine life. Join a guided tour that will take you to top snorkelling or diving sites, where you can explore vibrant coral reefs and meet exotic fish.

Nearby Harbours to Explore on Your Cruise

Your cruise itinerary may also feature other beautiful ports to visit. Here’s what to enjoy at each:

• Philipsburg, Saint Martin, Netherlands Antilles: Known for its lively beaches and duty-free shopping, Philipsburg offers a mix of relaxation and local culture. Spend time at Great Bay Beach and explore Front Street for souvenirs and local cuisine.
• Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis: The capital city boasts lush landscapes and stunning historic architecture. Visit Brimstone Hill Fortress for panoramic views and explore the local markets for authentic crafts and spices.
• Road Town, British Virgin Islands: Enjoy this charming port town known for its natural beauty and rich history. Visit the local botanical gardens, stroll along the waterfront, and explore the shops and cafés in the area.
• Castries, Saint Lucia: The capital city features stunning scenery and a vibrant market. Explore the local artisans' stalls at the Castries Market, visit the nearby beaches, or take a sightseeing tour to see the iconic Pitons.
• San Juan, Puerto Rico: Puerto Rico’s lively capital showcases a mix of historic and modern architectural beauty. Explore the colourful streets of Old San Juan, visit El Morro fortress, and enjoy delicious Puerto Rican cuisine in the local restaurants.

Regions Accessible When Visiting St. John's

A cruise to St. John's allows you to explore several captivating regions. Here’s what to expect:

• Caribbean: The Caribbean is known for its stunning beaches, diverse cultures, and vibrant nightlife. This region offers endless adventure, from sailing through turquoise waters to relaxing on white-sand shores.
• Southern Caribbean: Featuring beautiful island destinations like Grenada and Barbados, the Southern Caribbean invites travellers to explore lush landscapes and enjoy delicious local cuisine, making it a haven for beach lovers and culture seekers alike.
• Eastern Caribbean: This region is home to picturesque islands like St. Thomas and Tortola. Visitors can enjoy duty-free shopping, stunning beaches, and a variety of water sports while immersing themselves in Caribbean culture.
• Portugal: Offering a blend of stunning coastlines and rich history, Portugal features beautiful cities like Lisbon and Porto, known for their wines, architecture, and cultural attractions.
• Western Caribbean: Known for its vibrant destinations such as Cozumel and Roatan, the Western Caribbean is a fantastic spot for divers, snorkelers, and beach enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

Major Cruise Lines Visiting St. John's

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of 23 ships, MSC features MSC Virtuosa and MSC Divina for itineraries to St. John's. Known for their family-friendly atmosphere and diverse onboard activities, these cruises typically depart from Miami or Barbados.
• Royal Caribbean: With a fleet of 29 ships, Royal Caribbean includes Brilliance of the Seas and Odyssey of the Seas on their St. John's itineraries. Renowned for their innovative ships and entertainment options, these cruises often depart from San Juan or Cape Liberty (Bayonne).
• Celebrity Cruises: Operating a fleet of 17, Celebrity features Celebrity Eclipse and Celebrity Constellation on routes to St. John's. Known for their upscale experience and artistic design, these cruises primarily depart from Fort Lauderdale or San Juan.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet of 21, Norwegian includes Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Viva on itineraries that visit St. John's. Famous for their relaxed atmosphere and diverse dining options, these cruises often leave from New York or Miami.
• Virgin Voyages: With 4 ships, Virgin Voyages includes Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady for itineraries to St. John's. Known for their adults-only experience and trendy design, these cruises typically depart from San Juan or Miami.

Visiting St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda Throughout the Year

St. John's offers unique experiences throughout the year. Here’s what you can expect:

• Winter (December, January, February): Winter temperatures generally range from 24°C to 29°C (75°F to 84°F). This peak tourist season offers warm, sunny days perfect for beach and outdoor activities, attracting visitors from around the world.
• Spring (March, April, May): Spring brings temperatures averaging between 24°C and 30°C (75°F to 86°F). With beautiful blooming flora and fewer crowds, spring is a lovely time to explore the island and engage in local events.
• Summer (June, July, August): Summer temperatures can range from 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F). This season may bring occasional rain but still offers excellent opportunities for enjoying water sports and beach activities.
• Autumn (September, October, November): Autumn temperatures typically range from 25°C to 29°C (77°F to 84°F). This quieter season may result in some rain but allows visitors to explore the island at a leisurely pace without the high-season crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions about St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda

What is the typical cost of a cruise?

A one-week cruise visiting St. John's generally ranges from £1,200 to £3,000 for standard cruises, while luxury options may vary from £3,000 to £6,500. A two-week cruise typically falls between £2,400 and £5,600 for regular itineraries.

What should I expect for the costs of food and beverages?

Most meals onboard are included; however, specialty dining can cost between £15 and £50 per person. Expect drink prices to range from £5 to £15 for cocktails or glasses of wine.

What are some dining and shopping possibilities to know about?

Onboard dining options feature a variety of cuisines, while in St. John's, you can enjoy delightful local dishes such as pepperpot, while the local markets offer crafts and souvenirs showcasing the island's culture.

What are transportation options?

Upon docking, you can use local taxis or shuttles to reach nearby attractions. Walking is a great option too, with many shops and restaurants conveniently located in the town center.

What should I know about the local currency and making payments?

The local currency is the East Caribbean Dollar (XCD), but U.S. Dollars (USD) are widely accepted. Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, but it's wise to have some cash handy for smaller vendors.

What are safety and health tips to be aware of?

St. John's is generally safe for tourists, but it's always advisable to stay vigilant with your belongings. Familiarizing yourself with local health guidelines ensures a smooth visit!

What are some helpful language or cultural tips?

The primary language is English. Being friendly and respecting local customs will greatly enhance your interactions with the welcoming Antiguan locals!

Excited to explore the stunning attractions and vibrant culture of St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda? Book your cruise with Cruise1st today, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure filled with sun, sea, and island charm!