There’s nothing quite like a Caribbean cruise. The chance to wake up somewhere new, throw open your curtains and see golden shores and luscious greenery sliding into view as you pull into port. If you have a Caribbean cruise coming up, one of your ports might be Saint Lucia. With approximately 400 to 460 cruise ship calls per season (peaking from October to April), Saint Lucia is a highly popular port to visit. While there are endless things to do in Saint Lucia, if you’re only docked for a day and don’t want to travel too far, you might want to stay near the ship. With this in mind, we’ve put together this guide of things to do in Castries Saint Lucia cruise port so you can plan ahead and maximise your stay without having to travel too far.
Castries Saint Lucia Cruise Port – The Two Terminals
Cruise ships visiting Saint Lucia dock in the capital of Castries, where two terminals can be found, on opposite sides of the Castries Harbour.
Pointe Seraphine is the primary terminal for large ships and is located around 10-15 minutes walk from the city centre. This is a large, dedicated duty-free shopping village with a range of upscale boutiques and cafes to explore.
The other terminal is La Place Carenage and is located directly in downtown Castries. There are plenty of local shops both inside and outside the terminal here, as well as opportunities to purchase a tour or trip from a local guide. (Always check the details and timings with these as if they overrun and you miss your cruise ship’s departure time, the ship won’t wait for you!)
Things to do in Castries Saint Lucia Cruise Port
There are plenty of things to do in Castries Saint Lucia cruise port to really make the most of your day. You can either head with a plan, or wander around and take in the atmosphere and immerse yourself in the destination.
Wander Around Castries Market
One of the oldest and busiest markets in the Caribbean, Castries Market is the perfect place to experience authentic Saint Lucian culture and is the ideal place to stop on your cruise. Take some time to browse the array of colourful stalls selling tropical fruit, local spices, handmade baskets, rum, cocoa products and Caribbean artwork. If purchasing alcohol and food, be prepared there can be restrictions with taking them back onboard so check this first to avoid having to leave anything behind. Depending on the day you dock, or if you are visiting, Saturday mornings tend to be the busiest days both for visitors and vendors too.
Sample the Local Food
Don’t leave without trying some authentic Saint Lucian cuisine on sale around Castries Saint Lucia port. Popular dishes include their national dish of green fish and saltfish, fresh grilled fish, creole chicken, saltfish fritters, cocoa tea and local rum or rum punch.
Go Shopping
Saint Lucia is well known for duty-free shopping, particularly for: Caribbean rum, local chocolate, handmade jewellery, Batik clothing, spices and wood carvings. Pointe Seraphine and La Place Carenage both offer excellent shopping within easy reach of your ship.
Visit the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception
Just a short walk from Castries market is one of the Caribbean’s largest churches – Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. The cathedral is known for its beautiful wooden interior and colourful murals depicting biblical scenes with Caribbean influences. Whether you’re into art, history, or just want to immerse yourself in the culture of Saint. Lucia, it’s well worth a stop. Ensure you dress respectfully, bringing a shawl or coverup for your shoulders and checking your shorts or skirt reaches your knees.
Take in the Views from Morne Fortune
A 10-minute taxi ride from the port brings you to Morne Fortune, one of the best viewpoints on the island. From here you can soak up panoramic views across Castries Harbour, your cruise ship and the surrounding mountains. The area also features the remains of Fort Charlotte, which played an important role during the colonial battles between Britain and France.
Relax at Vigie Beach
If you’re looking for a beach close to the cruise port, Vigie Beach is one of the best options. Located around 10 minutes away by taxi, it offers soft golden sand, calm water and a much quieter atmosphere than many Caribbean beaches. It’s ideal if you only have a few hours before returning to your ship and want to experience the ocean without having to go too far.
Take a Tour to Soufrière
If your ship is in port for most of the day, consider joining an organised excursion to Soufrière on the island’s southwest coast. This is further away, so will only work if you have enough time (and ensure you always leave more than enough time!) Highlight of these trips include visiting the sulphur springs in the world’s only drive-in volcano, taking a dip in to the volcanic mud baths, experiencing the Toraille waterfall, visiting the Diamond Falls botanical gardens and taking in the views of the iconic Saint Lucia Pitons.
Cruise Passenger Tips
- Most ships dock at Pointe Seraphine, though some use La Place Carenage.
- Taxis operate on fixed fares so agree the price before setting off.
- US dollars are widely accepted alongside Eastern Caribbean Dollars. It can be better to have cash for the smaller stalls and shops, though many places do accept card.
- If travelling independently, leave plenty of time to return to the ship, as roads can be slow and winding and you don’t want to be late!
Whether stopping at Castries Saint Lucia Cruise Port as a part of a wider trip, or if you want to discover everything the harbour town has to offer, it’s a fantastic places to add to your trip. Take time to wander the local markets, visit local beaches and just soak in the atmosphere. One of the Caribbean’s best cruise ports with plenty to see and do, there’s something for everyone.
