Planning a Marella Cruises Exotic Islands cruise? This detailed port guide covers Barbados, St Lucia, Grenada, Bequia, Curaçao, Aruba and Bonaire, with practical advice on cruise terminals, things to do, the best beaches, local food and drink prices, shopping, transport, accessibility and TUI shore excursions. Itineraries vary by ship and departure date, so check which islands your cruise visits before you travel.

Marella Cruises Exotic Islands: Ports, Beaches and Things to Do

Marella Cruises’ Exotic Islands itinerary takes you to some of the most distinctive destinations in the southern Caribbean, from colourful Dutch-influenced waterfronts and historic island capitals to beautiful beaches, coral reefs and lush tropical landscapes.

Depending on your ship and departure date, your cruise may include Barbados, St Lucia, Grenada, Bequia, Curaçao, Aruba or Bonaire. Each island has its own character, whether you want to explore independently, discover local history, spend time on the beach or venture inland on a guided excursion.

This guide covers all seven destinations associated with Marella’s Exotic Islands cruises, including what to see and do, how to get around, the practicalities of each port and the excursions worth considering.

Please note: Not every Exotic Islands sailing visits all the ports listed below. Itineraries, port order, arrival and departure times, and the ship operating the cruise can vary by departure date. Always check your specific itinerary before making independent travel arrangements.

Marella Cruises Exotic Islands at a Glance

Cruise line	Marella Cruises
Region	Southern Caribbean
Departure port	Bridgetown, Barbados, on relevant itineraries
Ports covered	Barbados, St Lucia, Grenada, Bequia, Curaçao, Aruba and Bonaire
Cruise duration	Typically 7 nights, depending on the itinerary
Ships	Marella Explorer 2 and Marella Voyager on relevant sailings
Holiday highlights	Caribbean beaches, historic towns, tropical scenery, wildlife, snorkelling and watersports
Getting ashore	Mainly alongside berths; tender transfers may be required at Bequia

Important: Not every sailing visits all seven destinations. Ports, itinerary order, ship and duration vary by departure date. Check your confirmed itinerary before travelling.

Caribbean Port Areas and Accessibility

The arrival experience varies considerably between the islands. Some cruise terminals are close to historic town centres, shops and restaurants, while others are better regarded as starting points for a taxi journey or organised excursion.

Bridgetown, Castries, Willemstad, Oranjestad and Kralendijk all have town areas that can be explored independently, although distances, pavement conditions and the location of your assigned berth matter. In Bequia, the tender journey is an important consideration for anyone with reduced mobility.

If you prefer to stay close to the ship, look for destinations where the waterfront and main shopping streets are within a comfortable walking distance. For beaches, rainforest scenery and attractions elsewhere on an island, you will generally need transport.

Accessibility varies between ports and individual attractions. Even where the cruise terminal is accessible, that does not necessarily mean the surrounding streets, beaches, boats or excursion vehicles are suitable for every mobility requirement. Check arrangements with Marella before booking an excursion or taking a mobility aid ashore.

Bridgetown, Barbados

Barbados is more than a convenient starting point for a Caribbean cruise. With its British colonial heritage, lively food culture, rum-making traditions and long stretches of coastline, the island offers a mixture of history, sightseeing and beach time.

Bridgetown, the capital, developed as an important trading port during British colonial rule. Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflecting the island’s colonial history and military importance. Today, the capital combines historic buildings and busy shopping streets with a waterfront that remains central to island life.

For cruise passengers, Barbados is relatively easy to explore independently, although the main cruise terminal is outside the historic city centre. You can spend the day exploring Bridgetown, take a taxi to Carlisle Bay for swimming and snorkelling, or book an excursion to discover more of the island.

Cruise Port: What to Expect

Marella ships use the Bridgetown Cruise Terminal, a dedicated cruise facility with shopping, passenger amenities and access to local transport. It is a working port rather than a terminal directly on the main city streets, so you should allow time to travel into central Bridgetown.

The terminal complex has duty-free shops, souvenir outlets and places to buy refreshments. Taxis and excursion transport are available, making it straightforward to arrange a trip to the city, a beach or an attraction elsewhere on the island.

If you want to explore on foot, bear in mind that the walk from the terminal to the historic centre is roughly 1.5-2 km, depending on your route and destination. In tropical heat, a taxi may be worthwhile for the outward journey, leaving you free to explore the centre on foot.

Language: English

Currency: Barbadian dollar (BBD). US dollars are widely accepted, although change may be given in local currency.

Distance to town: Approximately 1.5-2 km to central Bridgetown.

Accessibility: Check gangway access and the availability of suitable transport if you have mobility requirements. Pavements and crossings on the route into town can be uneven.

Getting Around Barbados

Taxis are one of the easiest ways to travel from the cruise terminal to Bridgetown, Carlisle Bay and other popular attractions. Agree the fare before setting off if it is not being charged at a fixed published rate.

For a short visit to the capital, you can walk between the main shopping streets, historic buildings and waterfront once you reach the centre. Local buses and minibuses are another option, although they may be less convenient if you are trying to reach several attractions within a limited port call.

Organised tours are useful for destinations further inland, including Harrison’s Cave, gardens and historic sites. Barbados drives on the left, but hiring a car for a single port day is not necessary for most visitors.

Things to Do in Bridgetown and Barbados

Explore Historic Bridgetown

Start around the Careenage, the sheltered inlet at the heart of the historic port. From here, explore the surrounding streets, historic buildings and shops. Broad Street is the main shopping thoroughfare, while the Parliament Buildings and nearby Independence Square provide a glimpse into Barbados’ political and colonial history.

Allow a couple of hours for a relaxed walk and time for refreshments. If you are interested in the island’s past, look for guided walking tours that explain the history of the town and its connections to the British Empire and the transatlantic slave trade.

Visit Carlisle Bay

Carlisle Bay is one of Barbados’ most popular beaches and a particularly good choice for cruise passengers who want to combine swimming with snorkelling. The bay is known for its clear water and shipwreck sites, where snorkellers may see tropical fish and sea turtles.

The beach is south of the cruise terminal and is best reached by taxi or an excursion transfer. Facilities vary by section of beach, so check where you will be dropped off if you want sun loungers, refreshments or watersports.

Book a day at The Boatyard

My personal recommendation is a visit to The boat yard which is around a 20 minute walk or short taxi ride from the port. We first discovered it when my daughter worked on a cruise ship - it is a crew favourite,

The standard Day Pass package for non-resident visitors is US$40 for adults and US$25 to US$30 for children.

The exact conversion to British Pounds (GBP) based on current exchange rates is approximately:

Adult Admission: £30.00 (US$40)
Child Admission: £18.75 to £22.50 (US$25 – US$30)

What is included in your entry fee?

The pass acts as a package rather than a flat fee, making it highly economical for cruise ship passengers or day visitors:

Beach Amenities: Access to a shared beach umbrella, ocean-side sun loungers, ocean trampolines, and climbing icebergs.
Snorkel Excursion: A 45-minute boat tour out to the shipwrecks in Carlisle Bay to snorkel and swim with sea turtles.
Food/Drink Credit: If you are visiting from a cruise ship, your pass includes a complimentary welcome drink and a free taxi ride back to the Bridgetown cruise terminal

Getting to The Boatyard from the Cruise Terminal

The Boatyard is very close to the Bridgetown Cruise Terminal, located just over a mile south down the coast. You have two easy ways to get there:

By Taxi (Recommended for speed): As soon as you walk past the terminal security, you will see a managed taxi stand. A taxi to The Boatyard takes only 5 to 10 minutes and costs a standard flat rate of US$5 per person (roughly £4.00).
On Foot (Scenic & Free): If you prefer a stroll, it is a safe, flat, and straightforward 20 to 30-minute walk. Simply head out of the pedestrian exit at the terminal, turn right, and walk with the ocean on your right-hand side. The route will take you along the Bridgetown boardwalk and straight onto Bay Street.

Note: Your entry pass includes a complimentary shuttle bus back to the ship at the end of the day, so you only need to worry about one-way transit to get there!

Best Time to Arrive

The Boatyard operates strictly on a first-come, first-served basis and does not take advanced reservations.

The Golden Hour: The club opens daily at 9:00 AM. I highly recommend aiming to arrive between 9:00 AM and 9:45 AM.
Why early? Because of its excellent value, it is incredibly popular with cruise passengers. By 10:30 AM on days when multiple large cruise ships are in port, long queues form at the entrance, and the prime front-row beach loungers fill up fast. Arriving early also guarantees you get booked onto one of the morning snorkel boat slots before the midday heat sets in

Discover Harrison’s Cave

Harrison’s Cave is an extensive limestone cave system featuring stalactites, stalagmites, streams and underground chambers. Visitors generally explore on a guided tram tour, making it an option for those who want to see the island’s interior without a strenuous hike.

It is some distance from Bridgetown, so allow for the road journey as well as the tour itself.

Visit St Nicholas Abbey

Despite its name, St Nicholas Abbey is a historic plantation house rather than a religious building. The estate offers insight into Barbados’ colonial history, architecture and rum-making heritage. It is a longer excursion from the port and is best combined with other northern-island sights on a guided tour.

Take a Scenic Island Tour

A sightseeing tour can include viewpoints, historic buildings, villages and sections of the island’s coastline. Barbados is relatively small, but traffic and the number of stops can affect how much you see during a port call.

Where to Eat in Bridgetown

Barbadian cuisine, often called Bajan food, is worth seeking out rather than settling for familiar international dishes. Seafood, seasoning peppers, herbs, rice, peas and root vegetables feature prominently.

Mustor’s Restaurant is a long-established, informal choice on McGregor Street in Bridgetown. It serves traditional Bajan cooking, including flying fish, other fish dishes and sides such as macaroni pie and cou-cou. It is a useful option for a local-style lunch while exploring the capital. Check its opening hours before setting off, as it operates mainly during the day.

Shanti’s Rum and Roti, on Tudor Street, is another casual choice, particularly if you fancy a filled roti with curried meat or vegetables. It is in central Bridgetown and can fit well into a shopping and sightseeing day.

Coconut Bar & Grill, by the cruise terminal, is convenient if you want food or a drink without travelling into town. It is a practical option before or after a shore excursion.

Local Dishes to Try

Cou-cou and flying fish: Barbados’ national dish, traditionally combining a cornmeal-and-okra preparation with seasoned fish.

Fish cakes: Small seasoned fish fritters, often served as a snack.

Macaroni pie: A popular baked macaroni dish and a familiar side on local menus.

Pudding and souse: A traditional dish, often associated with Saturdays, made with pickled pork and sweet potato pudding.

Bajan pepper sauce: A hot condiment that adds heat to fish, meat and other local dishes.

Flying fish is strongly associated with Barbados, but availability varies by season and restaurant.

Food and drink prices in Bridgetown

Barbados can be more expensive than some other Caribbean islands, particularly in restaurants aimed at cruise passengers and visitors.

Typical prices to budget for include:

Local snack or fish cutter: around BBD $10-$20 (£4-£8)
Roti or a casual local meal: around BBD $20-$35 (£8-£14)
Main course in a sit-down restaurant: around BBD $35-$70 (£14-£28), with beachfront restaurants often costing more
Beer: around BBD $6-$12 (£2.50-£5)
Rum punch or a cocktail: around BBD $15-$30 (£6-£12)
Soft drink or bottled water: around BBD $3-$7 (£1.20-£3)

These are indicative budgeting estimates rather than confirmed menu prices. Allow extra for service charges or tips where applicable, and check the menu before ordering.

Money tip: Barbados uses the Barbadian dollar (BBD). The US dollar is also widely accepted, but check the exchange rate offered when paying in US dollars.

TUI Shore Excursions in Barbados

Marella’s published excursion programme includes several ways to explore the island, from relaxed beach visits to guided sightseeing. Excursions and operating schedules can change, so check the Cruise Control listings for your sailing before booking.

Scenic Railway Tour

A heritage train journey through Barbados’ tropical countryside, offering a different perspective on the island away from the capital. A good choice for visitors interested in scenery and local history without a demanding walking itinerary.

Check the activity level and duration for your sailing.

Carlisle Beach Break

A beach-focused trip that combines time beside the sea with some sightseeing. This is a straightforward option if your priority is swimming, relaxing and enjoying the Caribbean coastline.

Check what transport and beach facilities are included.

Atlantis Submarine

An underwater excursion offering views of marine life through the submarine’s viewing windows. It can appeal to visitors who want to experience the underwater environment without snorkelling or scuba diving.

Confirm boarding requirements and suitability for your mobility needs.

Harrison’s Cave

A guided visit to the island’s limestone cave system, with underground formations and streams. Choose this if you would rather explore Barbados’ natural landscape than spend the whole day at the beach.

Check the walking and transfer requirements.

Other excursion options may include island sightseeing, wildlife encounters and 4x4 tours. Availability varies by sailing, so use the excursions listed for your own departure rather than relying on a general catalogue.

Is Getting Around Independently Easy?

Yes, particularly if you want to explore Bridgetown or visit one beach. The main consideration is the distance between the cruise terminal and the city centre.

For an independent day, you could take a taxi into Bridgetown, explore the historic streets and shops, stop for a Bajan lunch, then return to the ship. Alternatively, travel directly to Carlisle Bay for a few hours by the sea.

Independent sightseeing becomes more complicated if you want to combine attractions scattered around the island. Harrison’s Cave and St Nicholas Abbey, for example, require longer journeys than the central sights. In that case, compare a reliable taxi arrangement with a guided excursion and allow a generous margin for the return to the ship.

If you use local buses, check the route and return service rather than assuming that a convenient outbound journey will be equally straightforward later in the day.

Beach Days in Barbados

Carlisle Bay

Approximately 2-3 km from the cruise terminal, depending on the access point.

One of the best all-round choices for cruise passengers, with pale sand, generally sheltered water and popular snorkelling trips. Take a taxi from the port and check the facilities at your chosen beach entrance.

Brownes Beach

On Carlisle Bay, south of central Bridgetown.

A broad sandy beach that is convenient for combining a swim with a visit to the capital. It is a good option if you want a relaxed beach stop rather than a full-island excursion.

Rockley Beach (Accra Beach)

Further south along the coast; allow for a taxi journey.

A popular South Coast beach with nearby places to eat and drink. It can suit passengers who want a beach with facilities and a livelier surrounding area.

Paynes Bay

On the west coast, requiring a longer taxi journey.

A scenic option on Barbados’ Platinum Coast, with inviting water and a more resort-oriented setting. Check sea conditions, facilities and transport availability before choosing it for a short port call.

My advice: Carlisle Bay is the most practical starting point for a beach visit from the cruise port. It minimises travel time compared with beaches farther along the coast and can be combined with sightseeing in Bridgetown.

Distances and journey times vary with the exact beach entrance and traffic. Agree your return arrangements before settling in for the day.

Shopping in Bridgetown

Bridgetown is the main shopping destination for cruise passengers who want to browse independently.

Broad Street: The central shopping thoroughfare, with a mixture of shops, familiar retail names and souvenir outlets.

Duty-free shopping: Available around the cruise terminal and in central Bridgetown. Compare prices before buying jewellery, watches, spirits or other higher-value items.

Pelican Craft Centre: Near the port, this is a useful place to look for locally made crafts, souvenirs and artwork.

Local food products: Look for Bajan pepper sauce, spices, rum and other island specialities, remembering to check airline and customs restrictions where relevant.

If you have limited time, the terminal’s shops are convenient. For a wider choice and a better feel for the capital, head into Bridgetown.

Accessibility in Bridgetown and Barbados

The cruise terminal is designed to handle cruise passengers, but accessibility beyond the terminal depends on the route and attraction.

Walking around Bridgetown: The historic centre is walkable, but pavements, kerbs and road crossings can be uneven. Heat and humidity can make longer walks tiring.

Getting to town: A taxi reduces the distance you need to cover on foot. If you require a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, arrange it in advance.

Beaches: Sand can be difficult to cross with a wheelchair or mobility aid. Ask about accessible drop-off points, beach access and any specialist equipment before choosing a beach excursion.

Sightseeing tours: Check the walking requirements for historic sites, cave visits and plantation attractions. A tour described as easy may still involve steps or uneven surfaces.

Cruise assistance: Contact Marella’s Assisted Travel Team before departure if you need help with gangway access, transport, mobility aids or an excursion tailored to your needs.

If Barbados is your embarkation port, allow extra time for the airport-to-terminal transfer and check the arrangements for luggage and assistance.

Castries, St Lucia

St Lucia is one of the Caribbean’s most dramatic islands, known for its lush rainforest, volcanic scenery and the twin Pitons rising above the sea. Castries is the capital and main commercial centre, with a busy market, colonial-era landmarks and a harbour surrounded by green hills.

The island’s headline attractions are spread out, so it is worth deciding whether you want to explore the capital, spend time on a beach or travel further afield to see the scenery.

Language: English. Saint Lucian Creole French (Kwéyòl) is also widely spoken.
Currency: Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD). US dollars are widely accepted.
Distance to town: Depends on the berth. From La Place Carenage, the town centre and market are within a short walk. From Pointe Seraphine, allow approximately 1.5-2 km, or around 20 minutes on foot.

Castries Cruise port: what to expect

Cruise ships usually dock at Pointe Seraphine or La Place Carenage, depending on the berth allocated. Both are close to Castries, although the experience differs slightly depending on where your ship is berthed.

Pointe Seraphine has a purpose-built cruise shopping area with souvenir shops, duty-free stores and places to buy refreshments. La Place Carenage is closer to the city centre and makes it easier to explore the streets and market on foot.

From La Place Carenage, parts of central Castries are only a short walk away. From Pointe Seraphine, allow roughly 15-25 minutes to walk towards the city centre, depending on your route and walking pace. In the heat, a short taxi journey may be more comfortable.

Getting around

Taxis are readily available around the cruise terminals. Agree the fare and confirm whether it is per person or per vehicle before setting off. Some drivers offer island tours, which can be a convenient way to see several attractions in one day.

Local minibuses operate on set routes, but they may be crowded and are not always the easiest option for visitors working to a ship’s departure time.

The roads can be winding, and journeys to attractions such as Soufrière and the Pitons take considerably longer than distances on a map might suggest. Allow plenty of time for the return journey.

Things to do in Castries

Castries Market: Browse stalls selling tropical fruit, spices, local crafts and souvenirs. It is a good place to get a feel for everyday life on the island.

Derek Walcott Square: A small historic square named after the Nobel Prize-winning poet and playwright, who was born in Castries.

Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception: Known for its colourful interior and murals, this is one of the city’s best-known historic buildings.

Morne Fortune: A hillside area with views over Castries and the harbour. It has historical connections to the island’s colonial conflicts.

Marigot Bay: A picturesque bay surrounded by steep green hills. It is outside central Castries and is best reached by taxi or organised excursion.

The Pitons and Soufrière: The island’s most famous scenery lies to the south. A visit can involve several hours of driving, so an organised tour may be preferable if you want to see the Pitons during a port call.

Where to eat in Castries

For a meal ashore, look for local Creole cooking and freshly caught fish.

The Coal Pot: A well-known waterfront restaurant near Vigie, with seafood and Caribbean-French influences. It is better suited to a planned meal than a quick snack immediately beside the terminal.
Castries Market area: A useful place to look for inexpensive local food and snacks, although individual stall opening times vary.
Restaurants and cafés around the city centre: Convenient if you want to eat without travelling far from the ship.

Local dishes to try include green fig and saltfish, St Lucian-style fish, callaloo soup, accra fish cakes and bakes. Green fig means green banana rather than the familiar sweet fruit.

Food and drink prices in Castries

St Lucia uses the Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD). US dollars are also accepted at many visitor-facing businesses, although the exchange rate offered can vary.

Typical budgeting estimates:

Local snack or light meal: XCD $10-$25 (£3-£8)
Roti or a casual local meal: XCD $20-$40 (£6-£13)
Main course in a sit-down restaurant: XCD $40-$85 (£13-£28)
Beer: XCD $7-$15 (£2-£5)
Rum punch or cocktail: XCD $15-$30 (£5-£10)
Soft drink or bottled water: XCD $4-$10 (£1-£3)

Waterfront restaurants and establishments in resort areas can charge more. Check whether service is included before adding a tip.

Cruise Lowdown Tip: Highly Recommended

We spent the best afternoon sitting just yards from the ship at Point Seraphina at Rum Therapy Bar & Treatment Rooms - a lively bar with delicious rum cocktails and beer buckets plus karaoke.

Popular with crew and guests alike - rumour has it that the ships often have to send out search parties to retrieve revellers at the end of a stay!

TUI shore excursions in St Lucia

TUI has advertised excursions including:

Scenes of St Lucia: A sightseeing trip taking in viewpoints, Marigot Bay and other island highlights.
Time at the Beach: A trip to Reduit Beach in the Rodney Bay area, where there are restaurants, bars and watersports.
Panoramic St Lucia: An island tour featuring scenic viewpoints and attractions.

Excursion names, inclusions and availability can change by sailing. Check the excursions offered for your own departure.

Is getting around independently easy?

Castries itself is manageable for a short independent visit, particularly if you dock at La Place Carenage. The market, shops and central landmarks can be combined without travelling far.

Seeing the Pitons, Soufrière or several distant attractions independently is more complicated because of the winding roads and journey times. A taxi tour can offer flexibility, but agree the route, price and return time in advance.

Beach days in St Lucia

Vigie Beach: Relatively close to Castries and a possible option for a shorter beach visit. A taxi is usually the easiest choice from the cruise terminals.

Reduit Beach: A popular sandy beach in the Rodney Bay area, with beach bars, restaurants and watersports. Allow roughly 30-45 minutes each way by road, depending on traffic and your terminal.

Marigot Bay: Attractive scenery and waterfront facilities, although it is not simply a beach immediately beside the cruise port.

Ask about the cost of sunbeds, umbrellas and watersports before settling in. Return transport should be arranged with sufficient time to get back to the ship.

Shopping

The cruise terminals have duty-free and souvenir shops, while Castries Market is the place to look for local crafts, spices, fruit and souvenirs.

Popular purchases include locally produced spices, cocoa products, rum and handmade items. Compare prices if you are buying several souvenirs, and check duty-free allowances before purchasing alcohol or other restricted goods.

Accessibility

The cruise shopping areas provide a relatively straightforward starting point, but conditions vary between terminals. Central Castries has busy roads, uneven pavements and sections where pedestrian access can be awkward.

The market can be crowded, and heat and humidity may make walking tiring. Beach access varies, with sand posing difficulties for wheelchairs and some mobility aids.

Passengers who need step-free access or assistance should confirm arrangements with the cruise line and excursion provider before booking. A private vehicle may be more suitable than a general island tour, but check vehicle access and the amount of walking involved.

St George’s, Grenada

Grenada is known as the Spice Island, thanks to its production of nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves and other spices. Its capital, St George’s, is one of the Caribbean’s most picturesque harbour towns, with colourful buildings, a horseshoe-shaped waterfront and steep hills rising behind the town.

The port is a good starting point for exploring the capital, but Grenada’s waterfalls, spice estates and rainforest attractions are further inland.

Language: English
Currency: Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD). US dollars are accepted at many tourist businesses.
Distance to town: The Melville Street cruise terminal is close to the town centre and waterfront, generally around 5-15 minutes on foot. Some streets are steep.

St George’s Cruise port: what to expect

Cruise ships generally use the main cruise terminal at Melville Street or a berth in the harbour area. The terminal has shops selling souvenirs, local products and duty-free goods.

The Carenage, the town’s waterfront, is close enough to explore on foot from the main terminal. The route is generally short, although the town has hills and some streets are steep.

St George’s is more than a shopping stop. The waterfront, historic buildings and market make it worth allowing time to explore independently.