Marella Cruises Paradise Islands Port Guide

Updated October 2026

Marella’s Paradise Islands Itinerary

Overview

Marella’s Paradise Islands is a seven-night fly-cruise round-trip from Barbados, visiting some of the Caribbean’s most loved islands. It can also be included as part of a 14 night back to back cruise.

Expect days filled with turquoise waters, colourful colonial towns, rum cocktails, and some of the best beaches in the world. Each stop offers a mix of relaxation and adventure — whether you want to explore a rainforest, tour a historic fort, or spend a lazy day on the sand.

The itinerary can vary depending on departure date and ports of calls may differ or be in a different order.

Ports of call:

• Bridgetown, Barbados (embarkation & disembarkation)

• Castries, St Lucia

• Basseterre, St Kitts

• Philipsburg, St Maarten

• St John’s, Antigua

• Road Town, Tortola (British Virgin Islands)

• Roseau, Dominica

• Bridgetown, Barbados

Marella Cruises’ Assisted Travel Team is available for guests with accessibility needs. Call 0800 145 6920 for details on ship facilities and accessible excursions.

Bridgetown, Barbados (Embarkation Port)

Barbados. (stock image)

Introduction

Bridgetown bookends Marella’s Paradise Islands cruise, offering guests a final opportunity to enjoy the island’s Caribbean charm before heading home. Whether arriving for the first time at embarkation or returning for disembarkation, the capital provides a mix of history, culture, beaches, and shopping. Its vibrant harbour, colonial architecture, and friendly locals make it a memorable start and end to your Caribbean adventure.

Map of Bridgetown

Bridge Town Map

Port Area

Cruise ships dock at the Bridgetown Cruise Terminal, approximately 1.5 km from the city centre. The terminal is well-equipped with duty-free shops, ATMs, cafés, free Wi-Fi, tourist information, and taxi stands. Shuttle buses to downtown are available for ~$2–3 USD per person.

Language: English

Currency: Barbados Dollar (BBD, tied 2:1 with USD; US dollars widely accepted)

Distance to Town: 1.5 km – 20 minutes on foot, 5 minutes by taxi ($5 USD), or shuttle bus ($2–3 USD).

Accessibility

• Terminal is fully wheelchair accessible with ramps and wide gangways.

• Downtown Bridgetown is mostly flat, though some pavements may be uneven.

• Accessible taxis can be arranged in advance.

• Beaches such as Carlisle Bay offer ramps and beach wheelchairs by prior arrangement.

Things to Do

Local Highlights

The Boat Yard Bar and Restaurant is a must do

• Carlisle Bay – White sandy beach just minutes from the port; swimming, sunbathing, and watersports.

• Visit The Boat Yard Bar and Restaurant - a venue in walking distance from (and in sight of) the ship. Fun, popular venue on the beach (USD $35 includes transport back to the cruise terminal, one complimentary drink and the use of all onsite amenities). Try a flying fish sandwich with a bucket of bee!

• Historic Bridgetown & Garrison – Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site with forts, Parliament, and colonial buildings.

• Mount Gay Rum Visitor Centre – Tours and tastings of the world’s oldest rum brand. Entry ~$20 USD.

• Barbados Museum & George Washington House – Discover the island’s rich history. Entry ~$10 USD.

Further Afield

• Harrison’s Cave – Spectacular underground limestone caverns; tram tours ~$30 USD.

• St Nicholas Abbey – Historic plantation house and rum distillery; tours ~$25 USD.

• Bathsheba & East Coast – Dramatic Atlantic coast, surf spots, and scenic views; taxi or excursion ~$80–100 USD.

Getting Around

• Walking: Short stroll into the city centre (~20 minutes).

• Taxis: Available outside the terminal (~$5–10 USD).

• Shuttle Buses: Port-provided service to downtown (~$2–3 USD).

• Local Minibuses: Affordable (~$2 USD flat fare) but often crowded.

Places to Eat

• Cuz’s Fish Shack – Famous for fresh fish sandwiches (“fish cutters”) near Carlisle Bay.

• Brown Sugar Restaurant (brownsugarbarbados.com) – Traditional Bajan cuisine buffet and à la carte.

• Champers (champersbarbados.com) – Upscale waterfront dining for lunch or dinner.

Best Beaches

• Carlisle Bay (2 km) – Closest, with sunbeds, watersports, and beach bars.

• Accra (Rockley) Beach (5 km) – Family-friendly with facilities; taxi ~$10–15 USD.

• Miami Beach (Enterprise) (8 km) – Quieter, scenic beach; taxi ~$15–20 USD.

• Platinum Beaches – Many resorts offer private beaches, accessible via taxi or excursion.

Shopping

• Bridgetown Duty-Free – Jewellery, liquor, and souvenirs at the port.

• Broad Street – Main shopping street with department stores and boutiques.

• Pelican Village – Local crafts and artisanal souvenirs near the port.

Road Town, Tortola – British Virgin Islands

Road Town, Tortola. Image: Stock image, Unsplash

This was our first ever Caribbean port and I love it - from the colourful port area to scenic Cane Garden Bay it is just what you imagine the Caribbean to be.

Introduction

The largest of the British Virgin Islands, Tortola is a laid-back Caribbean gem with rolling green hills, hidden bays, and postcard-perfect beaches. Road Town, the capital, is a colourful harbour town with lively markets, rum bars, and easy access to the island’s natural beauty.

Map of Road Town

Use controls to zoom out.

 

Port Area

Cruise ships dock at the Road Town Cruise Pier, just steps from downtown. The terminal offers duty-free shops, ATMs, restrooms, and a visitor centre. Taxis and excursion buses wait outside.

Language: English

Currency: US Dollar (USD)

Distance to Town: Right at the edge of Road Town; shops and restaurants within a 5–10 minute walk.

Accessibility

• Cruise pier is flat and fully accessible.

• Road Town’s streets can be uneven with some slopes.

• Accessible taxis can be arranged but should be booked in advance.

• Beaches generally have limited wheelchair facilities, but Cane Garden Bay offers some adapted access.

Things to Do

Local Highlights

• Road Town Waterfront & Market – Browse for souvenirs, spices, and local crafts.

• Virgin Islands Folk Museum – Learn about island history in a restored West Indian house. Entry ~$3 USD.

• Crafts Alive Village – Colourful huts selling handmade goods and local art.

Further Afield

Cane Garden Bay, Tortola. Image Credit: Photo by Dietmar Lichota on Unsplash

• Cane Garden Bay – Tortola’s most famous beach with calm waters, beach bars, and watersports. Taxi ~$8–10 USD pp each way.

• Sage Mountain National Park – Hiking trails through rainforest with island views. Taxi tours ~$25–30 USD pp.

• Ferry to Virgin Gorda – Visit the world-famous Baths, giant granite boulders forming caves and pools. Ferry ~$30 USD return, entry ~$3 USD.

Getting Around

• Walking: Town centre right outside port.

• Taxis: Shared safari taxis common, fares posted at terminal (Cane Garden Bay ~$8–10 USD pp).

• Ferries: Regular service to Virgin Gorda.

Places to Eat

• Pusser’s Road Town Pub – Iconic spot for Painkiller cocktails and Caribbean fare.

• Myett’s at Cane Garden Bay – Beachfront dining with fresh seafood.

• Sugar Mill Restaurant – Upscale option in a converted sugar mill.

Best Beaches

• Cane Garden Bay (15 mins by taxi) – Wide beach with sunbeds, bars, and watersports.

• Brewers Bay (20 mins) – Quieter, great for snorkelling.

• Smuggler’s Cove (30 mins) – Remote and undeveloped.

Shopping

• Crafts Alive Village – Best for handmade souvenirs.

• Road Town Duty-Free – Jewellery, liquor, perfume.

• Sunny Caribbee Spice Shop – Famous for local spice mixes.

Philipsburg, St Maarten

Philipsburg, St Maarten

Introduction

St Maarten is a unique Caribbean island split between Dutch and French rule, offering two cultures in one stop. The capital, Philipsburg, sits on the Dutch side and is famous for its duty-free shopping, lively boardwalk, and Great Bay Beach right by the cruise pier. With turquoise waters, world-class sailing, and even planes skimming over Maho Beach, it’s one of the Caribbean’s most exciting ports of call.

Map of St Maarten

 

Port Area

Cruise ships dock at the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facility, about 1.5 km from downtown Philipsburg. The modern terminal offers duty-free shopping, ATMs, Wi-Fi, a tourist information centre, restrooms, and a taxi stand. A water taxi runs from the port to the centre of town for ~$7 USD return.

Language: Dutch (official), English widely spoken

Currency: Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG) & US Dollar (USD); USD accepted everywhere

Distance to Town: 1.5 km – 20-minute walk, 5 minutes by taxi (approx $7 USD return).

Accessibility

• Terminal is fully accessible with ramps and wide walkways.

• Water taxis are not always wheelchair accessible – taxis are a better option.

• Philipsburg’s main streets and boardwalk are flat and easy to navigate.

• Maho Beach is not ideal for accessibility due to sand and crowds, but Great Bay Beach near the port offers boardwalk access.

Things to Do

Local Highlights

• Front Street – Duty-free haven with jewellery, electronics, liquor, and souvenirs.

• Great Bay Beach – Just steps from the boardwalk; rent sunbeds, swim, and enjoy bars.

• Philipsburg Courthouse – Historic 18th-century building and landmark in town centre.

• Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit – Quirky museum by Star Wars artist Nick Maley. Entry ~$10 USD.

Further Afield

Maho Beach, St Maarten

• Maho Beach – Watch planes land at Princess Juliana Airport just overhead. Taxi ~$10 USD pp each way.

• Orient Bay (French side) – Long sandy beach with beach clubs and watersports. Taxi ~$15–20 USD pp.

• Marigot (French capital) – Chic boutiques, patisseries, and a market. Taxi ~$15–20 USD pp.

• Catamaran Sailing Trips – Half-day excursions with snorkelling and open bar from ~$60 USD.

Getting Around

• Walking: Town centre within 20 minutes.

• Water Taxi: Frequent and fun option (~$7 USD return).

• Taxis: Shared rates posted at terminal; cash preferred.

• Car Rental: Available but traffic can be heavy.

Places to Eat

• Greenhouse Restaurant & Bar – Beachfront, casual dining with burgers, seafood, and cocktails.

• Hard Rock Café – Reliable favourite near boardwalk.

• Ocean Lounge – Upscale dining at Holland House Beach Hotel with sea views.

Best Beaches

• Great Bay Beach (walking distance) – Right in Philipsburg, full facilities, easy access.

• Maho Beach (15 mins by taxi) – Famous plane-spotting experience.

• Orient Bay (25 mins) – French-side favourite with beach clubs.

• Mullet Bay Beach (20 mins) – Beautiful, less crowded alternative near Maho.

Shopping

• Front Street – Duty-free shopping, especially jewellery and watches.

• Old Street – Charming alleyway with boutiques and souvenirs.

• Guavaberry Emporium – Local rum-based liqueur unique to St Maarten.

Basseterre, St Kitts

St Kitts. Photo by Josh Duncan on Unsplash

Introduction

St Kitts, officially part of the Federation of St Kitts and Nevis, offers a delightful mix of lush rainforest, historic sites, and golden beaches. The capital, Basseterre, reflects a colonial past with colourful Georgian-style buildings, lively squares, and a laid-back Caribbean vibe. It’s a destination where you can sip rum punch on a beach, ride a scenic railway through the countryside, or explore the UNESCO-listed Brimstone Hill Fortress.

Map of Basseterre

 

Port Area

Cruise ships dock at Port Zante, right in Basseterre. This modern terminal features duty-free shopping, bars, cafés, Wi-Fi, and a taxi dispatch area. The town centre is just a short walk away.

Language: English

Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), US Dollars widely accepted

Distance to Town: Less than 500m – 5-minute walk

Accessibility

• Port Zante is flat, paved, and wheelchair accessible.

• Pavements in Basseterre can be uneven with occasional high kerbs.

• Many attractions, including Brimstone Hill Fortress, involve steps or inclines, so check tour details in advance.

• Accessible taxis can be pre-booked through the port taxi association.

Things to Do

Local Highlights

• Independence Square – Central park with historic cathedral and colonial buildings.

• National Museum of St Kitts – Inside the old Treasury Building; exhibits on sugar, slavery, and island life. Entry ~$5 USD.

• Port Zante Shopping – Duty-free shops, souvenirs, and local crafts right at the pier.

Further Afield

• Brimstone Hill Fortress – UNESCO World Heritage Site with panoramic views. Taxi tour ~$15–20 USD pp, entry $15 USD.

• St Kitts Scenic Railway – Narrow-gauge railway through sugarcane fields and villages. Tours from ~$130 USD.

• Romney Manor & Caribelle Batik – Historic estate with tropical gardens and batik demonstrations. Entry ~$3 USD.

• Mount Liamuiga Volcano Hike – Adventurous trek for fit travellers; guided hikes from ~$80 USD.

• Beach Excursions – South Friars Bay, Cockleshell Bay, and Frigate Bay are the most popular spots.

Getting Around

• Walking: Basseterre is compact and easy to explore on foot.

• Taxis: Standardised fares posted at the port; most tours can be arranged directly.

• Buses: Local minibuses run but can be irregular.

• Tours: Many ship excursions cover highlights in half a day.

Places to Eat

• El Fredo’s – Authentic Caribbean cuisine, including goat water stew and conch.

• Shipwreck Beach Bar (South Friars Bay) – Casual dining right on the sand.

• Sprat Net – Famous for fresh lobster and grilled fish.

Best Beaches

• South Friars Bay (15 mins by taxi) – Calm waters, beach bars, chairs for hire.

• Cockleshell Bay (25 mins by taxi) – Great views of Nevis, watersports available.

• Frigate Bay (10 mins by taxi) – Lively strip with beach bars and restaurants.

• Dieppe Bay (40 mins) – Black sand beach on the Atlantic side, less crowded.

Shopping

• Port Zante – Duty-free jewellery, clothing, liquor, and souvenirs.

• Amina Craft Market – Local handmade crafts and artwork.

• Caribelle Batik at Romney Manor – Handcrafted batik fabrics and clothing.

St John’s, Antigua

St John’s Antigua. Photo by Edge2Edge Media on Unsplash

Introduction

Antigua, known for its 365 beaches, offers a quintessential Caribbean cruise experience. The island’s capital, St John’s, combines colourful colonial architecture, bustling markets, and a scenic waterfront with easy access to some of the Caribbean’s most famous sandy stretches. From historic forts and rum distilleries to vibrant local culture, St John’s is both relaxing and full of discovery.

Port Area

Cruise ships dock at St John’s Deep Water Harbour, about 1 km from the city centre. The terminal provides tourist information, restrooms, ATMs, and shuttle/taxi services to the main attractions. Duty-free shopping is available right at the pier.

Language: English

Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), US dollars widely accepted

Distance to Town: Approx. 1 km – 15-minute walk, 5 minutes by taxi ($5 USD), or shuttle bus ($2–3 USD).

Accessibility

• The cruise terminal is fully accessible with ramps, wide gangways, and adapted restrooms.

• Downtown St John’s has mostly flat streets, but some areas have uneven pavements.

• Accessible taxis can be arranged, but many beaches have limited wheelchair access.

• Popular attractions such as Nelson’s Dockyard and Shirley Heights Lookout have partial accessibility.

Things to Do

Local Highlights

• St John’s Market – A lively market selling spices, fruits, local crafts, and souvenirs.

• St John’s Cathedral – Historic Anglican cathedral with beautiful architecture.

• Dow’s Hill Interpretation Centre – Offers views of the capital and information on Antigua’s history.

Further Afield

• Nelson’s Dockyard National Park – UNESCO World Heritage Site with restored 18th-century naval dockyard and museums. Taxi or excursion ~$15–20 USD pp.

• Shirley Heights Lookout – Famous for panoramic views and Sunday evening parties with steel drum music. Taxi ~$10–15 USD pp.

• Half Moon Bay – Stunning crescent-shaped beach, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Taxi ~$15 USD pp each way.

• Rainforest & Zipline Adventures – Eco-tours and adrenaline activities available around the island, from ~$60 USD.

Getting Around

• Walking: Short walks possible around the port and downtown.

• Taxis: Readily available at the terminal; fares posted at stands.

• Shuttle Buses: Port-operated or excursion-specific transport.

• Tours: Many half- or full-day guided tours available.

Places to Eat

• Cecilia’s High Point Café – Casual dining with Caribbean classics, local seafood, and rum punch. High Point, Antigua & Barbuda

• Hemingway’s Caribbean Café – Offers local cuisine and international options. St Mary's St, St John's

• Papa Zouk – Beachfront dining at Dickenson Bay with live music and cocktails.

Best Beaches

• Dickenson Bay (5 km) – White sand, calm waters, beach bars, sunbeds; taxi ~$10–12 USD.

• Half Moon Bay (15 mins by taxi) – Secluded, scenic, great for swimming and snorkelling.

• Jolly Beach (10 km) – Popular resort beach, wide and family-friendly.

Shopping

• St John’s Market – Handmade crafts, spices, and souvenirs.

• Redcliffe Quay & Heritage Quay – Duty-free shopping with jewellery, watches, liquor, and clothing.

• Downtown boutiques – Local artisans selling carvings, batik, and textiles.

Roseau, Dominica

Roseau, Dominica

Introduction

Dominica, known as the “Nature Island” of the Caribbean, is a haven for eco-tourists. Roseau, the island’s charming capital, sits on the west coast amid lush mountains and rivers. With colonial-era architecture, colourful markets, and access to rainforests, waterfalls, and hot springs, Roseau offers a completely different Caribbean experience — rugged, green, and refreshingly unspoiled.

Map of Roseau

 

Port Area

Cruise ships dock at Roseau Cruise Wharf, a small but well-equipped terminal offering restrooms, tourist information, duty-free shops, and taxi services. The town centre is within walking distance along a waterfront promenade.

Language: English

Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), US dollars widely accepted

Distance to Town: Approx. 0.5 km – 5–10 minutes on foot, 3–5 minutes by taxi (~$5 USD)

Accessibility

• The cruise pier is flat and wheelchair accessible.

• Roseau’s streets are narrow, some cobbled, so wheelchair users may need assistance.

• Accessible taxis are available, though excursions into the rainforest or to waterfalls may not be suitable for mobility-impaired visitors.

• Some attractions, like Botanical Gardens and Dominica Museum, have accessible areas.

Things to Do

Local Highlights

• Roseau Market – Bustling market selling fresh fruits, spices, and local crafts.

• Dominica Museum – Learn about the island’s history and culture; entry ~$3 USD.

• Botanical Gardens – Peaceful garden with tropical plants and tropical birds.

Further Afield

• Trafalgar Falls – Iconic twin waterfalls; entry ~$10 USD; short hike to viewing platforms.

• Boiling Lake – Guided hike to a volcanic crater lake; full-day excursion, ~6–8 hours, from ~$75 USD.

• Emerald Pool – A beautiful waterfall and swimming spot, about 30 minutes from Roseau; entry ~$5 USD.

• Scottshead Bay – Great for snorkelling and kayaking; taxi or excursion ~$20–30 USD.

Getting Around

• Walking: Roseau is compact; short strolls around the port and town are easy.

• Taxis: Readily available; fares posted at the port (~$5–15 USD depending on distance).

• Excursion Buses: Often included in organized tours to waterfalls, lakes, or rainforest areas.

Places to Eat

• Fort Young Hotel Restaurant – Upscale Caribbean dining with sea views.

• Chopsticks Chinese Restaurant – Popular casual option in town.

• BB’s Crabback – Local seafood, especially crab dishes, casual dining.

Best Beaches

• Mero Beach (15–20 minutes by taxi) – White sand and calm waters, great for swimming.

• Champagne Beach (25 mins) – Famous for natural bubbling volcanic waters under the waves; taxi or excursion ~$20–25 USD.

• Trafalgar Beach – Smaller, near the town centre, suitable for a quick swim.

Shopping

• Roseau Market – Local crafts, spices, fruits, and souvenirs.

• Boutiques along King George V Street – Handmade goods, wood carvings, textiles.

• Duty-Free Shops at the Wharf – Rum, jewellery, and Caribbean gifts.

Barbados (Disembarkation)

Time to say farewell to Barbados

Disembarkation Routine

On the final morning of your cruise in Bridgetown, you’ll follow the ship’s disembarkation procedure. Guests are usually asked to vacate their cabins by 8:00–8:30am, with breakfast available in the buffet and restaurants beforehand. You’ll wait in designated lounges until your group is called, based on your onward travel arrangements. Luggage is collected the night before and retrieved in the terminal after clearing customs.

if you have a later flight, you can stay onboard and continue to use the facilities, apart from your cabin - although it may be possible to access a courtesy cabin either free or at extra cost.

Things to Do with a Late Flight

If your flight departs later in the day, there are plenty of options to make the most of your time, especially if you missed them on arrival:

• Carlisle Bay – Just 10 minutes from the port, this beach has calm waters, sunbeds, and beach bars. Perfect for a last swim.

• Mount Gay Rum Distillery – Tours and tastings at the world’s oldest rum brand. (~$20 USD, 15 mins by taxi).

• Historic Bridgetown – Stroll Broad Street for duty-free shopping, or explore the UNESCO-listed Garrison area.

• Barbados Museum – Compact and interesting, located near the Garrison. (~$10 USD).

• Day Rooms or Hotel Passes – Some hotels, like Hilton Barbados or Radisson Aquatica, offer day passes including pools, changing facilities, and beach access. Expect ~$80–120 USD pp.

Distance to the Airport

Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) is located 16 km (10 miles) east of Bridgetown Cruise Terminal. Travel time is around 30–40 minutes by taxi depending on traffic.

Transportation Options

Most Marella guests will have transfers as part of their booking. However if you want to travel independently, those might be helpful:

• Taxis: Readily available at the cruise terminal. Fares are regulated — expect ~$30–35 USD for up to 4 passengers to the airport.

• Private Transfers: Pre-booked cars, minivans, or shuttles offer a more personalised option, typically ~$40–60 USD depending on vehicle type.

• Hotel Transfers: If purchasing a day pass, many hotels can arrange a direct airport transfer at an additional cost.

• Public Buses: Blue and yellow minibuses run between Bridgetown and the airport for ~$2 USD, but with luggage this option is not recommended.

👉 Tip: If you have several hours before your flight, storing luggage at the terminal or arranging a hotel day pass is the easiest way to enjoy Barbados stress-free.

Practical Tips

TUI Shore Excursions on Paradise Islands

Marella Cruises offers a range of organised shore excursions on Paradise Islands, from island sightseeing tours and scenic railway journeys to beach transfers, catamaran trips and rainforest adventures. The best choice depends on whether you want to see the main sights, spend time on the water or simply enjoy a Caribbean beach.

Excursions can be booked through TUI, subject to availability. The selection, prices and departure times can vary by sailing, so check the options listed against your own cruise before travelling.

Barbados: Beach Days and Underwater Adventures

Bridgetown is the embarkation and disembarkation port for Paradise Islands. Depending on your flight times, you may have an opportunity to explore Barbados before boarding or after leaving the ship.

TUI’s published excursions include:

• Beach Hop Island Style: Explore parts of Bridgetown and the island’s coastline in an open-sided bus, with stops at some of Barbados’ best-known beaches.

• Atlantis Submarine: Discover the underwater world around Barbados from a submarine, with views of tropical fish, coral formations and marine life.

• Scenic Railway Tour: Take a heritage railway journey through the island’s tropical landscape.

These are useful options if you want to see more of Barbados without organising transport yourself. If you have a long wait before your flight, check the excursion duration and luggage arrangements carefully.

Road Town, Tortola: Beaches and Island Scenery

Tortola is the largest of the British Virgin Islands, with green hills, secluded coves and white-sand beaches. Organised tours make it easier to explore beyond Road Town, particularly if you want to visit the island’s more distant beaches.

TUI lists excursions including:

• Tortola by Land & Sea: Combine a boat trip with a land tour, taking in the island’s coastline, coves and tropical scenery.

• Touring Tortola & Beach: Explore the island in an open-sided Land Rover, with stops for photographs and time to enjoy the scenery.

• Cane Garden Beach Transfer: Travel along the coast to Cane Garden Bay for time to swim, relax on the sand or enjoy a beach bar.

• Forest Hike & Beach: Explore Sage Mountain National Park on a rainforest walk before spending time at the coast.

If you prefer a relaxed day, the Cane Garden Beach transfer is worth considering. The forest hike is better suited to travellers who are comfortable with more physical activity.

Philipsburg, St Maarten: Catamarans and Snorkelling

St Maarten combines Dutch and French Caribbean influences, with duty-free shopping, attractive beaches and opportunities to explore the island by boat.

TUI’s excursion selection includes:

• Golden Eagle Catamaran Sail & Snorkel: Sail along the coast, enjoy time at a beach and take the opportunity to snorkel. The published tour description also mentions drinks and a light meal.

• Ultimate Beach & Snorkel by Power Boat: Explore the coastline by powerboat, with opportunities to swim, snorkel and relax on the beach.

• Sea Trek Helmet Dive: Experience the underwater world without needing conventional scuba-diving experience.

• Scenic Coastal Hike: Follow a coastal trail between Guana Bay and Geneve Bay, taking in the island’s rugged shoreline.

The catamaran and powerboat trips are good choices for those who want to make the most of St Maarten’s coastline. If you prefer to remain on land, Philipsburg’s shops and Great Bay Beach can be explored independently.

Basseterre, St Kitts: Scenic Railways and Island Tours

St Kitts offers a combination of historic attractions, green countryside and beaches. An organised excursion is particularly useful if you want to travel beyond Basseterre to see more of the island.

TUI’s published excursions include:

• St Kitts Scenic Railway: Combine a ride on the historic railway with a bus tour, taking in sugar-cane fields, villages and coastal scenery.

• St Kitts Bike Tour: Explore the island by bicycle with a guide, discovering places that larger sightseeing vehicles may not reach.

The Scenic Railway is a particularly appealing option if you want to see the countryside without committing to a strenuous activity. If you would rather spend the day by the sea, you can also consider an independent taxi trip to one of the island’s beaches.

St John’s, Antigua: Historic Sights and White-Sand Beaches

Antigua is famous for its beaches, but there is more to see than the coastline. Excursions range from historical sightseeing to four-wheel-drive adventures and watersports.

TUI lists tours including:

• Highlights of Antigua: Visit historic sites and scenic viewpoints, including the Blockhouse ruins, Shirley Heights and Nelson’s Dockyard.

• Antigua 4x4 Adventure & Beach: Explore parts of the island in a four-wheel-drive vehicle before enjoying time at the coast.

• Sun & Rum: Take a beach transfer with time to swim, relax and enjoy a drink.

• Kayak & Snorkel Adventure: Get out on the water to explore Antigua’s coastline and marine life.

For a first visit, Highlights of Antigua offers a useful introduction to the island’s history and scenery. If your priority is swimming and sunbathing, a beach excursion may be a better fit.

Roseau, Dominica: Rainforests and Waterfalls

Dominica is the most nature-focused stop on Paradise Islands. Its mountainous interior, tropical forests, waterfalls and geothermal landscapes make it quite different from the more beach-oriented islands on the itinerary.

TUI’s excursion selection includes:

• Trafalgar Falls & Bubbling Remnants: Visit the famous twin waterfalls and experience the island’s volcanic landscape.

• Trafalgar Falls & Titou Gorge: Combine rainforest scenery with a visit to the gorge, known for its dramatic rock formations and natural pool.

• Roseau Valley Scenic Drive & Freshwater Lake: Explore the island’s mountainous interior on a scenic drive.

• Dominica Whale & Dolphin: Head out by boat to look for marine wildlife in the waters around the island.

• Champagne Snorkel: Snorkel at Champagne Reef, where volcanic activity produces bubbles beneath the water.

• River Tubing, Rainforest Drive & Falls: Combine a drive through the island’s tropical landscape with an outdoor river adventure.

Dominica is the port where choosing an excursion carefully can make the biggest difference to your day. Many of its headline attractions are inland, and winding roads can make journeys longer than distances on a map suggest. Check the walking requirements and excursion duration before booking.

Should You Book a TUI Excursion?

An organised excursion can be worthwhile when you want to visit attractions away from the port, combine several stops or travel by boat. It also removes the need to organise transport yourself.

Independent exploration may be more suitable if you want to browse local shops, walk around the port town or spend a few hours on a nearby beach. The best approach can vary from island to island.

Before booking, check the excursion’s duration, what’s included, walking requirements, minimum ages and any restrictions on swimming or mobility aids. If a tour involves a long drive or a boat transfer, consider how comfortable you will be with the journey.

Remember that excursions listed on TUI’s general destination pages may not all be offered on your particular sailing. Check your booking for the current selection and prices.

The Lowdown

Paradise Islands is a good choice if you want to experience several different Caribbean destinations in one holiday. The itinerary combines beach opportunities and duty-free shopping with historic sights, scenic island drives and the greener landscapes of Dominica.

My advice is to plan your days ashore around what makes each island distinctive. Tortola and St Maarten are particularly appealing for beaches and boat trips, St Kitts and Antigua offer a mix of history and scenery, while Dominica is the stop to prioritise if you enjoy waterfalls and rainforest landscapes.

You don’t necessarily need to book an organised excursion in every port. In places where the town centre is within walking distance, independent exploration may be enough. Save your excursion budget for the experiences that are harder to arrange yourself, such as a scenic railway journey, a catamaran trip or a tour into the island’s interior.

Check the actual itinerary and excursion list for your departure date before making plans, as the order of ports and available tours can vary.

The bottom line: Paradise Islands offers more than a succession of Caribbean beaches. With a little planning, you can combine relaxing days by the sea with opportunities to discover the history, scenery and character of each island.