Marella Cruises Paradise Islands Port Guide
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. 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.
Ports of call:
Bridgetown, Barbados (embarkation & disembarkation)
Road Town, Tortola (British Virgin Islands)
Philipsburg, St Maarten
Basseterre, St Kitts
St John’s, Antigua
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.
