Marella Cruises Travel Guide for “Taste of the Tropics”
The tropical Caribbean - St Lucia. Photo by Omar Eagle on Unsplash
Marella Cruises: Taste of the Tropics Itinerary
Marella’s Taste of the Tropics is a 7-night Caribbean fly-cruise roundtrip from Bridgetown, Barbados, designed to showcase some of the region’s most beautiful and contrasting islands. From spice-scented markets to rainforest peaks and powdery white beaches, this itinerary delivers a true Caribbean experience.
Ports of call on this itinerary include:
Bridgetown, Barbados (embarkation & disembarkation)
Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe
Castries, St Lucia
St George’s, Grenada
Scarborough, Tobago
Kingstown, St Vincent
Bequia, St Vincent & the Grenadines
Bridgetown, Barbados (for final night/changeover)
Ports may change or be in a different order depending on your sail date.
Marella Taste of Tropics itinerary
This route blends French-Caribbean culture in Guadeloupe, dramatic volcanic scenery in St Lucia, Grenada’s lush spice plantations, Tobago’s relaxed beaches, the colonial charm of St Vincent, and the idyllic small-island vibe of Bequia before returning to vibrant Barbados.
For guests with accessibility needs, Marella Cruises’ dedicated Assisted Travel Team can provide guidance on facilities both onboard and ashore. They can be reached on 0800 145 6920 for pre-travel advice and support.
Bridgetown, Barbados (Embarkation)
Boardwalk in Bridgetown, Barbados. Photo by Brighton Pereira on Unsplash
Introduction
Bridgetown bookends Marella’s Paradise Islands cruise, offering guests an opportunity to enjoy the island’s Caribbean charm. 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
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
Carlisle Bay – White sandy beach just minutes from the port; swimming, sunbathing, and watersports.
The Boat Yard is a good place to visit.
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.
Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe
Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe. Photo by Yannis Sommera on Unsplash
Introduction
Pointe-à-Pitre is the bustling capital of Guadeloupe’s commercial and cultural life. Located on the island of Grande-Terre but linked by bridges to mountainous Basse-Terre, it offers the best of both worlds: colourful markets, French-Caribbean charm, and easy access to tropical beaches and lush rainforest. The port is conveniently placed near the lively town centre, making it an ideal stop for exploring on foot, sampling Creole cuisine, or joining excursions further afield to waterfalls, rum distilleries, and volcanic national parks.
Map of Pointe-à-Pitre
Port Area
Cruise ships dock at Pointe-à-Pitre Cruise Terminal (Centre Saint-John Perse, Quai Gambetta), just a 5–10 minute walk from the town centre. The modern terminal includes information desks, restrooms, small souvenir shops, and taxis waiting outside. Shuttle buses may also be available for excursions. The nearby marina offers cafes and bars with waterfront views.
Language: French (Creole also spoken)
Currency: Euro (€)
Distance to Town: Less than 1 km; approx. 10-minute walk to Place de la Victoire.
Transport
On foot: Easy walk into town on flat pavements.Taxi: Available at the terminal; fares vary (e.g. ~€15 to popular beaches).
Bus: Local buses run from Gare Routière de Bergevin (~15 min walk) but can be irregular.
Accessibility
The cruise terminal has step-free access, wide doors, and adapted restrooms.
Walkways to town are flat, though some streets are cobblestoned.
Public transport is not fully accessible, so taxis are the best option for wheelchair users.
Major attractions such as Memorial ACTe (slavery museum) and main squares are accessible.
Things to Do
Local Highlights:
Place de la Victoire: A lively square lined with colonial architecture, cafes, and markets.
Spice Market (Marché de la Darse): A colourful open-air market filled with spices, fruit, and local crafts.
Memorial ACTe: A striking museum dedicated to the history of slavery, just 1 km from the port. Entry €10.
Further Afield:
Carbet Waterfalls (Basse-Terre): Three spectacular waterfalls in Guadeloupe National Park, about 1.5 hours by car. Excursions usually cost from €60–€80.
Rum Distilleries: Visit Damoiseau Distillery (~25 minutes drive) for tastings and a look at traditional rum-making. Tours from €10.
Beaches of Gosier: Just 15 minutes by taxi, these golden-sand beaches are perfect for a swim or snorkel.
Places to Eat
Chez Dolmare: A casual spot near the port serving Creole favourites like accras (salt cod fritters).
Le Poisson Rouge: Known for fresh seafood in a relaxed beachfront setting.
Café des Arts: Located at Place de la Victoire, perfect for coffee or lunch while people-watching.
Best Beaches
Plage de la Datcha (Le Gosier): 7 km from port (~15 minutes by taxi). Family-friendly with calm waters and restaurants nearby.
Petit-Havre Beach: About 12 km (~25 minutes by taxi). Quieter, with a mix of sand and rock, great for snorkelling.
La Caravelle Beach (Ste-Anne): 20 km (~35 minutes by taxi). Stunning white sand and turquoise waters, with facilities and bars.
Shopping
Marché de la Darse: Best for spices, rum, and handmade crafts.
Centre Saint-John Perse Shopping Mall: Small shopping centre next to port.
Downtown boutiques: French-Caribbean fashion, souvenirs, and local art.
Castries, St Lucia
Castries, St Lucia
Introduction
Castries, the capital of St Lucia, is a vibrant port city framed by lush green hills and a horseshoe-shaped harbour. While the city itself is known for bustling markets and colonial architecture, the real draw lies beyond: volcanic peaks, botanical gardens, waterfalls, and golden beaches. Cruise visitors can stay local for culture and shopping or head further afield to explore St Lucia’s iconic Pitons, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and rainforest landscapes.
Map of Castries, St Lucia
Port Area
Cruise ships typically dock at Pointe Seraphine Cruise Terminal or La Place Carenage Cruise Terminal, both within walking distance of downtown Castries.
Pointe Seraphine: A duty-free shopping complex across the harbour, with shops, cafes, restrooms, ATMs, and taxis outside.
La Place Carenage: Right in the city centre, next to markets and shops, with similar facilities.
Language: English (St Lucian Creole widely spoken)
Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), though US dollars are widely accepted.
Distance to Town: 5–10 minutes on foot depending on which terminal you dock at.
Transport:
Taxi: Readily available, fixed rates (e.g. US$20–25 to Rodney Bay).
Minibus: Local minibuses run to Rodney Bay, Gros Islet, and other areas; cheaper but less convenient.
Accessibility
Both cruise terminals are step-free with adapted facilities.
Streets in downtown Castries can be uneven and crowded, with some cobblestones.
Taxis are the most accessible option for wheelchair users; public minibuses are not accessible.
Popular attractions such as the Duty-Free Mall and Castries Market are accessible, though busy.
Things to Do
Local Highlights:
Castries Market: Colourful and lively, perfect for fresh fruit, spices, and handmade souvenirs.
Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception: The largest church in the Caribbean, famous for its vibrant murals.
Duty-Free Shopping: Pointe Seraphine and La Place Carenage offer tax-free jewellery, perfume, and designer goods.
Further Afield:
The Pitons, St Lucia
The Pitons: Twin volcanic peaks near Soufrière, about 1.5 hours from Castries. Excursions include scenic drives, boat trips, and hikes.
Sulphur Springs & Mud Baths: The world’s only “drive-in volcano,” with bubbling pools and therapeutic mud baths. Entry ~US$10.
Diamond Falls & Botanical Gardens: Colourful gardens and a mineral waterfall in Soufrière, entry ~US$7.
Pigeon Island National Park: A 30-minute drive north; historic ruins, trails, and beaches. Entry ~US$10.
Places to Eat
Pink Plantation House: A hillside restaurant with Caribbean cuisine and stunning views.
The Coal Pot: A waterfront spot near Castries serving fresh seafood and Creole dishes.
Jacques Waterfront Dining: French-Caribbean fusion with elegant harbour views.
Best Beaches
Vigie Beach: Closest to port, ~5 minutes by taxi. Long sandy stretch with local food vendors.
Reduit Beach (Rodney Bay): About 20 minutes by taxi. Popular, with watersports, restaurants, and facilities.
Marigot Bay: 30 minutes by car. A scenic harbour beach, often described as one of the prettiest bays in the Caribbean.
Sugar Beach: Near Soufrière, nestled between the Pitons. Exclusive but breathtaking; day passes may be required.
Shopping
Castries Central Market: Best for spices, souvenirs, and local crafts.
Pointe Seraphine Duty-Free Mall: Jewellery, designer fashion, and rum.
La Place Carenage: Smaller mall in the heart of town.
St George’s, Grenada
St George’s, Grenada
Introduction
St George’s, the capital of Grenada, is one of the Caribbean’s most picturesque ports, with colourful hillside houses overlooking a horseshoe-shaped harbour. Known as the “Spice Island,” Grenada is famed for nutmeg, cocoa, and cinnamon, as well as its lush rainforests and stunning beaches. Visitors can explore the charm of the old town, relax on white-sand beaches, or take excursions to waterfalls, plantations, and spice estates.
Map of St George’s, Grenada
Port Area
Cruise ships dock at the Melville Street Cruise Terminal, located right in the heart of St George’s. Facilities include information desks, souvenir shops, restrooms, ATMs, and a small duty-free shopping area. Taxis and excursion buses are available directly outside the terminal. From here it’s just a short walk to the historic Carenage waterfront and the city centre.
Language: English
Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD); US dollars widely accepted.
Distance to Town: Walking distance — about 5–10 minutes into central St George’s.
Transport:
On foot: Easy walk to town, though streets can be steep in parts.
Taxi: Available at the terminal; set fares (e.g. ~US$15 to Grand Anse Beach).
Water taxi: Quick and scenic option to Grand Anse Beach for about US$4–5 per person each way.
Accessibility
The cruise terminal has ramps, wide walkways, and adapted restrooms.
Streets in St George’s can be steep and narrow with uneven pavements.
Grand Anse Beach is accessible via flat paths, though not all beach bars are wheelchair-friendly.
Taxis and organised tours are the best option for accessible travel.
Things to Do
Local Highlights:
Carenage: A historic waterfront with colonial buildings, shops, and cafes.
Grenada National Museum: Small but fascinating museum on Grenada’s history. Entry ~US$2.
Fort George: Built in 1705, it offers panoramic harbour views (note: steps involved).
Further Afield:
Grand Etang National Park: Rainforest reserve with walking trails, crater lake, and chance to spot monkeys. Excursions from ~US$40.
Annandale Waterfall: A 15-metre waterfall just 20 minutes from port. Entry ~US$2.
Spice Plantations: Visit estates like Gouyave Nutmeg Processing Station to learn about Grenada’s spice heritage. Tours from ~US$10.
Belmont Estate: A cocoa plantation with chocolate-making demonstrations, ~1 hour’s drive.
Tip: Beware taking photographs of colourfully dressed locals at Plantations etc. - they expect to be paid in return!
Places to Eat
BB’s Crabback: Popular waterfront restaurant serving Grenadian specialities.
Patrick’s Local Homestyle Restaurant: Sample traditional dishes in a tapas-style format.
Umbrellas Beach Bar (Grand Anse): A casual favourite for burgers, cocktails, and sea views.
Best Beaches
Grand Anse Beach, Grenada
Grand Anse Beach: Just 10 minutes from port by taxi or water taxi. Two miles of white sand, clear waters, restaurants, and bars.
Morne Rouge Beach (BBC Beach): Quieter and smaller than Grand Anse, about 15 minutes away. Calm waters, ideal for swimming.
Magazine Beach: A hidden gem near the airport (~20 minutes by taxi), with a rustic beach bar.
Shopping
Esplanade Mall (Cruise Terminal): Duty-free shops selling jewellery, perfume, and souvenirs.
St George’s Market Square: Local crafts, spices, and fresh produce.
Grand Anse Craft & Spice Market: Good for beachwear, spice packs, and handmade gifts.
Scarborough, Tobago
Tobago - Photo by Wendi Wells on Unsplash
Introduction
Scarborough, the capital of Tobago, is a laid-back Caribbean town with a mix of colonial history, local markets, and access to some of the island’s most beautiful beaches. While the town itself is relatively small, it’s a gateway to Tobago’s treasures: coral reefs, rainforest reserves, and charming fishing villages. Cruise visitors can explore the historic fort, stroll through colourful markets, or head out to discover unspoilt beaches and nature reserves.
Map of Scarborough, Tobago
Port Area
Cruise ships dock at the Scarborough Cruise Terminal on the southwest coast of the island. The terminal has basic facilities including restrooms, small souvenir stalls, a tourist information desk, and taxis waiting outside. From the port it’s an easy walk into central Scarborough, where you’ll find shops, markets, and Fort King George.
Language: English
Currency: Trinidad & Tobago Dollar (TTD), though US dollars are widely accepted.
Distance to Town: Walking distance — about 5–10 minutes into Scarborough town centre.
Transport:
On foot: Town attractions like the market and Fort King George are within walking distance.
Taxi: Readily available for longer trips to beaches and nature reserves. Rates are fixed for popular routes (~US$10–15 to Store Bay or Pigeon Point).
Local minibus: Cheap option but not always convenient for cruise visitors.
Accessibility
Cruise terminal has ramps and level access.
Scarborough town centre has some uneven pavements and steep hills.
Fort King George involves steps and may not be fully accessible.
Beaches such as Pigeon Point have flat access and facilities, making them more suitable for visitors with mobility needs.
Things to Do
Local Highlights:
Fort King George: An 18th-century fort overlooking Scarborough, with restored colonial buildings and a small museum. Entry ~US$1.
Scarborough Market: Bustling with local produce, spices, and crafts.
Botanical Gardens: A quiet green space near town with tropical plants.
Further Afield:
Pigeon Point Heritage Park: Tobago’s most famous beach, ~15 minutes by taxi. Entry ~US$3, with facilities, bars, and watersports.
Buccoo Reef & Nylon Pool: Boat trips to snorkel among coral reefs and swim in the shallow, sandy Nylon Pool. Tours from ~US$20–30.
Argyle Waterfall: Tobago’s highest waterfall, about 30 minutes from Scarborough. Entry ~US$10.
Main Ridge Forest Reserve: The oldest protected rainforest in the Western Hemisphere, about 1 hour’s drive.
Places to Eat
Café Havana: At Crown Point, a stylish spot for tapas and cocktails.
Jemma’s Treehouse Restaurant: Famous for fresh seafood and local dishes served in a treehouse setting at Speyside.
Shore Things Café: A relaxed café near Lambeau, known for homemade cakes and sea views.
Best Beaches
Store Bay: About 15 minutes from port. Small but lively beach with food stalls serving Tobago’s signature crab and dumplings.
Pigeon Point: 15 minutes from port. White-sand beach with calm waters, facilities, and day passes.
Englishman’s Bay: About 45 minutes away. Secluded and pristine, with limited facilities — ideal for those seeking tranquillity.
Mount Irvine Bay: 20 minutes away. Popular with surfers and snorkellers.
Shopping
Scarborough Market: Best for spices, local fruit, and handmade crafts.
Pigeon Point Shops: Beachwear, souvenirs, and local art.
Pennysavers & Gulf City Mall (outside town): Small malls with general goods and duty-free items.
Kingstown, St Vincent
St Vincent and the Grenadines. Photo by George Apodaca on Unsplash
Introduction
Kingstown, the capital of St Vincent and the Grenadines, is a lively Caribbean town with a mix of colonial history, bustling markets, and lush natural surroundings. Known as the “City of Arches” for its many stone archways, Kingstown is the starting point for exploring St Vincent’s volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and botanical gardens. It also serves as a gateway to the Grenadines, a cluster of idyllic islands with some of the Caribbean’s best sailing waters.
Map of Kingstown, St Vincent
Port Area
Cruise ships dock at the Kingstown Cruise Terminal (also known as Port Kingstown), located right by the town centre. The terminal has tourist information, small duty-free shops, restrooms, and easy access to taxis and excursion buses. The lively Kingstown Market is a short walk away, making it simple to explore straight from the port.
Language: English (Vincentian Creole also spoken)
Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD); US dollars are widely accepted.
Distance to Town: Walking distance — less than 10 minutes to the heart of Kingstown.
Transport
On foot: Many town attractions are within easy walking distance.
Taxi: Readily available; fixed fares for popular routes (e.g. ~US$20 to Botanical Gardens or Villa Beach).
Ferry/boat trips: Available for excursions to Bequia or nearby Grenadine islands.
Accessibility
The cruise terminal is flat and accessible, with ramps and adapted facilities.
Town streets can be uneven and crowded, with some narrow sidewalks.
Taxis are the best option for those with limited mobility.
Popular attractions such as the Botanical Gardens have step-free paths but some areas may be steep.
Things to Do
Local Highlights:
Kingstown Market: A lively place to shop for spices, fruit, and souvenirs.
Botanical Gardens: The oldest in the Western Hemisphere (est. 1765), with tropical plants, parrots, and shaded paths. Entry ~US$2.
St George’s Anglican Cathedral: Historic church with impressive stained glass.
Further Afield:
Fort Charlotte: 600 feet above the bay, offering sweeping views of Kingstown and the Grenadines. Entry ~US$2.
Dark View Falls: Twin waterfalls on the leeward coast, about 1 hour’s drive. Entry ~US$5.
La Soufrière Volcano: A challenging hike to the summit of an active volcano (excursion recommended). Tours ~US$70–90.
Villa Beach & Indian Bay: Popular beaches just 15 minutes from port, ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
Day Trip to Bequia: Ferries run regularly from Kingstown (~1 hour crossing), making it possible to sample the charm of this smaller Grenadine island.
Places to Eat
Flow Wine Bar: Trendy spot in Kingstown for wines, cocktails, and light bites.
Driftwood Restaurant: Overlooking Villa Beach, offering seafood and Caribbean cuisine.
Mangoz Restaurant & Bar: A beachfront favourite with live music and a mix of local and international dishes.
Best Beaches
Villa Beach: 15 minutes from port, calm waters and beachside bars.
Indian Bay Beach: Just beyond Villa, smaller but great for snorkelling.
Buccament Bay: About 25 minutes away, a lovely sandy beach with clear waters.
Dark View Falls Pools: Natural river pools at the base of the falls, combining waterfall viewing with a refreshing dip.
Shopping
Kingstown Market: Best for local crafts, fruit, and spices.
Cruise Terminal Shops: Small duty-free outlets for rum, jewellery, and souvenirs.
Local Boutiques: Handcrafted jewellery, batik clothing, and art can be found around the town centre.
Bequia, St Vincent & the Grenadines
Bequia, St Vincent & the Grenadines
Introduction
Bequia (pronounced Beck-way) is the second-largest island in the Grenadines, yet it retains a peaceful, small-island charm. Known for its golden beaches, sailing heritage, and friendly atmosphere, Bequia feels worlds away from the bustle of bigger Caribbean ports. Visitors can enjoy unspoilt beaches, wander the quaint harbour town of Port Elizabeth, and soak up the island’s laid-back vibe. It’s the perfect stop for those seeking authentic Caribbean beauty without crowds.
Map of Bequia
Port Area
Cruise ships tender passengers into Port Elizabeth Harbour, a postcard-perfect bay lined with colourful waterfront buildings. There is no large cruise terminal; instead, passengers disembark directly onto the jetty. Nearby you’ll find cafes, bars, souvenir shops, and the local market.
Language: English
Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD); US dollars accepted.
Distance to Town: Immediate — you arrive directly in Port Elizabeth.
Transport:
On foot: Most of Port Elizabeth’s attractions, shops, and restaurants are walkable.
Taxi: Open-air taxis are available for island tours or trips to beaches (~US$5–10 for short rides, US$20+ for tours).
Water taxi: A fun and quick way to reach Princess Margaret Beach or Lower Bay.
Accessibility
Tendering is required, which may be challenging for passengers with reduced mobility.
Streets in Port Elizabeth are narrow but mostly flat.
Beaches often have uneven access paths.
Taxis are the easiest way for those needing assistance to explore beyond the harbour.
Things to Do
Local Highlights:
Belmont Walkway: A scenic waterfront path lined with cafes and craft shops, perfect for a stroll.
Bequia Maritime Museum: Small museum showcasing the island’s boatbuilding and whaling heritage. Entry ~US$5.
Port Elizabeth Market: Small stalls selling fruit, spices, and handmade crafts.
Further Afield:
Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary: About 20 minutes by taxi. Home to rescued and rehabilitated hawksbill turtles. Donation-based entry.
Island Tour: Taxis offer half-day tours to highlights such as Mount Pleasant for panoramic views and traditional fishing villages.
Day Sail: Charter boats take visitors to nearby uninhabited islands or snorkelling spots. Prices vary from US$50–100+.
Places to Eat
Jack’s Beach Bar: On Princess Margaret Beach, popular for cocktails and Caribbean dishes.
Mac’s Pizza & Kitchen: Famous for lobster pizza and a relaxed waterfront setting.
Whaleboner Bar & Restaurant: Quirky spot decorated with whale bones, serving seafood and rum punches.
Best Beaches
Princess Margaret Beach: Just a 10-minute walk or short water taxi ride from the harbour. Golden sand, calm waters, and beach bars.
Lower Bay: Slightly further along from Princess Margaret, quieter and great for swimming. About 20 minutes on foot or 10 minutes by taxi.
Friendship Bay: A larger, less-visited beach on the southern side of the island (~15 minutes by taxi).
Industry Bay & Spring Bay: Scenic and secluded beaches on the windward coast, ~20 minutes by taxi.
Shopping
Belmont Walkway Shops: Boutiques and galleries selling art, jewellery, and batik.
Port Elizabeth Market: Local fruit, spices, and souvenirs.
Sargeant’s Model Boat Shop: Famous for handcrafted wooden boat models, reflecting Bequia’s maritime heritage.
Barbados (Disembarkation)
Beach views, 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.
