---

May 13, 2023

Sun, sea, and sand make up the winning triad that draws visitors to the pristine shores of Antigua & Barbuda.

The twin-island state located in the heart of the Eastern Caribbean has been popular with visitors from the United States and Europe for decades as they seek refuge under a palm tree during the blistering winter months.

Many of these tourists decide to book cruises to the Caribbean with Antigua included in the itinerary. There are a host of ecotourism activities that cruise passengers can relish for a fun and fulfilling trip. With 365 beaches, one for every day of the year, it would only make sense for there to be many beach-related activities for a cruise tourist visiting Antigua. If you’re interested in kayaking or canoeing, Antigua is the perfect destination to do so.

Those who are looking for more of an adrenaline rush can also hop on a jet ski and take a ride in the vast waters of the Caribbean Sea. You can also look at what goes on under the sea while snorkeling and even do this alongside stingrays at Stingray City.

Some visitors also enjoy getting off a mega cruise ship at Heritage Quay or the Nevis Street Pier in the capital, St. John’s, and going on a catamaran. These vessels often circumnavigate all 108 square miles of Antigua providing breathtaking views of the island.

But Antigua is also known as a romantic escape having been named the Caribbean’s Most Romantic Destination by the World Travel Awards multiple times. So, Antigua would also be ideal for simply taking a long walk on a beach with your significant other. You may also consider planning your marriage proposal at one of our beaches with the Trade Winds and the ocean setting the mood. However, the beach is just the beginning of what Antigua has in store.

Popularly known as “Nelson’s Dockyard,” the Antigua Naval Dockyard and Related Archaeological Sites offer a taste of history. Located in English Harbour in the south of Antigua, a ship can drop anchor at Falmouth Harbour allowing tourists quick access to this alluring site. Travelers interested in architectural designs of times past will enjoy the buildings in the Dockyard which were constructed between 1780 and 1820 to better accommodate the Royal Navy warships, crew, and stores to protect the island while fighting against France and Napoleon Bonaparte.

Also in English Harbour is Shirley Heights. This hub for tourists is one of the most popular areas used for photography on the island. While Shirley Heights Lookout was first used during the War of American Independence (1774- 1783) as a signal station, it now provides the best views of English Harbour and the Dockyard.

Also overlooking the Dockyard is the historic Clarence House, which was constructed in 1804 for the Navy Commissioner. Many years later, Princess Margaret spent the first night of her honeymoon at Clarence House. The princess, however, decided to head to Barbuda prematurely to avoid the paparazzi.

Barbuda, located 63 kilometers from Antigua is ideal for those who like Princess Margaret value privacy. The 62- square mile island has only 1500 residents leaving lots of room for those who wish to roam the secluded island.

One of the main attractions of the sister island is the Frigate Bird Sanctuary. Accessible by boat, visitors can enjoy one of the world’s largest nesting sanctuaries for these unique birds. The male frigate is known for inflating its red throat during mating season to attract a female bird. You’ll want to have lots of storage space to take photos of these majestic creatures.

Darby’s Cave is another attraction tourists should explore. Located three and a half miles northeast of Barbuda‘s capital, Codrington, this vertical sinkhole has a 30-foot undercut which has caused it to be labeled a cave. The sinkhole is about 70 feet deep and over 300 feet wide. Visitors will appreciate the flora and fauna including land turtles. A lucky tourist may also get to spot a deer while at the cave. Those with a penchant for fine dining will be pleased to know that there’s a Nobu restaurant in Barbuda. The internationally recognized brand restaurant opens seasonally and provides visitors with an intimate environment to partake in the best Asian cuisine.

However, Barbuda, like its bigger sister, is known for its beaches too. Princess Diana Beach, which earned its name after the Princess of Wales, is revered for its immaculate white sand. But when it comes to beaches, Pink Sand Beach makes Barbuda stand out. As the name suggests, Pink Sand Beach will wow vacationers with its unique and beautiful pink sand. Cruise tourists to Antigua & Barbuda can expect to enjoy much of what the destination has to offer with quick transportation to sites and back to the cruise port in a safe environment. Antigua Cruise Port is ready to welcome visitors at any of its harbours.

Don’t miss further updates, news and guides to ports of call on Cruising Journal, with information, photos and cruises on offer.

Jessica Russell

Comments