Cruise Ship Docked in Bridgetown, Barbados (Photo Credit: Mario Hagen / Shutterstock)
We’re going to explain everything you need to know aboutBarbados Cruise Port, ensuring your visit toBridgetownis as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. Formerly known as the Bridgetown Harbour Cruise Pier, we’ll explain how to get around, with transportation options, along with terminal information and nearby attractions that are easy to get to.
Let us guide you through everything you need to know!
Barbados Cruise PortLocation and Accessibility
Barbados Cruise Port, known officially as theBridgetownCruise ShipTerminal, is conveniently located one mile west ofdowntown Bridgetown.Bridgetownis the capital of Barbados and the nation’s largest and most populous city.
The port andBridgetownitself are located on the southwestern side of the island nation. Thanks to its deep waters and eye-catching coastline, it is a popular stop for many topcruise lines. The port’s address is listed as Princess Alice Hwy,Bridgetown, Saint Michael, Barbados.
The location is ideal forcruise passengers, as the port is just outside of the city’s downtown core and is just 10 miles away from Grantley Adams International Airport, the main airport in Barbados. Passengers embarking on their cruise from Barbados can take a roughly 30-minutetaxior shuttle ride directly to the cruise port.
Entrance to Port of Bridgetown, Barbados (Photo Credit: AlanMorris / Shutterstock)
From the airport, passengers would travel along the Tom Adams Highway until exiting onto Errol Barrow Highway. The cruise port is well-marked from the highway, with ample parking and drop-off zones, so the commute is straightforward. Plus, there are plenty of hotels just outside the cruise port, so passengers can arrive early and enjoy the city before boarding.
Cruise TerminalFacilitiesand Services
Given the importance of cruise-related tourism to the economy of Barbados, it is no surprise that the cruise terminal isone of the best you will find anywhere in the Caribbean. It features all the modernamenitiesandfacilitiespassengers could hope for, including a helpful BarbadosTourist InformationCenter.
There is also a well-marked freeWi-Fizone, US dollar ATMs, modern restroomfacilities, and even apost office, where passengers can purchase and send postcards and purchase commemorative stamps and coins that make excellentsouvenirs.
For those not planning to shop indowntown Bridgetown, there are even a fewsouvenirandduty-free shopslocated directly within the cruise terminal. This is helpful for those who have booked anexcursionor plan to visit one of the many beaches near the cruise port rather than spending their time shopping and dining in the city itself.
Cruise Ship Docked in Barbados (Photo Credit: thosgra / Shutterstock)
You will also find two convenience stores within the terminal, which are helpful if you want to pick up a few snacks or bottled drinks to enjoy during your time inBridgetown.
In terms of accessibility, theBarbados Cruise Terminals are equipped to handle all guests, so you can easily find wheelchair-friendly ramps and elevators. Outside the terminal arecar rentalbooths,shuttle buspickup zones, andtaxilines.
Cruise LinesOperating Out ofBarbados Cruise Port
Bridgetown, Barbados, is one of the most popular ports of call in the Caribbean, so it is no surprise thatBarbados Cruise Portwelcomes some of the world’s most renownedcruise lines, including Royal Caribbean International, CarnivalCruise Line, Holland America, MSC Cruises, NorwegianCruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, Marella Cruises and P&O Cruises.
P&O Cruise Ship Docked at Barbados Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Roger Utting / Shutterstock)
Transportation Options fromBarbados Cruise Port
While you can wait for ashuttle bus, most people choose to walk intoBridgetownalong the ocean path or opt for ataxi.Taxiservices are available in the shadedtaxidispatch center. Fares are always listed in US dollars, and ataxiinto the downtown core costs roughly $2.00 per person.
Worth Reading: Bonaire Cruise Port – What You Need to Know
Although ride-sharing services are starting to pop up in Barbados, you’re better off sticking with ataxi, as they are readily available and affordable.Bajansalso tend to be friendly people, so there is a good chance yourtaxidriver will be able to recommend a few things to do while you explore the city.
Weather Conditions in Barbados by Season
Although Barbados is famous for its tropical weather, it’s still essential to know what to expect and how to pack for the season when you visit:
Rainbows in Bridgetown, Barbados (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock)
Spring (March to May)
Average temperatures sit between 77° and 88° F during spring. Humidity is also relatively low, which explains why this is such a popular time of year to visit Barbados. Since the spring months fall within the dry season, you shouldn’t have to worry about more than a few brief showers.
Light and breathable clothing is a good idea, given the warm and dry weather. Don’t forget sun protection, as the UV rays can be quite intense, even with cloud cover.
Summer (June to August)
Temperatures stay relatively the same, so expect 80° to 90° F during the daytime. While the temperatures are enjoyable, the wet season also lands during the summer, so you can expect high humidity levels and regular rain showers and thunderstorms.
These tend to be at their most frequent during the afternoons. Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing and a lightweight rain jacket you can pack away are recommended.
Fall (September to November)
Temperatures drop a bit during the fall but stay relatively warm, with daytime averages between 70° and 85° F. The rainy season also continues into the fall months, so humidity levels are quite high, and rainfall can be an issue. Again, bring lightweight, breathable clothing, a waterproof jacket, and quick-dry footwear.
Winter (December to February)
Barbados is both warm and dry during the winter months, which partially explainswhy it is such a popular winter destinationfor those living in the colder climates of North America and Europe. Average temperatures are about the same as during the later fall, so expect it to be roughly 75° F during the day. Wear light, comfortable clothing, and pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat.
Exploring NearbyAttractions
Another reason theBridgetown Cruise Terminalis such a popular port of call for so manycruise linesis thatthere is so much to do inBridgetown. The Barbados cruise port is within walking distance to some delightfulattractions, and it is also easy to get ashuttle busthat will take you directly into thehistoric Bridgetowndowntown core from the cruise terminal.
ExploreDowntown Bridgetown
For those who want to enjoy some fresh air and an opportunity to stretch their legs, a footpath can follow from the main cruise terminals along the ocean to the downtown area. On foot, it takes about 25 minutes to get from theBridgetownHarbour Cruise Pier to the historic downtown area, which has been designated aUNESCO World Heritage Site.
Downtown Bridgetown (Photo Credit: Luciavonu / Shutterstock)
Once you have walked to the downtown core along the ocean-view path, you can take a leisurely stroll along the city’s iconic Broad Street, packed with shops and restaurants. At the end of Broad Street, you’ll find the country’s beautiful and historicparliament buildings.
Broad Street is a great place to start if you hope to bring back a one-of-a-kindsouvenirfrom your time in Barbados, with a perfect blend ofduty-free shoppingand locally ownedsouvenir shops. There are also plenty of jewelry boutiques selling affordable, hand-crafted goods, which is a particular specialty of the area.
Visit the Historical Sites
For those who are not interested in shopping, visiting St. Mary’s Church is a must. The historic church is in the center of town, just a short distance from theBridgetown Cruise Terminal. Due to the area’s colonial roots, the church has a distinctly English style. It’s open to the public and is a great way to experience the distinct history of the island nation.
St. Mary’s Church, Bridgetown (Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald / Shutterstock)
History buffs will also enjoy discovering the rich history of the nation at the George Washington House, BarbadosGarrison, andthe Barbados Museum & Historical Society, all three of which are less than 3 miles from the cruise terminal.
Wander and Enjoy the Local Flavors
With all of that said, one of the best things to do is simply walk aroundBridgetownwithout a plan. With so many unique eateries and bars offering localcuisineand unique Barbadian cocktails, you can always make a quick stop to get out of the sun.
TheBridgetownFish Market is also exciting to visit, and it’s located just half a mile from the port. As you wander, you will also find numerous shops selling local cigars and rum, especially if you visit thePelican VillageCraft Center.
Neighboring Beach Escapes
The entire nation of Barbados is renowned for its stunning beaches, and fortunately, many of the island’s best are within easy reach of theBridgetown Port:
Brandons Beach
About a 20-minute walk from the cruise port, you can find Brandons Beach. The calm waters and wide-open white sand beach make it the perfect spot for an afternoon of swimming and sunbathing. You can rent plenty of beach chairs and umbrellas for a small fee, as well as beachfront restaurants and snack bars.
Brandons beach, Barbados (Photo Credit: photobeginner / Shutterstock)
Plus, on your way to Brandons Beach, you will pass the Mount GayRum Distilleryalong your walk to the beach, so you can enjoy a guided tour or lunch and a tasting flight.
Brighton Beach
Also located roughly a 20-minute walk fromBridgetown Cruise Terminal, Brighton Beach is a popularsnorkelingdestination. Unfortunately, there are no public restrooms or lifeguards, so you may want to choose Brandons if you’re not planning tosnorkel.
Brownes Beach
Located along the crescent-shaped interior ofCarlisle Bay, Brownes Beach is another popularBridgetownbeach. It is about double the distance from the other two beaches, so you may want to opt for ataxi, but it has plenty to offer.
Brownes Beach at Carlisle Bay Near the Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Mario Hagen / Shutterstock)
With numerousshipwrecksand a wide range of marine wildlife, like seaturtlesand tropical fish, it’s really popular with snorkelers andscubadivers. The beach also has plenty of beach umbrellas and the highly popular Harbour LightsBeach Club, a great place to stop for lunch.
Dining in Bridgetown, Barbados
Make sure you take some time to try some of the local dishes. Plenty of restaurants offer fried flying fish, cou-cou,Bajan-style macaroni pie, brown stew chicken, curry beef, and other classic examples ofBajancuisine.
Rolli’s Bar and Grill is just an 8-minute walk from the cruise port. Its fresh seafood menu and variety of vegetarian-friendly options make it a great place to enjoy some local flavors. With a casual patio and an impressive selection of beers and rum cocktails, you can also kick back and enjoy the famous hospitality of Barbados.
Dining Venues Near Barbados Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock)
If you’re willing to travel a little further,Harbour Lightsis one of the most famous restaurants inBridgetown. With its Caribbean-style BBQ buffet, refreshing rum punch, and tropical atmosphere, it’s always worth the 1.5-mile journey. If you plan to make your way toCarlisle Bay, grab a to-go plate at Cuzz’s Fish Stand. The fried seafood sandwiches have been aBridgetownfavorite for over 50 years.
Remember,Bridgetownis filled with cafés, bars, snack stands, and restaurants, so don’t be afraid to wander and discover somewhere of your own to eat. Oh, don’t forget to try some of the famous Barbados chocolate while you’re out exploring the city. We highly recommend TheGreen MonkeyChocolatier!
Shopping in Bridgetown, Barbados
If you want to shop, we highly recommend strolling down Broad Street. Withduty-free shops,souvenirstands, jewelry stores, and so much more, it’s a one-stop destination for anyone who wants to shop until they drop.
Gift Stores Near Barbados Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock)
Pelican Craft Center and Cheapside Street Market are also great places to find unique gifts andsouvenirs. We’d recommend giving the malls a pass, as they tend to cater mostly to locals and do not offer anything overly unique.
Excursionsand Adventures
WhileBridgetownhas plenty to offer, one of the highlights of visiting Barbados is the opportunity to enjoy thewide array ofexcursionsavailable tocruise passengers. We recommend trying one of the following:
SnorkelingandScubaDiving
Plenty ofexcursionproviders will take passengers from the cruise port tosnorkelandscubadivein the crystal-clear waters off the coast. Folkestone Marine Park is home to a large population of seaturtles, which makes it one of the most popular destinations for those looking to enjoy this type of once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Guided Walking Tours ofDowntown Bridgetown
While you can certainly explore the area for yourself, a guided tour will allow you to learn more about the area’s unique culture and history. Plus, theseexcursionsare affordable, and many will include lunch at one of the city’s more iconic establishments.
TouringHarrison’s CaveEco-Adventure Park
Adventure lovers will enjoy a visit to this enormous underground limestone cave. Located in central Barbados, it takes a while to get to, but it is one of the nation’s most iconic natural wonders. An undergroundtramcar takes tourists through the cave to explore flowing streams and towering stalactites.
CatamaranTours
Just outside the cruise port, plenty ofcatamarantour operators will take you around to see the area’s stunning coastline. Some also include stops to viewshipwrecksand sea turtle breeding grounds. Plus, most will include a catered lunch and cocktails made with locally-made rum.
Visits to theBarbados Wildlife Reserve
Want to try feedingmonkeysafter strolling through the lunch, the natural habitat of a fully functional wildlife preserve? Book a guidedexcursion! It will include transportation to and from Saint Peter, where the reserve is located, and you will be offered lunch and refreshments.
Remember, always try to bookexcursionsthrough yourcruise line. Not only will they have you back in time for your ship’s departure, but these providers are vetted to ensure they are reputable, qualified, and adhere to all of the relevant legal regulations.
FAQ on Barbados Cruise Port
Where does thecruise shipdockin Barbados?
Allcruise shipsdockat theBarbados Cruise Port, located less than a mile outside the downtown core ofBridgetown, the nation’s capital city.
Can you walk toBridgetownfrom the cruise port?
Yes,Bridgetownis within walking distance from the cruise port. The city even maintains a scenic walking path from the cruise port to the edge of the downtown core, so visitors can easily explore the city’sattractions, shops, and restaurants after a 20-minute stroll along the water.
Can you walk to the beach fromBarbados cruise port?
Yes, two beaches are located less than a mile from the cruise port, so cruise passengers can easily enjoy an afternoon at the beach during their visit to Bridgetown.
