Explore on your own rating
Downtown is right outside the pier, taxis have published fares, and the beaches are short rides away.
Where ships dock
- Port Zante cruise pier, Basseterre (two berths)
Getting to town
Port Zante opens straight onto downtown Basseterre. The Circus and Independence Square are a few minutes' walk.
Taxis have government-set maximum fares by zone, priced per car for 1–4 people (with per-person rates for 5+). The 2021 official schedule lists about US$5 within Basseterre, $8 to Frigate Bay and $12 to South Friars Bay, but drivers often quote higher cruise-day rates. Confirm before you go. Shared minivans from The Circus are cheaper.
Fares are as reported by the sources below and change often. Treat them as estimates.
Top sights nearby
- The Circus and Independence Square in Basseterre
- Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park (UNESCO; taxi or tour)
- St. Kitts Scenic Railway (book ahead)
- Ferry to Nevis (Charlestown) from the terminal next to Port Zante
Beaches
- South Friars Bay (calm, about 15 minutes by taxi)
- Frigate Bay "Strip" beach bars
- Cockleshell Beach (views of Nevis; 20–40 minutes)
Safety & tips
- Carry small US bills. Many drivers don't take cards.
- Agree on a return pickup time with your driver.
- If you go to Nevis, check the return ferry times carefully.
Check U.S. State Department travel advisories before you sail.
⏰ Back to the ship on time
The Southeast Peninsula beaches are 20–40 minutes away on one main road. Leave at least 60 minutes before all-aboard.
Ship time can differ from local time. Your ship won't wait for independent travelers.