Barbados Cruise Port: A Guide To Your Day on Shore
Written By: Global Grit and Glam
March 2025
Pebbles Beach, Bridgetown (Barbados)
Has your cruise docked in Barbados? This is one of my (Beck’s) favorite Caribbean islands, which I’ve now visited three times, and which I can’t highly recommend enough! Stop here and you’re in for a day of sunbathing on white powdery sand beaches, exploring rich Caribbean history, and soaking in some vibrant Bajan culture.
This article covers everything you need to know about spending the perfect day in Barbados during your time in port, from visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites to swimming with sea turtles in Carlisle Bay. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or have just embarked on your first Caribbean adventure, our tips and recommendations will help you make the most of your day in Barbados.
Let’s get started!
Quick Tips
Welcome sign (Barbados Cruise Port, Barbados)
Here are some insider tips to help you make the most of your visit to Barbados.
Barbados is a popular vacation destination for cruisers and independent travelers alike.
The best time to visit Barbados is usually during the dry season, from December to May.
The official currency of Barbados is the Barbadian (or Bajan) dollar, though the U.S. dollar is also widely accepted.
Getting to and from the Barbados Cruise Port is easy, and it’s within a stone’s throw from the capital, Bridgetown.
Take a self-guided walking tour of Bridgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
There are some excellent opportunities for souvenir and craft shopping in Barbados: the Pelican Craft Market is always a highlight of any visit.
Barbados is home to over 60 beaches, known for their sugar-soft sands, warm, clear waters, swaying palm trees, and opportunities for numerous water sports.
Take a tour of the interior of the island – include the Barbados Wildlife Reserve in your itinerary, where you can spot everything from monkeys to Patagonian maras.
Visit the limestone caves at Harrison’s Cave Eco-Adventure Park.
Dive into some of the best local Bajan cuisine Barbados has to offer: the national dish of flying fish and cou-cou is a must-try!
For those keen to try a local tipple, head out to the Mount Gay Rum Distillery or sit back on a quiet beach and quench your thirst with a cold bottle of Barbados’ own Banks Beer.
Follow these tips and you’ll be ready to visit Barbados and enjoy your day ashore!
Plan Your Trip
St Mary's Church (Bridgetown, Barbados)
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Where Exactly Is the Barbados Cruise Port?
Entrance to the Bridgetown Cruise Terminal (Barbados Cruise Port)
The Barbados Cruise Port (also known as the Bridgetown Cruise Ship Terminal or Deep Water Harbour) is located on the south-west side of the island, about 1.6km (1mi) west of downtown Bridgetown, the capital city of Barbados. For cruise ship passengers, the port’s proximity to the city makes getting into the heart of the town and exploring the nearby beaches super easy!
The Barbados Cruise Port can today accommodate up to six cruise ships at a time across its four deep water quays. One thing we always do when on a cruise is look ahead to see how many – if any – other ships will be docked during our time in port, and exactly where. We use the free Marine Traffic app for this purpose – it provides a live map to track ship arrivals and departures in real time, as well as the ship name and passenger count – something we find really helps with planning what to do upon arrival, and how quickly to start doing it, based on the number of people in port that day!
What Facilities and Services Are Available at the Barbados Cruise Port?
View down the Constitution River (Bridgetown, Barbados)
As a popular port of call for many cruise lines, the Barbados Cruise Port offers a welcoming and comfortable environment for your arrival into Barbados. The port is complete with modern facilities that include a tourist information center, free WiFi (and yes, it works!), a post office, duty-free shops, cafes, currency exchange, car rental offices, and a convenient taxi rank. The terminal building is also wheelchair accessible, with elevators and ramps connecting the different levels.
The terminal building itself is bustling with a plethora of shops, selling everything from authentic souvenirs to local snacks (definitely make sure you try some of the rum cake and tamarind balls whilst you’re in port!).
Getting to and from the Barbados Cruise Port
The Mutual Building (Bridgetown, Barbados)
The Barbados Cruise Port is located just 2km (1.24mi) from the downtown area of Bridgetown, making it an excellent starting point for your Bajan adventures. There are generally three ways to get into the city center:
Walk. If you’re a big walker like me, it’s less than a 25-minute gentle stroll to downtown Bridgetown along a well-maintained sidewalk overlooking the harbor. Toward the end of your walk, the route takes you along Broad Street, the main street in Bridgetown.
Take a shuttle bus. Most cruise lines offer complimentary shuttle buses from the port to the city center (and vice versa) for cruise ship passengers. If there are no complimentary shuttles available, the port itself offers affordable shuttle bus services from the terminal to downtown Bridgetown.
Hire a taxi. You can also grab a taxi from the port to downtown, which only takes about 5 minutes and costs about US$6. Taxis are also available to other attractions throughout the island.
The cruise port is also close to Grantley Adams International Airport, Barbados’ only port of entry by air, with a 30-minute taxi or shuttle ride.
Things to Do in Barbados During Your Time in Port
Bridgetown architecture: The fusion of African and colonial cultures (Barbados)
Bridgetown: History and Culture
With easy access from the cruise port, make sure you visit Bridgetown during your time in Barbados. The capital and largest city of Barbados, Bridgetown, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s fun to just wander its streets, taking in the historical colonial buildings and museums.
Consider the following walking tour during your time in town.
Located on Broad Street, along the north bank of the Constitution River (and strategically located in the very center of the city), you’ll find the Parliament Buildings (also known as the Public Buildings), the seat of Parliament in Barbados. Built in the late 1800s, these buildings have been the meeting place of parliament since 1974 and are designated UNESCO protected properties within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of historic Bridgetown: the neo-Gothic architecture of the buildings is certainly photo-worthy! Inside the buildings there’s a museum that tells the story of some of Barbados’ heroes and government history.
Chamberlain Bridge plaque (Bridgetown, Barbados)
From the Parliament Buildings you can head over to Chamberlain Bridge, via National Heroes Square. Built in recognition of Barbados’ independence, this bridge was rebuilt in 2005-2006 to replace the original swing bridge. Now constructed of modern, state-of-the-art technology, the Chamberlain Bridge bears the plaque of the Barbadian National Anthem.
2.2km (1.37mi) directly south of the south side of the Chamberlain Bridge is the George Washington House (sometimes also known as Crofton’s House), another UNESCO protected property in Bridgetown. This 18th century mansion – where a young George Washington and his half-brother once lived – houses a museum that showcases the cultural heritage of Barbados in the 17th and 18th centuries, including the history of slavery. On site you’ll also have access to visit the Garrison Tunnels, built during 1789 and 1905, and accessible only from the George Washington House. Developed as an underground escape system, these tunnels form part of one of the largest networks of tunnels in the world – one of them is almost 1km long! During your visit you can also explore the landscaped grounds of the house, as well as the gift shop and cafe. The house is open daily from 9am through 4pm and costs US$20 to enter, which includes a self-guided tour that takes 60-90 minutes and is available in six different languages.
A 7-minute walk east of the George Washington House is the Barbados Museum and Historical Society, located in a former military prison. The museum offers visitors an opportunity to learn more about the island’s history and heritage, with exhibits covering everything from limestone caves to the vibrant Bajan culture.
Shopping: Bridgetown and the Cruise Port
The Pelican Craft Center (Bridgetown, Barbados)
Bridgetown
Once you’ve finished exploring the main cultural attractions in UNESCO World Heritage Site Bridgetown, you may wish to head to the main shopping area to grab some souvenirs or a wee bite to eat.
Head back to Broad Street, the heartbeat of Bridgetown, where you’ll find all the major banks, duty-free shops selling pretty much anything you can imagine, as well as local food and Bajan cocktails (you can never go wrong with a traditional Bajan Rum Punch!). Fun fact: Broad Street was once a part of a longer, narrow street called Cheapside (ironic, right?).
Barbados Cruise Port
The terminal building itself is bustling with numerous shops, selling everything from authentic souvenirs to local snacks (definitely make sure you try some of the rum cake and tamarind balls!).
I’m also a huge fan of the Pelican Craft Centre (I visit it every time I’m in Barbados), where local artists sell traditional Barbadian craft and offer tastes of Barbadian cuisine. Opened in 1999, this modern, spacious shopping center is an easy 15-minute walk from the cruise terminal, and with almost 30 retail stores, 15 workshops (many of which provide visitors an opportunity to see Bajan craftsmen and women at work), a gallery and annex, a wine bar and bistro, a restaurant and an impressive artist wall, it’s the largest of its kind in the Caribbean. There are plenty of clean restrooms available and the center is wheelchair accessible.
Heading Further Afield: Beaches and Water Activities
Careenage Marina (Bridgetown, Barbados)
Are you keen to explore more of Barbados? Get away from the cruise port, out of the city, and head a little further afield? Barbados offers excellent opportunities for visitors to explore the island during their day in port, including hitting up some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.
In fact, Barbados is home to over 60 beaches, known for their sugar-soft sands, warm, clear waters, swaying palm trees, and opportunities for numerous water sports. Consider visiting one of the following beaches during your time in port.
Carlisle Bay Beach
Located less than 2.5km (1.55mi) from the Barbados Cruise Port, Carlisle Bay is a popular place for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and even scuba diving (which I tried here during my most recent visit – my first ever time scuba diving!). The waters are calm, and the beach is nothing short of stunning. There are numerous shipwrecks just off the shore, begging to be explored – and you’re guaranteed to spot a huge number of tropical fish … and even sea turtles! Not up for the walk to Carlisle Bay? Grab a taxi from the port to Carlisle Bay Beach, with a minimum fare of US$12 (whether it’s one person or four, the fare is the same). Easy access from the cruise port definitely makes Carlisle Bay Beach popular amongst cruise passengers!
Sandy Lane Beach
A 15-minute drive directly north of Bridgetown you’ll find Sandy Lane Beach, bearing the same name as the five-star luxury beachfront resort along its sandy shores. Sandy Lane Beach, with its turquoise waters, is open to the public, but the hotel – which is popular amongst celebrities and other vacationing A-listers – doesn’t always allow tourists to purchase drinks or use their chairs or umbrellas (in good news, you can bring in your own drinks!). Note that the resort itself does have a strict dress code.
Brighton Beach and Brandon’s Beach
For a quieter option, head just 5 minutes north of the cruise port by car or taxi to either Brighton or Brandon’s Beach, both of which provide visitors a relaxing escape from the crowds, with plenty of room to unwind and enjoy the tranquil waters. Both beaches are ideal for families, offering safe swimming areas and water sports that include paddleboarding and kayaking.
Whether you want to chill or dive into the turquoise waters, the beaches of Barbados offer something for all traveller types. The island is famous as a beach destination, and the ones we’ve listed above are some of the best and most accessible from the Barbados Cruise Port.
Other Water Sports
Some say that a day in Barbados isn’t complete without some time spent at one of its beautiful, white-sand beaches. But what if you want to see a little bit of several beaches? Or get out on the water? For a more adventurous experience, consider taking a catamaran tour to explore the stunning coastline and marine life of Barbados. These tours also provide guests an opportunity to go snorkeling or scuba diving, and to explore the island’s coral reefs and shipwrecks, whilst enjoying the warm, crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean. These tours often include a simple (but delicious!) Bajan lunch and unlimited rum punch — a true taste of island life.
You can also test your balance during a surfing lesson or rent a paddleboard from any number of the island’s beaches, two of Barbados’ most popular adventure water sports.
Barbados: Excursions and Other Activities
Beck tries scuba diving for the first time ever! (Pebbles Beach, Barbados)
Barbados offers a variety of excursion options for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure-seekers alike. It doesn’t have to be all about the beaches (though let’s be honest, they’re kinda awesome)!
Some other options for your time in Barbados include:
Taking a guided tour of the interior of the island, where you’ll have the chance to explore Bajan history, culture, and the natural beauty of this country: they’re also a wonderful way to see small fishing villages and botanical gardens, for a truly immersive cultural experience. Tours are available anywhere from an hour in length to a full day and usually have you sitting in an air-conditioned minibus or larger coach with fellow travellers: we recommend exploring options available to you through Viator or TripAdvisor. You can also book tours directly through your cruise line (though often at a slightly inflated price), which guarantees reliability and scheduling.
Visiting the Barbados Wildlife Reserve, located about 40 minutes by car to the north of the cruise port. Occupying several acres of mahogany forest, the reserve was initially founded in the early 1980s for the conservation and study of green monkeys, a species now widespread throughout Barbados. In addition to the monkeys that roam free within the reserve, you’ll also have the opportunity to spot free-roaming red brocket deer, peacocks, red-footed tortoises, Cuban rock iguanas, Patagonian maras (sort of like a giant rabbit), and a variety of tropical birds (which do not roam as freely throughout the reserve). Fun fact: all the buildings in the reserve are constructed from coral rock excavated from nearby sugarcane fields.
Heading out on a hike or nature walk to explore the island’s scenic countryside and walk along the cliffs of some of Barbados’ famed beaches.
Exploring Harrison’s Cave Eco-Adventure Park, Barbados’ limestone caves. A tour of the caves takes you on an underground tram where you can experience the subterranean environment of caverns, gullies, sinkholes, and some mighty stalactites and stalagmites. The caves first appeared in historical documents in 1795, but weren’t rediscovered until the early 1970s, and opened to the public in 1981.
For a more relaxing activity, try joining a yoga class at a beach club and enjoy the serene ocean view as you strike some calming poses.
Barbados really does have a little something for everyone: nature-lovers, history buffs, and adventure-seekers!
Food and Drink: A Taste of Bajan Cuisine
Bajan street food stalls (Bridgetown, Barbados)
You’ve shopped, you’ve lazed around on a beach for a wee while, and you’ve soaked in some of the cultural heartbeat that is Bridgetown. Only now you’re feeling a little peckish and it’s time to dive into some of the best local Bajan cuisine Barbados has to offer!
Take a seat at a local restaurant, or visit local markets to try some of the island’s fresh produce and local favorites like fried fish cakes from food stalls around the downtown area.
Barbados’ national dish, a recipe passed down through the generations, consists of cou-cou and flying fish. It’s a beloved dish evoking memories of family gatherings and festive occasions, and is often a symbol of community, heritage, and shared experiences.
flying fish (not just a cultural icon that symbolizes the island’s spirit, but also a versatile fish with a mild, flaky flavor that's prepared in different ways, including fried, steamed, or pickled, and usually cooked in creole sauce)
cou-cou (a savory porridge-like dish made from fine cornmeal and okra; the texture is similar to polenta)
Bajan-style macaroni pie (not necessarily what it might sound like … it’s actually a Caribbean version of mac and cheese, specially seasoned and baked to perfection!)
Feeling thirsty? Want to try something a little stronger than the water you’ve been lugging around all day to keep you hydrated in the heat? Why not enjoy a drink at one of the many bars and restaurants in Bridgetown, or even take a tour of the Mount Gay Rum Distillery to learn more about the island’s famous rum? The distillery’s Visitor Centre invites guests from around the world to discover the story behind the world's oldest rum distillery. Take a signature distillery tour, try a cocktail mixing class, or join others for a rum tasting and Bajan-inspired lunch. Don’t leave without, at the very least, sampling their signature rum punch! 26km (16.2mi) north of the cruise port, this is another great way to explore more of the island than the average cruise passenger might.
Rum not really your thing? That’s okay, because quenching your thirst with a cold bottle of Banks Beer, the country’s local beer, can be just as satisfying. Most of the bars and restaurants along Broad Street serve this refreshing beverage.
Weather and Climate: When to Visit Barbados
Grey clouds looming over the Caribbean Sea (Pebbles Beach, Barbados)
Barbados enjoys a tropical climate year-round, with temperatures ranging from 77°F to 90°F (25°C to 32°C). Like many Caribbean islands, it also has pronounced wet and dry seasons, the former typically running from June through November, with frequent rain showers and thunderstorms. Therefore, the best time to visit Barbados is usually during the dry season, from December to May, offering visitors warm, sunny days perfect for outdoor activities.
No matter when you choose to visit, we highly recommend you take with you a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses (slip, slop, wrap!) to protect yourself from the blistering sun. Also make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, to ensure you stay hydrated.
Barbados Practicalities
Giant murals by local artists (Barbados Cruise Port)
To help make your visit to Barbados a smooth and easy one, here are some additional things to consider.
Money Matters and Communication
The official currency of Barbados is the Barbadian (or Bajan) dollar, often abbreviated (unofficially) as B$ or BD$. The U.S. dollar is also widely accepted. Currency exchange booths and ATMs are available in the cruise port area and other major tourist spots. Credit cards are also widely accepted, though make sure to have some small denominations of the local currency on hand for tips and smaller purchases.
English is the official language of Barbados, making it easy for the majority of visitors to communicate with locals. Local Bajan dialect is also spoken.
Safety in Barbados
Barbados is a generally safe destination for visitors, though note that petty crime, including pickpocketing and purse-snatching, may increase during the official tourist season (November to April). As such, it’s always wise to stay vigilant and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings during your visit to the island.
Here are some additional safety tips to help you enjoy your visit to Barbados with peace of mind:
Use reputable taxi services. Taxis fares in Barbados are regulated by the government and are generally more expensive than elsewhere in the Caribbean. The starting fare is BD$20 (US$10), whilst in Bridgetown it’s BD$35 (US$17.50). The fare per km is then fixed at BD$6.85 (US$3.43).
Keep a low profile. It’s always a good idea to avoid showing the rest of the world – including your fellow travelers – obvious signs of wealth (for example, expensive jewelry or fancy electronics), which could otherwise make you an easy target for pickpockets and other troublemaking types. Also keep your wits about you, especially in crowded public spaces or places tourists generally frequent.
Be mindful of your belongings. Similar to the point above, keep an eye on your belongings at all times, especially in crowded areas. Consider carrying your bag on your front through busy markets, and leaving large amounts of cash and your passport in your cruise ship’s safe. Carry only what you need for the day, only use credit cards at reputable locations, and consider storing cash in different parts of your clothing or bags when you’re out and about.
Stay informed: Ensure you always keep up-to-date with local and national news within Barbados, and be sure to follow any advice given to you by local authorities. Also make sure to check your country’s official government website for the latest travel advisories and safety information.
By taking the above precautions (which, let’s be honest, you should take anywhere you travel!), you’ll be able to focus on enjoying all that this wonderfully sun-soaked country has to offer, ensuring a smooth, hassle-free, and certainly memorable visit.
Final Thoughts
Successful scuba dives all round! (G Fish Watersports, Barbados)
Docking at the Barbados Cruise Port makes a visit to Barbados – and certainly to the nearby capital city of Bridgetown – easy and convenient. From here you can explore this fantastic Bajan island that’s full of rich history, vibrant culture, welcoming and friendly locals, and well-deserved beach time. Whether you’re visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in historic Bridgetown, lounging on the south coast beaches, or sipping some local rum punch as the breeze whips through your hair on a catamaran, there’s something here for all travellers. Whilst a day may not be enough to experience everything the island has to offer visitors, it is certainly a fantastic start – and don’t forget to try some flying fish and cou-cou along the way!
So, fellow wanderers, may your time in Barbados be as sweet as rum cake and as bright as the Caribbean sun!
Now … it’s time to plan your trip!
