Port Zante cruise port guide (Basseterre, St. Kitts)
Port Zante is St. Kitts' cruise pier, right on the edge of downtown Basseterre. Here's what to know before your ship docks.
Getting off the ship
Ships tie up at one of Port Zante's two piers. On the busiest days a ship may anchor instead and bring guests ashore by tender boat. Taxis and pre-booked tour drivers wait just outside the pier gate. If you've booked with Extra Mile, Mechiel meets you there, plans the tour around your all-aboard time and gets you back to the ship on time.
What's within walking distance
- Port Zante shops: duty-free and souvenir shops right at the pier.
- The Circus: Basseterre's little roundabout with its Victorian clock tower, a few minutes' walk.
- Independence Square: a short walk past The Circus.
- National Museum: in the old Treasury Building on the waterfront, next to the port.
For Brimstone Hill, Timothy's Hill or the beaches you'll need a taxi or tour. See St. Kitts in one day for a full plan.
Beaches near the cruise port
Drive times are approximate. Prices are Extra Mile round trips from Basseterre, in USD per person.
Frigate Bay
The closest beach area, about 10 minutes by car. Calm Caribbean side plus bars and restaurants.
South Friars Beach
About 15 minutes away, quieter, with beach bars and a good chance of spotting monkeys on the way.
Cockleshell Bay (Reggae Beach Bar)
On the Southeast Peninsula, about 25 to 30 minutes away, with views across to Nevis.
How much time do you have?
2 to 3 hours
The Panoramic Tour (about 2 to 2.5 hours), or a beach round trip.
4 to 5 hours
The Full Island Tour with Brimstone Hill Fortress and Black Rocks.
A full day in port
A tour in the morning, then a beach before heading back to the ship.
Not sure?
Send your ship's all-aboard time and Mechiel will suggest what fits.
Which ships are in port?
The season runs from November to April and is busiest from December to March, with up to six ships on the biggest days. Find your ship, then book a tour for that day.