BEST THINGS TO DO NEAR BRIDGETOWN CRUISE PORT.
Barbados is one of the easiest Caribbean islands to explore independently from a cruise ship, and Bridgetown is a great place to dock. There’s loads to do from the port, especially if you’re keen to explore on foot or up for taking a short taxi ride.
There’s a time and a place for islands tours, but if you’re keen to just explore independently, rather than
This guide covers exactly what to expect when you arrive, how to get around, and the best things to do near Bridgetown Cruise Port without overplanning. A rare chance on a shore day, just to go with the flow!
Where do cruise ships dock in Barbados?
Cruise ships dock at Bridgetown Cruise Port, located just outside the city centre. The port is well organised and purpose-built for cruise passengers. It’s an embarkation port, so larger than many others you might see in the Caribbean.
The best bit, it’s really well located to explore the island.
What to expect in Bridgetown Cruise Port
Bridgetown is a large Cruise Port and I have to admit it wasn’t our favourite of the ports we visited in the Caribbean. It is a purpose built port designed to manage a huge influx of passengers, as such it can feel a little overwhelming.
In order to get out of the terminal, you’ll be funnelled through a big indoor duty-free area. There are the usual jewellery stores, liquor stores and souvenir shops too. We are always more keen to get out of this area, then explore it, but if you want to shop – it’s ideal.
Outside, there are one or two bars offering the chance for a beer before embarking back onto the ship.
Finally, be aware that the port has secure gates and scanners – you’ll have to show your cruise card and scan any luggage as you re-enter the port.
Taxis and Transport from Bridgetown Cruise Port
Taxis are plentiful and operate on fixed, per-person rates for popular destinations. This makes it much easier, as you don’t need to negotiate. Taxis leave from inside the secure port area, making it really straightforward.
Best things to do near Bridgetown Cruise Port
Here are our top picks for the best things to do within walking distance of Bridgetown Cruise Port.
1/ Bridgetown Market
A short walk from the cruise port brings you to the heart of Bridgetown, where local markets sell fresh fruit, spices, souvenirs, and handmade crafts. It’s a great place to get a feel for everyday life in Barbados and pick up small, authentic gifts to take back home.
It felt like we found markets on every street we walked down in Bridgetown – walk down Milk Market Road and Swan Street and you’ll find various stalls.
2/ Shop for new cruise outfits
Bridgetown is surprisingly good for shopping, especially if you’re looking for summer clothing, like brightly coloured dresses. If you’re into creating your own outfits, we spotted an incredible fabric store – a lovely and personal way to take home a souvenir.
We also stumbled upon a few eveningwear shops – so if you’ve got a black tie night coming up and you’re in the market for perhaps something in a “different size”, you can get it in Bridgetown.
3/ Catamaran Tour
Catamaran tours are one of the most popular excursions in Barbados and many depart close to Bridgetown. These trips usually include snorkelling stops, swimming with turtles, drinks on board, and views of the island from the water.
Top pick for catamaran tours – 5 hour tour including lunch and drinks.
4/ Bridgetown History Walk
Bridgetown is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and walking through the city reveals colonial architecture and historic churches.
A self-guided stroll or short walking tour is a relaxed way to learn about Barbados’ past without committing to a long excursion.
We recommend visiting Independence Square, National Heroes Square, The Nidhe Israel Synagogue & Museum and St. Michael’s Cathedral.
5/ Chocolate Museum
The Agapey Chocolate Factory is an easy stop near the cruise port and a fun, air-conditioned break from the heat. You can learn about chocolate making, sample different flavours, and pick up edible gifts.
6/ Swim with turtles
Swimming with turtles is one of Barbados’ standout experiences, and it’s possible to do this without travelling far from the port. Many snorkelling trips and boat tours focus on the calm waters around Carlisle Bay, where turtles are frequently spotted.
7/ Relax on Carlisle Bay
If you want the ultimate low-effort beach day, Carlisle Bay is the best option near the cruise port. The water is calm and clear, the sand is soft, and there are multiple beach clubs offering loungers, food, and drinks. It’s ideal if your goal is to relax and totally switch off.
You can find our detailed guide to Carlisle Bay here.
8/ Visit Rihanna Drive
Barbados’ most famous celebrity is celebrated along Rihanna Drive, located near the cruise port. We walked there from the port in around 15 minutes.
You can stop for a photo outside Rihanna’s actually childhood home, head to the monument and grab a drink at a local bar.
9/ Pause for a local beer
Stopping for a cold Banks beer or rum punch is practically a rite of passage in Barbados. Bridgetown has plenty of casual bars where you can pause for a chilled drink.
10/ See the cricket stadium
Cricket is deeply woven into Barbadian culture, and Kensington Oval is one of the most famous grounds in the Caribbean. Even if there’s no match on, it’s worth seeing from the outside or visiting the nearby museum (Cricket Legends of Barbados) to understand the sport’s importance on the island.
11/ Tour Mount Gay Visitor Centre
Close to the port is the Mount Gay Visitor Centre. It’s a little further on foot from Rihanna Drive and Kensington Oval (so you can combine all three.) Or, just get a cab straight there.
The signature tasting and tour at the visitor centre costs $27.50. Alternatively, you can book a full day tour, which includes a tasting at the visitor centre for $100.
Written by Emma
Wine Lover. Yogi. Hiker. Writer.
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