PORT ROYAL

As an aside. If the weight limitations for a single hold suitcase on an economy flight is the reason for not packing a Tux. Then consider paying for an additional suitcase. Or one can place a a pair, or two, of men’s shoes within the cabin luggage case. BA gives a generous 23 kilos for cabin.

Sweetfield is not a beach hotel….. Sorry, one never heard of a stand alone luggage storage facility. Someone on CC may know different.

Have used https://www.stluciantaxiandtours.com/private-tours/ But hopefully @reedprincess will give excellent up-to date recommendations- thanks PS One can always take a taxi from the port cab rank.

Sweetfield Manor offer day passes. A short drive from the port and Airport and close to the beach. Check/call direct for availability. a nice, clean and a very reasonable price for Barbados. https://sweetfieldmanor.com

One’s efforts are appreciated. The view from the alleged Anne Prom Deck does appear to not lift one’s spirits, but the opposite. No doubt the Anne open minded cheerleaders will put a more positive spin on the potential photographic evidence kindly provided by 3Gen.

1st on Cunard Countess in 1992 - Fly Caribbean- DW remembers Tux/Suit/Jacket taken because of DW first true sparkly red evening gown - Therefore it possibly changed between 1992 and 1997

As an aside. Ceased cruising with Princess in 2013 when the word “suggested” entered to wording for the Dress Code and semi-formal (dark suit) disappeared from the dress code. But can’t remember the year when Cunard dropped semi-formal (dark suit), then making a dark suit (semi-formal) acceptable formal wear. Can anyone assist?

Shops and stall within the port area should have something. Then around Basseterre are many shops, stalls, cafe/art galleries etc. video link

Like it….. Also tried Carnival (Defeat) once…Boarded San Juan….Disembarked (Early) Barbados… Flew home

Pass on Mullet. Consensus of discerning opinions for a better stay give votes for: Palm Beach Karibuni Yellow Beach Best to book day/lunch etc in advance

Genteel and discerning? The best beach and ambiance? The Marriott day pass…….. Group minibus (could be two off) @ say $40 per cab e/w. Plenty of availability, one’s drivers will happily collect for return at a booked time. They actually arrive early to put one’s mind at rest. Day pass will be either $39 or $49 pp depending on season/availability. Day rooms are available. Sadly, the majority will not vote for the Marriott.

One can fly kites in the grounds outside the fort (wind is ideal). Vendors are available or bring one’s own.

If Hotels are above the required price point, then consider Guest Houses. Simple, clean, okay for one night without any frills etc., such as Navona and the like. Search the usual websites. Then there is always Airbnb

Best to purchase from duty free at departure Airport. Bajan local shops will legally charge tax plus VAT @ 17.5%. Failing that, board the ship, drop off hand luggage, walk to Port Duty Free carrying one’s ship keycard to show on any purchases.

Have also dined with vigorous SNP supporters. One asked three pertinent questions, receiving detailed answers regarding the mechanics of independence. Found the exchanges interesting.

Only visited the hotel since early 80’s, when we knew it as Coral Reef Beach Club. Introduced by the Webb family. Dropped “Beach” ? The only hotels one can think of that offered sleep at one, dine at another, were those being part of the Elegant Group. But that was years ago and they may have changed, or not. A missive to them will confirm. Good luck….

It was pre COVID (open to general public) Take a taxi (about $30/35 per cab each way) to Reggie Beach Pier to catch sea shuttle to Nevis (think it was $20/25 ppp each way) to Charleston port. There was no actual timetable with plenty of transfers. Ample taxis at Nevis port for tours etc. if time, head to Sunshine’s for a couple of killer bees. You have been warned! - Additional: There will also be plenty of shuttle minibus taxis to Reggie and return to ship (Not sure about the fare but work on $10/12 pp e//w)

Tried once. Guarantee you’ll never see them again. Just say to the monologue person…. Oh, sorry to interrupt, but we do not appear to have after dinner drinks. Would you like to have the honour of getting the first round?

There are two cruise ports. One directly close to the town and almost adjacent to the ferry terminal, mostly used by smallish ships. The other is for larger ships, about a 20 minute walk away, along a busy main Dock/Artery road with narrow footpaths. Out of port, turn left and follow the main road. As entering the town proper, the ferry terminal is on one’s left. One can’t miss it as it’s next to the cruise terminal. Join the queue, which can be long. Best to take a cab to the ferry terminal, about €10 e/w. Or, take a cab all the way, about €30/35 e/w

Check out Blue Water Safaris…….

Try Coral Reef….. note the taxi fare will be $30 e/w….. However, if seeking a great day, plus best bang for one’s Buck, consider a lunch sail with drinks etc on Elegance…. Plus they collect one and drop back https://www.elegancebarbados.com

Purchase tickets (wristbands) from the kiosk in cruise port terminal. Exit rear entrance (signposted), turn right and join the water taxi queue, board. One can’t miss it..

A barrel of Rhum rolled on in Martinique caused much humour, being in addition to multiple bottles.😀

With regard to mixed messages. Agree, the lack of factual information from various third party sites can be confusing. To assist, one gives websites containing contact details of the establishments, this will ensure the correct information is given to you directly by them, such as open dates/times etc.. it’s good to talk. https://catherines-cafe.com http://sheer-rocks.com https://restaurantsnapshot.com/JacquiOsBeachHouse/ - https://www.facebook.com/JacquiOsBeachHouseAntigua/ https://highpointantigua.com Book one’s lunch/day in advance.

To achieve every specific, then take a catamaran tour. There is no “Great” snorkelling from any Antiguan beach.