While the three hurricanes of September 2017 – Irma, Jose, and Maria – were hard on some Caribbean islands, the island of Antigua came through with only minimal damage, quickly repaired. The island’s residents want travelers, including cruise fans, to know that their island has remained ready to welcome visitors.
The dozens of sand beaches on Antigua are still soft and white, and the historic Nelson’s Dockyard – once the most important colonial base of the British Royal Navy – was untouched by the storms.
A wide variety of cruise lines make Antigua part of their Eastern Caribbean itineraries of 7 to 14 nights or more. Depending on the cruise line you choose, you can depart from New York, New Jersey, Baltimore, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Tampa or Puerto Rico.
It’s understandable if you want to spend your day on Antigua with your toes in the sand of one of the island’s scenic beaches; they are spectacular. A beach excursion will take you to a stretch of sand dotted by lounge chairs, with umbrellas for shade. Many beach excursions welcome you with a complimentary rum punch cocktail to get you off to a relaxing start.
To see more of Antigua from the water, take a coastal cruise on a deluxe yacht or catamaran. You might visit Bird Island, just two miles from Antigua, a small but lush paradise for many types of exotic birds: you might spot a West Indian Whistling Duck, a Red-Billed Tropicbird, or a Laughing Gull. Bird Island is a great place to snorkel, too.
Nelson’s Dockyard is a unique landmark, sheltered by the cone of a dormant volcano. Built in 1725 for the English Navy as a base for patrolling the West Indies, it’s the only surviving Georgian-era dockyard in the world and well worth a tour. Above the dockyard is the Shirley Heights Lookout, where you can take in the gorgeous, tropical views. Dow’s Hill is another spot for a great view, and you can enjoy an introduction to Antigua history at the Dow’s Hill Interpretation Center.
For families, there’s a zipline adventure that delivers thrills and a bird’s eye perspective on the tropical forest. Or, visit Stingray City in the North Sound to meet these gentle, friendly creatures.
To consider all of the Caribbean itineraries that will take you to Antigua, talk with Ania, your Cruise Holidays personal cruise expert.
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