Virgin Voyages' guide to Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis
For such a small city, there sure is a lot to do – and even more to sea.
Basseterre
A bustling beach town
Nestled onto the Caribbean shore of St. Kitts lies the small yet mighty city of Basseterre. With a population of around 14,000 Basseterre is the largest city on the island of St. Kitts and Nevis, and the French influences from its origin can be felt around every brightly colored corner. Known for their plethora of beguiling beaches, this is the perfect port to achieve the relaxation you’ve been looking forward to since booking your voyage.
There’s a term in Basseterre, “limin,” meaning to simply hang out, drink and chill, and that’s exactly the vibe when you step onto the white sand that lets you know you’re exactly where you should be. With unbelievable adventure opportunities from hiking a volcano, exploring the rainforest or taking a party catamaran to St. Kitts sister island Nevis – there’s certainly no shortage of magic waiting to happen for you on your day in Basseterre.
Panoramic Views From the Railway
Feel the romance of train travel as you take a panoramic journey across St. Kitts on the same tracks once used to transport sugarcane. With some tropical cocktails in hand, see the entire island as you ride the rails through rustic villages, deep canyons, and island farms. Pass by an abandoned sugar plantation that is now interwoven within its natural surroundings and volcanic peaks that tower above the island’s electric blue waters.
Mount Liamuiga Volcano Hike
Outdoor and hiking enthusiasts unite on a day of exploration and discovery on the slopes of Mount Liamuiga — a 3,000 ft volcano. Your trail takes you through rugged terrain, lush forests, breathtaking wildflowers and swinging vines from overhead canopies. And your destination — the base of the volcanic crater only 700 ft below the rim, is where you’ll be rewarded with unparalleled views and an infinite sense of achievement.
Paradise at Sea
With a captain at the helm, make waves across glistening waters while taking in the islands astonishing scenery and getting *the* shot along the way. You'll sail over fantastic seascapes before your captain drops anchor so you can swim and snorkel with the local marine life. An onboard crew will provide snorkel gear and snacks and keep your drink glasses full while you immerse yourself in the incredible Caribbean surroundings on your half-day at sea.
What’s the rush?
The speed limit is 25 MPH everywhere in Basseterre.
Shore Excursions
Sail & Snorkel — Sea Nevis in Style
Take advantage of the endless relaxation opportunities on a party cruise to St. Kitt’s sister island Nevis. Your biggest decision will be whether you choose to stay onboard and enjoy the food and drink or engage in a Caribbean snorkeling adventure.
DISCOVER MORE SHORE THINGSThe Caribbean arguably has the highest number of stunning white sand beaches in the world – and Basseterre is home to many of them. So, whether you spend your day on a rainforest excursion, hiking up an active volcano, tasting rum in an old sugar cane factory or simply sticking your toes in the sand with an ice-cold cocktail in hand the only important thing to remember is there’s no bad way to do Basseterre.
