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Caribbean

St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda

Drop anchor at the island famed for its 365 beaches. Explore historic Nelson's Dockyard or find your perfect stretch of sand under the Caribbean sun.

Quick Facts

Weather Range

75-86F (24-30C)

Currency

XCD,USD

Language

English

Time Zone

AST (UTC-4)

Overview

St. John's is your introduction to the island of sea and sun. This is a port that immediately envelops you in local life, with the towering, white-washed St. John's Cathedral overlooking the harbor and the buzz of the public market selling exotic fruits. Just steps from the pier, the colorful, duty-free shops of Heritage Quay and Redcliffe Quay await. But the true spirit of Antigua is its coastline. A short ride in any direction takes you to one of its legendary 365 beaches, from the lively Dickenson Bay to the more secluded Ffryes Beach. For the best view on the island, head to Shirley Heights for the famous Sunday sunset party, an unforgettable mix of steel drums, rum punch, and epic views.

Top Sights

  • Nelson's Dockyard
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this is the only continuously working Georgian-era dockyard in the world. Explore the beautifully restored 18th-century naval base, now a hub for yachts, museums, and charming boutiques.
  • Shirley Heights Lookout
This is the most famous viewpoint in Antigua, offering a breathtaking panoramic vista over Nelson's Dockyard and English Harbour. It's the site of a legendary Sunday evening party with barbecue, rum punch, and live steel-drum music.
  • St. John's Cathedral
This striking Anglican cathedral, with its twin white-baroque towers, is a major landmark of the city. Rebuilt several times, its imposing interior and historic cemetery are worth a visit.
  • Dickenson Bay
One of Antigua's most popular and lively beaches, this is the perfect spot for a fun beach day. This long stretch of white sand offers calm turquoise water, watersports, and several fun beach bars.
  • Museum of Antigua and Barbuda
Housed in the 18th-century colonial courthouse, this museum offers a great overview of the island's history. See Arawak pottery, sugar plantation artifacts, and the famous cricket bat of local legend Viv Richards.
  • Redcliffe Quay
Just a short walk from the cruise ship, this historic area features beautifully restored waterfront warehouses. It's now a charming shopping district with artisan boutiques, art galleries, and quaint cafes.

Neighborhoods

St. John's (City)

The bustling capital and commercial center where the cruise port is located.

English Harbour

The historic, yacht-filled hub on the south coast, home to Nelson's Dockyard.

Falmouth Harbour

Adjacent to English Harbour, this is another major super-yacht marina and village.

Jolly Harbour

A large, modern marina and resort complex on the west coast with shops and restaurants.

Dickenson Bay Area

The popular northwest coast, known for its resorts and lively beach.

Five Islands Village

A more local, residential area on a peninsula west of St. John's, known for its beautiful, secluded beaches.

Shore Things Excursions

Make the most of your time in port. These popular excursions are just a sampling of what's available—whether you're after thrills, culture, or pure relaxation.

Rainforest Zip-line & Canopy Adventure

3.0 Hours

Moderate

Experience the rare and wonderful biodiversity that exists in the confines of the rainforest with a bird's-eye view.
View Details
From

$125 USD

Scenic Antigua and Beach

4.5 Hours

Easy

Take a historic tour of English Harbor, including the famous Nelson's Dockyard, followed by a beach day at one of the island's white sand beaches.
View Details
From

$100 USD

Full-Day Coastal Rendezvous

5.5 Hours

Easy

Forget your cares, the cold, the kids - well, unless you want to grab them a souvenir - and spend a full day at the beach.
View Details
From

$100 USD

Buggy Adventure & Hidden Beach

3.0 Hours

Active

Explore Antigua off the beaten path into the island's countryside in a buggy caravan - plus a stop at an untouched beach for some free time.
View Details
From

$360 USD

Explore all St. John’s Shore Things
© Shore Things photos courtesy of Virgin Voyages®

Shore Excursions

Make the most of your time in port. These popular excursions are just a sampling of what's available—whether you're after thrills, culture, or pure relaxation.
Worry-free excursions powered by Viator

Rainforest Zip-line & Canopy Adventure

3.0 Hours

Moderate

Experience the rare and wonderful biodiversity that exists in the confines of the rainforest with a bird's-eye view.
View Details
From

$125 USD

Scenic Antigua and Beach

4.5 Hours

Easy

Take a historic tour of English Harbor, including the famous Nelson's Dockyard, followed by a beach day at one of the island's white sand beaches.
View Details
From

$100 USD

Full-Day Coastal Rendezvous

5.5 Hours

Easy

Forget your cares, the cold, the kids - well, unless you want to grab them a souvenir - and spend a full day at the beach.
View Details
From

$100 USD

Buggy Adventure & Hidden Beach

3.0 Hours

Active

Explore Antigua off the beaten path into the island's countryside in a buggy caravan - plus a stop at an untouched beach for some free time.
View Details
From

$360 USD

Explore all St. John’s Shore Things
© Shore Things photos courtesy of Virgin Voyages®

Map

Quick Facts

Weather Range

75-86F (24-30C)

Currency

XCD,USD

Language

English

Time Zone

AST (UTC-4)

Ready to explore St. John’s?

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