On a cruise to St. Lucia you get to experience its breathtaking natural beauty unmatched by any place in the world. Tucked away in the Lesser Antilles and crowned by the Pitons’ towering twin peaks, St. Lucia is an emerald gem sitting on top of the blue waters of the Caribbean Sea.
When European explorers first glimpsed the lush green mountains of St. Lucia rising from the Caribbean Sea and North Atlantic Ocean’s cerulean waters, they nicknamed the island “Fair Helen of the West Indies” referring to the unrivaled beauty of legendary Helen of Troy. Some people say that St. Lucia is the most beautiful Caribbean island.
Whether it is true or not, we leave this decision to you. But one thing is clear: a visit on a cruise to St. Lucia is unforgettable. Brimming full of beauty, splendor, and mystique, St. Lucia is guaranteed to captivate you the moment you set foot on her coastline.
Table of Contents
Overview of St. Lucia
Measuring just 27 miles in length and 14 miles in width, St. Lucia is gifted with everything from fertile valleys and majestic peaks, to bubbling mud springs and volcanic beaches, to tiny fishing villages and luxury holiday resorts. Lying only 24 miles south of Martinique and 21 miles northeast of St. Vincent, St. Lucia is hailed as the second largest island state in the Windward group of the Lesser Antilles and is frequented by all major international cruise lines.
While the island is known best for its immense pair of rocky pyramids – the Pitons – its distinct culture and its warm, friendly natives make a lasting impression on visitors and travelers.
St. Lucia may be a small island, where a vibrant blend of colorful street parties, soulful music, delicious seafood, and lots of romance and adventure await you on the island.
Quick Facts
Climate
St. Lucia has a tropical climate, hot throughout the year, with a fairly calm, dry season from January to mid-April; and a thick, humid rainy season from mid-June to November. The average annual temperature ranges from 70-90 °F, and the average annual rainfall is 53.6’’
Timezone
Atlantic Standard Time GMT-4
Language
The inhabitants of St. Lucia are a mixture of various nationalities, heritages and traditions, but share a common characteristic with the surrounding island people. While English is the original St. Lucians language, a greater percentage also speaks French Patois
Currency
St. Lucia’s currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC$). US $1 roughly equals EC $2.70
Getting Around
The easiest way to get around in St. Lucia is by car or minibus. There are also taxis available, and also plenty of water taxis around the island. You can also get a rental car or a scooter.
Average prices are about $50 a day. You should have in mind that St. Lucia isn’t the best place to cycle, considering that the streets are narrow and poorly lit
Fun Fact
When in St. Lucia, don’t forget- Drive on the left side of the road!
St. Lucia Cruise Port Information
With its intoxicating natural beauty and a secluded paradise feel, St. Lucia is a frequent stop on all major Southern Caribbean cruise itineraries.
Getting ashore, this gem of an island begins with your ship docking at Pointe Seraphine, St. Lucia cruise terminal, located at only a mile from Castries’ capital city. Featuring a large harbor amid a backdrop of lush green hills, Castries operates two piers within walking distance from the city’s main cruise port and shopping terminal called La Place Carenage.
In Castries and Nearby
Cruises sailing to St. Lucia all dock in a small, picturesque bay by Castries, which is flanked by Pointe Seraphine Port on the northern side and La Place Carenage right towards the downtown. Sometimes, cruises will drop their anchors at the Industrial Port, but that is quite rare.
One of the best features of Castries is Morne Fortune, with its soaring height of 2,795 feet. Although most of the town’s colonial-period buildings were destroyed by a series of fires between 1785 and 1948, Castries still makes for an interesting stroll down fascinating historical landmarks.
Pigeon Island and Diamond Falls
Celebrated as one of the most monumental places in St. Lucia’s history, the Pigeon Island National Landmark is a living museum in the natural, historical and cultural setting of the island. The sheltered 44-acre reserve island in the North West of St. Lucia was initially surrounded by water, but it was connected with the mainland via a human-made causeway back in 1972.
The Government of St. Lucia has designated Pigeon Island as a National Park with efforts in full swing to nurture it under careful protection and responsible development.
The Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens, on the other hand, feature St. Lucia’s vivid, mineral-laced waterfalls, bubbling hot springs and medicinal baths. Amid this alluring and peaceful retreat is a diverse range of tropical plants and wildlife that make this place a jaw-wrenching sight.
As a 6-acres haven for rare birds, insects, and wildflowers, the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens are described as one of St. Lucia’s natural wonders.
Alternate Ports: Soufriere
While Castries serves as the main port of call in St. Lucia, some cruise ships make additional stops at Soufriere, a laid-back dream destination featuring drive-in volcanoes and sulfur springs.
Soufriere had served as the capital of St. Lucia during French colonial rule, and today it is considered one of the top holiday destinations on the island. The ships pick and carry passengers on full-day tours around the famous Pitons and other destinations nearby from Soufriere.
Cruises to St. Lucia: Best Cruise Lines
From the deck of your cruise ship, your first glimpse of St. Lucia will likely be the island’s most striking geological feature: the Pitons’ velvety volcanic peaks that rise almost a half mile off its southwestern coast.half-mile.
Lucia receives a steady influx of visitors, tourists, and honeymooners, including those aboard international cruise ships, many parts of the island have remained unspoiled due to the locals’ efforts and commitment to protecting their natural resources.
An oasis of tropical calm, St. Lucia offers a different side of the Caribbean than you have ever seen before.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Departure ports to St. Lucia
- Miami, Florida
- Port Canaveral, Florida
- Tampa, Florida
- New York, New York
- San Juan, Puerto Rico
St. Lucia Cruise Ports
- Castries
Recommended Sailings
- 7 Night Southern Caribbean
- 11 Night Southern Caribbean
Princess Cruise Line
Princess Departure Ports to St. Lucia
- Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
St. Lucia Cruise Ports
- Castries
Recommended Sailings
- 10 Night Southern Caribbean Voyager
Disney Cruise Line
Disney Departure Ports to St. Lucia
- Port Canaveral, Florida
St. Lucia Cruise Ports
- Castries
Recommended Sailings
- 9 Night Southern Caribbean
Celebrity Cruise Line
Celebrity Departure ports to St. Lucia
- Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
- Tampa, Florida
- Boston, Massachusetts
- San Juan, Puerto Rico
St. Lucia Cruise Ports
- Castries
Recommended Sailings
- 10-12 Night Ultimate Southern Caribbean
Holland America Cruise Line
Holland America Departure Ports to St. Lucia
- Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
St. Lucia Cruise Ports
- Castries
Recommended Sailings
- 11 Night Southern Caribbean Wayfarer
- 21 Night Southern Caribbean Seafarer
Royal Caribbean Cruise Line
Royal Caribbean Departure Ports to St. Lucia
- Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
- Miami, Florida
- Tampa, Florida
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Baltimore, Maryland
- Bayonne/New Jersey
- San Juan, Puerto Rico
St. Lucia Cruise Ports
- Castries
Recommended Sailings
- 12 Night Southern Caribbean
Norwegian Cruise Line
There are many reasons to choose Norwegian Cruise Lines: amazing onboard waterslides, multi-level sports complexes, live Broadway performances, 28 dining options, and alfresco promenade designed to unite guests with the ocean.
With Norwegian cruises, you can cruise just the way you want it. Whether it is their wide-ranging dining options or the most spacious staterooms or their unique brand of entertainment, you can immerse yourself in the Norwegian cruise ships’ exotic luxury when you sail towards St. Lucia.
You can offer your taste buds a treat at a new bar or restaurant every day and night, savor multi-course meals, and a great wine bottle. Then there is the quarter-mile waterfront promenade where guests can enjoy the warm sun and balmy breezes from the ocean all day long.
As dusk approaches, you get to hit the deck and dance all night at electrifying parties such as Nashville Nights, Caliente, and Glow.
Celebrity Cruise Line
A trip to St. Lucia aboard a Celebrity cruise ship is filled with majestic ocean views, exotic destinations, and luxurious amenities. All of Celebrity Cruise Lines’ award-winning ships offer a unique profusion of activities and venues to keep guests entertained and relaxed throughout their journey.
If you are looking for a quiet, peaceful escape to St. Lucia, then Celebrity Cruise Lines has all the ingredients of a getaway to remember.
From world-class dining to stunning suites to indulgent spa concierge, Celebrity Cruises to St. Lucia provide an unparalleled vacation experience complemented by modern amenities.
After docking at Castries, the Celebrity cruise ship will depart the port for a trip to Soufriere – home to the island’s most celebrated landmarks of Gros and Petit Piton. Guests are then treated to a scenic drive along the West Coast to Marigot Bay, going around the Canaries and Anse La Raye fishing villages before finally arriving at Soufriere, where they will have their first glimpse of the divine Pitons.
Passengers get to have a guided tour of Morne Coubaril Estate, followed by some quality time spent at Toraille Waterfalls. They can enjoy a hearty Creole buffet lunch at a restaurant nestled in the Pitons’ shadow before they head back to their ship.
Things To Do: Sights and Attractions
Beaches
- Grande Anse: Located on the calm leeward eastern mountainous coast of St. Lucia, Grande Anse invites visitors to sunbathe on its pristine white beaches, swim in its fish-filled waters or simply watch the turtles as they crawl out of the ocean to lay their eggs on the shores of Grande Anse.
- Marigot Bay: Being one of the busiest beaches in St. Lucia and the most prominently portrayed in Hollywood movies, Marigot Bay boasts swaying palm trees, anchored catamarans, glistening white sand, and turquoise bay. It is often described as a “romantic setting” by visitors.
- Sugar Beach: Set between the mighty Pitons is a small strand of crystal-white sand jutting out in the middle of the beautiful Sugar Beach waters. Formerly a working sugar plantation, Sugar Beach is now the perfect sunny holiday getaway for swimming, sunbathing, or relaxing by the Caribbean Sea.
- Reduit Beach: To say that Reduit Beach is popular with tourists is the ultimate understatement. With over a mile of powdery golden sand and beautiful views of the Pigeon Island, Reduit Beach is loved by visitors for its beauty, cleanliness, and bountiful sunshine. There is also an excellent range of things to do, from swimming and the inflatable water park Splash Island for families to water sports, including scuba diving, snorkeling, and sailing.
Food & Drinks
- Green Figs and Salted Cod: Boiled figs seasoned with local peppers, thyme, chives, and other herbs and spices make up the national dish of St Lucia.
- Lambi-conch: Lambi-conch is prepared with succulent shellfish meat and is served up in a unique Creole style, meaning it’s spiced heavily before being pan-fried.
- Accra– A popular breakfast dish in the Windward Isles, salt fish accras are fried fish cakes made from salted cod and mixed spices.
- Piton- Named after the renowned green peaks on the island’s southwestern coast, Piton Beer is to St. Lucians what Carlsberg is to the Danish.
Shopping
- Baywalk Shopping Mall: The latest and most energizing development in Saint Lucia! There is no better place with over 50 stores and restaurants than here to kick-start your visit to the island.
- JQ Shopping Mall: Located in the north of St Lucia, this mall has the finest quality shops and services in air-conditioned comfort.
- Duty-Free Pointe Seraphine: Being right next to Castries, this mall offers a memorable retail and restaurant experience. Duty-free shopping is available for airline ticket holders, so make sure you carry your ticket information and ID.
- La Place Carenage-This mall features a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options catering to both tourists and locals.
St. Lucia Excursions
- Hike-up the Rainforest: When hiking in St. Lucia, you will be provided with a professional guide who will lead you through the island’s scenic trails. During these hikes, you will cross paths with the island’s tropical flora and fauna’s best.
- Scuba Dive and Snorkel: Explore the tranquil waters of the west coast with some of its greatest diving spots ranging from walls to shipwrecks, trenches, and reefs. The waters in the Pitons and Anse Cochon area are marine reserves that are covered, and they are best for diving.
- Go Ziplining: You can zip line in Babonneau on a thrilling 10-course zipline adventure. You can also zip line in Soufriere’s Morne Coubaril Historical Adventure Park, where you can ride past panoramic views of the Pitons before plunging through the canopy of the trees.
- Take a Mud bath: A visit to the bath involves applying the warm grey mud on your body and then taking a bath in the Sulphur Springs’ mineral-rich waters. Afterward, you can enjoy and cool off in a nearby waterfall.
- The Pitons-The Gros Piton is the most popular peak for climbing in St. Lucia. Its highest point is 2,619 feet, and the view is simply breathtaking.
Need To Know
Post COVID-19 Travel Guidelines
- All passengers arriving in St. Lucia will be screened with temperature checks.
- All passengers arriving must have a negative result of a PCR test obtained within 7 days of travel.
- All symptomatic passengers will be isolated and tested.
- All passengers who test positive for COVID-19 will be transferred to Respiratory Hospital for treatment and care at their cost.
Best Time To Travel
The best time to enjoy St. Lucia is the high season falling between the middle of December to the Middle of April. This is the time when you will experience the most sunshine.
The late spring and early summer months of May and June offer the most blissful weather plus the best rates for accommodations. On the other hand, the wet season starts in June and will last till the end of November.
Safety
Having some of the lowest crime rate numbers in the Caribbean region, St. Lucia is an extremely peaceful and safe holiday destination for international travelers. St. Lucia’s authorities continuously collaborate with the island’s tourism industry to maintain a safe environment for visitors.
What To Pack
- Raincoat/umbrella;
- Tank or cotton tops;
- Swimsuits/bikinis/shorts;
- Sunscreen lotion, insect repellant cream;
- Ticket, passport, and health insurance cards;
- Your country’s national ID and driving license;
- A hat, a pair of sneakers and sandals or slippers;
- Undergarments and sleepwear, enough for your stay;
- Camera, luggage lock and travel-size toothpaste and toothbrush;
- Travel adapter, dual USB charging ports and chargers for your mobile devices;
- Beach cover-ups, beach towels, washcloth, body wash, body lotion, deodorant, body spray, and hair products, all in travel-size containers.
Conclusion
Whether is because you want to see the Pyton Mountains or go through the only drive-through volcano or you just want to relax by the beach; choosing St. Lucia for you next cruising destination is a must! So let us take care of you, and get you going on your next cruise venture!
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