What to Do in Barbados from a Cruise Ship: A 2-Day Itinerary

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Barbados: A Caribbean Gem to Explore

Barbados is a Caribbean island with a rich history, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. It’s the perfect place to spend a few days exploring on a cruise ship. Whether you’re looking for sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, or shopping, Barbados has something to offer everyone.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best things to do in Barbados from a cruise ship. We’ll cover everything from popular tourist attractions to hidden gems, so you can make the most of your time on the island.

So if you’re looking for a beautiful, exciting place to visit on your next cruise, Barbados is the perfect destination for you.

What To Do In Barbados From Cruise Ship?

| Activity | Location | Cost |
|—|—|—|
| Visit Bridgetown | City centre | Free |
| Take a ferry to Carlisle Bay | Carlisle Bay | $10 |
| Hike to the top of Mount Hillaby | Farley Hill National Park | $15 |
| Visit the Barbados Museum | Garrison Savannah | $10 |
| Go snorkeling at Folkestone Marine Park | Folkestone | $20 |
| Go scuba diving at the Barbados Underwater Sculpture Park | Carlisle Bay | $50 |
| Visit the Atlantis Submarine | Carlisle Bay | $100 |

Barbados is a Caribbean island nation located in the Lesser Antilles. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush green vegetation. Barbados is also a popular tourist destination, with visitors coming from all over the world to experience its unique culture and attractions.

If you are planning a cruise to Barbados, there are many things you can do to make the most of your time on the island. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Visit the capital city of Bridgetown.
  • Explore the island’s many beaches.
  • Go hiking or biking in the Barbados National Park.
  • Visit the Barbados Museum.
  • Take a boat trip to see the island’s coral reefs.
  • Learn about the island’s history and culture at the Garrison Savannah.
  • Shop at the island’s many duty-free stores.

Things to Do in Barbados

  • Visit the capital city of Bridgetown. Bridgetown is the capital and largest city of Barbados. It is located on the southwestern coast of the island and is home to a population of approximately 100,000 people. Bridgetown is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a rich history and culture. There are many things to see and do in Bridgetown, including visiting the Garrison Savannah, the Barbados Museum, and the many shops and restaurants in the city center.
  • Explore the island’s many beaches. Barbados has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. The beaches are a great place to relax, swim, sunbathe, and snorkel. Some of the most popular beaches in Barbados include:
  • Carlisle Bay Beach
  • Brighton Beach
  • Silver Sands Beach
  • Paynes Bay Beach
  • Oistins Beach
  • Go hiking or biking in the Barbados National Park. The Barbados National Park is located in the center of the island and covers an area of approximately 17 square kilometers. The park is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including several endangered species. There are many hiking and biking trails in the park, which offer stunning views of the island’s interior.
  • Visit the Barbados Museum. The Barbados Museum is located in the Garrison Savannah and houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Barbados’ history and culture. The museum is a great place to learn about the island’s rich past.
  • Take a boat trip to see the island’s coral reefs. Barbados is home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the Caribbean. There are many different boat trips available that will take you to see the reefs. You can snorkel or dive among the colorful fish and coral formations.
  • Learn about the island’s history and culture at the Garrison Savannah. The Garrison Savannah is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was once the home of the British Army. The Garrison Savannah is now a popular tourist attraction and is home to a variety of events, including horse racing and cricket. There are many historical buildings in the Garrison Savannah, which offer a glimpse into the island’s past.
  • Shop at the island’s many duty-free stores. Barbados is a popular shopping destination, with many duty-free stores located throughout the island. You can find a variety of items at the duty-free stores, including clothing, jewelry, electronics, and souvenirs.

Getting Around Barbados

There are a few different ways to get around Barbados. The most popular way to get around is by taxi. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. The cost of a taxi ride varies depending on the distance traveled.

Another way to get around Barbados is by bus. The Barbados Transport Board operates a network of buses that serve all of the major towns and villages on the island. Buses are a cheap and convenient way to get around, but they can be crowded during peak times.

You can also get around Barbados by car. There are a number of car rental companies located in Barbados. The cost of renting a car varies depending on the type of car and the length of time you rent it for.

Finally, you can also get around Barbados by ferry. The Barbados Ferry Service operates a ferry that runs between the capital city of Bridgetown and the island of St. Lucia. The ferry is a great way to see the beautiful scenery of the Caribbean Sea.

Barbados is a beautiful island with a lot to offer visitors. There are many things to see and do, from exploring the capital city of Bridgetown to hiking or biking in the Barbados National Park. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an exciting adventure, Barbados has something to offer everyone.

3. Where to Stay in Barbados

There are many great places to stay in Barbados, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are a few of the best options:

  • Luxury Resorts
  • The Sandy Lane Resort is a five-star resort located on a private peninsula. It features stunning beaches, a championship golf course, and a variety of restaurants and bars.
  • The Royal Barbados Hotel & Spa is another five-star resort located on the south coast of Barbados. It offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, a variety of pools and watersports, and a world-class spa.
  • The Beach House Barbados is a five-star resort located on a secluded beach. It offers private villas with private pools, a variety of restaurants and bars, and a spa.
  • Resorts
  • The Almond Beach Resort is a four-star resort located on the west coast of Barbados. It features a private beach, a variety of pools and watersports, and a variety of restaurants and bars.
  • The Hilton Barbados Resort is a four-star resort located on the south coast of Barbados. It offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, a variety of pools and watersports, and a variety of restaurants and bars.
  • The Colony Barbados is a four-star resort located on a secluded beach. It offers private villas with private pools, a variety of restaurants and bars, and a spa.
  • Guesthouses
  • The Barbados House is a charming guesthouse located in the heart of Bridgetown. It offers comfortable rooms with private balconies, a shared kitchen, and a free continental breakfast.
  • The Sugar Cane Guesthouse is a cozy guesthouse located in the village of Speightstown. It offers simple rooms with private balconies, a shared kitchen, and a free continental breakfast.
  • The Blue Waters Guesthouse is a beachfront guesthouse located in the village of Bathsheba. It offers comfortable rooms with private balconies, a shared kitchen, and a free continental breakfast.
  • Airbnbs
  • There are also a number of great Airbnbs available in Barbados. These can be a great option for budget-minded travelers or for those who want a more homely stay.
  • Here are a few of the best Airbnbs in Barbados:
  • The Beach House: This Airbnb is located right on the beach in the village of Bathsheba. It features two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a fully equipped kitchen.
  • The Villa in the Hills: This Airbnb is located in the hills of Barbados. It features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a stunning infinity pool.
  • The Townhouse in Bridgetown: This Airbnb is located in the heart of Bridgetown. It features two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a fully equipped kitchen.

4. Things to Pack for Barbados

When packing for a trip to Barbados, it is important to pack for the warm climate and the tropical weather. Here is a list of essential items to pack:

  • Swimsuit

A swimsuit is essential for a trip to Barbados, as there are many opportunities to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea.

  • Sunscreen

The sun in Barbados can be very strong, so it is important to pack sunscreen with a high SPF.

  • Hat

A hat is also essential for protecting your head from the sun.

  • Sunglasses

Sunglasses are a must-have for any trip to Barbados, as the sun can be very bright.

  • Comfortable shoes

Barbados is a very walkable island, so it is important to pack comfortable shoes.

  • Insect repellent

There are a few mosquitoes in Barbados, so it is a good idea to pack insect repellent.

  • Camera

Barbados is a beautiful island with stunning scenery, so it is a good idea to pack a camera to capture your memories.

  • Money

The official currency of Barbados is the Barbadian dollar, but U.S. dollars are also widely accepted. It is a good idea to bring some cash with you, as some businesses may not accept credit cards.

What are the best things to do in Barbados from a cruise ship?

  • Visit the capital city of Bridgetown. Bridgetown is a charming city with plenty to see and do, including the Garrison Savannah, the Barbados Museum, and the National Heroes Square.
  • Explore the island’s natural beauty. Barbados is home to some stunning beaches, rainforests, and wildlife sanctuaries.
  • Sample the local cuisine. Barbados is known for its delicious food, including fresh seafood, roti, and cou-cou.
  • Take a boat trip to see the island’s coral reefs. Barbados has some of the best coral reefs in the Caribbean, and there are many companies that offer boat trips to see them.
  • Visit one of the island’s many historical sites. Barbados is home to a number of historical sites, including the Garrison Savannah, the Barbados Museum, and the Garrison House.

How long do I need to stay in Barbados to see everything?

It depends on what you want to see and do. If you only have a day or two, you can focus on exploring the capital city of Bridgetown and visiting some of the nearby beaches. If you have more time, you can also explore the island’s natural beauty, sample the local cuisine, and take a boat trip to see the coral reefs.

What is the best time of year to visit Barbados?

The best time to visit Barbados is from December to April, when the weather is warm and sunny. The island is also less crowded during this time of year.

What is the weather like in Barbados?

Barbados has a tropical climate with warm weather year-round. The average temperature is 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with highs of 85 degrees Fahrenheit and lows of 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The island gets an average of 25 inches of rain per year, with most of the rain falling in the months of June to November.

What is the currency in Barbados?

The official currency in Barbados is the Barbadian dollar. However, U.S. dollars are also widely accepted.

How do I get from the cruise ship to the city center?

There are a few ways to get from the cruise ship to the city center. You can take a taxi, a bus, or a ferry. Taxis are the most expensive option, but they are also the most convenient. Buses are the cheapest option, but they can be crowded and slow. Ferries are a good option if you are staying in the city center.

What is the best way to get around Barbados?

The best way to get around Barbados is by car. There are also taxis, buses, and ferries available. If you are staying in the city center, you can get around by foot or by bicycle.

What are the best hotels in Barbados?

There are many great hotels in Barbados, catering to all budgets and tastes. Some of the most popular hotels include the Hilton Barbados Resort & Spa, the Royal Barbados Hotel & Spa, and the Sandy Lane Hotel & Golf Club.

What are the best restaurants in Barbados?

Barbados has a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, serving everything from local cuisine to international favorites. Some of the most popular restaurants include The Cliff, The Fish Pot, and The Harbourmaster.

Barbados is a beautiful Caribbean island with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for stunning beaches, lush rainforests, or vibrant nightlife, you’ll find it all in Barbados. And if you’re visiting on a cruise ship, you’ll have plenty of time to explore all that the island has to offer.

Here are a few of the top things to do in Barbados from a cruise ship:

  • Visit the capital city of Bridgetown. Bridgetown is a charming city with plenty of historical sites and attractions to explore. Be sure to visit the Garrison Savannah, the oldest surviving military parade ground in the Western Hemisphere, and the Barbados Museum, which houses a wealth of information about the island’s history and culture.
  • Spend a day at the beach. Barbados has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Some of the most popular beaches include Carlisle Bay, Silver Sands Beach, and Paynes Bay.
  • Explore the island’s rainforests. Barbados is home to several lush rainforests, including the Barbados National Park and the Andromeda Botanical Garden. These rainforests are home to a variety of plants and animals, and they offer stunning scenery.
  • Enjoy the island’s nightlife. Barbados has a vibrant nightlife scene, with everything from casinos and nightclubs to live music and street parties.

No matter what you’re looking for in a Caribbean vacation, you’re sure to find it in Barbados. With its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant nightlife, Barbados is the perfect place to relax and enjoy all that the Caribbean has to offer.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.