Bridgetown Barbados Cruise Port Guide and One Day Itinerary
This Bridgetown Barbados cruise port guide explains what to do in Barbados and how to plan your one-day visit.
Barbados is a beautiful, tropical island in the far east Caribbean. Though it’s a bit of a trek from other Caribbean islands, it’s a popular destination on a Southern Caribbean cruise.
I visited Barbados on my recent Southern Caribbean cruise and instantly fell in love with the island. I was struck by the beautiful scenery and kind local people.
As with many Caribbean islands, expect a lush green landscape, bright blue waters, and sunny weather.
Keep reading for the best Barbados one day itinerary.
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What to Do in Bridgetown Barbados Cruise Port
Now, the most important part of this Bridgetown Barbados cruise port guide – what to do. As with many Caribbean cruise ports, you could easily spend a day relaxing at the beach or wandering the town.
However, to make the most out of your one day on the island, I highly recommend the following three tours.
Taking a tour in a cruise port is the best way to fit in a lot of activities and learn a lot about the destination in a short period of time.
1. Barbados Snorkel Tour
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Carlisle Bay Turtle and Shipwreck Boat Cruise
✅ Glass bottom boat
✅ 2 popular snorkeling stops
If you have read any of my other Caribbean cruise port guides, you know I almost always recommend snorkeling. There is something so special about the warm, clear Caribbean waters that I cannot get enough of.
That said, if you are trying to decide what port is the best for snorkeling, I highly recommend doing it in Barbados.
This tour, and a lot of others, include a snorkel at an area known for sea turtles and a snorkel at a sunken shipwreck. Both sites are full of unique sea life.
During my recent trip to Barbados, I went on a snorkel tour through Royal Caribbean. It was a great experience, but this tour will get you the same experience for about a quarter of the cost.
The only disclaimer I have is while the sites will be busy, with many other tours visiting, I didn’t find it uncomfortable or overcrowded.
2. Rum and Plantation Tour
I jokingly referred to my recent Southern Caribbean cruise as “rum week” based off how much rum was consumed on board and in ports.
Rum is the unofficial official liquor of the Caribbean and is a staple on the islands.
This Rum and Plantation tour will give you the opportunity to learn about the history of rum distilling, the process of making rum, and other aspects of Barbadian history.
You will also have the opportunity to taste different types of rum.
If you are burnt out on the sun or water, or are a history buff, this is a great and unique tour for you.
3. Hike and Bike Tour
Saving the best for last, this is the tour I would have chosen if I’d known about it prior to my visit. This tour is great for adventurers and active travelers.
The tour starts in a small fishing village, where you set off on a 6 km hike along the coast where a train line used to run. From there, you will hop on an electric bike to continue along the coast.
The tour wraps up with a snack and swim at the beach. I love this tour because it is unique to what you will often find as excursion options. Its also the perfect mix of active and scenic.
One Day Itinerary for Bridgetown Barbados
With one day in Barbados, I recommend taking a tour in the morning then spending the afternoon at your leisure exploring the town or relaxing at the beach.
With one day in Barbados, I would choose to take the bike and hike tour in the morning to get in a bit of exercise and see the island. I’d then spend the afternoon lounging on the beach with a pina colada.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bridgetown Barbados
Before we dive into this Bridgetown Barbados cruise port guide, here are some quick answers to the most common questions about the destination.
When is the best time to visit Barbados?
Barbados is great all year apart from hurricane season is late-summer and early-fall. The rest of the year, expect sunshine and warm weather.
How to get to Barbados?
There are direct flights to Barbados on major airlines from the East Coast USA, South America, and Europe.
What is the official currency of Barbados?
The official currency of Barbados is the Barbadian dollar, but the US dollar is widely accepted.
What is the official language of Barbados?
The official language of Barbados is English.
Where to Stay in Barbados
If you get to stay in Barbados overnight, there are many great hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals to choose from. To help narrow it down, below are my two favorite resorts in Barbados.
I have never had a bad experience in a Fairmont Resort. They always have a high standard of service, luxury, and quality amenities.
The Fairmont Royal is a great resort for a romantic vacation in Barbados. At this resort, they have beach access, a great pool, three restaurants, and amazing water views from the rooms.
For a family-friendly, all-inclusive, the Sugar Bay Resort is a great option. The large rooms have costal décor, and great views.
Since it’s an all-inclusive, all food and beverages are included in the room price. The resort has beach access, a pool, a full-service spa, and 4 restaurants.
Summary of this Bridgetown Barbados Cruise Port Guide
Whether you choose to squeeze in an excursion and another activity or simply lounge on the beach all day, I am sure you will love your time in Barbados.
If you have extra time on the island, enjoy your resort, but don’t forget to get out and explore the island as well.
For more Caribbean cruise port guides and tips, check out my complete guide to a Southern Caribbean cruise.
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