Antigua is one of the most popular cruise ports in the Eastern Caribbean, welcoming over 800,000 passengers each season at Heritage Quay in St. John's. Ships from Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Celebrity, and Norwegian dock within walking distance of duty-free shopping, historic sites, and stunning beaches. Explore our guide to cruise lines, shore excursions, and port facilities to make the most of your day ashore.
Over 300 cruise ships call at St. John's Heritage Quay every season. Step off the gangway into duty-free shopping, world-class beaches and Caribbean adventures — all within easy reach of the pier.
8+
Cruise Lines
300+
Ships per Season
Nov–Apr
Season
800K+
Passengers/Year
Major cruise lines visiting Antigua — browse each for ships, schedules and shore excursions.
Heritage Quay, St. John's
The 'Fun Ship' line known for lively entertainment, value pricing, and family-friendly Caribbean cruises.
Heritage Quay, St. John's
One of the world's largest cruise lines, featuring mega-ships with innovative onboard entertainment and Caribbean itineraries.
Heritage Quay, St. John's
From £799
Contemporary
Heritage Quay, St. John's
From $949
Contemporary
Heritage Quay, St. John's
From $649
Contemporary
Heritage Quay, St. John's
From $849
Contemporary
Heritage Quay, St. John's
From $999
Contemporary
Heritage Quay, St. John's
From $799
Contemporary
Heritage Quay and Redcliffe Quay — Antigua's cruise terminals are located right in the heart of St. John's, the island capital.
Duty-free shopping complex right at the cruise terminal. Designer brands, Caribbean crafts, jewellery and souvenirs.
Historic waterfront area with boutique shops, cafés, restaurants and art galleries. A 5-minute walk from the pier.
Government-licensed taxis and tour operators available at the port. Set fares to all major attractions.
Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority information desk at the terminal with maps, guides and recommendations.
Antigua's cruise season runs from November to April, with peak months seeing up to 45 ships per month.
November
15–20
ship visits
December
30–40
ship visits
January
35–45
ship visits
February
35–45
ship visits
March
30–40
ship visits
April
15–25
ship visits
Make the most of your day in Antigua — from beach breaks and snorkelling trips to historical tours and adventure activities.
Sail along the coast, snorkel over coral reefs, and enjoy a beach BBQ at a secluded bay.
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, explore restored Georgian buildings and climb Shirley Heights for panoramic views.
Explore Antigua's rugged interior, visit Devil's Bridge, Betty's Hope sugar plantation and hidden beaches.
Wade into shallow waters and interact with friendly southern stingrays in their natural habitat.
Relax on Antigua's most popular white-sand beach with sun loungers, water sports and beachside service.
Soar through the canopy on zip lines at Antigua Rainforest Canopy Tour with suspension bridges.
The Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$) is the local currency, but US Dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards work at most shops and restaurants. ATMs are available near the port.
Licensed taxis wait at the port with government-set fares. Island tour (3-4 hours) costs $100-150 USD. Public buses run along main routes for EC$2.50-3.75. Car rental is also available.
Fort James Beach is a 10-minute drive from Heritage Quay. Dickenson Bay (15 min) offers sun loungers and watersports. Jolly Beach (25 min) has over a mile of white sand. Explore all beaches.
Heritage Quay offers duty-free jewellery, watches, electronics and spirits. Redcliffe Quay has local art, crafts and boutiques. Bargaining is acceptable at craft stalls.
Nelson's Dockyard (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Shirley Heights lookout, Devil's Bridge, Betty's Hope plantation, and the stunning 365 beaches. Browse activities.
Free Wi-Fi is available at Heritage Quay. Local SIM cards can be purchased from Digicel or FLOW near the port. Most restaurants and hotels offer complimentary Wi-Fi.
Make the most of your port call with our travel resources.
Let us help you find the perfect cruise that includes Antigua. Tell us your preferences and our team will recommend the best options — cruise lines, cabin types, itineraries and shore excursions.
8+ cruise lines with Antigua itineraries
From budget-friendly to ultra-luxury
November to April cruise season
Peak months: December through March
Heritage Quay dockside access
Walk straight into downtown St. John's
Our team can help with cruise line recommendations, shore excursion planning and everything you need for your Antigua port call.
