St. Kitts
St. Kitts & Nevis
Historic Brimstone Hill Fortress, the scenic railway, and excellent provisioning make St. Kitts a popular multi-day sailing destination.
About St. Kitts
St. Kitts is the larger of the two-island Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis, and arguably the most rewarding multi-day sailing destination within easy reach of Antigua. The island punches well above its weight — a UNESCO World Heritage fortress, a working sugar train that circumnavigates the island, a vibrant capital, and excellent provisioning facilities make it a natural stop for extended passages.
Basseterre, the capital, has a charming colonial-era waterfront called the Circus — a smaller, Caribbean version of Piccadilly Circus, complete with a Victorian clock tower. The Marina at Port Zante is modern and well-equipped, with excellent supermarkets nearby for provisioning.
The star attraction, however, is Brimstone Hill Fortress — the "Gibraltar of the West Indies." This perfectly preserved 18th-century fortress sits atop a 244-metre-high volcanic plug and offers sweeping views of six neighbouring islands on a clear day.
Must-See Attractions
Brimstone Hill Fortress
UNESCO World Heritage Site — the best-preserved British fortress in the Caribbean.
St. Kitts Scenic Railway
A narrow-gauge train that circumnavigates the island through former sugar plantations.
Romney Manor & Caribelle Batik
A restored 17th-century estate with a working batik studio and botanical gardens.
Sailing Route from Antigua
Course
290° magnetic from St. John's Harbour
Waypoints
- 1Clear the shoals off Antigua's NW coast
- 2Pass N of Redonda
- 3Approach Basseterre from NE
Hazards & Notes
- • Shoal water E of Basseterre harbour entrance
- • Strong gusts off the flanks of Mount Liamuiga
Timing Tip
Passage is weather-dependent — allow for headwinds on the Antigua-to-Kitts leg
Anchorages & Marinas
Basseterre Roads
30–50 ftModerate — some swell from NE
Check in at Port Authority on arrival. Busy cruise ship area — stay clear of dock.
White House Bay
20–40 ftGood in NE trades
Excellent snorkelling on the wreck of the MV Talata. Quieter than Basseterre.
Marinas
- Port Zante Marina, Basseterre
- Christophe Harbour (south coast)
Insider Tips
The Brimstone Hill tour takes at least 3 hours — start early to avoid the midday heat
Christophe Harbour on the south coast is a more upscale alternative anchorage
The St. Kitts Brewery produces locally brewed Carib beer — worth a visit
Hire a taxi driver as a guide — they're knowledgeable and excellent value