South Friars Bay

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Snorkel pristine turquoise waters teeming with tropical fish and colorful coral formations just steps from the black-sand beach.

Currency East Caribbean Dollar (XCD)

Language English

Time Zone AST (UTC-4)

Best Time to Visit Nov–Mar

Typical Duration 14-18 nights

Price Range $2,549–$79,198 per person

Port Type Port of Call

Tender Port Yes

A pristine beach destination in Saint Kitts offering turquoise waters and white sand, ideal for swimming and water activities during Caribbean cruises.

Cruises that visit South Friars Bay

Build Your Day in South Friars Bay

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 5:00 PM

Usually about 9 hours ashore

My ship arrives around: Getting around:

Carambola Beach Club Last stop, the island of St. Kitts. Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 2k

Reggae Beach Bar-Grill Look forward to our next visit to St. Kitts. Grill · ★ 4.5 · 2k Closed · Opens 10 AM Thu

Timothy Hill Overlook This natural beauty is definitely a must-see attraction on St. Kitts. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 1k

Sunshine's Beach Bar & Grill I would say its the best bar/eatery on Nevis or at least in the top 10. Bar · ★ 4.6 · 1k

Dolphin Discovery St Kitts When in St. Kitts this is a must do! Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 1k Closed · Opens 8:30 AM Thu

St. Kitts Scenic Railway Great way to see a big part of the island of Saint Kitts in about 3 hours. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 1k Closed · Opens 7:30 AM Thu

SOHO Lounge, Frigatebay SKB In June our last dinner on St Kitts was the best. Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 0k

Vibes Beach Bar It's a real island style bar. Bar · ★ 4 · 0k

The Monkey Bar | Restaurant and Bar Excellent bar and restaurant on the strip in St. Kitts. Caribbean · ★ 4.4 · 0k

Palms Court Gardens It was my favorite dinner while visiting st Kitts. Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM Thu

Boozies on The Beach Hubby and I were so excited to come here on our final night on St. Kitts. Restaurant · ★ 4.2 · 0k

Fairview Great House & Botanical Gardens This was one of the highlights of my trip to St Kitts. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM Thu

Salt Plage at Christophe Harbour Dine-in·Takeout Caribbean · ★ 4.6 · 0k

Drift Restaurant + V Gallery Highly recommend this as a must stop for lunch and dinner when on Nevis. Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 0k

Frigate Bay It's a sand beach on a Caribbean island, what could be bad? Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 0k

Colors Duty Free Jewellers If you are in Saint Kitts, looking for any jewelry purchase. Jewelry store · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 8:30 AM Thu

The Pelican Shopping Mall A wide range of dutyfree shopping options in downtown Basseterre. Shopping mall · ★ 4 · 0k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM Thu

Orchid Bay Beach House Restaurant Easily the best restaurant on St. Kitts and well worth the expense! Italian · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 5 PM Thu

Cockleshell Bay Beach On the Caribbean side of St. Kitts, short drive over hill from Frigate Bay. Beach pavillion · ★ 4.2 · 0k

La Casa Del Habano St. Kitts Delivery Bar · ★ 4.5 · 0k Open · Closes 9 PM

The Pavilion | Christophe Harbour Great relaxing place for a meal surrounded by blue Caribbean beauty! Caribbean · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM Thu

Mr. X’s Shiggidy Shack Right across the road from our hotel is this Caribbean vibed beach bar. Bar · ★ 4.2 · 0k

The Sommelier's This restaurant should be on the top of your list while visiting St. Kitts. Tapas · ★ 4.8 · 0k

Royal Gems Our grand visit to Saint Kitts enhanced by Vinnie and Royal Gems. Jewelry store · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM Thu

Frigate Bay Beach Catch a cat rode to Nevis , Hanging out @ 4 seasons Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 0k

Barefoot Beach Bar Ate here a few time on our trip to Nevis and loved everything. Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 0k

South Friars Bay South Friars Bay may be (controversial take?) the best beach on St Kitts. Water · ★ 4.4 · 0k

Lion Rock Beach Bar & Grill One of the best beach bars on St. Kitts! Restaurant · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 10:30 AM Thu

Sea Glass Beach St. Kitts - close to the cruise ship port. Tourist attraction · ★ 3.8 · 0k

Oceans Beach Bar Lounge and Aqua Park Ltd My favourite bar in st kits and nevis…. Grill · ★ 4.5 · 0k

Snorkeling Spot We saw a turtle and lots of fish swimming in the shallow waters Tourist attraction · ★ 4.1 · 0k

I LOVE ST. KITTS STORE We visited this shop on vacation to St Kitts. Souvenir store · ★ 3.3 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM Thu

The Olive Tree Artisan Store What a great place to buy local craft souvenirs and Nevis T-shirts!!!! Gift shop · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM Thu

Drop Anchor Grill Stunning view, friendly staff, and some of the best food we had in St Kitts. Restaurant · ★ 4.9 · 0k

Shipwreck The shipwreck is cool to see from the water side. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 0k

Stone Barn Truly amazing fine dining experience at Stone Barn in St Kitts. Restaurant · ★ 5 · 0k

Sun & Fun Beach Bar This little beach bar and especially Shaboomski were absolutely top notch. Bar · ★ 5 · 0k

Gong Beach Best kept secret in St. Kitts Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 0k

Amina Craft Market Anyway, it's a worthwhile shopping experience. Handicraft museum · ★ 3.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM Thu

Blue water Shopping mall · ★ 3.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 8 AM Thu

Paramount Souvenirs & Jewelry I had an amazing experience at Paramount Souvenirs in St. Kitts! Duty free store · ★ 4.9 · 0k Open · Closes 6 AM Thu

Gosssip Gurl Bar & Lounge 10/10🤩best bar and lounge in SKN! Bar · ★ 4.8 · 0k

Old Road Bay Best sunsets on the island Tourist attraction · ★ 5 · 0k

North Friar's Bay Rustic beach for scenic walks Water · ★ 5 · 0k

Sugar Seas Catch & Cook My snorkeling and spearfishing experience with them did not disappoint! Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 0k Temporarily closed

Shoreline Plaza Gift shop · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM Thu

St Kitts Tour Dune buggy and beach Tourist attraction · ★ 5 · 0k

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from South Friars Bay

About South Friars Bay

South Friars Bay serves as a scenic port of call in the Caribbean, welcoming cruise passengers from two distinguished cruise lines: Seabourn and Emerald Cruises. With 77 upcoming cruises and a strong presence during the peak winter months of November through March, this intimate port offers a more exclusive cruising experience compared to larger regional hubs. The typical cruise itinerary from here spans 14 nights, with routes connecting to popular Caribbean destinations including Bridgetown, Sint Maarten, Bequia, and the British Virgin Islands.

Passengers docking at South Friars Bay will find themselves in one of the Caribbean's most picturesque settings, where pristine beaches and warm island hospitality await. Whether you're seeking relaxation on golden sands or a taste of authentic Caribbean culture, this charming port provides the perfect blend of leisure and exploration. The smaller cruise ship focus means a more personalized experience, allowing you to truly connect with the island's natural beauty and local character during your time ashore.

Explore Brimstone Hill Fortress

Perched 800 feet above the island, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers breathtaking panoramic views and fascinating colonial history. The restored 18th-century fortress features impressive stone walls, cannons, and a museum detailing Saint Kitts' strategic military past. It's an unforgettable hike rewarding visitors with vistas spanning neighboring islands and the sparkling Caribbean Sea.

Savor Local Creole Cuisine

Indulge in authentic Saint Kitts flavors at waterfront restaurants near the port, where fresh seafood and traditional dishes like saltfish and johnny cakes dominate menus. Local vendors offer tropical fruits and spiced specialties reflecting Caribbean heritage. The island's rum distillery also welcomes visitors for tastings of world-renowned spirits.

Relax on Pristine Sandy Beaches

South Friars Bay itself boasts a stunning crescent of golden sand fringed by swaying palms and calm turquoise waters. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and spotting colorful tropical fish in shallow areas. Beach bars serve refreshing drinks while you soak in the island's natural beauty and laid-back Caribbean atmosphere.

Shop the Vibrant Local Markets

Wander through bustling market stalls brimming with handcrafted souvenirs, colorful batik fabrics, and local artwork reflecting island culture. Vendors sell fresh tropical produce, spices, and traditional crafts perfect for memorable gifts. The lively atmosphere, friendly merchants, and authentic Caribbean commerce create an immersive cultural shopping experience.

Discover Sugar Plantation Heritage

Visit historic sugar estates that shaped Saint Kitts' colonial economy, many now offering guided tours through lush grounds and restored plantation houses. Learn about the island's complex history while exploring manicured gardens and enjoying panoramic countryside views. Some estates feature museums and rum shops showcasing traditional production methods still used today.

Cruise Lines at South Friars Bay

Seabourn (135 cruises)
Emerald Cruises (4 cruises)

Cruises Departing From South Friars Bay

Cruises Visiting South Friars Bay

Ship Schedule at South Friars Bay

South Friars Bay Location

Other Cruise Ports in Saint Kitts and Nevis

Basseterre, Saint Kitts

Chrishi Beach Club, Nevis

Nevis

Saint Kitts

Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines sail from South Friars Bay, Saint Kitts and Nevis?

Two cruise lines operate from South Friars Bay: Seabourn and Emerald Cruises. Both offer ocean cruises with 77 upcoming sailings available, providing multiple options for Caribbean exploration from this port of call.

When is the best time to cruise from South Friars Bay?

The peak cruise season at South Friars Bay runs from November through March, with the busiest months being December, January, February, and March. This period offers ideal Caribbean weather with lower humidity and minimal rainfall, making it the most popular time to visit the region.

How much do cruises from South Friars Bay cost?

Cruise prices from South Friars Bay range from $2,549 to $79,198.01 per person, depending on the cruise line, ship, cabin type, and itinerary length. Seabourn and Emerald Cruises offer various options across this price spectrum to suit different budgets and preferences.

What destinations can I visit on cruises from South Friars Bay?

Cruises from South Friars Bay visit popular Caribbean destinations including Bridgetown (Barbados), Montserrat, Sint Maarten, Port Elizabeth (Bequia), Great Harbour (Jost Van Dyke), and other nearby islands. These itineraries showcase the natural beauty, culture, and attractions of the Eastern Caribbean.

How do I get from South Friars Bay port to the city and local attractions?

South Friars Bay is located on the southeast peninsula of Saint Kitts, approximately 10-15 minutes from Basseterre, the capital. Taxis are readily available at the port, and many visitors rent cars or join organized shore excursions to explore local beaches, historical sites, and the island's interior attractions.

What can I see and do in a day at South Friars Bay?

South Friars Bay itself features a beautiful sandy beach perfect for swimming and relaxation. In a day port visit, you can enjoy water activities, explore nearby Basseterre's colonial architecture and local markets, visit Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, or take a scenic island tour to experience Saint Kitts' natural beauty and rich history.

Is South Friars Bay a tender port or dock port?

South Friars Bay is primarily a port of call where ships anchor offshore and use tender boats to transport passengers to the beach. The bay's natural anchorage and sandy beach make it an ideal tender port, allowing for easy access to the shore and water activities.