Back to Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in /webs/www.islandcruises.com/docs/app/views/pocs/view.thtml on line 18

Things to do & places to see

This is an island that boasts so many beautiful white sand beaches the locals claim to have one for every day of the year. Beyond the sand and water sports, there is historic Nelson's Dockyard, excellent duty-free shopping in St John's and breathtaking views over the English Harbour at Shirley Heights.

Example shore excursions

When you hit dry land, you can trust us to offer a choice of experiences that really gives you a close-up view. See some featured excursions at this port below.

See all shore excursions from Antigua

Nelson's Dockyard and Island Drive (Best Of Antigua)

Come join us for an historical tour to remember. Our courteous and knowledgeable guides are eager to indulge you in the magnificent colonial history of Antigua. Shirley Heights Lookout was once the Naval Base for the British in the Caribbean. The most southerly point in Antigua, this was the principal fortification of the British fleet stationed at English Harbour and named after Sir Thomas Shirley. Here there is a commanding cliff top view over the Atlantic Ocean and English Harbour 487ft above sea level. On a clear day, the volcanic island of Montserrat, 28 miles away, can be seen.  

Blockhouse Ruins -Standing 446ft above the sea atop a sheer cliff above the mighty Atlantic Ocean from where you will overlook Indian Creek where the first Arawak Indians settled and lived. In this modern day, the prestigious St. James' Club on Mamora Bay and Eric Clapton's new house can be viewed from this point. 

Nelson's Dockyard village; named after Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson, was built in 1725, to provide a base for a squadron of ships patrolling the West Indies maintaining England's sea power. Today it is one of the biggest attractions of the eastern Caribbean, being the world's last remaining Georgian naval dockyards still in use today. There will be time to explore the Admiral's Inn, museum, mystery pillars, bakery and admire the sleek yachts tied to the old stone quayside. Refreshments will be served at an 18th century inn.

Unlimited Rum Punch Beach Break

We will take you to Runaway Beach just a short drive away from the pier with one mile of beautiful white sand, fringed by coconut palms and sea grape trees. A welcome rum or fruit cocktail is served upon arrival before being escorted to your complimentary lounge chair, which has been reserved for you on the beach. Umbrellas and hammocks are available for a nominal fee. Then relax and enjoy approximately 2 ½ hours on one of Antigua's finest beaches. Stroll leisurely along the secluded white sand beach; relax by swimming in the clear Caribbean Sea; rent a jet ski; take some photographs and partake of unlimited complimentary fruit or rum punch at your very own beach bar. If you are feeling a little hungry from your morning's activities then lunch and bar snacks are also available at an additional cost. Runaway Beach features changing facilities, restrooms, water sports, freshwater showers as well as a beach bar and restaurant. Your minibus will then be waiting to take you back to the ship