With a panoramic lookout across the island, this is also one of the best spots to mingle with the locals and enjoy steel drum music, Caribbean barbeque, and cinnamon-spiced rum. Shirly Heights (Photo Credit: David Stanley / Creative Commons) 4. Mingle Like a Local at Shirley Heightsįor yet another spot to take in the beauty of Antigua, Shirley Heights is a must-visit location. On a calm day, visibility is about 100-feet (30 meters) and you can expect to see plenty of fish swimming on the coral reef, turtles, the iconic sunken yacht wreck, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned scuba diver or prefer snorkeling, this is a family-friendly spot known for its impeccable visibility and a huge diversity of sea creatures. While you’re in Antigua, it only makes sense to explore its incredible underwater sea life with a scuba or snorkeling tour. Bear in mind that the hike takes an average of three hours to the summit, and you’ll be hiking through lush jungle trails. The reward at the summit of Mount Obama is unhindered, panoramic views across Antigua. Mount Obama (Photo Credit: tshantz / Creative Commons) It’s a challenging climb, but both beginners and experienced hikers can easily complete the track. This is the highest and most scenic point on the entire island - originally known as Boggy Peak. Otherwise, explore the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda or take your pick from an eclectic mix of restaurants to refuel for lunch.ĭon’t miss out on a classic photo opportunity while you’re at the cruise ship port with its many colorful walls - ideal for the Insta feed! 2. Hike to the Summit of Mount Obama John’s, Antigua (Photo Credit: byvalet / ) If you don’t feel like straying very far, pop across to Radcliffe Quay, connected to the docking terminal by a boardwalk. John’s, lace-up with a good pair of walking shoes and take to the streets to explore the island nation’s capital for the day.Īll of the city’s iconic landmarks are within walking distance of the cruise terminal. Discover These Things to Do in Antigua With Cruise Hiveġ.14. Get a Taste of Antiguan Heritage at Fort Berkeley.Get To Know Antigua From a Local Perspective 8. Take In the Natural Wonder of Devil’s Bridge.Discover off-the-Beaten Track Paradise at Half Moon Bay 4. Mingle Like a Local at Shirley Heights.
If you are over 11 hours in port you could also visit the Tikal National Park which is home to the Mayan Pyramid of the Great Jaguar, Central Plaza and two large Acropolises. Other than that you can also visit the old Mayan site of Yaxha and Iximche. We do recommend to go with an organised tour because the last thing you would want is to get stranded in the middle of nowhere with a non-functioning taxi. The ride is very scenic and will take you past the famous coffee plantations and volcanoes of Guatemala. From the cruise terminal in Puerto Quetzal the ride to Antigua is 50 miles or about 90 minutes. Antigua lies in higher altitude, 1600 meters above sea level. Visiting the colonial capital Antigua is the most popular thing to do from Puerto Quetzal. There are no fixed prices and depending on your negotiation skills and group size you might pay between 30 and 60 US dollars per person for a trip to Antigua.
Negotiate with a taxi driver or tour guide before you step into the taxi. Note that some of the cars might not be in great technical condition. There are taxis waiting for you when you exit the port.
There are a couple of restaurants and bars where you can get free wi-fi as long as you buy a refreshment. You will be able to buy all your local t-shirts, arts and jewellery. Find them as soon as you step out of the welcoming centre. The cruise terminal offers a small market where you can buy your local souvenirs. US dollars are accepted anywhere in the cruise terminal. When you exit the welcoming centre you will see navigation markers showing you where to find taxi’s, shore excursions, wi-fi, coconuts and beers. Here you will find a tourist information desk, tour desks, a small post office and a local band. From the cruise dock you walk straight into the welcoming centre/cruise terminal. The cruise ships dock at Puerto Quetzal cruise terminal where you will find a lovely large area with all kind of facilities.
One large section of the port is closed off for cruise ships. Puerto Quetzal is a large industrial port. Your cruise ship will dock at Puerto Quetzal.