BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS

This exciting tour will take us on a complete circle around the entire island, by a combination of 17 ½ miles of rail and 11 ½ miles of road.The narrow gauge railroad was built almost a century ago, to deliver sugar cane from the fields to the sugar mills in the capital city of Basseterre.

The St Kitts Scenic Railway has been in operation only since January 2003, but has already seen many happy visitors pass through her carriages. This exciting tour will take us on a complete circle around the entire island, by a combination of 17 ½ miles of rail and 11 ½ miles of road.The narrow gauge railroad was built almost a century ago, to deliver sugar cane from the fields to the sugar mills in the capital city of Basseterre. This still-operational railway (obviously renovated and upgraded) now provides a fascinating way to see verdant St Kitts from the comfort of double-decker railcars, built specifically for touring. The upper level features a spacious open-air observation deck from which we can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The lower deck is air-conditioned for comfort, with expansive vaulted windows. We will have a seat on both levels. The comfortable rattan furniture, complimentary speciality drinks, island music and colourful narrative history evoke the island ambience. We board the train for a memorable journey of around 2 hours. The railway hugs the north-eastern coastline, with rippling fields of sugar cane stretching from the shoreline up to the mountains. The high volcanic mountain ranges, covered with lush green rainforests, rise nearly 1,200 metres (4,000 feet) above sea level. The train rolls across tall steel bridges spanning deep ‘ghuts’ (canyons), and winds through small villages and farms. Our narrator will point out old sugar estates, abandoned sugar mills and windmills, while giving an insight into the island’s unique history. After our relaxing train journey, we board a bus to begin a scenic drive along the south coast of St Kitts. We will enjoy excellent vistas of Brimstone Fortress, and the neighbouring island of Nevis. Following a truly unique experience, we rejoin our ship in Basseterre.Please note that this tour may operate in reserve – we may enjoy a scenic drive first before joining the train. Minimal walking is involved, however, there are 3 steps to board the train and 7 to reach the upper level. Please note that it is illegal to wear camouflage in St Kitts.

DESCRIPTIONS CORRECT FOR 2007 CARIBBEAN SEASON