Basseterre Cruises
First spotted – and named – by Christopher Columbus, St. Kitts and Nevis were the first Caribbean islands to have a British colony, although they gained independence some 350 years later in 1983. Basseterre was actually established by the French in the 17th century and the town has much of its Georgian architecture still in situ. The Scenic Railway journey here is said to be one of the most attractive in the world, originally built to transport sugar cane round the island.
Top Experiences
St Kitts Scenic Railway
The St Kitts Scenic Railway was originally built between 1912 and 1926 to deliver sugar cane from the fields to the sugar mill in Basseterre. It’s truly one of the island’s top attractions. Today this narrow gauge railway – dubbed ‘the last railway in the West Indies’ – offers visitors the opportunity to admire unspoilt scenery during what is considered to be one of the world’s most beautiful train rides.
Military History
Designed by the British and built by African slaves, the well-preserved Brimstone Hill Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site of great historical, cultural and architectural importance. More battles have been fought here than at any other site in British or French naval history. Known as the ‘Gibraltar of the Caribbean’ during its heyday – due to its imposing height and proximity to the sea – the fortress is located upon a 40-acre hilltop, over 235 metres (770 feet) above sea level. It boasts simply spectacular views over the Kittitian coastline and countryside.
Cruises to Basseterre
Island-Hopping in the Caribbean • S2501
- Enjoy an island-hopping cocktail of winter sun and fascinating culture
- Learn about the history of St. John's at English Harbour
- Encounter marine life in Dominica and Barbados
Discovering the World's Idyllic Islands & Iconic Cities • T2602
- Explore some of the world's most idyllic islands
- Discover iconic cities such as Sydney and Kuala Lumpur
- Experience native wildlife, flora and fauna
Discovering the World's Idyllic Islands & Iconic Cities • T260102
- Uncover a treasure trove of picture-perfect islands
- Explore some of the world's most iconic cities
- Embark on a cruise packed with diverse wildife
Discovering the World's Idyllic Islands & Iconic Cities • T260107
- Discover an abundance of paradise islands
- Explore some of the world's most awe-inspiring cities
- Encounter diverse cultures, rich wildlife and marine life