So, your cruise either begins or ends in Barbados—lucky you! Honestly, I’d suggest extending your stay because this little Caribbean gem is far too fabulous to just wave at from the ship’s deck. Whether you’re squeezing in one night before embarkation or a few days after docking, here’s my very personal, slightly cheeky guide to making the most of Barbados.
Where to Stay
1. Hilton Barbados Resort (Bridgetown)
Perfect if you want to be close to the cruise port and can’t be bothered with long transfers. The Hilton sits on a gorgeous stretch of beach, and yes—the swim-up bar is a thing.
2. The Crane Resort (St. Philip)
If you’re in the mood for romance (or just pretending to be a movie star), The Crane is dreamy. It’s one of the oldest operating hotels in the Caribbean, perched above a pink-hued beach that will make your Instagram followers very jealous.
3. Little Arches Boutique Hotel (Oistins)
Small, chic, and oh-so-friendly. This adults-only spot feels like a secret hideaway. It’s perfect if you want a quieter vibe before diving back into reality.
Of course you might want to stay somewhere else on Barbados. For more hotel choices, please click here
Where to Eat
1. Oistins Fish Fry
If you’re here on a Friday night, cancel all other plans. Oistins is where locals and visitors gather for fresh-grilled fish, music, and dancing under the stars. It’s messy, it’s lively, it’s absolutely perfect.
2. Champers (Christ Church)
This is the spot if you want a romantic dinner overlooking the water. Expect fine dining with a Bajan twist and a wine list that’ll make you linger a little longer.
3. Cuz’s Fish Shack (Carlisle Bay)
Simple, affordable, and legendary. Grab a fish cutter (basically a glorious fish sandwich) before or after the beach. Locals swear by it, and after one bite, you will too.
for many more food and drink experiences please click here.
What to Do (Besides Sip Rum Punch, Obviously)
1. Explore Harrison’s Cave
Hop on a tram and journey through sparkling limestone caves. It feels like Mother Nature’s private chandelier showroom.
2. Hit Carlisle Bay
This bay is calm, clear, and sprinkled with shipwrecks you can snorkel over. Bonus: sea turtles often swim by to say hello.
3. St. Nicholas Abbey & Heritage Railway
Yes, it’s called an “abbey,” but it’s actually a historic plantation house with its own rum distillery. Sip some fine rum, then hop on the little train that chugs through the sugar cane fields.
4. Mount Gay Rum Distillery Tour
Speaking of rum—this is the birthplace of the good stuff. The tours are fun, educational (sort of), and deliciously boozy.
for many more activities and atrractions suggestions please click here
Final Tip
Whether you’re a pre-cruise adventurer or a post-cruise relaxer, Barbados is more than just a pit stop. Stay a little longer, eat a lot of flying fish, and don’t be surprised if you start plotting your next trip back before your cruise ship even sails away.
Set Sail with Ambassador Cruise Line from Barbados
Ambassador isn’t just another cruise line. It’s a fresh face in the cruise world, offering a more personal, friendly, and relaxed style of cruising. Think less “over-the-top glitz” and more “warm welcomes, fantastic destinations, and proper value for money.”
For Bajan travellers (and savvy visitors), it’s the perfect way to explore without the hassle. Step onboard, unpack once, and let the adventures unfold.
Fly from London or Manchester with chartered flights onboard Virgin Airlines.
for more information on Ambassador Cruise Line please click here