The most remarkable attributes of St Vincent are the result of its volcanic heritage: black sand beaches rim the richly forested mountainous island and the largest city, Kingstown, nestles in high hills and is fronted by a deep bay.

Part of the island's charm is its relative lack of touristy development. There are many things to see and do but the sleepy city and unspoiled scenery emote a rustic, unhurried charm lacking in many other popular Caribbean destinations.

St Vincent's cruise port is located a few minutes away from downtown Kingstown. The port can berth two cruise vessels at a time, and the attractive cruise ship terminal offers passenger amenities such as a gift shop, restaurants, and a tourist information centre.

Contact

www.svgpa.com

Tourist information is available from the cruise ship terminal.

Transport

Kingstown can be comfortably reached on foot from the cruise terminal, and a lot of the small city can likewise be explored on foot. For more distant island attractions, taxis wait just outside the cruise terminal. Privately owned vans circle the island and can be flagged down from the roadside. A ferry connects to other nearby islands. To rent a car, drivers must first purchase a temporary driver's license.

Attractions

Kingstown itself is a fun place to explore, especially the central market and several historic churches. Up the hill there is an extremely interesting and historic botanical garden with a breadfruit tree gifted to the island by Captain Bligh. Great scenic views can be enjoyed on the drive through Mesopotamia Valley and along Queens Drive. Fort Charlotte is also a great climb for views over the city. There are many pristine scuba diving and snorkelling spots all over the coast as well as several small secluded beaches.

Restaurants

The Cobblestone Inn - tasty creole cuisine in a laid-back setting

Bounty - cheap and cheerful local cuisine

Flow Wine Bar - a good variety of meal options in a quiet spot

Best Dish

Callalou soup

Shopping

At the corner of Bay and Bedford streets a lively and colourful market awaits. The cruise ship terminal building also has small souvenir shops but the offerings of the craft stalls on Frenches Street are usually more authentic.

Best Buy

Woven straw items

Excursions

Take a ferry to Bequia

Tour filming location of Pirates of the Caribbean at Wallilabou Bay

Rent a boat to the the Falls of Baleine

Hike four hours to La Soufriere Volcano

Visit historic Fort Charlotte