Welcome to Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago: Your Gateway to Paradise
Scarborough, the capital of Tobago, is a vibrant coastal town known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and warm hospitality. Visiting Scarborough on a cruise is an excellent choice for travellers seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences in a picturesque Caribbean setting. Fun fact: Scarborough is home to Fort King George, an 18th-century fortress that offers panoramic views of the town and harbor, providing a glimpse into the island's colonial past!
Activities and Attractions in Scarborough
During your stop in Scarborough, you'll find a variety of exciting activities and sights to immerse yourself in:
- Explore Fort King George: A must-visit historical site, this fort offers stunning views of Scarborough and the surrounding coastline. Stroll through the well-preserved grounds, visit the museum, and learn about Tobago's colonial history.
- Relax at Pigeon Point Beach: Known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Pigeon Point is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The beach is also lined with lively bars serving local dishes and refreshing cocktails.
- Dive and Snorkel: Scarborough offers access to some of the Caribbean's best dive sites. Experience vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and even shipwrecks. Snorkelling trips and diving excursions are available, so you can explore the underwater wonders.
- Visit The Nylon Pool: A stunning natural pool located about 1.5 hours by boat from Scarborough, the Nylon Pool is famous for its shallow, clear waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing. Enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by the beauty of Tobago's coastline.
- Experience Local Culture: Wander through the lively streets of Scarborough, where you can explore local markets and shops. Don’t miss the chance to try traditional Tobagonian dishes and delve into the island's vibrant culture through music and festivals.
Nearby Harbours to Enrich Your Itinerary
Cruises to Scarborough often include stops at these incredible ports:
- Saint John's, Antigua and Barbuda: A charming capital with a rich history, Saint John's features the famous Nelson's Dockyard, beautiful beaches, and vibrant markets. Cruise passengers can explore historic sites or relax on stunning beaches.
- Castries, Saint Lucia: Castries is known for its lush landscapes and vibrant culture. Visitors can take a short boat ride to explore the famous Pitons, go shopping at local markets, or relax on the beautiful beaches nearby.
- Philipsburg, Saint Martin, Netherlands Antilles: Philipsburg is a bustling port with great shopping opportunities and beautiful beaches. Experience duty-free shopping, visit the historic Fort Amsterdam, or relax on Great Bay Beach.
- San Juan, Puerto Rico: The capital city offers a mix of history and modernity. Explore the well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, visit the historic El Morro fortress, and enjoy lively nightlife and delicious Puerto Rican cuisine.
- Saint George's, Grenada: Known as the "Spice Isle," Saint George's is famous for its fragrant spices and stunning harbour views. Visitors can explore historic forts, tour local spice plantations, and relax on the beautiful Grand Anse Beach.
Regions Commonly Visited on Cruises to Scarborough
Cruises sailing to Scarborough typically explore these captivating regions:
- Caribbean: The Caribbean is renowned for its stunning islands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant cultures. It’s an enchanting destination for beach lovers and adventurers alike, offering opportunities to explore places like Barbados, Dominica, and Saint Lucia.
- South America: A continent rich in culture and natural wonders, South America invites exploration of destinations like Brazil and Colombia, known for their stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique wildlife.
- Mediterranean Sea: Rich in history and culture, the Mediterranean boasts popular destinations such as Italy, Greece, and Spain, offering a blend of historical sights and beautiful coastlines.
- Central America: Featuring lush rainforests and impressive wildlife, Central America includes countries like Costa Rica and Panama, where visitors can explore biodiversity and exciting outdoor adventures.
- North America: Home to diverse landscapes and vibrant cities, North America offers experiences ranging from national parks to bustling urban centres like New York City and Los Angeles.
Major Cruise Lines Visiting Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago
- Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet size of 20, Norwegian has 1 ship, Norwegian Sky, that visits Scarborough. Known for their freestyle cruising experience that offers flexibility in dining and entertainment, Norwegian cruises most often depart from Punta Cana.
- Ambassador Cruise Line: With a fleet size of 2, Ambassador has 1 ship, Ambition, that includes Scarborough on its itinerary. Known for their focus on friendly service and immersive experiences, Ambassador cruises usually depart from Tilbury, London.
- Azamara Cruises: With a fleet size of 4, Azamara features 1 ship, Azamara Quest, visiting Scarborough. Known for their small-ship experience offering personalised service and immersive shore excursions, Azamara cruises usually depart from San Juan or Bridgetown.
- Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of 8, Oceania has 1 ship, Insignia, that includes Scarborough on its itinerary. Renowned for their focus on fine dining and culturally enriching experiences, these cruises typically depart from Miami or Bridgetown.
- Explora Journeys: With a fleet size of 2, Explora has 2 ships, EXPLORA II and EXPLORA I, that visit Scarborough. Known for their luxurious experience and exclusive itineraries, these cruises often depart from San Juan or Bridgetown.
- Silversea: With a fleet size of 13, Silversea has 1 ship, Silver Moon, that visits Scarborough. Renowned for their all-inclusive luxury experiences with personalised service, these cruises typically depart from Willemstad/Curaçao or Bridgetown.
- Regent Seven Seas Cruises: With a fleet size of 6, Regent has 1 ship, Seven Seas Splendor, offering itineraries that include Scarborough. Known for their high-end service and exceptional all-inclusive offerings, these cruises usually depart from Bridgetown or Miami.
Visiting Scarborough Throughout the Year
- Winter (December, January, February): Average temperatures range from 23°C to 29°C. This is the peak tourist season, offering sunny weather and warm ocean temperatures ideal for beach activities.
- Spring (March, April, May): Expect temperatures between 24°C and 30°C. Spring remains warm, with occasional showers providing a refreshing break from the heat, making it a great time for outdoor exploration.
- Summer (June, July, August): Average temperatures can reach 26°C to 31°C. The summer months may experience brief rainfall, but you can still enjoy the beautiful beaches and local festivals during this lively season.
- Autumn (September, October, November): Temperatures typically range from 25°C to 30°C. Autumn is warm and generally less crowded, providing a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying local attractions and the stunning natural surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions about Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago
What is the typical cost of a cruise?
The typical cost of a cruise to Scarborough generally starts around $1,000 for a week-long itinerary and can reach up to $2,500 for two weeks. Luxury cruises may start from $4,000 for one week and exceed $10,000 for two weeks, depending on amenities and experiences offered.
What should I expect for the costs of food and beverages?
Onboard dining generally ranges from $20 to $70 for specialty dining options, while beverages typically cost between $8 and $18 for cocktails or drinks.
What are some dining and shopping possibilities?
Savour local cuisine in Scarborough by trying traditional dishes and fresh seafood. Look for shopping opportunities at craft markets and local arts and crafts stores for unique souvenirs.
What are transportation options?
Transportation in Scarborough includes taxis, local buses, and rental cars. Walking is also a pleasant way to explore the town and its attractions.
What should I know about the local currency and making payments?
The local currency is the Trinidad and Tobago Dollar (TTD). Credit cards are generally accepted at hotels and restaurants, but it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases and local markets.
What are safety and health tips to be aware of?
Scarborough is generally safe for tourists. However, always be aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings secure, and follow standard safety precautions. Stay hydrated and consider sun protection when outdoors.
What are some helpful language or cultural tips?
The primary language spoken is English, but you might hear local dialects as well. Embracing local customs, such as understanding the importance of hospitality, will enhance your experience while visiting.
With this detailed guide to Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago, it's the perfect time to book your unforgettable cruise holiday via CruiseAway! Dive into the cultural richness, stunning landscapes, and warm atmosphere that this beautiful Caribbean destination has to offer!