Best of Antigua
Duration: 3 1/2 hours
Tour Code: SJH-001
Antigua has a beautiful national park in which lies the famous English Harbor and Nelson's Dockyard, named after Horatio Nelson. Journey through the center of the island and appreciate the history, architecture, music and culture that this unique place has to offer. Drive past quaint villages where old churches, rum shops and small chattel houses showcase the West Indian style and culture.
Your first stop will be at Dow's Hill, offering one of the best panoramic views on the island - perfect for taking photos. Take a short guided tour of the area and enjoy a multimedia presentation at the onsite visitors' center. From here, you will proceed to the Blockhouse Ruins, standing 446 feet above the Atlantic Ocean on a sheer cliff. In 1787, this was a principal lookout post for the British. The remains of the powder magazine, gun platforms, water catchment, officer's barracks and 32-pound cannon can be seen. You can also see the prestigious St. James Club on Marmora Bay and the home of musician Eric Clapton.
Take a drive to Shirley Heights Lookout, the southernmost point in Antigua. Be sure to enjoy the sweeping views of the harbor and ocean far below. On a clear day, you may even be able to see the volcanic island of Montserrat, located 28 miles out to sea.
Conclude your fun day with a visit to Nelson's Dockyard Village, one of the most popular attractions in the eastern Caribbean. This naval base was built in 1725 to provide a base for a squadron of ships patrolling the West Indies to maintain England's sea power. The Georgian naval dockyards are still in use today. Enjoy a complimentary beverage at an 18th-century inn, and explore the museum, mystery pillars and bakery. Admire the sleek yachts tied to the old stone quay before you return to the ship.