More about Grenada
Why go to Grenada?
Lush botanical gardens, waterfalls and a wealth of spices make shopping and sightseeing a delight
Grand Anse is a beautiful beach close to the cruise port; expect major crowding when multiple ships call
Grenada is a lively Southern Caribbean port with history, shopping and sun
Grenada Cruise Port Facilities?
Those docked at the Melville Street Cruise Terminal are within walking distance of the major sights of St. George's, including the Grenada National Museum, Market Square and several pretty churches. The Carenage and the city's forts are just a quick cab ride (or, in the case of Fort George, a steep walk) away. Those docked at the Carenage can enjoy the area's duty-free shops and waterfront restaurants or walk to nearby St. George's.
Busy port days bring up to three ships, but the vibe here, while bustling, lacks the hustle of some islands. The world-famous Grand Anse Beach is only a 10-minute cab ride away from the port. Many of Grenada's hotels are located at Grand Anse, as are numerous water-sports operators who can help you arrange activities such as diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, parasailing and kayaking.
Good to Know?
The streets in St. George's are steep, with deep gutters running under very narrow sidewalks. Make sure you watch where you are going so you don't turn an ankle -- or worse.
Getting Around?
On Foot: Ships dock within walking distance of downtown St. George's, which boasts shopping, dining, historic forts, churches and a museum.
By Taxi: Cabs are plentiful at the cruise terminals and in downtown St. George's. The government of Grenada sets the rates; a trip from St. George's to the Grand Anse Beach area is $10. (You can also take a water taxi from the Carenage to Grand Anse for about $4.) Private or group tours can be arranged with cab drivers, with average hourly rates running about $25; make sure you agree upon a price ahead of time. A two-and-a-half-hour tour hitting four highlights -- Grand Etang National Park, Grand Etang Lake, Annandale Falls and Fort Frederick -- costs about $70 for one to four people.
By Bus: Grenada's colorful local buses -- essentially vans that bear personalized monikers like "Upper Level," "Hot Boys" and "Spectacular" -- are the most cost-effective way to move about Grenada. Available from St. George's for most short rides (such as the Grand Anse beach area), bus rides can cost as little as 75 cents. The trip from Melville Street Cruise Terminal to Grand Anse costs $1.
By Car: Grenadians drive on the left side of the road. Driving permits are required; they cost between $11 and $12 and can be purchased from car rental agencies. Local companies include Y&R Car Rentals (473-444-4448) and Indigo Car Rentals (473-439-3300). Rates start at $60 a day and $63 a day, respectively.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
Grenada's local currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar. You can use American dollars around the island, though you may receive change in the local currency. ATMs are plentiful in St. George's and other major tourist areas. For the latest exchange rates, please visit www.xe.com.
Language?
English is the official language spoken in Grenada. You will also hear a French-African patios spoken by the locals.
Where You're Docked?
Most ships dock at the Melville Street Cruise Terminal, which exits through the Esplanade Shopping Mall and then out into downtown St. George's. Other (mostly smaller) ships dock nearby at the Carenage, a horseshoe-shaped waterfront area with shops and restaurants.
