Cruise port Scarborough
Port information & tips for Scarborough
Scarborough is the charming capital of Tobago and welcomes travelers with a successful blend of authentic Caribbean flair and historical heritage. The city is picturesquely situated on Rockly Bay and captivates with its colorful buildings and a relaxed atmosphere that reflects the original character of the island. Highlights in the immediate vicinity include the majestic Fort King George with its impressive views, as well as the idyllic Scarborough Botanical Garden and the lively local market. Cruise ships dock at the centrally located Scarborough Cruise Ship Terminal in the Deep Water Harbour, from which the city center and the most important sights are easily accessible within a few minutes' walk.
The port of Scarborough on Tobago is a popular destination in the Caribbean and is primarily accessible via the nearby A.N.R. Robinson International Airport. Travel from the DACH region usually takes place via Fly & Cruise; due to the long flight time, a pre-cruise overnight stay is recommended. The port features a main terminal for cruise ships.
Airplane
The nearest airport is A.N.R. Robinson International Airport (TAB) in Crown Point, Tobago, located approximately 12 to 15 kilometers west of Scarborough. Flights from the DACH region generally require at least one stopover, often through hubs such as London (Gatwick), Frankfurt, or Miami.
Transfer & Shuttle
From A.N.R. Robinson International Airport, you can easily reach the port of Scarborough by taxi in about 20 to 30 minutes. In addition, some cruise lines and local tour operators offer organized shuttle transfers that lead directly from the airport to the cruise terminal.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to international long-haul flights and potential time differences, it is advisable to spend at least one night on Tobago before embarkation. In Crown Point, near the airport, or in Scarborough itself, you will find various hotels and guesthouses that allow for a relaxed start to your cruise.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually include a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always observe the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times may change at short notice.
The port of Scarborough on Tobago is a popular destination in the Caribbean and is primarily accessible via the nearby A.N.R. Robinson International Airport. Travel from the DACH region usually takes place via Fly & Cruise; due to the long flight time, a pre-cruise overnight stay is recommended. The port features a main terminal for cruise ships.
Airplane
The nearest airport is A.N.R. Robinson International Airport (TAB) in Crown Point, Tobago, located approximately 12 to 15 kilometers west of Scarborough. Flights from the DACH region generally require at least one stopover, often through hubs such as London (Gatwick), Frankfurt, or Miami.
Transfer & Shuttle
From A.N.R. Robinson International Airport, you can easily reach the port of Scarborough by taxi in about 20 to 30 minutes. In addition, some cruise lines and local tour operators offer organized shuttle transfers that lead directly from the airport to the cruise terminal.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to international long-haul flights and potential time differences, it is advisable to spend at least one night on Tobago before embarkation. In Crown Point, near the airport, or in Scarborough itself, you will find various hotels and guesthouses that allow for a relaxed start to your cruise.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually include a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always observe the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times may change at short notice.
The Scarborough Cruise Terminal impresses with its central location and provides you with direct access to the vibrant island capital of Tobago. Thanks to the immediate proximity to the city center, you can comfortably reach many sights and markets in just a few steps.
On Foot
Scarborough city center and the colorful local market are located directly outside the port exit and can be reached in about 5 to 10 minutes. A walk of around 20 minutes also leads you up to the historic Fort King George, from where you can enjoy an expansive view over the coast.
Taxi & Route Taxis
Official taxis wait directly at the terminal building and offer quick connections to the popular beaches in the west of the island. A typical local feature is the Route Taxis, which travel fixed routes and are recognizable by an H on the license plate, making travel on Tobago particularly flexible.
Maxi Taxis
These blue-and-white marked minibuses run regularly from the nearby bus station and connect the port with more remote coastal towns. They represent an authentic and inexpensive way to explore the island while simultaneously immersing yourself in local life.
To make the most of your stay in Scarborough, a combination of the historical heritage high above the bay and the paradisical beaches of the southwest coast is recommended.
Fort King George
The history-steeped 18th-century fortress towers majestically over the harbor and offers a fascinating insight into the island's history thanks to its well-preserved architecture and integrated museum. From the well-kept gardens, a spectacular panoramic view of the coastline and the glittering Caribbean Sea also opens up.
Pigeon Point Heritage Park
Known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, this section of coastline impresses with its iconic thatched-roof pier and is perfect for a relaxing day by the turquoise water thanks to the short drive. The gentle surf and fine white sand create an idyllic backdrop, ideal for relaxed hours under palm trees or a trip to the nearby Nylon Pool coral reef.
Scarborough Market
In the lively city center in the immediate vicinity of the harbor, visitors can expect an authentic atmosphere full of colors and scents, with the local market being the ideal destination for buying exotic spices and island-typical handicrafts. A stroll through the bustling streets also allows for an unadulterated look at the warm hospitality and vibrant cultural life of the islanders.
Pigeon Point Heritage Park
Pigeon Point Heritage Park is considered the epitome of Caribbean beauty and is easily accessible from the port in Scarborough in about twenty-five minutes by taxi. This award-winning stretch of coastline impresses with its fine white coral sand, palms gently swaying in the wind, and the world-famous thatched-roof jetty, which offers a perfect photo opportunity. Thanks to an excellent infrastructure with comfortable sun loungers, well-maintained sanitary facilities, and inviting beach bars serving cool drinks and local delicacies, this place is ideal for a completely relaxed day by the sea. It is best to take advantage of the early morning hours directly after docking to enjoy the idyllic peace before the arrival of larger excursion groups, and plan your return trip to the ship no later than ninety minutes before departure.
The Port of Scarborough is located right on the edge of the city center, making the return to the ship particularly easy and time-saving.
Taxi
Official taxis are recognizable by license plates starting with the letter H and are available for the return journey at popular excursion destinations such as Pigeon Point Heritage Park or Store Bay. In the city, you will also find a central taxi stand on Carrington Street, and thanks to fixed rates and good availability, you can return to the terminal safely and on time.
Local Transport (Maxi-Taxis)
Shared taxis, known as Maxi-Taxis, offer an authentic and affordable way to return and head to the large terminal at the lower end of the city. From there, you can reach the cruise terminal after a short walk along the Scarborough Esplanade, leading you directly to the port entrance.
On Foot
Sights such as the local market or the historic Fort King George are located in the immediate vicinity and are easily accessible via paved paths. The way back simply leads you downhill towards the harbor basin, where the cruise ship, thanks to its size, provides excellent orientation and clearly marks the way to the pier.
