Charlestown, Nevis cruise port guide

About Charlestown, Nevis

Charlestown is the capital of Nevis, the smaller of the two volcanic islands that make up Saint Kitts and Nevis, lying approximately 3 km southeast of St. Kitts across the shallow channel known as The Narrows. The island is celebrated for its lush tropical scenery, rare birds, vervet monkeys, and restored British colonial fortifications. It holds particular historical significance as the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton and as one of the earliest European-settled islands in the Caribbean.

Nevis's most distinctive draw is its population of vervet monkeys — said to have been introduced by pirates — which can be encountered on forested trails and will approach visitors who offer fruit. Several restored British fortifications are accessible, reconstructed with considerable historical detail. History enthusiasts visit in connection with the island's role as the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton (born 1755 or 1757). Water-based excursions — catamaran sailing and snorkeling — are offered by operators including Blue Water Safaris and Leeward Island Charters, both based in the wider Saint Kitts and Nevis area. Visitors combining both islands can join the famous scenic narrow-gauge railway tour on St. Kitts, which runs in double-decker open-topped cars with onboard Caribbean choirs; advance booking is essential as it does not operate daily and sells out when multiple cruise ships are in port.