St. Lucia cruises, Windward Islands

Your scenic delights begin as you wend your way through the hills and villages 2,000 feet into the St Lucian mountains.

At the Rainforest Sky Rides Base, you’ll embark on a fabulous Aerial Tram ride through the forest canopy. The 16 open-air gondolas seat up to 8 passengers and a naturalist guide, travelling at a leisurely pace to see the forest treasures.

Venture high into the mature Caribbean oceanic rainforest, nurtured by warm gentle rains and rich volcanic soil. Relax as the gondolas safely glide through and over the treetops, where knotted and woody vines wind to the top of the old forest trees.

See the dense thickets of vegetation merging with the wild flowers and colourful berries. Smell the fragrant flowering trees of Giant Chatannier, Magnolia and Gommier.

After experiencing the forest from above, you’ll take a 20-30 minute walk to explore the forest at ground level.

Before leaving, enjoy a refreshing drink at the Hummingbird Café.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by minibus and aerial tram. The drive to the Rainforest Park is not narrated. The forest walk is optional and only suitable for those in good physical condition. There is uneven ground and numerous steps to negotiate. Comfortable, flat, closed toe shoes are essential. Those not wishing to partake in the walk will have free time at the refreshment area, until the group returns. Passengers are advised to take protection from the rain. There are a few steps to negotiate boarding the gondolas. The Aerial Tram Park is non-smoking.

Setting off from the port, your drive will take you through Castries and head in a northerly direction toward the Rodney Bay area.

Upon arrival, you’ll be taken to Reduit Beach where a sun chair and a complimentary drink await.

After your stay, you’ll meet at the agreed time for the return drive to the ship.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach. The journey time to Rodney Bay is around 30 minutes each way. This tour is inclusive of transfers, beach chair and a complimentary drink. Umbrellas are not included but may be available for hire, payable locally. The beach can become busy and you may experience local vendors selling goods. There are toilet facilities available. Passengers are reminded to wear swimwear, take a towel and sunscreen. Please refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages prior to swimming. US Dollars are accepted for purchases. There may be independent suppliers on the beach that offer watersports. These are provided by parties unconnected to P&O Cruises.

Relax on a panoramic island drive and pause for photos at Morne Fortune – the hilltop spot which overlooks Castries and its harbour – and the Marigot Bay viewpoint. The latter reveals mesmerising coastal scenes of emerald palms, white shores and electric-blue water.

Receive a warm welcome on the balcony of the plantation house on the historic Rabot Estate, St Lucia’s oldest cocoa plantation, which is now owned by British company Hotel Chocolat. Your host will introduce you to the process of bean tasting, de-shelling, grinding and recipe formulation.

Roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty! With the help of your guide, it’s time to shell, grind and pound the cocoa beans and make your own delicious chocolate bar. By now, your mouth will surely be watering. So, sit back and savour the beautiful views of the Piton mountains while enjoying a lunch of savoury and sweet dishes inspired by cacao cuisine.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by minibus and on foot. Participants on this tour must be aged 18 years and over. The drive to Soufriére is around 1½ hours and includes winding roads. This tour involves some walking over varying terrain, which includes steps. During the chocolate making there is no seating and passengers will be required to stand for the duration. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended. Passengers will be hand-making chocolate therefore casual clothing is recommended.