I was up earlier than usual today after a relaxing and rejuvenating sleep, ‘though not quite early enough to watch as Queen Victoria berthed at today’s port, Kingstown.  The (again) dramatic backdrop seems to bear a resemblance to both those of Castries, St. Lucia and St. George’s, Grenada. I plan to do what I did previously i.e. explore the terminal facilities and surrounding town and perhaps find a suitable tour to give me some idea of a country I have not yet visited.

This voyage is impressive.  We have arrived at and departed from  each port according to its long since planned itinerary. The temperature on arrival was 25°C and is expected to reach 29°C. However, like yesterday, refreshing torrential downpours may just keep things a little cooler.

16.22 hrs

I left the ship at 11.15 this morning with a desire

to explore the island, believing strongly that I   won’t be passing this way again.  Like St. Lucia and Grenada, the isle of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is dramatic being volcanic, and this, with plenty of rain, very fertile. Banana trees are aplenty and mangos grow like dandelions in the U.K.  Population is 109,991 (at the last count)  The island covers 150 square miles.

It wasn’t long after leaving the terminal that numerous taxi reps were vying for my custom. Damien was my chosen guide who gave me the best possible tour in the time available. It was a superb ride, first inland, then across to the east, back into Kingstown and then out to the west coast where part of the film Pirates of the Caribbean was filmed.  Damien was an excellent tour guide highlighting many interesting sights and sharing much interesting and relevant information.  Below is a selection of attractive photographs taken mainly during a three hour tour of much of the island.

I was impressed with the welcome at the terminal. Inside, a reggae artist encouraged dancing, while a steel band entertained nearer the ship.  It did rain heavily, but between showers when the sun was out, a reasonable 29°C was a frequent occurrence.

Hopefully, I can add more information to dome of  these pictures, which will.(or should) automatically amend this blog on your device. Queen Victoria first called here in 2008 shortly after its maiden voyage. 

Back on board, afternoon tea deputised for lunch. There was a half decent sunset despite much cloud cover.

I may never pass this way again.  Thus, I made the most of my brief visit here.  Soon we shall set sail for Wilemstad, Curacao, where we arrive the day after tomorrow.

Many thanks for reading,

David, 19.00 hrs outside on Deck 9  It is now dark, gone 7 pm and we are still awaiting the Pilot.