Dominica, often called “The Nature Island of the Caribbean,” is a true gem nestled between the French islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique in the Eastern Caribbean.
Known for its lush rainforests, waterfalls, hot springs, towering mountains, and pristine rivers, Dominica spans 29 miles long and 16 miles wide, making it easy to explore in a day.
If your cruise ship is docking in Roseau, Dominica’s charming capital, get ready to experience a day filled with outdoor exploration, cultural immersion, and pure Caribbean bliss.
This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the Roseau cruise port and the 10 best things to do while you’re there.
Visit also our cruise port guides to Barbados, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, San Juan, St Maarten, St. Thomas, Martinique, Guadeloupe, Antigua
Roseau Cruise Port
Dominica cruise terminal is centrally located in Roseau, within a 5-minute walk of the downtown area and its main attractions.
The port area is well-organized, with essential services and facilities such as taxis, minibuses, and tour operators available right at the dock. Whether you’re looking to join a tour or explore on your own, the layout is straightforward, and you’ll find everything from guided excursions to self-exploration options.
A supermarket, a pharmacy, local shops and restaurants are located within a short walk from the port.
Passengers will also find the nearby tourist office helpful for obtaining maps and advice on how to make the most of their visit.
For those interested in shopping, the nearby Old Market offers an authentic Dominica experience with local goods like handmade crafts, spices, and souvenirs.
Alternatively, cruise ships may dock at the Port of Woodbridge Bay, located a mile north of the city, within a 5-minute drive from downtown (30 minutes by walk). This port is, however, less commonly used.
Getting Around Roseau, Dominica
- Roseau and Dominica are generally considered safe for visitors, especially in tourist areas. The local community is friendly, and the island has a low crime rate, but basic precautions should be taken, particularly in busy areas like the port and markets.
- For those who want to explore the capital city of Roseau, walking is an excellent option, as the city is compact and easy to navigate on foot.
- Taxis are readily available and often offer tours to popular destinations like Trafalgar Falls, the Emerald Pool, and Champagne Beach. It’s recommended to negotiate the fare upfront, as rates can vary.
- If you’re up for a more independent adventure, renting a car is also an option, but keep in mind that the island’s roads are often narrow and winding, and driving is on the left side of the road.
- For a more local experience, you can take one of the minivans that serve as public transportation, though these can be less predictable in terms of schedule.
- Last but not least, guided tours, whether by bus or boat, are a great way to see more remote or challenging parts of the island without worrying about logistics. Explore Dominica tours and activities
- The currency in Dominica is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), however, US dollars are widely accepted.
10 Best Things To Do In Dominica Cruise Port
When your cruise ship docks at the Roseau port, Dominica offers a wide range of activities for every type of traveler, from adventurous activities and breathtaking natural attractions to cultural experiences in the heart of the capital.
1. Explore Roseau City
Roseau, the capital of Dominica, lies on the island’s southwestern coast and covers a compact area that’s easy to explore on foot.
With a population of around 14,000, Roseau is known for its colorful architecture and diverse history which blends Caribbean, French, British, and indigenous influences.
Originally founded by the French in the 17th century, the city has grown into the island’s cultural and economic hub while maintaining much of its colonial architecture. Here’s the list of the best things to do and see in Roseau:
1.1. Old Market
In the heart of Roseau, across the street from the terminal behind the Dominica Museum, visitors can explore the lively Old Market, which was a site for the island’s slave trade in the 18th century.
Located on a cobblestone plaza, the bustling market now hosts stalls selling handmade crafts, jewelry, spices, and traditional products.
One of the standout items is cassava bread, a popular local delicacy made from the cassava root. Alongside cassava bread, you’ll find other local treats like tropical fruits, fresh produce, and Dominican rum.
1.2. Dominica Museum
Located on the waterfront, across the street from Roseau cruise terminal, the Dominica Museum is a perfect place to explore the island’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Housed in the Old Post Office building, the museum showcases exhibits that cover a wide range of topics, from Dominica’s indigenous Kalinago people to its colonial past under French and British rule. Artifacts on display include ancient tools, pottery, and traditional musical instruments.
The museum also highlights Dominica’s natural history, featuring exhibits on the island’s volcanic origins and biodiversity.
1.3. Dominica Botanical Gardens
Within a 15-minute walk from the port, you can visit the beautiful Botanical Gardens, home to a variety of native plant species, including towering tropical trees and vibrant flowers.
The gardens were established in the 19th century and are home to the rare Sisserou parrot, Dominica’s national bird. This beautiful and endangered bird, also known as the Imperial Amazon, is endemic to the island and can be found in an aviary within the gardens.
The gardens are also dotted with walking paths, where you can stroll around and relax amidst the island’s lush greenery.
1.4. Hike up Morne Bruce
Hiking up Morne Bruce offers a scenic viewpoint overlooking Roseau and the Caribbean Sea. A short trek starts from the Botanical Gardens, from where you can follow a paved trail up to the Morne Bruce lookout.
The hike itself is relatively easy, taking about 20-30 minutes, and provides stunning panoramic views of the city, coastline, and surrounding mountains.
Explore Roseau tours and activities
2. Champagne Beach
Since there’s no beach near Roseau cruise port, most passengers decide to go to the famous Champagne Beach, located 7 km/4 miles (a 15-minute drive) south of Roseau port.
This unique pebbly beach is known for its underwater volcanic vents that release bubbles, giving the sensation of swimming in a glass of champagne.
The beach has a wooden boardwalk and is a popular spot for snorkeling around Champagne Reef, offering clear waters and diverse marine life.
Basic facilities such as restrooms and snorkeling gear rentals are available, but the beach itself is not sandy, so water shoes are recommended for comfort on the pebbles.
The best way to get here is by taxi or a guided tour.
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3. Morne Trois Pitons National Park
Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a natural wonderland spanning over 17,000 acres of lush rainforest, volcanic landscapes, and diverse ecosystems.
Named after the towering Morne Trois Pitons volcano, the park is home to several of Dominica’s most iconic attractions, including Boiling Lake, Trafalgar Falls, and the Valley of Desolation.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the island’s rich biodiversity. The park’s trails vary in difficulty, from easy walks to more challenging treks, like the hike to Boiling Lake.
When visiting the national park, it’s recommended to wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and consider hiring a guide for more demanding routes.
Explore Morne Trois Pitons National Park tours and activities
4. Trafalgar Falls
Nestled within Morne Trois Pitons National Park, Trafalgar Falls is one of Dominica’s most iconic natural attractions, featuring twin waterfalls known as “Mother” and “Father.”
The site offers a viewing platform for those who prefer a short walk, while more adventurous visitors can hike closer to the falls to enjoy the hot and cold freshwater pools beneath them.
Entrance to the park requires a small fee, and it’s recommended to wear sturdy shoes if you plan to explore beyond the main lookout area.
Trafalgar Falls is about a 20-minute drive from the port and is best visited on a guided tour or by taxi.
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5. Titou Gorge
Located near Trafalgar Falls, Titou Gorge is a stunning natural attraction where visitors can swim through a narrow canyon of volcanic rock into a hidden waterfall.
The cool waters and dramatic surroundings make it a popular spot for canyoning and swimming. For adventure seekers, the gorge offers the opportunity to explore through natural pools and caves, while the lush jungle setting adds to the experience.
Titou Gorge is also part of the Morne Trois Pitons National Park and can be visited as part of a guided tour or self-explored, with the option to combine it with Trafalgar Falls.
Check out Titou Gorge tours and activities
6. Boling Lake
Also part of the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, the Boling Lake is the second-largest hot lake in the world and a must-visit for those looking for real, adrenaline-pumped adventure.
The lake, which reaches temperatures near boiling, is a natural marvel due to volcanic activity beneath it. The hike to Boiling Lake is challenging, taking around 6-8 hours round-trip from the nearest starting point in the village of Laudat.
Hikers pass through rainforest, mountainous terrain, and the Valley of Desolation, a geothermally active area. A guide is recommended for this strenuous trek, and visitors should bring plenty of water, snacks, and sturdy hiking gear for safety.
It takes about a 25-minute drive to reach the Valley of Desolation from the port.
Explore Boiling Lake tours and activities
7. Emerald Pool
Emerald Pool, located within Morne Trois Pitons National Park, is one of Dominica’s most picturesque natural attractions.
This small, crystal-clear waterfall plunges into a pool surrounded by lush rainforest, creating an idyllic setting for swimming and relaxation.
The short, well-maintained trail to the pool is accessible for most fitness levels and takes about 15 minutes from the visitor’s center. Along the way, visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of the vibrant flora and fauna that inhabit the area.
The cool waters of the Emerald Pool provide a refreshing dip, and the shaded environment offers a peaceful escape.
As a popular stop for both guided tours and independent visitors, the site is well-equipped with facilities like restrooms and picnic areas.
The Emerald Pool is located a 45-minute drive from the port of Roseau.
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8. Whale Watching and Dolphin Cruise
Did you know that Dominica is known as the “Whale Watching Capital of the Caribbean”?
The island’s waters are frequented by sperm whales year-round, with the best sightings occurring between November and March. Along with sperm whales, visitors can spot a variety of marine wildlife, including several species of dolphins, such as spinner and bottlenose dolphins.
These tours typically depart from the coast near Roseau and last around 3 to 4 hours, with knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the marine environment and the behavior of these majestic creatures.
During peak whale-watching season, it’s highly recommended to book a tour in advance as it sells off quickly. Unlike other destinations known for whale spotting, many tours offer a guarantee that if no whales or dolphins are spotted, guests can return for another trip.
Explore Whale and dolphin-watching tours
9. Middleham Falls
Middleham Falls is one of Dominica’s tallest waterfalls, plunging from a height of about 200 feet into a pool below. Located within Morne Trois Pitons National Park, the falls are accessible via a moderate to challenging hike through lush rainforest.
The trail to Middleham Falls takes about 45 minutes to an hour each way and offers hikers a chance to experience Dominica’s rich biodiversity, with plenty of opportunities for birdwatching and spotting local flora.
At the base of the falls, visitors can cool off with a refreshing swim in the natural pool. It’s recommended to wear hiking shoes and bring water, as the terrain can be steep and slippery at times.
For those looking to experience Dominica’s raw natural beauty, Middleham Falls is a must-see! The ride from Roseau to the falls takes about 25 minutes.
Check out Middleham Falls tours and activities
10. Fort Shirley
And now, those of you who like history should consider visiting Fort Shirley, a historic military stronghold located within Cabrits National Park on the northwestern coast of Dominica, within a 1-hour drive from the port.
Built in the 18th century by the British, the fort played a key role in the island’s defense during the colonial struggles between France and Britain. It was also the site of the 1802 revolt by the 8th West India Regiment, making it an important symbol of resistance.
The fort has been partially restored, and visitors can explore its barracks, cannons, and ramparts while enjoying panoramic views of Prince Rupert Bay.
It’s best to visit the fort by taxi or on a guided tour due to the distance from the port.
Check out Fort Shirley’s tours and activities
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, Roseau cruise port offers an ideal starting point for exploring Dominica’s rich cultural history, stunning natural landscapes, and unique attractions.
Whether you’re interested in hiking to breathtaking waterfalls, visiting historic sites like Fort Shirley, or experiencing local markets and cuisine, Roseau has something for everyone.
You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Western Europe, Baltic & Scandinavia, USA & Canada, Australia & New Zealand
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