St Kitts 2026

Chris Preparing to Board
La Valle Transfer Station, St Kitts
July 28, 2026

 Chris and I made a return visit to St Kitts, we had previously visited on my birthday cruise last year. Last year we did not do an excursion, while yesterday we did the Caribbean Scenic Railway around the island. 

The Quill on Sint Eustatius and
Closed Westin Resort
St Kitts
July 28, 2026

Although the day was mostly bright and sunny, the Saharan Dust muted the sky and colors. The railroad is narrow gage and the cars and engine, frankly, look too big for the tracks. But, it has been operating successfully for almost two decades and we put our faith in the operators expertise. We had both thought the railway would be fun and it is fairly long, I think the trek covers about 30 miles. We were treated to great views of the island, the mountains, and the ocean during our trek. We also learned a lot about the island's history--some of it in not very pleasant. There were many, and I mean a lot, of burned areas from the hot, dry summer. The island is not green, it is brown and blackened.

Chris with the Monkeys
Basseterre, St Kitts
July 28, 2026

The mountains are intriguing, both on the island and just off the northwest coast on Sint Eustatius. Much of the rail journey was through open country and small towns. We were treated to some authentic island dancing and an open bar. Chris and I chose to ride in the air conditioned portion of the car, while most of the kids went for the second level open air part of the trip.

I'm not sure the Caribbean Scenic Railway provides as good product for the price, but it was a fun way to spend the morning. 

As we returned to Basseterre after the train, Chris found a couple monkeys to play with. She really enjoyed the monkeys and they seemed to like her as well. 

Today we are sailing into Philipsburg, Sint Maarten, and planning to spend the day at Orient Beach on the French side, Saint Martin.  

-- Bob Doan, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten