5 Amazing Things to do in Grand Turk While on a Cruise

Grand Turk is the perfect cruise port to kick back and relax. Like, Half Moon Cay, Mahogany Bay and Costa Maya, the Grand Turk cruise port has been developed as a haven by the cruise industry. The ship docks at an absolutely stunning beach that is surrounded by shops, bars, restaurants, and a pool.

Another great thing about Grand Turk is the fact that there are never more than 2 cruise ships in port, meaning that it doesn’t get too terribly crowded like some other ports like, say, Nassau or Cozumel. Still, the port area isn’t that large so if you are looking to score one of the beach chairs that you see from the decks of your ship, you’ll want to get off the ship ASAP.

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5 Things to do in Grand Turk While on a Cruise

Beach Day

Without question, this is the #1 most popular thing for cruisers to do when in Grand Turk. After all, the beaches here are some of the most stunning in the world! The beach by the pier is lined with gorgeous palm trees and a plethora of beach chairs. The sugary sand leads to crystal clear water.

There is an absolutely perfect beach right off the pier when you dock in Grand Turk.

Believe it or not, all of this is within a short walking distance from the cruise ships and you don’t have to spend a penny! That’s right, you don’t have to worry about cab fares or chair rental fees at this beach.

If you’re planning on spending time on the beach and are traveling with a large group, you’ll want to get off the ship early so that you can snag beach chairs close to each other. Most beachgoers are inclined to grab the beach chairs closest to the water. Sure, you’re close to the water…but this also puts you further away from the shade. We prefer to grab lounge chairs towards the back– they are closer to the shade, to the bathrooms, and to the restaurants…and bars.

Island Tour

Did you know that many people believe that Grand Turk was the first land Christopher Columbus spotted back in 1492? Whenever we visit a destination for the first time, we love taking island tours. Grand Turk has an interesting history and is home to a ton of wild horses and donkeys that you’ll most likely spot roaming the streets and beaches. We even saw a donkey’s head peeking out of the window of someone’s home!

The Grand Turk Lighthouse and Salt Salinas were pretty cool to see.

Guided tours can be booked through the cruise line or through a private company.

Margaritaville

If you’re looking for something a bit more lively, you can search for your lost shaker of salt at Margaritaville. The bar and restaurant is located right on the beach and is just a short distance from the pier. They even have several large swimming pools with swim up bars!

We suggest trying the Volcano Nachos, Jerk BBQ Pork Tacos, the margaritas, and of course, the key lime pie! The food is a little pricey but hey, you’re on vacation!

Hit the Pools or try out FlowRider

One of the main attractions at the Grand Turk Cruise Center, aside from the beach, is the FlowRider. Try your hand at surfing, body, or kneeboarding on this wave simulator. The minimum height is 55 inches.

The complex also has a massive pool, adjacent to Margaritaville. It’s the perfect spot to hang out for the day.

Snorkeling or Diving

While you can absolutely snorkel at the beach right next to the ship, there are lots of other great spots to snorkel on the island. The water surrounding the island is crystal clear and teaming with sea turtles, stingrays, tropical fish, sponges, and coral.

We suggest booking a tour that takes you to the Grand Turk Wall. This area is known as the Grand Canyon of the Caribbean. Divers come from all over the world to check out this 7,000-foot deep trench.

If diving isn’t your thing, but you’d like to snorkel nearby, we suggest hitting up Governor’s Beach.