Port Antonio was once a thriving banana shipping port. In fact, the well-known Banana Boat Song (‘Day-O’) originated here and was chanted by men and women as they loaded the boats.
Today, Port Antonio is a quaint seaside town that is perfect for romance. Visitors are surrounded by open seas and towering mountains, while the landscapes are framed with wild orchids, bananas, tree ferns and palms.
Port Antonio is a dream town that offers cruise passengers a glimpse into the natural world. Visitors will find adventure in the Blue Mountains, magic in the calming, ‘bottomless’ Blue Lagoon and mystery in the Nonsuch Caves. Others may enjoy a raft down the Rio Grande or marvel at two nearby waterfalls, Somerset and Reach Falls.
Featured Attractions
Blue Lagoon
Experience the magical ‘bottomless’ Blue Lagoon, a natural wonder of Jamaica.
Blue Mountains
Explore Jamaica’s highest peaks and discover world-famous coffee plantations.
Rio Grande Rafting
Experience traditional bamboo rafting on Jamaica’s stunning Rio Grande river.
Berth Information
Berth
Usable Length
Depth Alongside
Max Ship's Draught
Ken Wright Cruise Ship Berth
650 ft
29 ft
26 ft
Boundbrook United Fruit Co Berth
500 ft
29 ft
26 ft
Airport
Sangster International Airport, Boscobel Domestic Airport, Ken Jones Airport.
Anchorage
No anchorage.
Approach
Via access channel. Reefs extend one cable west from Port Point and 4.5 cables east from One Bush Point. Channel to West Harbour: Depth 29 ft to 45 ft. Recommended draught 26 ft. Width 200 ft. Turning basin: Ample space to turn largest vessel allowed in harbour.
Bunkers
All grades available with notice.
Facilities
Anchorage, pilotage, water, provisions, bunkers by arrangement.
Location
East Harbour: 18°10’50″N, 76°26’50″W, West Harbour: 18°11’N, 76°27’20″W.
Medical Aid
Port Antonio Hospital.
Pilot
Pilot pick up one mile north of entrance.
Pilotage
Agents alert Pilotage Department on ship’s ETA and ETD at least three hours before required time. Pilot boards and guides ships in and out of channel. Pilotage charges are calculated according to grt.
Provisions
Available
Tenders
Not available. Ship’s own tenders can land at Port Antonio Marina with prior permission.
Towage
None
Water
Fresh water readily available. Volume allocated based on vessel’s grt.
Weather
NE winds prevail by day, SE by night. NE winds are strongest between May and October. Negligible tides.