Real agents. Real experience.

Grand Turk at a glance

Where ships dockGrand Turk Cruise Center
Getting aroundOn foot to the beach
Excursion needed?No, the beach is steps away
CurrencyUS dollars
Best forBeach, swimming, snorkelling
Time you needA relaxing beach day

Our consultants who’ve been here

Amy Davoli, CTA, Travitude Travel Group travel consultantBarbara Durley, Travitude Travel Group travel consultant

Amy & Barbara

“The water here is unreal.” – Amy

Our top picks in Grand Turk

Our recommendations on what to see and do, based on our own experience in port.

The beach by the ship

FreeAmy’s tip

The beach is right beside the cruise centre, with white sand and unreal turquoise water. Amy and her sons spent the day here swimming and relaxing, with Carnival Mardi Gras right behind them. You honestly don’t need an excursion to have an amazing day.

Distance
Steps from the ship
Cost
Free
Water
Clear, calm and turquoise
Good for
Swimming and families
Tip: Walk a little further down the beach for more space. Most people stop at the first spot they see!

Margaritaville Grand Turk

Free poolSwim-up bar

Prefer a pool? The big pool at the Grand Turk Cruise Center is part of Margaritaville Grand Turk, and it’s free to use, just a 3-minute walk from the pier and steps from the beach. There’s a swim-up bar, loungers, a FlowRider surf simulator at the far end, and private cabanas you can rent.

Pool
Free to use
Distance
About 3 minutes from the pier
Also here
Swim-up bar and FlowRider
Cabanas
From about $190 USD (rent ahead)
Tip: Grab your loungers early. The pool area fills up fast on busy ship days.

Jack’s Shack

Beach barPhoto op

Amy’s family stopped at Jack’s Shack, Grand Turk’s favourite beach bar and grill, known for its wall of licence plates from all over. It’s a great spot for a cold drink, jerk chicken and a photo, with beach packages available too.

What it is
Beach bar and grill
Try
Jerk chicken and a cold drink
Look for
The licence plate wall
Website
jackshacktci.com
Tip: See if you can find a Canadian licence plate on the wall!
Want the full story?

Read Amy’s Carnival Mardi Gras review: a March Break family cruise from Port Canaveral with her two sons, with San Juan, Amber Cove and Grand Turk.

Read Amy’s Mardi Gras blog →

More ideas for your day in Grand Turk

Popular things to do that we book for clients.

Stingray gliding through clear turquoise Caribbean waterSnorkel with stingrays

Grand Turk is known for its clear water, and stingray and snorkel excursions are popular here. Ask us about booking one ahead of time.

Turquoise water around Grand Turk seen from the cruise shipAdmire the colour

Even from the ship, the water around Grand Turk is a colour you won’t forget. Get out on deck as you sail in.

Golf cart parked on a sandy beach by the oceanRent a golf cart

Golf cart rentals are a popular way to explore Grand Turk on your own. Drive into historic Cockburn Town, out to the Grand Turk Lighthouse, and watch for the island’s wild donkeys along the way. Ask us about booking one ahead.

Know before you go

  • No excursion needed: The beach right by the ship is beautiful.
  • Bring sunscreen and a hat: There’s not much natural shade on the beach.
  • US dollars: are the currency in the Turks and Caicos.
  • Bring your passport: Passport valid for at least six months past your return date (the safest rule of thumb).

Grand Turk FAQs

Quick answers for your day in port

Can you walk to the beach in Grand Turk?

Yes! The beach is right beside the Grand Turk Cruise Center, just steps from the ship.

Do I need an excursion in Grand Turk?

No. Amy says the beach right by the ship is beautiful, so you can have an amazing day without one. Walk a little further for more space.

Is the pool at Grand Turk free?

Yes, the big pool at the Grand Turk Cruise Center is part of Margaritaville and free to use. Drinks and cabana rentals cost extra.

What currency is used in Grand Turk?

The US dollar.

Do I need a passport for a Caribbean cruise?

Canadians must travel with a valid passport, and we recommend it be valid for at least six months past your return date. Some destinations only require three months, but six months is the safest rule of thumb.

Does it cost more to book a cruise with a travel agent?

No, there’s no fee to book a cruise with Travitude Travel Group. You get a consultant who has been to these ports and can help with tours, pre-cruise hotels and transfers.

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