What to do on a Cruise Ship stop in Grand Turk – Part 3

The Food Enthusiast Excursion

You’ve finally arrived in the Turks and Caicos Islands. It’s port day! You’ve enjoyed the cruise ship cuisine so far, but maybe you’ve got a hankering for some authentic island flavours? Craving a creative Caribbean cocktail? Wondering what all the fuss is about conch?

Numerous cruise lines visit the Southern Caribbean including Carnival, Holland America, Oceania, and Silversea, most departing from Miami or Fort Lauderdale, but the port they all arrive at in the Turks and Caicos Islands is Grand Turk. And once the ship has arrived and the anchor has been dropped, cruise passengers have the option to disembark. This is the third in a series of articles to give tips to cruise ship travellers who have a limited amount of time ashore on Grand Turk Island.

Click here to read: What to do on a Cruise Ship stop in Grand Turk – Part 1: The Romantic Shore Excursion

Click here to read: What to do on a Cruise Ship stop in Grand Turk – Part 2: The Sportsman Shore Excursion

A Symbol of Island Culture

If you’re looking for authentic cuisine, you’ll want to check out conch, a symbol of island culture and tradition. It might seem like a humble sea snail, but conch (pronounced “conk”) has become a delicacy sought the world over. A popular spot for both visitors and locals alike is Barbie’s Bar and Restaurant located on Front Street. You’ll be “conked-out” by the fabulous flavours of your food here. When it comes to conch, Barbie’s serves up all kinds of choices. The meat is coated in a seasoned batter and made into delicious crispy conch fritters or cracked conch or served fresh with veggies in a salad. Telephone: 649.946.2981

Traditional Caribbean Flavor

Another tasty Caribbean dish you’ll want to try is traditional jerk chicken. After being marinated for a long time in an incredible mix of seasonings, the chicken is finally grilled and served up piping hot. Located just 500 meters north of the Cruise Center is Jack’s Shack. Here you can enjoy the beautiful beach and azure waters as you feast on authentic island cuisine like jerk chicken, local fish, conch and other fare.

Tasty Vegan and Vegetarian Options

If you’re vegetarian, there are some tasty options available. Why not head to the Grand Turk Inn? It’s not a long walk from the pier to this popular eatery which is housed in a stately mansion built in the late 1800’s. Try their delicious vegan veggie burger with all the fixings. The glowing reviews on TripAdvisor make this waterfront eatery on Grand Turk one you don’t want to miss. Telephone: 649.331.4900. Closed Tuesdays.

Located off Duke Street is another picturesque spot to dine, the Turks Head Inne. Here you can enjoy fresh fare like Vegetable Pasta with olives, pepper, onions and mushrooms from Wednesday through Saturday, 6pm until 9pm. Telephone: 649.946.1830.

Libations that Refresh

After doing some sightseeing or beachcombing, you can cool off with a refreshing drink. The Sand Bar along Duke Street boasts not only a stunning ocean view but a rum punch that customers rave about regularly.

If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try one of the many fresh all natural smoothies at Froots located at the Cruise Ship Center.

Or enjoy a creamy milkshake or fruit smoothie at Cool Beans Cafe situated next to the E & R Supermarket.

Make your shore excursion a Turks and Caicos culinary adventure! There are plenty of dining spots offering delicious offerings to tingle your taste buds or quench your thirst.