The St. Kitts Sugar Cane Railroad
By: Justin Burch

Early in the 20th Century, a 30-mile railway was constructed on St. Kitts to aid transportation of sugar cane crops to the island’s colonial capital, Basseterre. Today, this unique narrow-gauge railway has found a new life. As part of St. Kitts’ expanding tourism industry, the St. Kitts Sugar Cane Railroad now serves as one of the best ways to see this gorgeous island in its entirety. In addition to being the most enchanting rail tour in the Caribbean, this railway provides one of the most scenic train rides in the world.

Traversing a major stretch of the island, the railway will take you past many of the old sugar cane fields. Though the crop is rarely harvested anymore, these plantations offer a unique glimpse into the Caribbean’s colonial past. Today, the countryside is dotted with numerous active farms full of livestock and fruit crops, yet abandoned windmills and smokestacks still populate the landscape. The small towns supporting these farms also feature charming houses and other unique historic structures. Many travelers have also noticed that children often come out of the rural schoolhouses to watch the train roll by twice a day – an activity that offers students and teachers a regular break from studies.

After leaving the station, the train will head north along the St. Kitts’ beautiful coastline. Some of the first things you might notice are the numerous sidings – loading points for harvested sugar cane – next to the tracks. As the train hugs the coastline in the early going, you will probably also notice the rainforest-covered mountains of St. Kitts rising above the aforementioned farms and villages. At the heart of the mountain range, you will certainly notice Mt. Liamuiga – the volcanic peak visible throughout the island. Stretching from the island’s central mountain range are many deep canyons, some of which extend all the way to the coastline’s majestic cliffs. Spanning these canyons are 24 steel bridges – all of which are attractions in themselves.

Many of St. Kitts’ most popular attractions are visible from the train, as well. As the train circles the island, the conductor will announce such sites as Brimstone Hill Fortress – the “Gibraltar of the Caribbean.” While viewing such historic structures and natural beauty, you will also be treated to a narrative history of the island. To educate yourself even further, stop by the Basseterre Public Library after your tour to view a permanent exhibit of photographs dating to the construction of the railway.

Unlike many other historic railways, the passenger cars of the St. Kitts Sugar Cane Railroad are as luxurious as the scenery. For the sake of the tours, the island commissioned the construction of distinctive double-deck railcars. On the upper deck, you will find a beautiful open-air observation deck. Down below, the air conditioned cars are outfitted with comfortable furniture, full-service bars and even live entertainment – all with a Caribbean flourish. As you don’t want to miss anything outside, the oversized windows will allow you to enjoy all the sites.

Utilizing 18 miles of the original railway, this two hour tour is the best way to see the entire country in a short time. As only 420 seats are available each day, it is recommended to buy tickets as early as possible through your resort or provider. As travelers are promised captivating views of the Caribbean Sea, surrounding islands, rainforest-coated mountains, magnificent cliffs and pristine wildlife – the St. Kitts Sugar Cane Railroad is the hottest ticket on the island.

It is even possible to take a ride on the railway during a shore excursion from one of the many cruise ships that visit the island. Shuttles take passengers from the pier directly to Needsmust Station. At the end of the tour, shuttles will available for back to the pier or any of the island’s resorts.

If you are looking for the best way to see St. Kitts – or maybe just a ride you will never forget – climb aboard the St. Kitts Sugar Cane Railroad.

Justin Burch writes articles for the St. Kitts Marriott Resort & The Royal Beach Casino about marriott.com/hotels/travel/skbrb-st-kitts-marriott-resort-and-the-royal-beach-casino/”>travel in St Kitts.

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