Yes. Cruise passengers can absolutely rent a car in St Kitts for a single day, and thousands do exactly that every cruise season.
A one day rental is the most popular option for cruise visitors arriving at Port Zante in Basseterre. It gives you the freedom to explore the entire island on your own schedule, visit multiple beaches and landmarks, and return the car before your ship departs.
This guide explains how a one day rental works for cruise passengers, what it costs, what you can realistically see, and whether it is the right choice for your visit.
How a One Day Rental Works for Cruise Passengers
The process is designed to be fast so cruise visitors lose as little port time as possible.
- Book in advance or arrange the rental for the morning of your port day
- Walk from Port Zante to the pickup point (usually within 5 to 10 minutes of the terminal)
- Show your documents: valid driver licence, passport or cruise ship card, and credit card
- Receive your temporary driving permit (the rental company handles this during pickup, costs approximately US$24)
- Inspect the vehicle and take photos
- Drive the island for 6 to 8 hours
- Return the car at least one hour before your ship’s all-aboard time
Most visitors complete the pickup process in ten to fifteen minutes and are driving within moments of leaving Port Zante.
For a detailed walkthrough of the pickup, read: How to Pick Up a Rental Car Near Port Zante
What Does a One Day Rental Cost
- Economy car rental: approximately US$50 to US$70
- Temporary driving permit: EC$62.50 (approximately US$24)
- Fuel for a full day: approximately US$15 to US$20
Total for the day: approximately US$89 to US$114.
This covers your entire group for the full day. Compare this to multiple taxi round trips which can easily exceed US$120 to US$160 for the same destinations.
See our current rates: Our Vehicle Offerings
What Can You See in One Day
St Kitts is only about 23 miles long. Most major attractions sit within 30 to 40 minutes of Port Zante. In a single day, cruise visitors typically cover:
- Frigate Bay (10 minutes) for a quick beach stop or breakfast
- Timothy Hill Lookout (15 minutes) for the famous dual-ocean viewpoint
- Cockleshell Beach (30 minutes) for swimming, lunch, and views of Nevis
- Brimstone Hill Fortress (40 minutes) for the UNESCO World Heritage Site
Many visitors fit all four stops into their day with time to spare.
For a complete day plan, read: One Day Driving Itinerary for Cruise Passengers
For exact distances, read: How Far Attractions Are from the Cruise Port
Do You Need a Special Licence
Yes. All visitors must obtain a temporary local driving permit. The permit is administered by the Royal St Christopher and Nevis Police Force. Authorised rental companies issue it during pickup. The permit costs EC$62.50 (approximately US$24) for three months.
For full details, read: Temporary Driving Permit in St Kitts, Cost, Requirements, and How to Apply
Is Left Side Driving Difficult
St Kitts drives on the left. Most visitors adjust within ten to fifteen minutes. Traffic outside Basseterre is light and the main road is easy to follow.
For driving rules and tips, read: Driving in St Kitts, Rules, Safety, and Tips
Is a One Day Rental Better Than a Taxi
For visitors who want to see multiple locations, a rental car is usually the better value. Total cost is approximately US$89 to US$114 for the full day regardless of group size. Multiple taxi trips to the same destinations can cost US$120 to US$160 or more.
A taxi makes more sense if you only want to visit one destination, prefer not to drive, or want a local guide.
For a detailed comparison, read: Taxi vs Car Rental for Cruise Visitors
Tips for a Successful One Day Rental
- Book in advance during peak season (November to April)
- Pick up early to maximize your time
- Return one hour before all-aboard time
- Carry cash for beach bars. US dollars accepted, change may come in EC dollars
- Take photos of the car at pickup and return
- Download an offline map before arriving
- Bring sunscreen, water, and a towel
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cruise passengers rent a car in St Kitts for just one day?
Yes. One day rentals are the most common option for cruise visitors at Port Zante.
How much does a one day car rental cost?
Approximately US$89 to US$114 total including the car, driving permit, and fuel.
Can I see the whole island in one day?
Yes. St Kitts is only about 23 miles long. Most visitors comfortably visit four or more major stops in a single day.
Do I need to book in advance?
Recommended, especially during peak cruise season when demand is high.
What side of the road do they drive on?
Left side. Most visitors adjust within ten to fifteen minutes.
How early should I return the car?
At least one hour before the ship’s all-aboard time.
Book Your One Day Rental
Ready to explore St Kitts? Book your car rental today.
