St. Lucia is one of the Windward islands of the lesser Antilles, located midway between Martinique and St. Vincent, north of Barbados. The island features dramatic twin peaks called the Pitons which soar 2,000 feet (610 meters) straight out of the sea, providing shelter for diverse flora and fauna, including wild orchids, giant ferns, and giant birds of paradise. Banana, coconut, mango, and papaya trees host an abundance of tropical birds, including the St. Lucia parrot.
We anchor and head ashore to the dock in Soufrière on the west coast, the original capital of the island under French rule, with the capital moving to Castries when the British took charge in 1803. We wander over to the market, then through the colorful town.
Approaching Soufrière
Welcome
Market
Harbor
Fishing in the harbor
Refreshment next to the market
Great colors
The main street leads us to Soufrière Square and the Church of the Assumption, located in the center of town. This Roman Catholic church features French-influenced architecture, vaulted wood ceilings and a vibrant, colorful interior. And, views of the harbor through the main entrance, past the freedom monument in the square, commemorating Emancipation Day when former slaves defeated British soldiers in 1796.
Down the main street
Church of the Assumption
Freedom Monument
We walk through the square and return to the harbor, strolling a bit along the edge of the water and admiring the views of the Pitons. As we near the port, we watch the activity as boats drop off and pick up passengers, each patiently waiting its turn at the dock. Soon it is our turn and we return to the ship for another lunch of local grilled fish.
Soufrière Square
Views of the Pitons
Entrance to the port
Traffic at the port
Returning to our ship
More Pitons
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