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culture · Port of Basseterre

Romney Manor & Caribelle Batik: Art, History & Rainforest Garden

Step inside a 17th-century sugar plantation great house turned living artisan studio, where master craftspeople hand-print batik silks amid one of the Caribbean's most enchanting tropical gardens — including a 400-year-old Saman tree.

What to expect

Set in lush hills near Old Road Town, Romney Manor is one of the most atmospheric spots in the Eastern Caribbean — a beautifully restored plantation house surrounded by 6 acres of terraced rainforest gardens filled with rare tropical plants, hummingbirds, and the extraordinary 400-year-old Saman tree. Inside the open studio, you watch master craftspeople apply the ancient Javanese art of batik to Sea Island cotton using hot wax and layered dyes, creating vivid Caribbean designs. The resulting pieces are genuinely collectible works of art to bring home. Pair beautifully with a morning visit to Brimstone Hill Fortress nearby.

Book it with
Caribelle Batik at Romney Manor (Official)
Free entry to manor grounds and studio; artisan batik silks from USD 30–200 (made on-site)
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Good to know

Located on the northwest coast near Old Road Town, approximately 40 minutes from Port Zante — a private taxi or driver is recommended for flexibility. No entry fee for the grounds and studio; purchases support local artisans directly. Allow 1–1.5 hours. Combine with Brimstone Hill Fortress for a full-day cultural itinerary. Most taxis from Port Zante know Romney Manor well.

Sail there

Luxury cruises that call at Port of Basseterre — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.

Azamara · Azamara Journey
6 nights · calls at Port of Basseterre
from $1,644
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Azamara · Azamara Quest
7 nights · calls at Port of Basseterre
from $2,383
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Oceania · Oceania Marina
12 nights · calls at Port of Basseterre
from $2,697
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Oceania · Oceania Allura
8 nights · calls at Port of Basseterre
from $2,970
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