Basseterre, the capital of St. Kitts and Nevis, is an attractive waterfront town that charmingly encapsulates an exceptional mixture of "new" and "old" in this part of the Caribbean. It is one of the oldest towns in the eastern Caribbean and has been a busy port since the mid-17th century. It is definitely worthy of a visit.

The country’s colonial history is evidenced by British and French influences. There is plenty to interest the charterer who seeks a sense of the island’s history in the National Museum, Independence Square, the fort at Brimstone Hill and the numerous quiet plazas and churches of the town. The Clay Village Plantation House and Gardens are well worth a visit. There are several operators who organize off-road 4x4 trips, which depart from Basseterre through the island's rain-forested interior, home of all manner of tropical birds and plants. The energetic will want to hike up Mount Liamuiga (3,800 feet/1150 meters) and may meet some African vervet monkeys along the way. There are a few shops, and the Amina Craft Market is a good place to browse for local artisan arts and crafts.

At Port Zante and in the old town, there is a reasonable selection of restaurants and a few bars with live music.