People in St. John's are mighty proud of the modern cruise terminal, which puts Antigua on a par with other top Caribbean destinations. It is now part of the normal skyline that sometimes three giant ships dock like skyscrapers at the pier of St. John's. Thousands then crowd down the gangways into the small town.
The place has its charm, but fortunately sailors on their own keel have the advantage of being able to explore quieter places that still have their typical Caribbean ease and tranquility.