If you have ever dreamt of a classic Caribbean island, the chances are it looked a lot like Saint Kitts and Nevis. It is an island country consisting of two separate islands, both located in the West Indies. There is a mixture of deserted beaches, sleepy villages, lush rainforest, sugar cane fields and even a mini mountain range with a dormant volcano. Independent since 1983, Saint Kitts, above, covers just 65 square miles. Nevis, below, covers 36 square miles and lies two miles south east of Saint Kitts, across a shallow channel called The Narrows.

When we disembarked from our ship, the first thing we saw was a brand new Saint Kitts cruise terminal and marina complex, a collection of shops, bars, restaurants and gardens.

Having visited here twenty plus years ago, this is a major upgrade with two much larger piers to better accommodate the larger ships including both Arvia and our neighbours today, Aida Luna.

Once through security and the warm welcome from our Carnival Dancers, we visited the UNESCO world heritage site, Brimstone Hill Fortress, on much higher ground, at times in the clouds. The fortress was designed by British military engineers in the 17th Century and remains one of the best preserved historical fortifications in the Americas.

By lunchtime we were sweltering and headed back to the ship for a quieter afternoon in the Retreat, including time in our very own jacuzzi.

Supper tonight is in the Olive Grove, Greek restaurant on deck six. Tomorrow sees us visit Tortola in the British Virgin Islands. Have a lovely evening. R&L xxx