Making the most of Saint Helier
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Cruise ships dock in the town centre; larger ships anchor and tender passengers ashore.
Cruise timetables.
St Helier is the Island's capital, main retail centre, busiest town and most populous parish. Its shopping is thoroughly modern, though old French street names survive and many shop fronts retain their founders' names.
Named for the Island's first and most famous saint, who lived and preached in sixth-century Jersey, the town has a parish church of mixed architectural styles and the Central Market. Dating from 1882, the market teems with fresh local produce, meats, fish and flowers.
The Island's parliament also meets here, in the States Chamber at Royal Square; it is one of the Commonwealth's oldest assemblies.
For inspiration on activities in town and around the Island, call at the Visitor center in Liberation Square.
Getting around
Most of St Helier's centre is pedestrianised.
The bus system is good; buy a day pass if you intend to travel further from town centre.
"Little Trains" leave Liberation Square regularly and frequently, with full commentary en route.
Food and shopping
It is not part of the Uk or the EU, so enjoy duty free shops.
Money
In currency union with the United Kingdom, the Channel Islands issue Guernsey and Jersey pounds as local banknotes and coins denominated in pound sterling, not a separate currency, like notes issued in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Opening Hours and
Public holidays match the UK, with Liberation Day added on 9 May.