Wednesday, April 24, 2024

St Thomas Cruise Port: Piers, Overview and What to Do

st. thomas cruise port

Grab your snorkel gear and dive into the clear waters to witness the beauty of the underwater ecosystem firsthand. If you’re looking for a more secluded spot, head to Secret Harbor Beach. This hidden gem offers a tranquil and intimate setting, perfect for a romantic getaway or a peaceful day of relaxation. The calm waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, allowing you to explore the colorful underwater world. If you prefer a more leisurely water activity, hop on a kayak and paddle along the tranquil coast. Glide through the calm waters, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and lush landscapes.

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You can even take an open-air safari ride around the national park's coastal swamplands and sugar plantation ruins. And while not technically a full-scale museum, Fort Christian is an old fortification that was built my Denmark & Norway. After the fort was demilitarized in the 1870s, it received some repairs, was made larger, and served as the police headquarters of the Virgin Islands. You can order different beach bites, like chips and salsa, chicken tenders, and jalapeño poppers, as well as sandwiches, salads, tacos, and burgers. There is also a full service bar that serves up cocktails for around $11.00 each.

Port & Docking Info

For those interested in more active pleasures Ziplinning in St. Thomas is a must. Although the Zip Line is currently closed it is advisable to check the Zip-line Facebook Page for updates as it is scheduled to open at any time soon. The Coral World Ocean Park is open and offers exotic aquatic adventures. St Thomas is one of the most visited islands in the Caribbean and the most popular of the U.S.

How to get Charlotte Amalie: on foot or by taxi

Take advantage of the great deals and discounts available on luxury goods, watches, and electronics. As you stroll along Main Street, you’ll find an impressive selection of luxury brands, designer clothing, jewelry, and cosmetics. Whether you’re in search of high-end fashion or unique souvenirs to take back home, Main Street has it all.

US Virgin Island Cruise Arrivals Nearly Double - Cruise Hive

US Virgin Island Cruise Arrivals Nearly Double.

Posted: Thu, 21 Dec 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Some food tours have a designated meeting point in Charlotte Amalie. This means you’ll have to find your own way to the meeting point and back to the ship. Incorporate a walking tour with a taste of the local culinary and cultural scene.

Best Things To Do In St Thomas From Cruise Ship

Here you will find maps and all information you may need to explore St Thomas on your own. When we last cruised to St Thomas and docked at Crown Bay (in Februrary 2022), all we noticed was the fresh paint on most buildings. Even so, we updated a few photos on this review of the Crown Bay Dock Cruise Terminal. IQCruising visited St Thomas on February 14, 2022, and docked at the Crown Bay. A week later, we called at St Thomas again on another cruise; and we docked at the Havensight Dock Terminal.

It also hosts stunning views of Magens Bay, the island of St. John, and the cruise ship harbor. The garden provides a home to numerous lizards, birds, and butterflies. The garden has lots of seating areas including a Balinese gazebo where you can stop along for a leisurely walk and enjoy the views. Yes, you can walk to downtown Charlotte Amalie from the two cruise ports, but most people save time by taking a taxi, as taxis are easy to get, and fares are less than $5. At seven miles from Havensight Pier, it is a bit of a drive, but it has some of the best snorkeling you’ll find anywhere in the Caribbean.

Dining and Food Options at Charlotte Amalie St. Thomas Cruise Port

This has been a favorite shore excursion for many cruisers over the years for taking Instaworthy photos of the stunning harbor. Plus, there’s a gift shop, restaurant and bar where you may want to stop for a famous Bailey’s Bushwacker. St. Thomas’ white sand beaches are gorgeous and each one has a special character. That said, both Havensight and Crown Bay have shopping close by, restaurants and bars, and transportation to the best attractions in St. Thomas. St. Thomas hosts the second-largest Carnival cultural celebration in the Caribbean. And, it’s an opportunity to share in the cultural heritage of the Virgin Islands.

st. thomas cruise port

The marina used to be an upscale shopping and dining area designed for the exclusive clientele of the luxurious yachts visiting St Thomas. St John is known as a great snorkeling and diving spot and has breathtaking beaches, among which Trunk Bay and Honeymoon Beach are the most popular ones. Start your day learning about the history of the largest capital city in the United States Virgin Islands. Founded in 1666 as Thapus, the city was renamed in 1691 as Charlotte Amalie in honor of the Danish Queen. Stroll through the narrow cobblestone alleys and admire the beautiful Danish colonial architecture. Both the West Indian Company Dock (Havensight Pier) and Crown Bay Dock at the St. Thomas cruise port are highly wheelchair accessible.

However, most activities will require either a shore excursion or tour, or transportation to a local beach or attraction. As you exit from the cruise port, you’ll see that cabs, shuttles and tours sold through local vendors, are plentiful. The Havensight dock area  has been extensively developed with a large shopping mall, eateries and even a post office within easy walking distance of the ships. Havensight is  directly south across the bay from downtown Charlotte Amalie. You can also enjoy a pleasant but long walk along the shore into downtown.

This elevated area provides stunning panoramic views of the port and surrounding islands. There are restaurants and cafes located here that offer both local and international cuisine, allowing you to enjoy a meal while taking in the breathtaking scenery. One of the highlights of visiting Charlotte Amalie St. Thomas Cruise Port is the opportunity to indulge in the local cuisine. The island’s culinary scene is rich and diverse, with influences from Caribbean, African, and European flavors. From fresh seafood dishes to mouthwatering Caribbean specialties, you will find a variety of local restaurants that offer an authentic taste of the island.

Charlotte Amalie St. Thomas Cruise Port is generally a safe destination for visitors. However, it is always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. One important aspect of the local customs is the concept of “island time.” The pace of life in the Caribbean is generally slower and more relaxed compared to urban areas. It is important to be patient and embrace the laid-back atmosphere. You will find a variety of salads made with fresh local produce, as well as vegetable stir-fries and tofu-based dishes. For those seeking a fine dining experience, there are several upscale restaurants in Charlotte Amalie.

Or climb the legendary 99 Steps built by 18th century Danes, using bricks that once served as ship ballast. Be sure to bring along whatever supplies you think you might need for the day – towels, water, snacks, etc. There are two other islands that are less than a ½ hour by ferry and both are still in the USVI. Coral World Ocean Park is an extremely popular attraction that has lots to offer but it’s not one of the cheaper things to do in St. Thomas. Please note that St. Thomas local time may often deviate from the “ship time” being used by your ship.

Walking through the Yacht Haven Marina is still the most pleasant to get to Charlotte Amalie. The Post Office (USPS) is very close to the piers and there are a few quite nice restaurants. Senor Frogs and the Delly Deck are within the Mall, and just outside you will find Mojos, Hooters, the Barefoot Buddha and the Shipwreck Tavern. The umbrellas and chairs are available for rental, as well as food and drinks that you can purchase on the beach.

Use your moment in the sky to take awesome pictures or simply relax. Luckily, besides being one of the most beautiful attractions, it’s also one of the most affordable. If you’re someone who enjoys slower moments at each cruise stop, then one of the best things to do in St. Thomas is to make your way to a beautiful botanical garden just south of Magens Bay. Choose a doors-off option to feel the cool ocean air blow past as you explore the islands from the sky. Just imagine your family’s reaction to the pictures you’ll be able to take.

As busy as Charlotte Amalie and St. Thomas beaches can be, there are actually amazing places that are off the beaten path, that are worth a visit. Check out St. Thomas’ Mangrove lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary and Marine Preserve where you can  for a moderately active kayak tour. If you enjoy a fun and off the beaten path activity, check out this shore excursion. If you’re in St. Thomas on a cruise, you may want to do an excursion either with your cruise line or with a local tour operator.

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