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St. Thomas Cruise
St. Thomas Cruise
St. Thomas Cruise Overview
St. Thomas is one of the world's busiest cruise ports. Its high popularity has been earned because St. Thomas offers something for everyone (the
island can also accommodate a very large, daily population influx). Its duty-free shopping scene is unmatched -- and because St. Thomas is an American port, U.S. travelers get an extra duty-free allowance from customs (as of 2007, duty-free exemptions are at $1,600 -- twice that of Europe). Other on-the-beaten-track sites include the world-famous beach at Magens Bay and a scenic tram ride to a mountaintop. No matter
your taste a St. Thomas cruise is always a great choice.
You will also find that it is extremely easy to find some respite from the crowds by exploring St. Thomas' quieter, more undiscovered side -- a lovely historic district, trips to Water Island (the recently designated fourth Virgin Island), north shore beaches and fabulous restaurants in Frenchtown; it is also an easy trek
via 20-minute ferry ride to the tranquil island of St. John. Even Red Hook, which is traditionally thought of as nothing more than the jumping-off point for the far more stunning St. John, has local character (here you'll get a chance to see residents of St. Thomas engaged in everyday life activities) that's a far cry from the hectice Charlotte Amalie's shopping mall. Just taking local transportation to the eastern end of the island will have you feeling distance from the hectic pier.
Virtually every ship sailing an Eastern Caribbean itinerary includes a St. Thomas cruise as a port of call as do many Southern Caribbean voyages. You'll even see St. Thomas on Panama Canal and South American itineraries. It is not uncommon, particularly during the Caribbean's winter high season, to see six or more ships docked and/or anchored in a day -- and that can mean an extra 20,000 people infused into a population hovering in the mid-50,000's.
Eastern Caribbean Cruise Ports
Virgin Gorda - Tortola - St. Thomas - St. Martin - St. Maarten - St. John - St. Croix - San Juan - Nassaua - Grand Turk -
Freeport - St. Thomas
St. Thomas Cruise - Where You Are Docked
During the busy season of January through March, your ship will dock at Havensight, which is the primary dock for cruise ships, or Crown Bay. If there are six ships or more who call on St. Thomas in one day, your ship could be anchored in the harbor. When this
occurs tenders will ferry you into the heart of Charlotte Amalie.
St. Thomas Cruise - What to Watch Out For
People should be hesitant when wandering off the beaten path in Charlotte Amalie; crime has been known to be an issue. Also, though most ships will dock mid-week -- if you find yourself in St. Thomas on a Sunday, you will quickly find out that many of the shops are closed. Our advice? Head to the beach.
St. Thomas Cruise - Getting Around
By Taxi: Individual "cabs" are highly unusual. In most cases, you'll be herded into a van or truck that's heading in the vicinity of your destination -- and may make multiple stops on the way as locals ask the driver to let them off. You'll pay a set price per person.
From Havensight to town is roughly $5 per person; from Crown Bay to Charlotte Amalie is about $4.
Tipping is recommended when a driver is particularly helpful, but not required.
Helpful Note: Here's a helpful warning: Taxi drivers like to load up as many people as possible and travel to on-the-beaten-path tourist sites. If you want to veer off that path, you may have trouble finding a driver to take you (in that case we recommend you rent a car).
St. Thomas - Havensight
Right at the dock at Havensight is, in essence, a mini-downtown. There are more than 50 shops, many of which are outposts of Charlotte Amalie's better-known boutiques. Also within the shopping area is Dockside Books, the island's only bookstore; Gourmet Gallery, with a terrific selection of wine and Caribbean beer; a post office; Banco Popular, First Bank and Chase Manhattan Bank ATM's; and Havensight Pharmacy. There are also plenty of pay phones for cruisers with calling cards who want to avoid costly on-ship phone calls.
Across the main drag running outside Havensight's facility are convenience stores, coffee shops and Internet cafes.
New -- and within walking distance from the Havensight pier -- is the Yacht Haven Grande Marina; when you exit your ship, turn left and follow the dock around the harbor. It's the first genuinely upscale shopping and dining area to open in St. Thomas in years. There you will find a couple of restaurants and shops like Coach and Chico's. Be aware these places are not duty-free.
Beyond the immediate facility, the best bargains on duty-free liquor can be found at K-Mart -- no lie! Walk up Long Bay Boulevard to the Lockhart Gardens K-Mart.
St. Thomas - Crown Bay
A beautiful new port area opened in early 2007, complete with recreated stone sugar mill in honor of the island's plantation era.
Passengers whose ships are docked in Crown Bay have limited options. Within walking distance is Frank's Bake Shop (23 Subbase), a charming spot for gourmet coffee and pastries; try the guava danish. The Crown Bay Marina has a branch of Gourmet Gallery (and the ferry to Water Island leaves from here). Tickles is a charming waterside pub at the marina with nautical decor. If you wish to find
a larger selection of shopping and dining you will have to head downtown.
St. Thomas Cruise - Beaches
Short on Time, The Best Beach for a Half-Day Visit: Magens Bay, St. Thomas' most gorgeous and calmest beach, is a 20-minute taxi ride; the facility includes a bar, a cafeteria-style eatery, and one of the island's best shops for casualwear and bathing suits. There is an admission of $3 per person.
Best Active Beach: Sapphire Beach, a resort on the island's East End, has an amazing view as it faces St. John and the British Virgin Islands. Virtually every conceivable type of watersports equipment is available for rent, from kayaks to jet skis to sail boats. Coki Beach, adjacent to Coral World, is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Do not worry if you forgot your
scuba gear at home, you can rent it here.
Best Secluded Beach: Water Island's Honeymoon Beach is the quintessential secret hideaway. While the beach itself is lovely, you will find a half-mile stretch of sand that's lined with coconut palms.
What's the most important feature about Water Island is what's not here. There's no gift shop, rowdy bar, restaurant or Jet Ski rental operator. There may or may not be a bathroom.
A water shuttle leaves from Crown Bay Marina ($3 each way) at 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. and returns from Water Island at 2:15 and 4:30 p.m.
Time are subject to change. Most major lines also offer a Water Island shore excursion that involves an easy downhill bike ride into the secluded beach area and a picnic lunch. Check with your cruise line for availability.
St. Thomas Cruise
In general a St. Thomas cruise can be one of the most rewarding experiences you will have. The island is amazing and the views
breath taking.
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St. Thomas Cruise Reviews