Are you planning a cruise stop in St. Thomas and need help figuring out what to expect? Known for its pristine beaches, fun excursions, and duty-free shopping, St. Thomas is a gem of the U.S. Virgin Islands that welcomes over 1.5 million cruise ship guests annually.
This comprehensive guide will provide essential information about the port, indulging activities, local cuisine spots, and much more to ensure your visit is memorable. Get ready for an unforgettable Caribbean adventure!
About the Port
St. Thomas takes pride in its bustling ports, welcoming over 1.5 million tourists each year through two major harbors—Havensight Cruise and Crown Bay Cruise. Both offer unique surroundings and numerous facilities for visitors to maximize their cruising experiences.
It showcases St. Thomas’s vibrancy with an array of shopping opportunities that it houses—get ready to stroll down Main Street in Charlotte Amalie, teeming with over 400 shops, or explore an additional 50 stores in Havensight! A paradise for bargain shoppers indeed!
Beyond retail therapy, engaging attractions are plentiful; beautiful beaches beckon sun lovers while prime snorkeling spots lure underwater adventurers exploring what lies beneath the crystal-clear waves around this U.S. Territory.
Cruise Terminal Information
The St. Thomas cruise port offers two main docking points for guests – the West India Company Dock, or Havensight, and Crown Bay Marina. Both terminals accommodate some of the world’s largest cruise ships, including those from major lines like Norwegian and Royal Caribbean International.
Nestled in eastern Charlotte Amalie, Havensight boasts three berths to welcome visitors eager to explore this Caribbean jewel.
Crown Bay Marina is an additional anchorage, particularly useful during peak season when more tourists flock to St. Thomas on their Caribbean cruises. Each year, over 1.5 million cruise ship travelers set foot on the island via these combinations of ports.
Notably popular due to its strategic location and amenities at both terminals, passengers can readily access gift shops, dining facilities, and transportation upon disembarkation.
How To Get Around
St. Thomas features a variety of transportation options for cruise passengers looking to explore this mesmerizing island. Taxis are readily available at the cruise terminal, offering a quick and convenient way to visit Charlotte Amalie’s beautiful beaches, popular historical landmarks, and diverse shopping options.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider renting a car or scooter for the day; remember that traffic flows on the left-hand side of St. Thomas!
In addition to land-based transportation, several ferries run regular schedules between St. Thomas and other islands in the U.S. Virgin Islands cluster. These water taxis provide amazing views of tropical landscapes and crystal-clear water surrounding this stunning region.
Things To Do
St. Thomas offers a wide range of activities for cruise ship travelers to enjoy during their visit. With its renowned beaches, snorkeling spots, and duty-free shopping, there is something for everyone here.
One must-visit attraction is the Coral World Ocean Park, where you can go scuba diving or explore marine life through underwater tours. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of landmarks and popular tourist attractions to explore.
No trip to St. Thomas would be complete without a visit to Magens Bay Beach—known for its pristine white sand and clear turquoise waters, it is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.
Beach Pass Information
Some of the beaches in St. Thomas charge an entrance fee of $5 per person. This fee grants you access to some of the island’s most beautiful and scenic beaches.
If you’re looking for convenience, Emerald Beach is the closest beach to the cruise port in St. Thomas.
Whether you want to relax on sandy shores or engage in water sports activities, check out the St. Thomas Cruise Port Guide for a comprehensive list of beach breaks and other fun things to do during your visit to St. Thomas.
Local Cuisine & Best Places To Eat
St. Thomas is a tropical paradise for beach lovers and a haven for food enthusiasts. Regarding local cuisine, St. Thomas offers a delicious blend of Caribbean flavors and international influences.
Prepare your taste buds for tantalizing dishes like fresh Caribbean lobster, served in various mouth-watering preparations. Indulge in the fusion of flavors at upscale island restaurants that offer gastronomic delights with international twists.
If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, plenty of locally-owned joints provide sustenance and a fun vibe. Try Pizza Amore for some comforting favorites, or go to Delly Deck and Havensight Cafe for tasty bites.
You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to finding the best places to eat in St. Thomas Cruise Port.
The top-rated restaurants include:
Whether you’re craving authentic Caribbean cuisine or want to explore international flavors while enjoying spectacular views of the island and beaches nearby, St. Thomas has something delectable waiting for you.
Shopping Opportunities
St. Thomas is a paradise for shopping enthusiasts, with plenty of retail opportunities near the cruise port. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, jewelry, clothing, or more, you’ll find it all at the mall in St. Thomas. With hundreds of duty-free shops, you can indulge in tax-free shopping and choose from various products.
If you prefer luxury brands, St. Thomas also offers high-end fashion and accessories that will satisfy even the most discerning shopper. Remember to explore specialized boutiques to find unique local crafts and artwork to take home as a cherished memory of visiting this beautiful island.
In addition to its diverse merchandise options, St. Thomas provides exclusive upscale shopping experiences that cater to travelers’ needs and desires. You’ll have access to brand-name products while enjoying the stunning surroundings and warm Caribbean hospitality.
Local Currency
The local currency in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, is the U.S. Dollar.
The official currency in the U.S. Virgin Islands is solely the U.S. Dollar, so you can use it for all your transactions on the island. Whether shopping at local markets or dining at restaurants, cash transactions will be done using the U.S. Dollar.
Since St. Thomas is a part of the United States and uses its currency, there’s no need to worry about foreign exchange rates or dealing with different currencies during your visit.
You cannot use your ship cards for charging anywhere on the island, so have some cash handy for any purchases you plan to make here.
Safety Tips
First, being aware of your surroundings and taking precautions like any tourist destination is essential.
Although crime rates are generally low here, it’s always a good idea to stay vigilant and avoid displaying valuable items or large amounts of cash.
Secondly, when planning excursions or booking tours outside the cruise terminal, it’s crucial to do your research beforehand. Avoid booking activities from individuals approaching you on the spot, as they may not be reputable vendors.
Instead, look for trusted tour operators with positive reviews online.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit St. Thomas is during the high season, which runs from December to April. This is when the weather is most pleasant, with warm temperatures and less chance of rainfall.
It’s also the peak tourist season, so you can expect bustling streets and crowded attractions. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the off-peak season from May to November.
However, it’s important to note that this coincides with hurricane season, so be prepared for possible storms. The rainiest months in St. Thomas are May, September, October, and November.
Remember that St.Thomas does not participate in daylight saving time like many other places do.
Popular Cruise Lines That Visit St. Thomas Cruise Port Guide
St. Thomas is a popular homeport for several cruise lines that offer exciting itineraries and shore excursions. Royal Caribbean Group, Carnival Cruise, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line are major cruise lines visiting St. Thomas.
The St. Thomas cruise port is near the city center, making it easily accessible for passengers. This means you can quickly explore popular spots like the famous Blackbeard’s Castle and Fort Christian.
FAQs
Read more to find answers to these frequently asked questions and make the most out of your visit to St. Thomas Cruise Port.
Do you need a passport to enter St. Thomas?
A passport isn’t required for U.S. citizens with a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license. However, non-citizens require a valid passport from the country of origin.
How do you get from St. Thomas cruise port to the city center?
You can take the 20-25 minute walk to the city center. However, taxi services are a good alternative and fairly priced.
Booking Information
Whether you’re looking to make reservations for a cruise ship shore excursion or plan your itinerary, plenty of resources are available to help you out.
Celebrity Cruises is known for offering top Caribbean itineraries and shore excursions to St. Thomas, so be sure to check out their website for options and availability.
Additionally, the St. Thomas Cruise Port Guide provides additional resources and links for booking travel arrangements, making it easy to plan day trips.
Conclusion
Plan your visit to St. Thomas with the St. Thomas Cruise Port Guide. Discover the top things to do, beautiful beaches, attractions, and where to shop for duty-free treasures.
Make the most of your time on this stunning Caribbean island using this comprehensive guide designed specifically for cruise ship travelers.
Start exploring St. Thomas today!
