Location & Transportation
During busy times (especially January through March), cruise ships call at two main docks here in St. Thomas. You may dock at the lively Havensight – also known as West India Company Dock – or at Crown Bay, a relatively new facility opened in early 2007. If six or more ships call in one day, your ship might even be anchored in the harbor with tenders taking you straight into Charlotte Amalie.
• At Havensight, you’ll find a mini-downtown atmosphere right at the dock with more than 50 shops (many of which are extensions of Charlotte Amalie’s boutiques). Havensight is about a 15–20 minute walk from town, and plenty of taxis are available if you prefer not to walk. You can also discover the upscale shopping and dining area at Yacht Haven Grande Marina, which is just a short stroll away.
• At Crown Bay, the walk into downtown Charlotte Amalie is more challenging (about 40 minutes), so taxis are the easiest option. Taxis here are often shared and cost around $5 per person one way.
• For a leisurely exploration, consider joining a walking tour that starts at Havensight and winds through the downtown shopping area. You can set your own pace with a handy guide available online.
Sightseeing
St. Thomas is steeped in history and natural beauty. I love exploring Charlotte Amalie on foot—you can easily combine history with a spot of shopping along the way. Some must-sees include:
• Stroll through historic Charlotte Amalie where centuries-old forts, plantations, and colonial architecture mix with modern boutiques.
• Ride The Skyride to Paradise Point for a breathtaking view of the harbor.
• Head to Mountain Top, the highest point on the island, for panoramic views of Magens Bay—a true slice of paradise.
• Visit Coral World Marine Park to explore marine life up close and wander along coastal trails.
• Enjoy a relaxing half-day sail to Buck Island and go snorkeling in Turtle Cove for a taste of adventure.
• If you’re up for another island experience, take a short ferry ride (5–10 minutes) from Crown Bay Marina to Water Island and meander over to the quiet Honeymoon Beach.
• Consider a trip to neighboring St. John – hop in a taxi to the Red Hook Ferry dock, catch the hourly ferry (the 9:00 AM departure is best to avoid crowds), and discover beautiful spots like Trunk Bay on St. John.
• Don’t miss a visit to Magens Bay, a famous white-sand beach where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy the sun and surf.
Tours & Excursions
There are plenty of opportunities for guided and self-guided adventures around the island:
• Sign up for a walking tour that takes you from Havensight Dock through Charlotte Amalie’s shopping and historic districts.
• Book a half-day sailing excursion to Buck Island that often includes snorkeling stops in Turtle Cove.
• For a taste of local island hopping, ride the ferry to Water Island or even St. John.
• Use the local safari dollar bus system for short trips—just hop on at a bus stop and pay $1 for shorter journeys or $2 for longer distances.
Shopping
St. Thomas is known as the bargain-shopping bazaar of the Caribbean. Some highlights include:
• Over 400 shops line the Main Street area of Charlotte Amalie, ranging from precious gemstones and fine jewelry to designer clothing and island rums.
• The Havensight Mall is a treasure trove of duty-free shopping with great bargains on liquor and other coveted items.
• Don’t forget that customs allows $1200 worth of duty-free goods per person—and there’s no sales tax, which makes for great deals.
Dining
The culinary scene here is as vibrant as the island itself. Having spent some time exploring, I can say:
• At Havensight, check out Gourmet Gallery for a nice selection of wine, Caribbean beer, and even a post office if you need to send a postcard home.
• Across the main drag from the dock, you’ll find various cafés and casual eateries where you can grab a quick bite.
• The Yacht Haven Grande Marina not only offers upscale shopping but also hosts some remarkable dining options where you can enjoy local Caribbean dishes.
• Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, spicy island fare, or a more international menu, you’ll have plenty of choices.
Culture & Local Events
St. Thomas offers a friendly, laid-back island vibe mixed with a rich history. Here are a few cultural tips for your visit:
• Official language is English, though you’ll also often hear Spanish spoken around the island. • Money is in US dollars (USD), which is widely accepted along with major credit cards. • Shopping hours are generally Monday through Saturday from about 09:00 to 17:00, and many larger shops open on Sundays when cruise ships are in port. • Experience the local culture by visiting historic sites in Charlotte Amalie and chatting with local vendors about the island’s storied past featuring forts, plantations, and even pirate lore. • While there aren’t fixed festival dates, keep an eye out for local celebrations and events in the town square that showcase live music, dance, and Caribbean cuisine.
Safety & Awareness
• As in many popular tourist spots, keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas. • When taking taxis or shared rides, confirm the fare beforehand. • Enjoy the welcoming community and the relaxed pace of island life while staying aware of your surroundings.
References
• Havensight Dock Information
• Crown Bay Overview
• Charlotte Amalie and St. Thomas Tourist Guide