Plan a CruiseSaint John Cruise Port Guide
Cruise ships do not dock directly in Saint John. Instead, they anchor offshore at Cruz Bay, and passengers are tendered to the National Park Service Dock, which is the main pier in the center of town. Saint John is the most undeveloped and relaxed of the three major U.S. Virgin Islands. Two-thirds of its 28 square miles are designated as National Park land, contributing to its unspoiled beaches and lack of large resort development, with only two major resorts present on the island. Tourism is the primary industry, offering plenty for nature enthusiasts, including diverse hiking trails suitable for all skill levels and excellent snorkeling opportunities with vibrant reefs easily accessible.
Getting Around from the Port
The most common way to get around Saint John is by surrey-style taxis, which are readily available at the pier. Taxi fares are regulated and charged per person for a one-way trip. While bargaining is common for other services on the islands, taxi rates are fixed. For independent exploration, open-sided jeeps can be rented from companies like Avis and Hertz, which have offices on the island. Remember that driving is on the left side of the road, even though most rental vehicles have left-hand drive.
Attractions and Activities
- Explore Virgin Islands National Park: With two-thirds of the island protected, Saint John offers numerous hiking trails ranging from easy walks for families to challenging routes for experienced hikers. Many trails provide access to secluded beaches and scenic overlooks.
- Snorkeling Adventures: The island is renowned for its vibrant underwater world. Several beautiful beaches feature reefs teeming with colorful fish and marine life, perfect for snorkeling. You can venture out on your own or join a guided snorkeling tour.
- Day Trip to St. Thomas: A 15-minute ferry ride from Cruz Bay will take you to the east end of St. Thomas, offering a change of scenery and additional shopping or dining options.
Dining & Shopping
Compared to St. Thomas, Saint John is a smaller shopping destination, but the boutiques and shops in Cruz Bay are known for their quality and unique offerings. Many shops are concentrated at Mongoose Junction, a charming woodsy area located about a 5-minute walk from the ferry dock. Standard shopping hours are Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. When cruise ships are in port, some larger establishments may extend their hours and open on Sundays.
Safety
No specific safety concerns are noted for visitors to Saint John.
Currency and Language
The official currency is the U.S. Dollar (US$). English is the official language, though Spanish is also spoken. Credit cards are widely accepted.