Plan a CruiseSaint Thomas Cruise Port Guide
Saint Thomas offers an enticing mix of duty-free shopping and scenic Caribbean beauty, making it a popular cruise destination. Your ship will typically dock at either Havensight (also known as West India Company Dock), the main cruise terminal, or Crown Bay, a newer facility opened in 2007. During exceptionally busy periods, such as January through March, or when more than six ships call on St. Thomas in a single day, your ship may anchor in the harbor, and tenders will transport you directly to the heart of Charlotte Amalie.
The island is renowned for its extensive duty-free shopping opportunities, particularly in Charlotte Amalie and around the cruise docks. Beyond the bustling retail areas, you'll find historical sites, stunning beaches, and breathtaking panoramic views, all easily accessible for independent exploration within your 8-10 hour port visit.
Getting Around from the Port
From Havensight (West India Company Dock):
- Walking: Downtown Charlotte Amalie is approximately a 15 to 20-minute walk from the Havensight pier.
- Taxis: Plenty of taxis are usually available at the dock.
- Safari Dollar Buses: For longer distances, look for these open-air buses at designated stops. Pay the driver when you exit: $1 for short distances, $2 for longer routes.
From Crown Bay:
- Walking: Walking to downtown Charlotte Amalie from Crown Bay is quite difficult and takes about 40 minutes.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available in a designated area at the port. These are often shared rides and cost approximately $5 per person.
- Safari Dollar Buses: These are also an option for getting around the island, with fares of $1-$2 depending on distance.
General Transportation Tips:
- Taxi and bus rates are regulated. Taxis charge per person, one-way, and can be expensive.
- To reach the Red Hook Ferry dock (for trips to St. John), a taxi is the recommended option.
- To reach Water Island from Crown Bay, walk over to the Crown Bay Marina, right beside the cruise ship dock, and take the ferry.
Attractions and Activities
With 8-10 hours in port, you have several excellent options:
- Explore Charlotte Amalie (2-3 hours): The historic capital is easily walkable. While known for shopping, take time to appreciate the historic buildings, forts, and warehouses. Wear comfortable shoes.
- Skyride to Paradise Point & Mountain Top (2-3 hours): Take the Skyride for breathtaking views of St. Thomas Harbor from Paradise Point. Continue to Mountain Top, the island's highest point, for spectacular vistas of Magens Bay.
- Coral World Marine Park (3-4 hours): Interact with marine life at the touch pool or explore a mangrove lagoon along the Coastal Trail.
- Half-Day Sail & Snorkel (4-5 hours): Enjoy a relaxing half-day sailing trip to Buck Island aboard a large yacht, then snorkel in Turtle Cove.
- Water Island & Honeymoon Beach (3-4 hours): From Crown Bay Marina, take a short 5-10 minute ferry ride to Water Island. Honeymoon Beach, a short walk from the ferry dock, offers a beautiful, uncrowded alternative to more popular beaches.
- Day Trip to St. John (5-7 hours): For a more extensive beach experience, take a taxi to the Red Hook Ferry dock. Ferries to Cruz Bay, St. John, depart hourly on the hour and take about 25-30 minutes. Upon arrival, taxis are waiting to take you to beaches like Trunk Bay (around $8 per person, including scenic overlooks). To ensure you return to your ship on time, plan to take a ferry from Cruz Bay no later than 3 hours prior to your ship's departure. Taxis will be waiting at Red Hook to take you back to your ship.
- Magens Bay (2-3 hours): This popular destination features a nearly three-quarter-mile stretch of well-protected white sand beach. Access via taxi.
Dining & Shopping
Saint Thomas is renowned as a duty-free shopping paradise. You'll find over 400 shops along Main Street in Charlotte Amalie and an additional 50-plus at Havensight Mall. Popular items include precious gemstones, fine jewelry, watches, cameras, electronics, designer clothing, and a wide selection of island rums and liquors. The US Customs allowance for duty-free goods is $1200 per person, with no sales tax.
Near the Cruise Terminal:
- Havensight Dock: Essentially a mini-downtown, it features over 50 shops, many of which are outposts of well-known Charlotte Amalie boutiques. Here you'll also find Dockside Books, Gourmet Gallery (offering a great selection of wine and Caribbean beer), and a post office.
- Across from Havensight: Conveniently located across the main road are convenience stores, coffee shops, and cafes that often provide free WiFi for customers.
- Yacht Haven Grande Marina: A short walk to the left from the Havensight pier, this newer, upscale shopping and dining area offers a refined experience.
- K-Mart: For some of the best bargains on duty-free liquor, K-Mart is within walking distance beyond the immediate Havensight facility.
Shopping Hours: Shops are generally open Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Some larger stores will open on Sundays when cruise ships are in port.