St Thomas port
Overview:
Perhaps the most bustling town in the US Virgin Island,
Charlotte Amalie on the island of St. Thomas, is the most popular
cruise port in the Caribbean. The cruise port combines the
convenience of being on US territory (no passport for US citizens)
with a decidedly Danish culture and atmosphere.
Among vying attractions, the vibrant coloured and scenic town
Charlotte Amalie is the most luring. The European styled city
coloured with the pastels of the Caribbean is set against deep
green hills and a rich, almost glowing blue, deep water bay.
Cruise ships come to St. Thomas at two ports, the more often used
Havensight or the newly built Crown Bay Centre. Heavensight is next
to Charlotte Amalie city centre and Crown Bay is just west. When
berths are full passengers are tendered into the port docks. Both
ports have all conceivable passenger amenities although Havensight
has more of them.
Contact:
Tel: +1 (340) 774 8784
www.usvitourism.vi
Tourist information is available from the entrance of Havensight
cruise terminal
Transport:
Taxis wait at both cruise terminals for the short drive into
Charlotte or other island destinations. In Charlotte most the town
is easily walkable. A ferry from Charlotte connects to other nearby
islands as does a bus service that runs to Red Hook on St
Thomas.
Attractions:
Charlotte Amalie is a beautiful city to wander about just for
its Danish ambiance. For a great view of the city hike to Black
Beard's Castle, said to be the pirate's own lookout. Fort Christian
is also a beautiful and historically interesting building and
museum. For even better perspective of the city, ride the St Thomas
Tramway up the tall hill. Out of the city, Coral World, a large
marine park with and underwater observatory, is well worth a visit.
To soak up beach time nothing beats Magens Bay.
Restaurants:
- Craig and Sally's - Well known and popular international food in
French Town
- Herve - Very popular international food on a covered deck with
great views
- Paradise Point - Top of the tram ride dining with the best
island view
Best dish: Callaloo soup
Shopping:
Heavensight has an enormous shopping centre that will take some
time to peruse. In Charlotte Amalie great boutique stores are best
found along its Main Street also called Dronningens Gade. Cheaper
souvinirs are best found at Vendors Plaza near Fort Christian. US
residents get extra duty free limits.
Best buy: Jewellery or rum
Excursions:
- Take a bus to Red Hook
- Ride a boat to Honeymoon Beach
- Visit nearby beaches on the island St John
- Charter a yacht for sunset cruise
- Golf at Mahogany Run Golf Course