As one of the most popular U.S. Virgin Islands in the Caribbean, St Thomas is not just a pit stop; it’s a destination brimming with beauty, culture, and adventure. But why is the port of St Thomas important?
For starters, its natural deep-water harbours and surrounding stunning landscapes have made it a favourite among cruise lines and guests alike. St Thomas Cruise Port provides a gateway to a sun-soaked paradise, where you’ll find rugged volcanic peaks looking down over idyllic crystal-clear waters and powder-white sand just waiting to embrace your bare feet.
In our St Thomas Cruise Port Guide, we’ll share all you need to know to plan a wonderfully memorable visit here. We’ll cover popular questions such as:
Where do cruise ships dock in St Thomas?
How far is St Thomas from the cruise port?
Is there anything near St Thomas Cruise Port?
What are the best activities by St Thomas Cruise Port?
So, whether you’re looking for inspiration for your next cruise holiday or some practical tips to help you make the most of your Caribbean experience, read on to discover more about St Thomas Cruise Port and its captivating Caribbean Island.
Where do cruise ships dock in St Thomas?
St Thomas Cruise Port hosts two main cruise ship docks: the Havensight Pier (West Indies Dock) and the Crown Bay Dock. Both of St Thomas’ terminals are near the town of Charlotte Amalie and are equipped to welcome you with a variety of facilities to make your visit comfortable and convenient.
Many of the leading cruise lines dock at Havensight, which has three docking spots on its kilometre-long pier. Right next to the dock, the Havensight Mall offers an array of shopping options, from souvenirs to luxury goods. You’ll also find plenty of facilities, including ATMs, car rental agencies, and taxi stands.
Crown Bay Dock is also a popular docking spot for large cruise ships, with space for two vessels on its pier. While it is located slightly further from the main city of Charlotte Amalie, this cruise terminal doesn’t fall short in amenities either.
With its own shopping centre, including a diverse selection of restaurants, souvenir shops, and essential services, Crown Bay offers a welcoming atmosphere to start exploring St Thomas.
Occasionally, when both of St Thomas’ cruise terminals are busy, cruise ships need to anchor in the bay by Charlotte Amalie. If this happens, tender boats will take you ashore.
How to get to St Thomas from the cruise port
When it comes to exploring beyond St Thomas Cruise Port, getting to the heart of St Thomas — Charlotte Amalie — is a breeze.
From Havensight Pier, the distance from St Thomas Cruise Port to the city centre is just over 1.5 miles. You may want to opt for a pleasant walk through the Yacht Haven Marina. Unfortunately, it was hit severely by hurricanes in 2017. However, it has made a remarkable comeback since then.
There are also plenty of official taxis around Havensight Dock. These can get busy near St Thomas’s cruise terminal gates, so it is often worth walking towards the mall exit.
If your ship is docking at Crown Bay, the distance to Charlotte Amalie is over two miles. While getting from this part of St Thomas Cruise Port to the city centre by foot is possible, it is probably not worthwhile, and you are better off getting one of the taxis. Official fares are reasonable, so there is no need to haggle.
If you want to explore the island independently and discover some of its more hidden gems, you can rent a car. In St Thomas, you drive on the left side of the road – handy for us Brits! However, be aware that the roads can be narrow and windy in places.
Additionally, your cruise line will usually offer a number of shore excursions for you to explore the island.
What to do in St Thomas Cruise Port and Its Surrounding Area
St Thomas is a treasure trove of activities and sights, ensuring that your port day will be anything but ordinary. In this section, we’ll explore what to do in St Thomas Cruise Port and its surrounding area, ensuring your visit is packed with unforgettable experiences.
Magens Bay Beach
Magens Bay is a must-visit when looking for what to do in St Thomas Cruise Port. Often listed among the world’s most beautiful beaches, Magens Bay’s heart-shaped shoreline and tranquil waters make it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the scenery.
It’s worth noting that Magens Bay is on the island’s northern coastline, approximately 5 miles from St Thomas Cruise Port, so you will need to arrange suitable transport to get there.
Charlotte Amalie Shopping
If you love to shop, heading to Charlotte Amalie for some retail therapy is one of the best activities by St Thomas Cruise Port. As the island’s capital city, it is a hub for duty-free shopping. From high-end jewellery to local crafts, the city’s alleyways and streets offer a shopping experience like no other. Don’t miss the historic Main Street and Market Square for unique finds.
Historic Tours
Discover the island’s rich history with a tour of its landmarks. Visit Fort Christian, the oldest standing structure on the island, or marvel at the colonial architecture and pirate legends that Charlotte Amalie has to offer. You’ll find a range of guided and self-guided walking tours of the city, so you can choose one that most suits your interests.
Skyride to Paradise Point
Take the Skyride to Paradise Point for breathtaking views of the harbour and beyond. The aerial tramway takes you 700 feet above sea level, where you can enjoy panoramic vistas and tropical drinks or even brave the brand-new Skywalk.
The Skyride to Paradise Point is not only one of the best activities near St Thomas Cruise Port but is also only half a mile from Havensight Pier, making it very easy to fit into your itinerary.
Sailing and Snorkelling Excursions
When deciding what to do in St Thomas on port days, booking some water sports will not disappoint! The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island make snorkelling and scuba diving incredible. You can discover hidden coves, swim with turtles, and explore vibrant coral reefs.
Alternatively, charter a private boat to enjoy the serene sunsets or up the adrenaline with water skiing or jet skiing across the open ocean waters.
Coral World Ocean Park
Ideal for families and nature lovers, Coral World offers up-close encounters with marine life in their natural habitats. Explore underwater observatories, pet a sea lion, or snorkel in the coral reef.
St Thomas is a destination that promises adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. It’s also generally a hassle-free place to get around. Whether you choose to explore its historic streets, lounge on its pristine beaches, or shop for treasures in its markets, this stunning Caribbean Island offers a world of experiences just waiting to be discovered.
