St. Thomas, US, Virgin Island
St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, is a beautiful and unique Caribbean island that stands out from its neighbors with a cosmopolitan flair and a rich history as a major trading hub. As a U.S. territory, it's a popular destination for cruisers who want to experience the Caribbean's natural beauty with the comfort and convenience of a U.S. port. The island is known for its stunning white-sand beaches, incredible views from its high hillsides, and its capital, Charlotte Amalie, which is a historic and bustling center for duty-free shopping.
⛵ Port Introduction
St. Thomas has two main cruise ports, which are a short taxi ride from one another.
West Indian Company Dock (WICO): Also known as Havensight, this is the larger and more frequently used port. It has three berths and is a very popular stop for many cruise lines.
Crown Bay Dock: This is the newer and smaller port, with two berths. It's located a bit further from Charlotte Amalie.
Both ports are designed for direct docking, so you can walk right off the ship and into the port area. From there, you are a short ride or a walk away from the capital city of Charlotte Amalie.
⚓ Terminal Information
The terminals at both WICO and Crown Bay are well-equipped to handle the high volume of cruisers. The WICO terminal is part of a large shopping mall and has a number of amenities, while Crown Bay has a small shopping mall and a welcome center.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
At both terminals, you'll find a variety of shops selling duty-free goods, souvenirs, and local crafts. There are also restrooms available and some small cafes and restaurants. Tour pickups and taxi stands are located just outside the terminals, with clear signage to guide you. The terminals also have a welcome center where you can get maps and information about the island. Public Wi-Fi is available in the terminals and at nearby businesses.
🗣️ Language
The local language is English. You will have no problem navigating, communicating, or exploring the island.
💰 Money
The currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). There is no need to exchange money. Credit cards are widely accepted everywhere, and ATMs are easy to find at the ports and throughout the island.
🚗 Transportation
St. Thomas is a very popular destination, and transportation options are plentiful.
Taxis: Taxis are the most popular way to get around the island. They are mostly open-air safari-style buses that carry 10-12 passengers, but private taxis are also available. The taxi rates are fixed and regulated by the U.S. Virgin Islands Taxi Commission, and it's a good idea to confirm the price with the driver before you get in.
Tours: A great way to see the island is to take a pre-arranged tour. Many tours will take you to the main attractions, like Magen's Bay Beach, Drake's Seat, and the Mountain Top.
Public Bus: St. Thomas has a public bus system, VITRAN, but the routes and schedules can be difficult for tourists to navigate.
♿ Accessibility
St. Thomas has an accessibility rating of 3 out of 10. While the cruise ports are modern and well-equipped for people with limited mobility, the island itself is known for its steep hills, which can be a challenge. The main attractions, like Blackbeard's Castle, have many stairs and uneven surfaces. However, some tour operators offer accessible van tours that can take you to all the main sites.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
If you are docked at WICO, you can take a short 5-10 minute taxi ride to the downtown area of Charlotte Amalie. You can also walk, but it is a longer walk (15-20 minutes) along the waterfront. If you are docked at Crown Bay, you can take a short taxi ride to the downtown area of Charlotte Amalie.
🚽 Toilet
Public toilets are not very common in St. Thomas. Your best bet is to use the restrooms in the cruise terminals, or in restaurants and businesses. Some places may charge a small fee.
💊 Drugstore
The Medicine Shoppe: WICO Dock Road, St. Thomas, VI 00802. This is located at the WICO terminal.
Doctor's Choice Pharmacy: 8050 Lindberg Bay, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas 00802.
✨ Authentic Experience
Dine on Local Caribbean Cuisine: For a taste of authentic local food, seek out a local cafe or restaurant and try some Caribbean staples. Look for dishes like conch fritters, jerk chicken, and a "Johnny Cake," a slightly sweet, fried cornmeal-based bread.
Take a Safari-Style Taxi Ride: The open-air safari-style taxis are a unique part of the St. Thomas experience. Take a taxi to a local beach, like Lindbergh Bay, which is less crowded than Magen's Bay. You can get a feel for the local atmosphere and enjoy a beautiful beach day.
Visit Drake's Seat for a View of Magen's Bay: For a truly breathtaking view of the island, take a taxi to Drake's Seat, a historic lookout point on a hillside. The view of Magen's Bay is spectacular, and it is a perfect photo opportunity.
