St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands, is one of the most popular departure ports for Caribbean cruises. It is a beautiful island with a rich history, stunning beaches, and numerous tourist attractions. If you’re planning a cruise vacation that departs from St. Thomas, there are several things you should know to make your trip enjoyable and memorable.
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History of St. Thomas
St. Thomas has a fascinating history that dates back over 1,500 years. The island was inhabited by the Ciboney people until the arrival of the Arawaks, who were then displaced by the Caribs. In 1493, Christopher Columbus arrived on the island and named it after St. Thomas, the Apostle. In the 1600s, the Dutch established a settlement on the island, followed by the Danish in the 1700s. The United States purchased the Virgin Islands from Denmark in 1917, and they have been a US territory ever since.
Cruise Lines Departing from St. Thomas
St. Thomas is a popular departure port for several cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Princess. The port is known for its excellent facilities and easy access to a variety of tourist attractions. The port has two terminals, the West India Company Dock and the Crown Bay Dock. Both terminals offer various amenities, including restaurants, shops, and transportation services.
Tourist Attractions in St. Thomas
St. Thomas is an island paradise with many tourist attractions that will delight every type of traveler. From stunning beaches to historical landmarks, there is something for everyone. Some of the top attractions include:
- Beaches: Magens Bay, Coki Beach, Sapphire Beach, and Lindquist Beach are just a few of the beautiful beaches in St. Thomas.
- Historical Monuments and Sites: Fort Christian, St. Thomas Synagogue, and Blackbeard’s Castle are some of the historical landmarks worth visiting.
- Scenic Views and Natural Wonders: Mountain Top, Coral World Ocean Park, and the Mangrove Lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary and Marine Reserve are just a few of the natural wonders that are worth seeing.
- Shopping Centers and Malls: Havensight Mall, Yacht Haven Grande, and Crown Bay Center are popular shopping centers in St. Thomas.
- Museums and Art Galleries: The Virgin Islands Museum, the St. Thomas Historical Trust Museum, and the Mango Tango Art Gallery are some of the museums and art galleries worth visiting.
Tips for Cruise Travelers Visiting St. Thomas
If you’re planning a cruise vacation that departs from St. Thomas, there are several things you should keep in mind:
- Pre-Cruise Planning: Research the island and plan your itinerary ahead of time.
- Bookings and Reservations: Book shore excursions and restaurants in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Packing Essentials: Pack for the warm and humid climate, and bring sunscreen, bug spray, and comfortable shoes.
- Essential Documents and IDs: Bring your passport, cruise documents, and travel insurance information.
- Tourist Etiquettes and Customs: Respect the local customs and traditions, and be mindful of your behavior in public places.
Shopping in St. Thomas
St. Thomas is a shopping paradise with a variety of options to choose from. Some of the popular shopping centers and malls include:
- Havensight Mall: This mall is located near the West India Company Dock and offers a variety of duty-free shopping options.
- Yacht Haven Grande: This upscale shopping center is located near the Crown Bay Dock and offers luxury shopping and dining options.
- Local Markets and Bazaars: The Vendor’s Plaza, Charlotte Amalie Market Square, and Emancipation Garden are some of the local markets and bazaars where you can find unique souvenirs and local handicrafts.
- Best Souvenirs to Buy in St. Thomas: Rum, local hot sauces, jewelry, and artwork are some of the best souvenirs to buy in St. Thomas.
Places to Visit and Things to Do Before the Cruise
St. Thomas offers a variety of pre-cruise activities that will help you make the most of your vacation. Some of the best activities include:
- Best Pre-Cruise Activities: Visit Magens Bay Beach, take a tour of the island, go snorkeling or scuba diving, and sample the local cuisine.
- Recommended Accommodations: Bolongo Bay Beach Resort, Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove, and The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas are some of the recommended accommodations on the island.
- Local Food and Drinks to Try: Try the local seafood, conch fritters, and rum cocktails.
Eateries and Restaurants in St. Thomas
St. Thomas is a food lover’s paradise with a variety of dining options to choose from. Some of the best restaurants and eateries include:
- Local Cuisine and Delicacies: Gladys’ Cafe, Hook, Line & Sinker, and Pie Whole are some of the restaurants that offer local cuisine.
- Best Restaurants and Diners: The Smoking Rooster, XO Bistro, and Mafolie Restaurant are some of the best restaurants on the island.
- Fine Dining and Gourmet Food: Old Stone Farmhouse, Room with a View, and Oceana Restaurant and Wine Bar are some of the fine dining options in St. Thomas.
Best Time to Visit St. Thomas
The best time to visit St. Thomas is from December to April when the weather is pleasant and the island is bustling with tourists. The peak season is from mid-December to mid-April, and the off-peak season is from May to November. Some of the festivals and events worth attending include:
- Carnival: This festival takes place in April and features parades, music, and food.
- St. Thomas Food and Wine Festival: This festival takes place in April and features local cuisine and wine.
- St. John Festival: This festival takes place in July and features music, food, and cultural celebrations.
Things to Do Near the Port
St. Thomas offers a variety of activities near the port that are perfect for cruise travelers. Some of the best activities include:
- Beach Activities and Water Sports: Snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular water activities near the port.
- Island Hopping and Snorkeling Tours: Take a boat tour to nearby islands, such as St. John and Water Island, for snorkeling and beach activities.
- Land Tours and Excursions: Take a tour of the island to see historical landmarks, scenic views, and natural wonders.
Shore Excursions in St. Thomas
St. Thomas offers a variety of shore excursions that are perfect for cruise travelers. Some of the popular shore excursions include:
- Popular Shore Excursions: Visit Magens Bay Beach, take a scenic island tour, or go on a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion.
- Private Tours and Charters: Hire a private tour guide or charter a boat for a personalized and intimate experience.
- Recommended Tour Operators and Guides: Virgin Islands EcoTours, Captain Nautica, and St. Thomas Adventure Tours are some of the recommended tour operators and guides.
Transportation in St. Thomas
St. Thomas offers several transportation options, including:
- Taxis and Public Transportation: Taxis are readily available near the port, and public transportation is affordable and reliable.
- Car Rentals and Self-Drive Tours: Several car rental companies operate on the island, and self-drive tours are a convenient way to explore the island.
- Ferry and Boat Services: Ferry services are available to nearby islands, and boat tours are a popular way to see the island from the water.
Costs and Expenses in St. Thomas
St. Thomas can be an expensive destination, but there are ways to save money. Some of the budget planning and estimating tips include:
- Budget Planning and Estimates: Research the costs of transportation, dining, and activities before your trip to avoid surprises.
- Cost of Living in St. Thomas: St. Thomas has a higher cost of living than the mainland United States, so be prepared for higher prices.
- Currency and Exchange Rates: The US dollar is the official currency of St. Thomas, and there are several currency exchange services available on the island.
St. Thomas is a beautiful and exciting destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for adventure tours, family-friendly activities, luxury travel, or fine dining, St. Thomas has it all. Use this destination guide to plan your cruise vacation and make the most of your time on the island.
