The St. Thomas cruise port is one of the best U.S. port stops included on many Caribbean itineraries, and it's one of my personal favorites. Of all the ports I've visited (and there are many), this one is always a standout.
St. Thomas is one of three islands, the others being St. Croix and St. John, that make up this United States territory. It's a popular cruise destination serviced by most of the major cruise lines. And because it's a U.S. territory, a passport isn't required for U.S. citizens sailing on a closed-loop cruise, which surprises many cruisers. It's a fun perk that lets you enjoy a tropical island vibe without technically leaving the country.
The St. Thomas cruise port has two main docks: Havensight and Crown Bay. On rare occasions, if the port is especially busy, ships may anchor and tender guests to shore, but that's pretty uncommon. Both docking areas have spots where cruisers can access free Wi-Fi, which is always a nice bonus.
This port is a shopper’s dream. It’s home to the A.H. Riise Mall on Main Street, plus unique finds at places like the Turkish Grand Bazaar. If duty-free shopping is your thing, make sure to allow some time for browsing.
It’s also a fantastic choice for a beach day. Along with the Bahamas and Grand Cayman, St. Thomas offers some of the clearest blue waters and softest white sands in the Caribbean.
The St. Thomas cruise port has two primary docking areas: Havensight and Crown Bay, both located in Charlotte Amalie on the southern coast of the island. Havensight is the busier of the two and is closest to the downtown area, with a short walk or taxi ride getting you to the heart of the action. Crown Bay is a bit farther west, but still close enough to town for easy access.
When ships dock at Havensight, cruisers are within walking distance of the Havensight Mall and just a short walk or ride away from Main Street, where you'll find top attractions, restaurants, and shops. From Crown Bay, you'll likely want to grab a taxi to get to downtown Charlotte Amalie or other major sites.
On rare occasions when both docks are full, some ships may anchor offshore and tender passengers to land, but this is unusual. If you want to check where your ship will dock or how busy your port day will be, use the ship schedule tool at CruiseMapper.
Getting around the St. Thomas cruise port is relatively easy, but your best option depends on where your ship docks and what you want to do during your port day. Taxis are plentiful, but the system here is unique, and not always ideal. Here are your best options:
Open-Air Shared Taxis
From both Havensight and Crown Bay docks, you’ll find an abundance of open-air shared taxis waiting to take cruisers to the island’s most popular destinations, like Magens Bay. These aren’t traditional taxis. They’re often open-air safari trucks with bench seating, and you’ll be grouped with others going to the same spot.
The pricing is fixed, but it’s not cheap. On a recent visit, fares were $15 per person each way to Magens Bay. That adds up quickly, especially for families. If you're headed to a beach, keep in mind you'll be dropped off at a central location, not necessarily right where you want to be, and you’ll likely have to wait until enough people are ready to head back before returning to port.
Important: Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are not available in St. Thomas. All transportation is handled by local taxi associations.
Private Driver
My favorite way to explore the island is with a private driver. And in St. Thomas, my go-to is G. He’s a lifelong local, an incredible guide, and just an all-around character. Hiring a private driver isn’t the cheapest option, but it’s absolutely worth it. You can pack so much more into your day and skip the hassle of waiting around for a crowded taxi to fill up.
G is knowledgeable, funny, and gives you a true local's perspective. If you'd like to check availability or pricing, you can submit my quick driver inquiry form and I’ll connect you with him directly.
Walking
If your ship docks at Havensight, and you're planning to explore downtown Charlotte Amalie, walking is a reasonable option. It’s about a 20 to 25 minute walk to Main Street, depending on your pace. If you’re docking at Crown Bay, though, walking isn’t as feasible, and I recommend grabbing a ride.
Guided Tours and Excursions
If you'd rather have everything handled for you, you can explore shore excursions through your cruise line or book independently through Viator. There are some great options for snorkeling, sightseeing, or beach hopping around the island.
Car Rentals (Not Recommended)
While it might be tempting to rent a car for the independence and value, I don’t recommend it in St. Thomas. They drive on the left side of the road here, and the roads are extremely steep, narrow, and winding, often with sharp turns and little shoulder room. Many of the most popular tourist attractions are jammed with large tour buses, making it stressful to navigate and park. Unless you're very familiar with island driving, it's just not worth the hassle and stress.
Meet G and his wife Lisa! They’re the husband-and-wife team behind Jammin' Jeep Tours, my absolute favorite way to explore St. Thomas. G is a lifelong St. Thomas native with decades of island knowledge, and Lisa is a transplant from the mainland who moved there for love... and ended up falling in love with the island too. Together, they’ve built one of the most trusted and fun local tour companies in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Now, here’s a little local trivia: on St. Thomas, they call every SUV a “jeep,” even if it’s not technically a Jeep brand vehicle. G and Lisa have a small fleet of comfortable, open-air “jeeps” that they use for private guided island tours. These tours are completely customized, meaning you can see the island your way, whether that’s focusing on history, scenic overlooks, or the best beaches. No jam-packed buses with strangers like cruise line excursions.
St. Thomas offers cruisers an incredible mix of history, shopping, and scenic views, especially for those looking to explore beyond the beach. Here are some of the best things for cruisers to do in St. Thomas:
Historic Charlotte Amalie and 99 Steps
If your ship docks at Havensight, walking into downtown Charlotte Amalie is totally doable. It's about a 20–25 minute walk, and once there, you can explore old Danish alleyways, shops, and landmarks. One must-see is the 99 Steps, a historic staircase built from bricks used as ballast in ships centuries ago. The area is full of charm, and you'll find shops, historic churches, and plenty of photo-worthy stops along the way.
If your ship docks at Crown Bay, you’ll want to book an excursion, hire a private driver, or take a taxi, as it’s too far to walk to downtown or any major sites. If you prefer to explore independently, take a taxi to town and navigate using a downtown map like this one, which highlights key stops, shops, and restaurants.
After being closed since 2017, Blackbeard’s Castle has finally reopened for tours. While the historic site is still under construction as it transforms into a boutique hotel, it is once again welcoming visitors. The property features a beautiful infinity pool overlooking the harbor, with panoramic views of Charlotte Amalie and the ships docked at the cruise port. It’s one of the most stunning viewpoints in town, and easily one of the best photo ops on the island.
You can visit on your own or as part of a private tour. Even if you've been to St. Thomas before, this is one of those places worth revisiting now that it's open again.
Most island tours include a quick stop at a small but scenic overlook with postcard-worthy views of the island, the sea, and the ships docked in port. It’s a fantastic photo stop and one of those fun little moments that really captures the vibe of St. Thomas.
There’s usually a local musician named Darren playing steel drums for tips, along with a few vendors selling small souvenirs and local crafts. And yes... there’s also a well-dressed donkey named Lady Gaga, adorned in bows and sparkle. The dude who owns her isn't very nice, but he'll allow you to take a photo with her for a small tip.
Skyride to Paradise Point
From Havensight, the Skyride to Paradise Point is just a short 6-minute walk from the terminal. Just hang a left when you exit. The cable car takes you up to a scenic overlook with gorgeous views of the harbor and your cruise ship. There's a bar and café at the top, and they’re famous for their Bushwacker drinks. This is one of those quick, fun, and totally worthwhile port activities.
If you have transportation, the overlook at Mountain Top is a fantastic stop. It offers sweeping panoramic views over Magens Bay and the surrounding islands, and it's also home to the world-famous banana daiquiri. I don't necessarily recommend going out of your way just for this, but if you've hired a private driver and are heading to that side of the island, it's absolutely worth a visit. The gift shop is huge and full of duty-free goods, and the view is unmatched.
Located near Coki Beach, Coral World is a great option for families or anyone who loves marine life. It's not a massive aquarium, but it's interactive and well done. You can walk through the underwater observatory, see sea lions and turtles, and even book activities like SNUBA or a sea trek helmet dive. If you're not doing a beach day but still want something ocean-themed, this is a solid choice. You'll need to take a taxi or book a tour to get there.
St. Thomas is one of the best duty-free shopping ports in the Caribbean. Main Street in Charlotte Amalie is packed with shops, including the A.H. Riise Mall, where you'll find big-name brands and local goods. Don't miss unique spots like the Turkish Grand Bazaar for more handcrafted and imported items. If shopping is your thing, you'll want to give yourself plenty of time here.
Most St. Thomas excursions, whether you book through your cruise line or independently, will take you on a "best of St. Thomas" island tour that hits many of these popular spots. These tours are typically done in open-air safari taxis or buses with other passengers, and they'll make stops at places like Mountain Top, the overlook, Magens Bay, and downtown Charlotte Amalie along the way. They're a solid option if you want a guided experience and don't mind being on a set schedule with a group.
That said, I prefer getting around on my own so I have more flexibility and control over my day. For the most efficient and relaxing way to see the island, this is why I always recommend hiring a private driver.
As noted above, my go-to in St. Thomas is G. He's a longtime local, a fantastic guide, and a total character. He knows all the best photo spots, scenic overlooks, and shortcuts, and he'll make sure your day is fun and efficient. If you want to get the most out of your port time, especially from Crown Bay, hiring G is absolutely worth it.
While most people think of beaches and duty-free shopping when it comes to the St. Thomas cruise port, there are some fun and offbeat stops to explore if you're into that sort of thing. If you're looking for something a little different from the usual port day checklist, here are a few unique options to consider:
Yes, there’s an actual ice bar in the Caribbean! Magic Ice is located in downtown Charlotte Amalie, just a short distance from the St. Thomas cruise port, and features ice sculptures, a walk-through gallery, and a drink served in an ice glass at the end. It’s a quirky contrast to the island’s hot tropical weather, which makes it a fun, quick stop if you're looking to do something totally unexpected. Bring a pair of socks if you go — they provide capes and gloves, but socks are required!
This interactive museum near the Skyride to Paradise Point blends real recovered shipwreck artifacts with high-tech exhibits. It’s family-friendly, air-conditioned, and just the right size to explore in under an hour. If you’re traveling with kids or just love pirate lore, this is a great port day filler before or after a meal or some shopping. It’s walkable from the Havensight dock near the St. Thomas cruise port and conveniently close to the tram station.
This lesser-known spot is a peaceful escape into nature, filled with orchids, butterflies, and tropical plants. It’s a bit off the beaten path and not walkable from the St. Thomas cruise port, but it’s worth the short taxi ride if you’re a plant lover or just want to do something calm and beautiful. If you’re booking a private tour or driver, it’s easy to include this as a quick stop along your route.
If ghost stories and folklore are your thing, this historical walking tour is a fun twist on traditional sightseeing. It blends history, pirate tales, and spooky legends in a lighthearted way. It's not too intense or theatrical; instead, it's just the right amount of quirky. Check tour availability to make sure the timing works with your port schedule, and keep in mind it's best for those docked at Havensight since it starts downtown.
Foods to Try in St. Thomas Cruise Port
You can’t visit the St. Thomas cruise port without tasting at least one authentic local dish. While there are plenty of great restaurants offering familiar fare, because yeah, you're still in the United States, these are a few local favorites you should definitely try during your port day... and where to find them close to the ship:
Pates
Pates are one of the most beloved street foods in the Virgin Islands. Think of them as deep-fried pockets of dough filled with spiced meats, saltfish, or veggies. They’re flavorful, filling, and a local staple. For an authentic version within walking distance of the Havensight pier, stop by Mama’s Shack in Yacht Haven Grande. She serves up fresh paté, along with Johnny cakes, and bush tea... all the local favorites in one location.
My favorite pate spot is a small locally owned food truck located right at the entrance of Brewer's Bay Beach.
Saltfish and Johnny Cakes
This classic island breakfast features salted cod cooked with onions and peppers, served alongside fried dough called johnny cakes. You can now enjoy a hearty Caribbean breakfast at 758 Restaurant, located inside the Grand Hotel complex across from Emancipation Garden in downtown Charlotte Amalie. Another local go-to is Lana’s Lobster Bowls, a takeout-style spot near Crown Bay that serves hearty portions of Caribbean comfort food, including saltfish plates.
Bush Tea
More than just a drink, bush tea is part of island tradition. It's a herbal tea made from native plants and often served hot or cold. It’s said to be great for your immune system and is a comforting local staple. You can find fresh bush tea at Mama’s Shack in Yacht Haven Grande, or try Roots Rastafari Cultural Café near the Crown Bay dock. Barefoot Buddha also offers herbal blends and teas close to Havensight.
Beaches Near St. Thomas Cruise Port
St. Thomas is a fantastic port to enjoy a beach day, because it's home to some of the most breathtaking stretches of sand and clear turquoise water in the entire Caribbean.
That said, it’s important to choose the right beach based on what kind of experience you’re looking for. And not all beaches are close enough to walk to, so plan for a taxi or private driver if your itinerary includes a beach day. Here are my top picks, based on years of personal port day experiences:
Magens Bay is the most well-known beach on the island, and it absolutely lives up to the hype. Located just a short drive from the St. Thomas cruise port, it’s a mile-long, crescent-shaped beach with calm, swimmable water and soft white sand. But here’s my tip: don’t stay near the main entrance and beach bar where everyone crowds in, walk a bit farther down the shoreline for a quieter spot and even better views.
Pro tip: ask your driver to drop you off farther down the beach instead. You’ll still have access to chair rentals, restrooms, and the same beach... just with way fewer people around you.
If you’re a cruise passenger who likes convenience and doesn’t mind a more social scene, Magens is a solid choice, and this is generally the most well-known go-to beach where cruisers visit.
This is hands-down my personal favorite beach in St. Thomas, located just a short drive from the St. Thomas cruise port. It’s usually much quieter than Magens and tends to draw more locals than cruisers. There’s a peaceful vibe here that I just love, and it holds a special place in my heart because this is where I snorkeled with sea turtles for the first time. And since that first visit, I've been back several times, and every time I've stopped at Brewers Bay Beach, I've seen the turtles — and sometimes even stingrays skimming along the ocean floor.
You won’t find bars or chair vendors here, so bring what you need. Because it's a great snorkeling stop, I usually just toss a basic cruise ship towel on the ground, put my stuff on top, grab my snorkel gear, and hit the water.
If you’re after serenity, crystal-clear water, and a truly local beach experience near the St. Thomas cruise port, Brewers Bay is hard to beat.
One of the most famous landmarks in St. Thomas is Blackbeard’s Castle, but did the infamous pirate actually set foot here? The answer is... maybe. While there's no definitive proof that Edward Teach (aka Blackbeard) used the island as a base, local lore has long tied him to the stone tower that now bears his name.
The tower itself dates back to the late 1600s, originally built by the Danes as a watchtower to protect Charlotte Amalie’s harbor. Over the years, pirate stories crept into its history, and the legend of Blackbeard became part of the island’s identity. Whether he was here or not, the nickname stuck.
After being closed for years, Blackbeard’s Castle has finally reopened to visitors, and it’s one of the best places to take in panoramic views of the island and cruise port. You’ll find more on it in my “Things to Do” section.
If you're looking for snorkeling right off the shore and a lively, colorful beach vibe, Coki is a great pick. It’s busier than Brewers and more casual than Magens. Local vendors offer food, drinks, and gear rentals, and there’s usually music playing and people hanging out well into the afternoon.
Coral World Ocean Park is right next door, so you can pair a beach stop here with a visit to the aquarium-style exhibits if you’re traveling with kids or want to add an extra activity to your port day. Just check the hours of Coral World since they're sort of wonky.
Sapphire Beach is another gorgeous option near the St. Thomas cruise port, known for its stunning views and excellent snorkeling conditions. The water here is typically a bit choppier than at Magens Bay, but it’s a great choice if you’re looking for something scenic with a bit more activity. There’s a beach bar, limited chair rentals, and usually a quieter crowd than Coki Beach.
This lesser-known beach is home to the Bolongo Bay Beach Resort. It’s not a massive beach, but it has a friendly, laid-back vibe and is a good fit if you’re looking for a one-stop beach and bar combo. You can grab drinks, rent snorkel gear, and even book watersports from the hotel’s activity desk.
Can You Ferry to St. John From the St. Thomas Cruise Port?
One of the most common questions cruisers ask is whether it’s worth taking the ferry to St. John during a port day in St. Thomas. The short answer? It’s doable, but not something I personally choose to do.
The ferry ride itself takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Most travelers use the Red Hook ferry, which runs frequently but requires a 30-minute taxi ride each way from the cruise port. There is also a less frequent ferry from Charlotte Amalie, which you can walk to from Havensight if the timing works out. Either way, you’ll still need a taxi once you arrive in St. John to reach beaches like Trunk Bay or Cinnamon Bay.
While St. John is beautiful, I’ve never taken the ferry during a cruise stop because there’s just so much to enjoy right near the St. Thomas cruise port. Between the beaches, the views, and the island’s culture, I’ve always found more than enough to fill my day.
Also, I’ll admit I get anxious about the logistics. Relying on a return ferry and taxi to get back to the St. Thomas cruise port in time just adds stress I don’t want. If you do go, double-check the ferry schedules, account for ship time differences, and give yourself plenty of buffer.
St. Thomas Cruise Port Time Zone & Ship Time
Keeping track of time zones can get tricky when cruising, especially on itineraries with multiple time zone changes on one sailing. St. Thomas cruise port operates on Atlantic Standard Time (AST), and here's the important part: the U.S. Virgin Islands do not observe Daylight Saving Time.
This means that, depending on the time of year, the local time in St. Thomas cruise port may or may not match Eastern Standard Time. From November through early March, AST is the same as EST. But from mid-March through October, when the mainland U.S. "springs forward," St. Thomas stays put, making AST one hour ahead of EDT.
Now, here's what really matters: most cruise lines operate on "ship time," which is typically set to the time zone of the departure port. So if you're sailing out of Miami or Fort Lauderdale, your ship is likely running on Eastern Time. That could mean your watch and the local St. Thomas time don't match the ship's time.
Your captain will make announcements during the cruise to update you on any time changes, but it's smart to be aware of these differences ahead of time, especially when planning excursions or setting alarms to get back to the ship on time.
Always use ship time when planning your day, not local time. If you book an independent tour or a taxi, double-check whether the operator uses local time or ship time. Missing the ship because of a time zone mix-up is not a story you want to tell.
St. Thomas Cruise Port FAQs
What is the best beach near the St. Thomas cruise port?
Magens Bay is the most popular and convenient beach for cruisers, located about 4.5 miles from the St. Thomas cruise port area. It’s well developed with restrooms, chair rentals, and food. If you want something quieter and more local, though, there are other great options near the St. Thomas cruise port, like Sapphire Beach. Brewers Bay is my personal favorite.
Can I walk to downtown from the St. Thomas cruise port?
Yes, but only if you’re docked at Havensight in the St. Thomas cruise port. From Havensight, it’s about a 20 to 25 minute walk to downtown Charlotte Amalie. If you're at Crown Bay, the walk is much longer and not recommended. In that case, grab a taxi or book a private driver for the day.
Can I take the ferry to St. John from the St. Thomas cruise port?
Yes, it’s possible to take a ferry to St. John from the St. Thomas cruise port, but it requires planning. Most cruisers use the Red Hook ferry, which is about a 30-minute taxi ride away. Ferries from Charlotte Amalie are walkable from Havensight but run less frequently. Just be sure to monitor time closely and use ship time (not local time!) if you go.
How do taxis work at the St. Thomas cruise port?
Taxis at the St. Thomas cruise port operate differently than traditional metered taxis. Most are open-air safari-style trucks with bench seating, and they run on fixed pricing. You’ll be grouped with other cruisers heading to the same destination, like Magens Bay or downtown Charlotte Amalie. Fares are charged per person, not per vehicle, and rates are posted on signs at both Havensight and Crown Bay. It's efficient and easy, but not exactly cheap, especially for families. Also, there’s no Uber or Lyft in St. Thomas, so these shared taxis and private drivers are your main options for getting around.
Are Uber or Lyft available at the St. Thomas cruise port?
No. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are not available in the U.S. Virgin Islands, including at the St. Thomas cruise port. All transportation is handled by local taxi associations, and fares are typically fixed and non-negotiable.
Video: Your Quick Port Day Guide to St. Thomas Cruise Port
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