What to Do in Charlotte Amalie on a Cruise: A Complete Guide

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Charlotte Amalie: A Caribbean Port of Call

Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands, is a popular cruise ship destination for good reason. With its stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and endless activities, there’s something for everyone in Charlotte Amalie.

From exploring the historic city center to swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, there’s no shortage of things to do in Charlotte Amalie. And with its convenient location just a short distance from the cruise ship docks, you can easily spend a day or two exploring this beautiful Caribbean port of call.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top things to do in Charlotte Amalie, including:

  • Exploring the historic city center
  • Visiting the Danish West India Company Museum
  • Shopping at the duty-free shops
  • Swimming and sunbathing at Magens Bay Beach
  • Taking a catamaran cruise to Jost Van Dyke

So if you’re planning a cruise to the Caribbean, be sure to add Charlotte Amalie to your itinerary. You won’t be disappointed!

Activity Description Cost
Visit the St. Thomas National Historic Site Explore the ruins of Fort Christian, the oldest standing structure in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and learn about the island’s history. $10
Take a ferry to St. John Spend the day exploring the beautiful island of St. John, known for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. $30 round-trip
Go snorkeling at Coral World See a variety of marine life, including coral reefs, fish, and sea turtles. $40
Take a catamaran cruise Sail around the island and enjoy stunning views of the coastline. $50

Charlotte Amalie is the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands and a popular cruise ship destination. The city is home to a variety of attractions, including historic buildings, museums, shops, restaurants, and beaches. Whether you’re looking for a day of sightseeing or a relaxing day at the beach, Charlotte Amalie has something to offer everyone.

Popular Attractions in Charlotte Amalie

  • The Danish West India and Guinea Company Warehouse is one of the oldest buildings in Charlotte Amalie. It was built in 1760 and used as a warehouse for the Danish West India and Guinea Company. Today, the building houses the Virgin Islands Museum.
  • Fort Christian is another historic building in Charlotte Amalie. It was built in 1666 and used as a fortress to protect the city from pirates. Today, the fort is open to the public and offers stunning views of the harbor.
  • St. Thomas Synagogue is the oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere. It was built in 1796 and is still used by the Jewish community of St. Thomas. The synagogue is a beautiful example of Georgian architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • Blackbeard’s Castle is a former fort that was built in the 17th century. It is said that the infamous pirate Blackbeard used the castle as his headquarters. Today, the castle is open to the public and offers stunning views of the harbor.
  • The Queen’s Castle is a former governor’s mansion that was built in the 18th century. The castle is now a museum that houses exhibits on the history of St. Thomas.
  • Amalie Gardens is a beautiful park in the heart of Charlotte Amalie. The gardens are home to a variety of plants and flowers, as well as a fountain and a gazebo. The gardens are a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
  • Waterfront Plaza is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. The plaza is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. It is also a great place to people-watch and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
  • Blackbeard’s Hill is a popular hiking spot that offers stunning views of Charlotte Amalie and the surrounding area. The hike is relatively easy and can be completed in about an hour.
  • Mountain Top is the highest point on St. Thomas. It offers stunning views of the island and the surrounding Caribbean Sea. The summit is home to a restaurant, a gift shop, and a viewing platform.

Things to Do in Charlotte Amalie

In addition to the attractions listed above, there are a number of other things to do in Charlotte Amalie. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Shopping Charlotte Amalie is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothing, and other items. The city has a variety of shops to choose from, including duty-free shops, boutiques, and department stores.
  • Dining Charlotte Amalie has a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, offering everything from international cuisine to local favorites. There are also a number of bars and nightclubs in the city.
  • Beaches Charlotte Amalie is home to a number of beautiful beaches, including Magens Bay, Coki Beach, and Secret Harbour. These beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
  • Tours There are a number of tours available in Charlotte Amalie, including walking tours, bus tours, and boat tours. These tours are a great way to learn about the history and culture of the city.
  • Nightlife Charlotte Amalie has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, nightclubs, and casinos. These venues are a great place to dance, drink, and socialize.

Charlotte Amalie is a beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re looking for a day of sightseeing, a relaxing day at the beach, or a night out on the town, Charlotte Amalie has something to offer everyone.

3. Getting Around Charlotte Amalie

Charlotte Amalie is a small city, so it’s easy to get around on foot. The main shopping and tourist areas are all within walking distance of each other. If you want to explore further afield, there are taxis, buses, ferries and car rentals available.

  • By foot: The best way to explore Charlotte Amalie is on foot. The streets are narrow and winding, and there’s plenty to see and do along the way. You’ll find shops, restaurants, bars, and historical sites all within walking distance of each other.
  • By taxi: Taxis are a convenient way to get around Charlotte Amalie, especially if you’re short on time or if you’re carrying a lot of luggage. Taxis are metered, and the fare starts at $2.50.
  • By bus: The VITRAN bus system provides service to all of Charlotte Amalie and the surrounding areas. Buses are frequent and affordable, and they’re a great way to get around if you’re on a budget.
  • By ferry: The Charlotte Amalie Ferry Terminal is located on the waterfront, and it offers ferry service to St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Ferries are a great way to explore the other islands in the US Virgin Islands.
  • By car: Car rentals are available in Charlotte Amalie, but they’re not necessary if you’re only planning on staying in the city. The roads are narrow and congested, and parking can be difficult. If you do decide to rent a car, make sure to book it in advance.

4. Planning Your Trip to Charlotte Amalie

Charlotte Amalie is a popular tourist destination, so it’s important to plan your trip in advance. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • When to go: The best time to visit Charlotte Amalie is during the winter months, from December to April. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are fewer tourists.
  • Where to stay: There are a variety of hotels and resorts to choose from in Charlotte Amalie. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, consider staying in one of the guesthouses or hostels. If you’re looking for something more luxurious, there are several five-star hotels to choose from.
  • What to pack: Pack light for your trip to Charlotte Amalie. You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes for walking, and you’ll also want to pack a swimsuit, sunglasses, and a hat. If you’re planning on hiking or exploring the island, you’ll also want to pack some insect repellent.
  • Getting there: The easiest way to get to Charlotte Amalie is by plane. There are direct flights to St. Thomas from a variety of cities in the United States. You can also get to St. Thomas by ferry from St. John or Tortola.
  • Getting around: The best way to get around Charlotte Amalie is on foot. The streets are narrow and winding, and there’s plenty to see and do along the way. If you want to explore further afield, there are taxis, buses, ferries and car rentals available.

Charlotte Amalie is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. There’s something for everyone in Charlotte Amalie, whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an exciting city getaway.

What are the top things to do in Charlotte Amalie on a cruise?

  • Explore the historic city center. Charlotte Amalie is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its charming streets are lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Be sure to visit Fort Christian, the Danish West India Company Warehouse, and the St. Thomas Synagogue.
  • Take a ferry to St. John. St. John is a beautiful island just a short ferry ride from Charlotte Amalie. Spend the day swimming, sunbathing, hiking, or exploring the island’s many beaches.
  • Go snorkeling or diving. The waters around Charlotte Amalie are home to a variety of coral reefs and marine life. There are plenty of tour operators that can take you out on a snorkeling or diving trip.
  • Visit the cruise ship docks. The cruise ship docks in Charlotte Amalie are a bustling area with plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars. It’s a great place to people-watch and pick up some souvenirs.
  • Take a catamaran cruise. A catamaran cruise is a great way to see the sights of Charlotte Amalie and the surrounding area. You’ll get stunning views of the city and the harbor, and you may even spot some dolphins or whales.

What is the best way to get around Charlotte Amalie?

The best way to get around Charlotte Amalie is by walking or taking a taxi. The city is relatively small, and most of the major attractions are within walking distance of each other. If you want to get to the farther-flung attractions, you can take a taxi or a public bus.

What is the weather like in Charlotte Amalie?

The weather in Charlotte Amalie is typically warm and sunny, with an average temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The rainy season runs from June to November, but even during the rainy season, there is still plenty of sunshine.

What is the best time to visit Charlotte Amalie?

The best time to visit Charlotte Amalie is from December to April, when the weather is driest and the temperatures are most comfortable. However, the island is still beautiful during the other months, and you may be able to find some good deals on flights and hotels.

What are the best restaurants in Charlotte Amalie?

There are many great restaurants in Charlotte Amalie, serving everything from local Caribbean cuisine to international favorites. Some of the most popular restaurants include The Landing, Bluebeard’s Castle, and Le Bistro.

What are the best bars in Charlotte Amalie?

Charlotte Amalie has a vibrant bar scene, with something to offer everyone. Some of the most popular bars include The Tap Room, Hogs Breath Saloon, and Rum Runners.

What are the best things to do for free in Charlotte Amalie?

There are many free things to do in Charlotte Amalie, including exploring the historic city center, visiting the cruise ship docks, and taking a walk or bike ride along the waterfront. You can also enjoy free concerts and festivals throughout the year.

Charlotte Amalie is a beautiful and historic city with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for stunning views, exciting activities, or delicious food, you’re sure to find it in Charlotte Amalie.

Here are a few key takeaways from this article:

  • The best time to visit Charlotte Amalie is during the winter months, when the weather is warm and sunny.
  • The main attractions in Charlotte Amalie include the cruise ship docks, Fort Christian, the St. Thomas Government House, and the shopping district.
  • There are plenty of things to do in Charlotte Amalie, including swimming, snorkeling, hiking, shopping, and dining.
  • Charlotte Amalie is a great place to visit for a day or a week.

If you’re planning a cruise to the Caribbean, be sure to add Charlotte Amalie to your itinerary. You won’t be disappointed!

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.