What to Do in St. Thomas on a Cruise: The Ultimate Guide

St. Thomas: A Caribbean Paradise for Cruise Ship Passengers

St. Thomas is a beautiful Caribbean island that is a popular destination for cruise ship passengers. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush rainforests, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in St. Thomas. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore the island’s natural beauty, or experience its vibrant culture, St. Thomas has something to offer you.

In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best things to do in St. Thomas on a cruise. We’ll cover everything from the top beaches to the most popular attractions, so you can make the most of your time on this beautiful island.

So, if you’re planning a cruise to St. Thomas, read on for all the information you need to know!

Activity Description Cost
Snorkeling Explore the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea and see a variety of marine life, including fish, turtles, and coral reefs. $25-$50
Climbing Mount Tortuga Hike to the top of Mount Tortuga for stunning views of St. Thomas and the surrounding islands. $25-$35
Shopping Find souvenirs, clothing, and other items at the many shops and boutiques in Charlotte Amalie. $10-$20
Visiting the Pirates of the Caribbean Museum Learn about the history of pirates and see props and costumes from the movies. $15-$20

Things to Do in St. Thomas

St. Thomas is a beautiful Caribbean island with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, a thrilling adventure, or a cultural experience, you’ll find it in St. Thomas.

Here are some of the top things to do in St. Thomas:

  • St. Thomas Beaches

St. Thomas is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. With white sand, crystal-clear water, and swaying palm trees, you’ll feel like you’re in paradise. Some of the most popular beaches include Magens Bay, Coki Beach, and Secret Beach.

  • St. Thomas Sightseeing

St. Thomas is a fascinating island with a rich history. You can learn about the island’s past by visiting its many historical sites, such as Fort Christian, Blackbeard’s Castle, and the Danish West Indian Company Warehouse. You can also take a cruise around the island to see its stunning coastline.

  • St. Thomas Tours

There are many different tours available in St. Thomas, so you can choose one that interests you. You can go on a snorkeling tour, a hiking tour, a culinary tour, or a day trip to another island. There are also many boat tours available, so you can explore the island’s beautiful waters.

  • St. Thomas Nightlife

St. Thomas has a vibrant nightlife scene with something to offer everyone. You can find lively bars, nightclubs, and casinos. There are also plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy delicious Caribbean cuisine.

Getting Around St. Thomas

St. Thomas is a small island, so it’s easy to get around. You can get around by taxi, ferry, car, or by walking.

  • By Taxi

Taxis are the most convenient way to get around St. Thomas. They’re available at all major hotels and tourist destinations. Taxi fares are metered, and the average fare is around $5 per mile.

  • By Ferry

The ferry is a great way to get to other islands in the US Virgin Islands. The ferry terminal is located in Charlotte Amalie, and there are ferries to St. John, St. Croix, and Tortola. The ferry ride to St. John takes about 20 minutes, and the ride to St. Croix takes about 90 minutes.

  • By Car

You can rent a car to get around St. Thomas. There are several car rental companies located in Charlotte Amalie. The average cost of a rental car is around $50 per day.

  • By Walking

If you’re staying in Charlotte Amalie, you can get around by walking. The city is compact and easy to navigate. There are also plenty of taxis and buses available if you need them.

St. Thomas is a beautiful island with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, a thrilling adventure, or a cultural experience, you’ll find it in St. Thomas.

3. Where to Stay in St. Thomas

St. Thomas is a popular cruise destination, and there are many different places to stay, depending on your budget and interests. Here are a few of the most popular options:

  • Cruise Ship Ports of Call

If you’re only in St. Thomas for a day or two, your best option is to stay on your cruise ship. Most cruise ships dock at Crown Bay Cruise Center, which is located just a short walk from the town of Charlotte Amalie. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars in Charlotte Amalie, so you can easily spend your day exploring the city.

  • Hotels

There are a number of hotels in St. Thomas, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts. Some of the most popular hotels include:

  • The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas
  • The Westin St. John Resort & Villas
  • The Marriott Frenchman’s Reef & Beach Resort
  • The Royal Caribbean Sapphire Princess
  • The Norwegian Breakaway
  • Resorts

St. Thomas is also home to a number of resorts, which offer a variety of amenities, including pools, spas, and restaurants. Some of the most popular resorts include:

  • The Beach Club at Coral Beach & Tennis Resort
  • The Marriott Frenchman’s Reef & Beach Resort
  • The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas
  • The Westin St. John Resort & Villas
  • The Caneel Bay Resort
  • Villas

If you’re looking for a more private and luxurious experience, you can also rent a villa in St. Thomas. Villas typically come with full kitchens, private pools, and stunning views of the ocean. Some of the most popular villa rentals include:

  • The Landings at Frenchman’s Reef
  • The Point at Bolongo Bay
  • The Westin St. John Resort & Villas
  • The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas
  • The Caneel Bay Resort

4. Things to Pack for St. Thomas

When packing for a trip to St. Thomas, it’s important to keep in mind the climate and activities you plan on doing. Here is a list of essential items to pack:

  • Clothing

The weather in St. Thomas is warm and humid year-round, so you’ll want to pack light, breathable clothing. Some essential items include:

  • T-shirts
  • Shorts
  • Skirts
  • Sundresses
  • Swimwear
  • Sandals
  • Sneakers
  • A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
  • Shoes

You’ll want to pack a pair of comfortable shoes for walking around St. Thomas. Some good options include:

  • Sandals
  • Sneakers
  • Flip-flops
  • Swimwear

St. Thomas has some beautiful beaches, so you’ll want to pack a swimsuit or two. Some good options include:

  • Bikinis
  • One-piece swimsuits
  • Tankinis
  • Sunscreen

The sun in St. Thomas can be very strong, so you’ll want to pack a good sunscreen. Some good options include:

  • SPF 30 or higher
  • Water-resistant
  • Non-greasy
  • Camera

St. Thomas is a beautiful place, and you’ll want to capture your memories with a camera. Some good options include:

  • Digital camera
  • Point-and-shoot camera
  • Smartphone

St. Thomas is a beautiful island with something to offer everyone. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush rainforests, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, St. Thomas is the perfect destination for you.

What are the best things to do in St. Thomas on a cruise?

  • Visit the cruise ship pier. The cruise ship pier is located in the heart of Charlotte Amalie, the capital of St. Thomas. This is a great place to start your exploration of the island, as it’s close to many shops, restaurants, and attractions.
  • Take a walk or bike ride around the harbor. The harbor is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon. You can walk or bike along the waterfront, admiring the views of the cruise ships, yachts, and other boats. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars along the harbor where you can stop for a drink or a meal.
  • Explore the shops and restaurants in Charlotte Amalie. Charlotte Amalie is a bustling city with a wide variety of shops and restaurants to choose from. You can find everything from souvenirs to designer clothes, and there are plenty of places to grab a bite to eat.
  • Visit the St. Thomas Botanical Garden. The St. Thomas Botanical Garden is a beautiful oasis in the middle of the city. It’s home to a variety of plants, including orchids, palms, and trees. There are also walking trails and a butterfly garden.
  • Take a hike in the Virgin Islands National Park. The Virgin Islands National Park is located on the north side of St. Thomas. It’s home to a variety of hiking trails, as well as beaches, caves, and waterfalls.
  • Go snorkeling or diving. The waters around St. Thomas are home to a variety of coral reefs and marine life. There are plenty of places to go snorkeling and diving, and you’re sure to see some amazing fish and other sea creatures.

What are the best beaches in St. Thomas?

  • Coki Beach. Coki Beach is a popular beach located on the north shore of St. Thomas. It’s known for its white sand, clear water, and calm waves. There are also a few restaurants and bars located near the beach.
  • Sandy Beach. Sandy Beach is another popular beach located on the north shore of St. Thomas. It’s known for its soft sand, clear water, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. There are also a few restaurants and bars located near the beach.
  • Bamboo Beach. Bamboo Beach is a secluded beach located on the east side of St. Thomas. It’s known for its calm waters, beautiful scenery, and secluded location. There are no restaurants or bars located near the beach, but there are a few small shops.
  • Water Island Beach. Water Island Beach is located on a small island just off the coast of St. Thomas. It’s known for its white sand, clear water, and beautiful views of the surrounding islands. There are no restaurants or bars located on the beach, but there are a few small shops.
  • Sapphire Beach. Sapphire Beach is a small beach located on the west side of St. Thomas. It’s known for its crystal-clear water, white sand, and secluded location. There are no restaurants or bars located near the beach, but there are a few small shops.

What are the best restaurants in St. Thomas?

  • Balterri. Balterri is a fine-dining restaurant located in Charlotte Amalie. The menu features modern Caribbean cuisine, and the restaurant has a beautiful view of the harbor.
  • Rhum Room. The Rhum Room is a casual restaurant that specializes in Caribbean cuisine and cocktails. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere, and it’s a great place to enjoy a drink and some food with friends.
  • Mambo Taxi. Mambo Taxi is a Cuban restaurant located in Charlotte Amalie. The menu features traditional Cuban dishes, and the restaurant has a lively atmosphere.
  • Sugarcane. Sugarcane is a Caribbean restaurant located in Red Hook. The menu features modern Caribbean cuisine, and the restaurant has a beautiful view of the harbor.
  • Cafe Amelie. Cafe Amelie is a French bistro located in Charlotte Amalie. The menu features classic French dishes, and the restaurant has a cozy and romantic atmosphere.

What are the best things to do for free in St. Thomas?

  • Visit the cruise ship pier. The cruise ship pier is a great place to people-watch and enjoy the views of the harbor. There are also a few shops and restaurants located near the pier.
  • Explore the streets of Charlotte Amalie. Charlotte Amalie is a beautiful city with a lot to offer. You can walk or bike around the city, admiring the architecture and shopping for souvenirs.
  • Visit the Fort Christian Museum.

St. Thomas is a beautiful island with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an exciting adventure, or a cultural experience, you’ll find it in St. Thomas. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush rainforests, St. Thomas is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Caribbean. If you’re looking for something more exciting, you can go snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, or fishing. And if you’re interested in learning about the island’s culture, you can visit the many historical sites and museums. No matter what you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it in St. Thomas.

Here are a few key takeaways to remember when planning your trip to St. Thomas:

  • Book your cruise early, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.
  • There are many different things to do in St. Thomas, so make a list of your must-sees and must-dos before you go.
  • Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, and camera!
  • And most importantly, relax and enjoy your time in paradise!

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.