St. Thomas from a Cruise Ship
First visit to St. Thomas? Make the most of your day with these must-do activities—and consider a ferry ride to St. John!
If your cruise itinerary includes a stop in beautiful St. Thomas, you’re in for an incredible day! Located in the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Thomas is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant shopping, cultural experiences, and exciting water activities. Whether you’re looking to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, learn about the history of the island, or indulge in a bit of retail therapy, St. Thomas from a cruise ship has plenty to offer for first-time visitors.
On our recent visit, we spent the morning snorkeling with turtles on a catamaran tour, then headed into town for shopping and local eats—an easy and unforgettable day ashore
We’ve put together 11 top activities to help you make the most of your day in St. Thomas—perfect for first-time visitors or anyone looking for a fun and easy island adventure.
Short on Time? Here are my favorite links!
- Book Tours at Viator or GetYourGuide
- Book your Private Tours
- Book your Cruise
Understanding the Two St. Thomas Cruise Ports: Havensight vs. Crown Bay
St. Thomas has two main cruise ports, and knowing which one you’re docking at can make a big difference in planning your day:
Havensight Cruise Port
This is the main cruise terminal and where most ships dock. It’s located just 1.5 miles from downtown Charlotte Amalie, making it super convenient for shopping, sightseeing, and grabbing a taxi or tour. The area around the port has shops, restaurants, and even the Skyride to Paradise Point, which you can walk to in under 10 minutes.
- Good for: Easy access to downtown, Paradise Point, catamaran tours, and souvenir shopping.
- Bonus: Lots of taxis and tour operators line up right outside the terminal—very cruise-friendly.
Crown Bay Cruise Port
This is the smaller and newer port, located a bit farther out—about 3 miles from downtown Charlotte Amalie. It’s quieter but still has a few shops, a café, and plenty of taxi options waiting. If your ship docks here, it’s still easy to get around, but you’ll need a short taxi ride to reach most attractions.
- Good for: A less crowded experience, with quick access to tours and beaches.
- Bonus: It’s often used by Princess Cruises and a few other lines with smaller ships.
🧭 Travel Tip: Always check your cruise itinerary to see which port you’re docking at so you can plan transportation accordingly.
Map Showing Location of the Two Ports
11 Top Things to Do in St. Thomas from Havensight and Crown Bay Cruise Ports
If you’re cruising to St. Thomas, you’ll likely dock at either Havensight or Crown Bay cruise ports. Both offer easy access to the island’s top attractions and activities, making it a breeze for cruisers to explore this stunning Caribbean destination. In this guide, we’ll cover the top 11 things to do in St. Thomas from these two ports, so you can make the most of your time on the island.
1. Magen’s Bay Beach
One of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean and just a short drive from the port. Calm waters, soft white sand, and stunning views make it a must-visit. You can rent a beach chair, sip a cocktail, and just relax.
🚐 How to get there: Taxi or excursion from the port (about 20 minutes).
2. Skyride to Paradise Point
Right near the Havensight cruise port, this scenic gondola takes you up for panoramic views over Charlotte Amalie. There’s a bar at the top (hello Bushwacker cocktail!), shopping, and photo ops galore.
🚶 How to get there: Walkable from the Havensight port.
3. Snorkeling at Coki Beach
Great for spotting colorful fish just off the shore—no boat needed. You can rent gear, grab local food, or even try a beginner SCUBA dive here.
🚐 How to get there: Taxi from the port (about 20 minutes).
4. Visit Coral World Ocean Park
Located next to Coki Beach, this family-friendly marine park lets you walk underwater, touch sea stars, and even meet sea lions. Ideal for those traveling with kids or looking for an educational experience.
🐠 Combo idea: Pair this with Coki Beach for a fun half-day.
5. Historic Downtown Charlotte Amalie
Stroll the historic Danish colonial streets, browse duty-free shops, and check out landmarks like Fort Christian or the 99 Steps. It’s a great way to experience the island’s culture and history.
🚶 How to get there: 5-10 minutes by taxi or shuttle or about 15-20 minute walk from port.
6. Take a Catamaran Snorkel Excursion
Several options leave directly from the cruise port. Most tours include a snorkeling stop at nearby cays or reefs and often include rum punch and snacks onboard.
⛵ Tip: Look for tours that go to Turtle Cove or Buck Island to snorkel with sea turtles!
7. Mountain Top
This popular lookout spot offers sweeping views over Magen’s Bay and neighboring islands. It’s also the (self-proclaimed) home of the world’s best banana daiquiri.
📸 How to get there: Usually part of a tour or by taxi.
8. Take a Ferry to St. John
If your ship is in port long enough, hop a ferry to neighboring St. John and visit Trunk Bay—often called one of the best beaches in the world.
⏱ Plan ahead: You’ll need a few hours and should be mindful of the ferry + taxi time each way.
9. Try Local Food
Grab a plate of conch fritters, jerk chicken, or johnnycakes. Vendors and casual restaurants around the port or in downtown Charlotte Amalie offer authentic tastes of the island.
🍽 Try: Gladys’ Café in town or Petite Pump Room by the ferry terminal.
👉 Book Flavors of St Thomas Walking Food Tour
10. Visit the Pirate Treasure Museum
A fun, interactive stop right near the Havensight cruise terminal. Learn about shipwrecks, treasure hunters, and real pirate artifacts—perfect for families or history buffs.
11. Relax at Secret Harbour Beach
A quieter, lesser-known beach with calm waters, great snorkeling, and a beachside restaurant and bar. Ideal if you want to escape the crowds.
🌴 How to get there: About 25 minutes by taxi from the port.
Getting Around St. Thomas
Walking Distance to Key Attractions
While some attractions like downtown Charlotte Amalie are within walking distance of Havensight Cruise Port, other top spots like Magen’s Bay and snorkeling tour departures will require transportation.
Transportation Options
- Taxi: Taxi is widely available and convenient, and taxis are the go-to option for many visitors. Expect to pay per person for a taxi ride.
- Shuttle Services: Crown Bay had shared taxis or shuttles waiting outside the gates to downtown and other places. Downtown was $6 a person, cash only.
- Public Transportation: Though affordable, public buses are less reliable and may take longer to reach your desired location.
- Car Rental: If you’re adventurous, renting a car is an option, but driving is on the left-hand side of the road!
Approximate Distances
- Magen’s Bay Beach: 15-20 minutes by taxi
- Charlotte Amalie: 15-20 minutes on foot from Havensight (5 minutes by taxi)
- Catamaran Departure Points: Many leave within walking distance of Havensight; others, depending on location, take 15–25 minutes by taxi.
Pro Tip: Plan your route ahead of time to make the most of your day.
Cruise Ship Excursions in St. Thomas
Most major cruise lines offer excursions in St. Thomas, covering a range of interests from adventure to relaxation. Here are some popular options by cruise line:
- Princess Cruise Line
- Royal Caribbean Cruises
- Celebrity Cruises
- Carnival Cruises
- Holland America
- Norwegian Cruise Line
Our Personal Experience in St. Thomas from a Cruise Ship
Having visited St. Thomas multiple times from cruise ships, we’ve fallen in love with the island! One of our favorite things to do is take a catamaran tour and snorkel with sea turtles at Turtle Cove. The crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life make it a truly magical experience.
When we’re not in the water, we enjoy exploring the shops in Charlotte Amalie and picking up locally made art and jewelry. The vibe is always vibrant, and the people are welcoming. It’s easy to get around, and we’ve always felt safe exploring independently.
Would we visit again? Absolutely!
Fun Fact About St. Thomas
Did you know that Charlotte Amalie is home to the second-oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere? The St. Thomas Synagogue, built in 1833, features a sand-covered floor and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Is St. Thomas Worth Visiting on Your Cruise?
If you enjoy pristine beaches, water activities, rich history, and lively shopping, St. Thomas is 100% worth getting off the ship for! Its blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture offers something for everyone, making it one of the Caribbean’s most sought-after cruise destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting St. Thomas from a Cruise Ship
If you’re considering a visit to St. Thomas on your next cruise, you may have some questions about what to expect. Here are some commonly asked questions and their answers to help you plan your trip:
How far is the city center from Havensight and Crown Bay Cruise Ports?
Charlotte Amalie is around a 10- to 15-minute walk from Havensight and a short taxi ride from Crown Bay.
Are there beaches close to the cruise port?
While Magen’s Bay is a 15- to 20-minute taxi ride away, there are smaller beaches like Emerald Beach just a quick ride from Crown Bay Cruise Port.
Is it better to book an excursion through the ship or independently?
Ship excursions are convenient and reliable, but booking independently can be more affordable and provide greater flexibility.
Is St. Thomas safe for independent exploration?
Yes, St. Thomas is generally safe for visitors. Stick to tourist areas, take normal travel precautions, and you’ll be fine.
What is the local currency in St Thomas?
The official currency of St. Thomas is the US Dollar, which makes it easy for American travelers to navigate and avoid exchange rates. However, credit cards are widely accepted on the island as well.
The Wrap-Up: Plan Your Perfect Day in St. Thomas from Your Cruise Ship
Don’t miss the chance to discover the beauty and adventure that St. Thomas has to offer during your cruise stop. Whether you’re lounging on Magen’s Bay, shopping in Charlotte Amalie, or snorkeling on a catamaran, you’re sure to make unforgettable memories.
