St. Thomas, in the U.S. Virgin Islands, is one of the most popular, spectacular, and visited cruise ports in the Caribbean. It is world-famous for its crystal-clear beaches, mountainous views, and for being a paradise for duty-free shopping.
1. Attention! There are Two Different Ports
The first and most important thing you should know is that St. Thomas has two main cruise terminals. It is essential that you check your cruise line’s app or documents to see which of the two your ship will dock at:
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Havensight (West Indian Company Dock – WICO): This is the original and busiest port. It is very close to downtown (Charlotte Amalie) and has a large shopping mall right on the pier.
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Crown Bay (Austin Monsanto Marine Terminal): This is a more modern port located a bit further west. The largest ships (like Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class or Princess Cruises) usually dock here.
2. Getting Around: Logistics and Transportation
The logistics in St. Thomas are a bit different from other destinations in the United States. Here are the keys:
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No Uber or Lyft: Rideshare apps do not operate on the island.
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“Safari” Taxis: The king of transportation for tourists is the “safaris”: large trucks adapted with open-air seating in the back. They are very picturesque, safe, and the most economical way to get around.
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Rates per Person: In St. Thomas, taxis (both closed and open-air safaris) do not use meters. They have fixed, government-regulated rates that are charged per person, not per ride. Always confirm the total price with the driver before getting in.
The issue of payment in St. Thomas’ safari taxis is a very important logistical detail that can save you from misunderstandings. Since they operate in a rather particular way, here are the golden rules when paying:
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Cash is King: The vast majority of safari taxis do not accept credit cards, debit cards, or mobile payments (like Apple Pay). You must bring cash. Since St. Thomas is a U.S. territory, the official currency is the United States Dollar (USD).
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Carry Small Bills: It is essential to carry low-denomination bills ($1, $5, $10, and $20). Drivers often do not have enough change if you try to pay for a short trip with a $50 or $100 bill.
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Driving on the Left: If you decide to rent a car, keep in mind that the vehicles have the steering wheel on the left (like in the US), but you drive on the left side of the road (like in the UK). The roads are steep and winding, so taking a taxi is usually the less stressful option.
3. Points of Interest and Distances
Regardless of which port you dock at, the island is relatively small, but traffic can be slow. Here are the approximate taxi times:
Charlotte Amalie (Historic Center and Duty-Free Shopping)
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From Havensight: Just a 5-10 minute taxi ride. Many people choose to walk (it’s about a 25-30 minute walk along a flat waterfront promenade).
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From Crown Bay: About 10-15 minutes by taxi. Walking from this port to downtown is not recommended.
Magens Bay (The Star Beach) It is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It is heart-shaped, has calm waters ideal for swimming, and features all amenities (restrooms, a bar, lounger rentals). Note: There is a small entrance fee.
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Distance: About a 20-30 minute taxi ride from either port, crossing the island’s mountains.
Skyride to Paradise Point (Cable Car and Views) Take the cable car to the top of a mountain for the most famous panoramic view of the Caribbean (where you can see the docked ships).
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Distance: It is located literally across from the Havensight port (a 3-minute walk). If you dock at Crown Bay, it will take about 15 minutes by taxi.
Coral World Ocean Park and Coki Point Beach Ideal for families and snorkeling lovers. Coki Beach has some of the clearest waters on the island and lots of tropical fish, while Coral World is an adjacent interactive marine park.
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Distance: About a 25-35 minute taxi ride from the ports (it is on the east side of the island).
Ferry to St. John Island (National Park) Many experienced cruisers use this port of call to go to the neighboring island of St. John, famous for the Virgin Islands National Park and the idyllic Trunk Bay beach.
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Distance and Logistics: You must take a taxi to the Red Hook ferry terminal (about 30-40 minutes from the port). From there, the ferry takes about 20 minutes to cross to St. John. It is an excursion that requires managing your time well so you don’t miss the ship back.