Ahoy, travel enthusiasts! Are you ready to anchor your hearts in a place so mesmerizing that it feels like stepping into a postcard? Welcome to the St. Thomas cruise port, and your docking point is Crown Bay. A treasure trove of experiences waiting to be unveiled. Whether you're a seasoned sailor of the seas aboard a luxurious cruise or a local tourist seeking adventure, this guide promises to sprinkle a little magic on your itinerary. Cruise passengers love this island, and I agree, I have visited 3 times and would go again in a heartbeat.
St. Thomas’ newest cruise port opened in 2007, making it the second cruise ship port for the island of St Thomas. Crown Bay cruise port holds 2 ships, and Havensight, also known as the West Indian Company Dock, holds 3 ships. Both these ports are just across the bay from each other and a 10-minute taxi ride away. Shopping and the Capital City of Charlotte Amalie harbor is in between both ports, and to take you downtown will only be a 15-minute drive. Usually, the cruise line ships that dock in Crown Bay is Holland America, Princess, Cunard and 2 ships of the Royal Caribbean fleet, named Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas. The other cruise lines dock Havensight pier, will typically be for NCL, Carnival and Celebrity plus many other ships. Both docks have shopping areas, restaurants, tour guides for hire, and tons of taxi services to take you to anywhere you would like to see, like Magens Bay Beach, or the other 40 beaches on the Island. Taxi drivers are a little fast but are used to the curvy mountain roads on the island.
If cruise ship passengers are interested in walking from one cruise port to the other you can, very easily, it's just a long walk. Personally, I think the best way is to take a taxi, since it will only take 10 minutes that way.
Did you know that Crown Bay dock area was originally the Naval base for St Thomas? Yes, it was. Also, if curious the Crown Bay port is closer to the international airport than the Havensight cruise pier. And if you are interested in going to the Red Hook area, it is only a short drive at a 13-minute taxi ride, and taxi fares are pretty reasonable on the island.
🛍️ Crown Bay Cruise Port Shopping.
Imagine stepping off your cruise ship and being greeted by a kaleidoscope of shopping options, each store a doorway to new discoveries. Crown Bay Cruise Port is not just a stop; it's a shopper’s paradise where you can find everything from luxurious duty-free jewels to charming local handicrafts that whisper the tales of the U.S. Virgin Islands. It's a place where every purchase feels like a treasure found on an island quest. The Crown Bay Center is the main shopping place at this dock. St Thomas is known for its shops, and shopping is considered duty free like all other Caribbean islands. Tons of duty-free shops especially if you shop at Crown Bay, Havensight Mall, and Downtown Charlotte Amalie. Also remember The Virgin Islands use the US dollar.
Did you know that you can buy Larimar, a bright turquoise stone that is mined in the Dominican Republic? While in St Thomas you find dozens of jewelry stores.
A list of Jewelry stores in the Crown Bay area include:
Effy Jewelry
Miner’s Gem
Milano Diamond Gallery
Diamonds International
Oasis Jewelers
Issa Bella Gifts and Jewelry
Perfume shops, Rum shops, and many clothing and other typical cruise port shops are located at Crown Bay here is a list of just a few more
Del Sol
Caroliha
Shoppers Haven
Little Switzerland
Cardow- Liquor and Perfume
Crown Bay Gifts
Angel Clothing
Royal Expressions
Not only can you find major stores in the area, but you can also find artsy craft items too. From seashell wind chimes to hand crafted bowls and so much more. Of course you will find the typical souvenirs like St Thomas T-Shirts, or hats in the Crown Bay shopping area too. These souvenir stalls are great for budget friendly shopping. There are still many I have not mentioned.
If this shopping is not enough for you head over to Havensight Market or downtown Charlotte Amalie for tons more shopping.
🍴Feasting in Paradise
After you've indulged in a shopping spree, why not tantalize your taste buds with the culinary delights of St. Thomas? From gourmet restaurants offering panoramic views of the azure Caribbean Sea to cozy cafes tucked away in corners, Crown Bay has flavors for every palate. Imagine sipping on a tropical cocktail as the sea breeze dances through your hair or savoring a local dish that's as colorful as the island's vibrant streets.
While you will find many amazing restaurants all over the Island of St Thomas, Crown Bay has a few to choose from.
Bushwackers
Island Flavors
Your Choice Cafe
Speedy Redemption Vegan
West Zanzibar
Sunrise Breakfast.
🌟 Attractions Galore
But wait, there's more! The Crown Bay area is a mosaic of attractions, each piece telling its own story. Take a moment to explore historical sites that stand as silent guardians of the island's rich past or plunge into crystal-clear waters for a snorkeling adventure among the coral reefs. Each experience is a brushstroke that adds to the canvas of your memories.
You will always find dancers, stilt walkers and a variety of other street performers in Crown Bay, as you would at Havensight dock. The Moku Jumbie Dancer or Spirit Dancer can be easily spotted in the crowd. Although these dancers are typically historically related to other islands in the Caribbean, the US Virgin Island started using the dancer to promote tourism about 20 years ago and they are still going strong. Before that they were on the island for Carnival.
🚡 A Tram Ride to the Stars
Now, for an adventure that's quite literally uplifting, hop on the tram ride to the top of the mountain, Paradise Point. You will need to take a taxi over to the Havensight dock, but the tram ride is wonderful. As you ascend, watch the panoramic beauty of St. Thomas unfolds beneath you, a living tapestry of green and blue. At the summit, not only are you greeted by breathtaking views, but a world of attractions awaits. From unique shops selling one-of-a-kind souvenirs to delightful eateries, the mountain top is a destination in its own right. The amazing island view is so worth it.
🗺️ Tour Guides: Your Treasure Maps
Feeling a bit overwhelmed by the abundance of treasures to discover? Fear not! The port is home to knowledgeable tour guides, your very own treasure map holders, who are ready to lead you on an adventure. Whether you're looking to explore the hidden gems of St. Thomas or simply find the best spot to watch the sunset, these guides are your key to unlocking the island's secrets. I highly suggest an island tour to visit Blackbeard's castle and other popular destinations on the island.
There are so many great sights to see around the island and great St Thomas beaches like Brewers Bay, and Lindbergh Bay which are the closest to Crown Bay Port. The white sand beaches of St Thomas are amazing.
Other beautiful beaches that are farther away include:
Magens Bay (Best Beach on the island)
Sapphire Beach
Coki Point
Smith Bay Park (Lindquist Beach)
Secret Harbor
Trunk Bay
These tour attractions are from 3rd party vendors located just on the dock selling their services. You can also purchase online tours from Viator to show you around the island. You can also buy scuba diving, and snorkeling tours, plus tours that take you to the nearby islands of St John and St Croix. I did a snorkeling tour off of St John and it was one of the best snorkeling experiences I ever had. I even spotted sea turtles while snorkeling.
Vendors will be standing on the dock to give group tours too; this will make it more cost effective for a tour. Just remember if you buy from a 3rd party vendor to allow for extra time. Just to make sure you get back to the ship on time. Cruise ships will not wait on you, unless you book a tour with the cruise line, but they tend to be more expensive.
Also, if you booked cruise ship excursions, and your ship docks at Crown Bay, your shore excursion will leave from Crown Bay. You will not need to go over to the other port for your shore excursion.
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In the heart of the Caribbean, Crown Bay Cruise Port in St. Thomas, in the beautiful US Virgin Islands, is more than just a destination; it's a vibrant gateway to experiences that will fill your soul with joy and wonder. From the moment you step ashore, every moment is an opportunity to create stories you'll tell for a lifetime. Whether you're shopping, dining, exploring, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views, St. Thomas invites you to revel in the beauty of the now and the excitement of what's next. Cruise ship guests will leave this island, only planning to come back for another visit.
Are you ready to set sail on an unforgettable voyage to Crown Bay? The adventure of a lifetime awaits.
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