In 1917, the U.S. purchased the Virgin Islands from Denmark
for $25 million in gold coin. When you sail into the harbor on the island of
Saint Thomas, you’ll agree that the beautiful islands, which lie to the east of
Puerto Rico, were worth the price.
The U.S. Virgin Islands include Saint Thomas, Saint John,
Saint Croix and a sprinkling of smaller islands. Their relaxed Caribbean vibe
is blended with remnants of European colonial days and some U.S.-style
conveniences.
Volcanic and hilly, Saint Thomas is covered with lush green
jungle and ringed by white sand beaches and the distinctively turquoise water
of the Caribbean. Cruise ships dock at the capital of Charlotte Amalie, widely
known for terrific duty-free shopping. There are more than 400 shops along Main
Street alone. But there’s much more to Charlotte Amalie and Saint Thomas.
Charlotte Amalie is brimming with historical buildings,
including Fort Christian, the oldest standing structure in the islands. Climb
the 99 steps (actually 103) to see lovely manor houses from the 19th century.
Take a tour of Blackbeard’s Castle, a watchtower constructed in 1679 that may
have been used by the pirate Edward Teach, commonly known as Blackbeard.
If you long to spend the day on the sand, Magen’s Bay Beach
is one of the world’s most beautiful. The drive to the beach is spectacular,
too, with panoramic views of the harbor, the nearby British Virgin Islands and
Magen’s Bay. Coki Beach is great for snorkeling and scuba diving; right next
door is an attraction called Coral World, a marine park and underwater
observatory that’s fun for children and adults.
For an active excursion combined with stunning views, try
the zipline course on Saint Peter Mountain. There are beautiful views
everywhere you look along the six ziplines and two canopy bridges. To enjoy the
views without the adrenaline rush of ziplining, take the Saint Thomas Skyride,
a modern cable car, up to Paradise Point and down again.
If you’ve been to Saint Thomas before or are looking for
something a little different, take a 45- minute ferry ride to the island of
Saint John. More than half of the island is a national park, ideal for a hike
followed by a swim at Honeymoon Beach.
Most Eastern Caribbean itineraries include a call on Saint
Thomas. To select one, talk with Anita, your Cruise Holidays personal cruise
expert.
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