St. Croix, the most important of the US Virgin Islands, is a well-liked Caribbean port of name due to its wealthy historical past, lovely seashores, and ease of journey for American cruise passengers.
Situated within the city of Frederiksted, the St. Croix Cruise Port is the island’s major gateway for visiting cruise passengers. This information will train you all the things that you must know in regards to the port and surrounding areas.
St. Croix Cruise Port Location and Deal with
Because the identify implies, the St. Croix Cruise Port is positioned on the island of St. Croix, the most important of the US Virgin Islands.
The port is on the island’s western aspect, proper on the sting of the city of Frederiksted, which is likely one of the island territory’s most populated city facilities. Due to its strategic location alongside the island’s southwestern aspect, St. Croix Cruise Port offers quick access for visiting cruise ships, particularly these with Jap Caribbean itineraries.
The situation on the sting of Frederiksted additionally makes it straightforward for visiting cruise passengers to discover the city’s distinctive tradition and sights.
Frederiksted can be simply 15 miles from the island’s different main city, Christiansted, on the northern coast of St. Croix, so visiting cruise passengers can simply discover each cities and the quite a few vacationer sights between them.
Value Studying: Jap vs. Western Caribbean Cruise – Which Will I Want?
Since St. Croix is a part of the US Virgin Islands, an unincorporated territory of the US, it is likely one of the most accessible Caribbean locations for US vacationers as a result of they don’t want to fret about presenting passports or coping with customs checks.
St. Croix Cruise Port Deal with:
Saint Croix Cruise Port, 7 Strand Avenue, Frederiksted, Saint Croix, US Virgin Islands, 00820
St. Croix Cruise Port Piers and Terminal
All the St. Croix Cruise Port is constructed round a single pier positioned proper on the sting of the Frederiksted waterfront. The pier, named the Ann E. Abramson Pier, is 1,526 toes in size, making it the most important pier on the island.
Extra importantly, this spectacular size permits the pier to stretch out to the deeper waters off the city’s coast, enabling massive cruise ships to make use of it as a docking level.
The double-sided pier permits as much as two cruise ships to dock concurrently. With a cruise ship berth on both aspect, the port can accommodate two full-sized cruise ships, however as a consequence of overcrowding considerations, they not often schedule a couple of cruise ship at any given time. Actually, so-called “two-ship days” are uncommon on the port however often occur.
Along with serving an important function within the island’s cruise tourism trade, Ann E. Abramson Pier is certainly one of Frederiksted’s most iconic websites. When cruise ships should not in port, the pier is open to the general public for fishing and diving.
The distinction of contemporary cruise ships docking on the sting of this historic city, which might hint its origins to the 1600s, offers Frederiksted a captivating look that solely enhances its attraction as a port of name.
Terminal Services
On the finish of the pier, visiting passengers are greeted by a tourism data kiosk, the place representatives from the visiting cruise ship and native tourism employees can deal with passenger questions.
This kiosk is troublesome to overlook, and it’s operated by the USVI Division of Tourism, so the employees can simply deal with inquiries about Saint Croix and some other questions you will have referring to your time within the US Virgin Islands.
You can even discover shaded ready areas and clear public restrooms. You’ll be able to even entry complimentary Wi-Fi alongside the Ann E. Abramson Pier, supplied by viNGN, a free public Wi-Fi hotspot supplier working in sure places all through the US Virgin Islands.
Whereas the port is comparatively small, particularly in comparison with among the bigger cruise port complexes discovered all through the Caribbean, it nonetheless has all the essential facilities you’ll anticipate. Plus, it’s fully wheelchair accessible, guaranteeing all passengers can simply navigate the pier and the port services past it.
Not like bigger cruise ports with their very own sights and tourism services, St. Croix Cruise Port is restricted on this regard. Nevertheless, it sits proper on the sting of Frederiksted, so eating, buying, and leisure alternatives are inside strolling distance.
Cruise Strains that Go to St. Croix and The place They Dock
Though St. Croix Cruise Port is comparatively small, it’s nonetheless a beautiful cruise vacation spot due to Frederiksted’s colonial attraction and the island’s pure magnificence. The next are simply among the main cruise strains that repeatedly dock at Ann E. Abramson Pier:
- Royal Caribbean Cruise Line
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- Carnival Cruise Line
- Viking Voyages Ocean Cruises
- Holland America Line
Whereas most cruise ships dock straight at Ann E. Abramson Pier, some cruise strains, together with Norwegian Cruise Line, often anchor offshore and use tender boats to convey passengers to the pier. This solely happens in the course of the peak journey season, which tends to run from late November to early spring.
Parking St. Croix Cruise Port
Since St. Croix Cruise Port is used virtually solely as a port of name moderately than a homeport the place cruise itineraries start, most guests arrive by cruise ship, so they don’t want in a single day parking.
That stated, there’s a pickup and drop-off level close to the sting of the pier. This momentary car parking zone serves the cruise port and Fort Frederik, a historic fortress and extremely standard vacationer attraction relationship again to the 1700s.
For long-term parking, Lagoon Avenue Parking is simply 0.3 miles east of the cruise port, so you possibly can simply stroll between the 2. This pretty massive open-air car parking zone is free to make use of in the course of the day, however there’s a $15 charge for in a single day parking.
You even have the choice to park on many of the streets, however in a single day parking isn’t permitted until the indicators say in any other case. Simply be sure you don’t park alongside any curbs which are painted crimson or yellow or if they’ve an indication that claims VITRAN, as these are reserved for the island’s public transit buses.
You must also keep away from roadside parking if you happen to see blue markings on the curb or street, as these spots are designated handicapped parking spots, and you may be ticketed with no correct allow.
It is usually value noting that nearly each resort additionally provides complimentary parking, so if you happen to plan on staying in a single day on the island, you’ll not have to fret about the place to park your rental car.
Touring From Close by Airports
For these planning on flying into Saint Croix, one major worldwide airport serving all the island is Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX). This airport is simply 7.7 miles southeast of Frederiksted, and it provides each day flights to and from a number of main U.S. cities, together with Miami, Florida, and Atlanta, Georgia. It additionally provides home inter-island flights and common flights to different Caribbean locations.
In the event you plan on arriving by air and heading on to the cruise port and even simply the city of Frederiksted, a taxi experience is the most well-liked mode of transportation for guests.
Anticipate your taxi experience to take between 15 and 25 minutes, with fares starting from $25 to $35, relying on whenever you arrive, how a lot baggage you’re touring with, and the variety of passengers in your group. Whereas shuttle buses can be found on the airport, most solely supply routes to Christiansted moderately than Frederiksted.
There are additionally automotive rental kiosks obtainable straight on the airport for individuals who need to hire their very own car beforehand.
Get to St. Croix Cruise Port
The island of Saint Croix is comparatively small, so getting round just isn’t overly difficult or costly. If you’re hoping to get to St. Croix Cruise Port from elsewhere on the island, the next are the most well-liked and broadly obtainable modes of transportation:
Taxis
Since tourism makes up a big proportion of the island’s financial system, tourist-friendly taxis are broadly obtainable. With pleasant drivers and inexpensive fares, in addition they occur to be probably the most handy and standard approach to discover the island and get to and from the cruise port.
Whereas the island doesn’t regulate taxi charges or have obligatory flat fares, they’re nonetheless inexpensive. For instance, a taxi experience from the opposite main city of Christiansted to the St. Croix Cruise Port in Frederiksted, which is about 15 miles, would solely value within the area of $35 to $50.
Rental Autos
Rental automobiles are additionally standard, particularly amongst these hoping to do some sightseeing and discover all the things the island and its cities have to supply at their very own tempo. Fortunately, automotive leases can be found each on the airport and in Frederiksted. Charges range, however it’s best to anticipate to pay about $60 per day, plus different charges.
After getting secured a car, driving on the island is straightforward, because the roads are well-maintained, and parking is normally free. Simply take into account that the US Virgin Islands is the solely place below United States jurisdiction the place you drive on the left, like in the UK, so which may take some getting used to.
Public Buses
The VITRAN Bus System is the principle public transportation all through the US Virgin Islands. With stops and routes that may take you to many of the major sights on the island, together with the cruise port, it’s an inexpensive choice for these seeking to discover the island on a price range.
Fares are simply $2.00 for one-way journey, so you actually can’t beat it for value. Plus, it’s a lot safer than among the public bus methods discovered elsewhere within the Caribbean.
Seashores Close to St. Croix Cruise Port
Like the remainder of the US Virgin Islands, Saint Croix is world-renowned for its picture-perfect seashores. Fortunate for cruise passengers, many of those beautiful seashores are inside straightforward attain of the St. Croix Cruise Port. The next are simply among the highlights:
Rainbow Seashore
Situated simply 1.3 miles north of the cruise port, Rainbow Seashore is likely one of the hottest seaside choices for visiting cruise passengers. Only a quick 5-minute drive or a scenic 25-minute stroll alongside the waterfront, visiting cruise passengers can simply attain the white sands and calm waters that make this standard relaxation and rest spot so iconic. The seaside is lined with shady palm bushes and among the softest white sand one can find wherever within the Caribbean.
For these with extra adventurous tastes, West Finish Water Sports activities is straight beside the seaside, the place you possibly can hire tools for kayaking, snorkeling, and even scuba diving. Rhythms at Rainbow Seashore is a tremendous beachside restaurant and bar. The seaside additionally provides chair and umbrella leases and a free car parking zone for these planning to drive.
Sandy Level Nationwide Wildlife Refuge
In the event you go to the far south aspect of Frederiksted, yow will discover the Sandy Level Nationwide Wildlife Refuge. Simply 2.8 miles south of the cruise pier, this beautiful wildlife protect is totally open to the general public, however solely on weekends from 10 am to 4 pm.
It serves as a vital nesting habitat for leatherback sea turtles, and all the coast of the refuge is lined with some actually pristine seashores. While you’re welcome to chill out on the seashores, you do have to take into account that it is a wildlife protect, so respecting the native marine life is crucial.
In the event you arrive on a weekend and you’re in search of a peaceable spot to unwind after getting off a crowded and busy cruise ship, you actually can’t miss out on the chance to hike the paths of Sandy Level Nationwide Wildlife Refuge and even simply take within the sounds of the rolling waves on its untouched seashores.
Dorsch Seashore
For a extra conventional seaside expertise, Dorsch Seashore, or Sandcastle Seashore as locals understand it, is simply 1.3 miles south of the pier. Situated inside the city of Frederiksted, Dorsch Seashore is a bit quieter than Rainbow Seashore however not fairly as tranquil because the seashores of Sandy Level Nationwide Wildlife Refuge, so it’s a little bit of a cheerful medium.
Learn Additionally: High 10 Greatest St. Croix Seashores You Should Go to
Nonetheless, with its gentle white sand, calm waters, and shady palm and grape bushes, it’s an awesome spot to get pleasure from a pleasant seaside picnic. Plus, you possibly can even see the cruise pier from the seaside, so it’s a excellent place to get a snapshot of the ship you arrived on.
On high of that, the calm and clear waters additionally make Dorsch Seashore a great spot for swimming and snorkeling. In the event you want snorkeling tools, Twin Metropolis Water Sports activities Leases is simply steps from the seaside.
Eating Close to St. Croix Cruise Port
Due to the distinctive mix of Dutch, American, and Caribbean influences, Frederiksted and all the island of Saint Croix are house to some actually superb eating places.
From informal seaside bars serving freshly caught seafood and informal eateries serving native dishes to extra formal eating institutions, you don’t should journey too far past the port to deal with your tastebuds.
Listed here are just some of the favored spots close to St. Croix Cruise Port:
Rhythms at Rainbow Seashore
We already talked about this standard beachside restaurant and bar, however it’s value repeating. Even if you happen to don’t really feel like spending time on Rainbow Seashore, this vastly standard spot is value touring the 1.3 miles to get to.
With a menu that includes native seafood dishes, burgers made in-house, tacos full of native components, and far more, you’ll be sure you discover one thing on the menu that catches your eye.
It is usually an awesome location for just a few chilly drinks, as its cocktail menu is filled with tropical drinks that pair completely with the beautiful views of the water.
Polly’s on the Pier Saint Croix
For one thing a little bit nearer, Polly’s on the Pier is true subsequent to the Ann E. Abramson Pier, so you possibly can stroll there in minutes. This standard café and diner serves specialty espresso drinks and all-day breakfast.
Additionally they have a full lunch menu that gives burgers and loads of Mexican-inspired dishes, like quesadillas and nachos. Whether or not you simply need a fast chew, otherwise you need to strive certainly one of their distinctive smoothies, like their standard PB & J smoothie, it’s well-worth visiting.
Seashore Aspect Café at Sand Citadel on the Seashore
For these in search of a extra formal eating expertise, Seashore Aspect Café at Sand Citadel on the Seashore is the right vacation spot for a memorable lunch or dinner. Situated simply north of the Sandy Level Nationwide Wildlife Refuge, this standard restaurant and café provides beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea and an unbelievable menu filled with contemporary, seasonal components.
From island favorites to extra well-known worldwide dishes, the menu modifications all year long, providing guests the chance to strive every kind of various dishes and drinks.
Faucet Deck Bistro and Bar
Additionally positioned simply steps from the pier, Faucet Deck Bistro and Bar provides greater than a full meals and drinks menu. Additionally they supply stay music and beautiful views of the pier.
Whether or not you’re hungry sufficient to deal with their well-known lobster rolls and smoked brisket otherwise you simply need to order just a few drinks from their traditional tiki drink cocktail menu, it’s nicely value wandering over to the Faucet Deck Bistro and Bar.
The Misplaced Canine Pub
This Frederiksted establishment finds a novel combine between a dive bar and a traditional pizza store. With indoor and out of doors seating, it’s the right spot to get pleasure from a chilly beer, fresh-made pizza, or any sort of traditional cocktail you possibly can consider.
Whereas most individuals go to The Misplaced Canine Pub for the pizza, they find yourself staying for just a few drinks. In the event you’re in search of a spot that’s simply as standard with locals as it’s with vacationers, don’t miss out!
Whereas St. Croix Cruise Port just isn’t a buying vacation spot, the city of Frederiksted provides distinctive buying experiences for these seeking to choose up just a few souvenirs.
From native handmade items and crafts alongside the waterfront to extra well-known outlets on the Mall of Saint Croix, buying fanatics can discover what they’re in search of with out having to depart the city.
In the event you’re in search of distinctive presents and souvenirs, Molly’s Tropical Boutique is just some steps from the pier. It’s painted shiny crimson and has a big signal, so it’s virtually not possible to overlook whenever you go away the pier. From designer swimwear to domestically made items, you’ll have the ability to discover one thing that catches your eye at Molly’s.
There are additionally loads of different independently owned outlets and boutiques, like Ahh Boutique, Love & Mild, and the Certainly one of a Sort Store, only a three-minute stroll away on King Avenue.
In the event you actually need to store, you possibly can all the time take a cab to downtown Christiansted, about 15 miles away. Christiansted is extra of a vacationer vacation spot, providing a extra in depth buying expertise, together with a duty-free store and quite a few jewellery shops.
Greatest Time to Go to St. Croix
Like the remainder of the US Virgin Islands, one of the best time to go to St. Croix Cruise Port is between late November and mid-April. It’s because the climate is heat and dry throughout these months, and the danger of heavy storms and hurricanes is minimal.
With that stated, all the island is taken into account to be a year-round vacationer vacation spot due to the abundance of sunshine, however vacationers ought to take into account that the summer time and early fall months are usually very humid, with rainfall additionally being far more frequent.
Learn Additionally: When is the Greatest Time to Go to US Virgin Islands?
Since many of the cruise ships that go to Saint Croix have a tendency to take action in the course of the peak fall and winter seasons, it’s best to anticipate bigger crowds, particularly at among the extra standard vacationer sights, just like the Buck Island Reef Nationwide Monument, which is on a smaller island positioned simply barely north of Saint Croix.
If you wish to get pleasure from a much less crowded trip, you might need to think about reserving a cruise that visits within the spring moderately than one which arrives in the midst of the winter.
