Your Island Adventure Starts Here

Sun-drenched streets, pirate legends, ocean views, and world-class shopping — Charlotte Amalie is more than just a cruise port, it’s a tropical treasure map waiting to be explored.

Imagine cobblestone alleyways lined with pastel buildings and smiling locals calling “Good morning!” as you pass. Welcome to Charlotte Amalie — where every corner feels like a sun-kissed postcard.

• Main Street (Dronningens Gade) is shopper heaven: sparkly jewelry, designer perfumes, Caribbean rum, and handmade souvenirs await.
• U.S. travelers get up to $1,600 duty-free—more than most islands!
• Be sure to peek into Palm Passage and Vendor’s Plaza for colorful crafts and tropical keepsakes.

👜 Pro tip: Liquor prices can be dreamy here — stock up and ship home!

St. Thomians are warm and welcoming, especially if you start with a polite greeting. “Good afternoon” goes a long way.

• Support local artists at Gallery St. Thomas or small boutiques in Riise Alley
• Explore local cuisine from friendly food trucks — try a Johnny Cake or a pate filled with spicy meat and veggies 🍴
• Look for signs that say "Made in the USVI" to support island-owned businesses

Transportation is part of the adventure!

• Taxis charge per person and are clearly labeled — no need to haggle
• Safari buses (think open-air, island-style trucks) give you a breezy local vibe
• Driving? Don’t forget: left side of the road, even in American-style cars
• Ferries connect you to St. John, Water Island, and more for epic day trips

• Most U.S. phone plans work here — no roaming stress
• Free Wi-Fi at some restaurants and the cruise terminal
• Cell signal strong in town, spotty on outer beaches
• Local manners matter: say hello before asking questions!

• Currency = U.S. Dollar 💵
• ATMs easy to find, but bring small bills for vendors and taxis
• Tipping tips:

  • Restaurants: 15–20% (unless already added)
  • Taxi drivers: $1–2 per person
  • Hotel staff: $2–5 per day

• Tap water’s safe, but bottled water is widely available
• Pack bug spray — mosquitoes love this paradise too
• Sunscreen is a must; the Caribbean sun doesn’t play 😎
• No vaccines required, but basic immunizations recommended

Founded in the late 1600s by Danish settlers, Charlotte Amalie was once a buzzing pirate port. Legends say Blackbeard himself had a tower here. The city’s architecture still whispers of colonial times: red rooftops, hidden staircases, and stories behind every shutter.

• Snorkeling tours to Buck Island and Turtle Cove 🐢
• Walking food tours with bites of local flavor
• Rum and chocolate pairing classes (yes, really!)
• Glass-bottom boat rides to peek at reefs without getting wet
• Sunset cocktails at Paradise Point with views that’ll melt your heart

• Say "Good morning" before asking questions — always appreciated
• Dress light: breathable cotton, comfy shoes, sun hat
• Smile often — it's contagious here
• Take breaks! There are plenty of shady benches and breezy cafés to cool down