Cruise to the U.S. Virgin Islands
Cruises to the U.S. Virgin Islands are a highlight on many Caribbean itineraries. With no passport required for U.S. citizens and ports that are easy to navigate, it’s one of the most convenient and rewarding destinations for cruise travelers. Most ships dock on St. Thomas, with access to St. Croix and St. John through select itineraries or day excursions.
Things to Do in Port
Whether you’re stepping off the ship for a few hours or spending a full day ashore, USVI delivers a mix of beach time, snorkeling, historic landmarks and duty-free shopping — often within minutes of your ship.
St. Thomas
On St. Thomas, ships dock at either Havensight or Crown Bay, both a short distance from downtown Charlotte Amalie. Shopping, beaches and tours are easily accessible by taxi or shuttle from the port. As you explore, you’ll come across postcard views, calm beaches and a downtown full of duty-free shopping for jewelry, clothing and local liquors. You can take the Skyride to Paradise Point for a view over the harbor, spend a few hours splashing around Magens Bay or join a catamaran tour to snorkel in nearby coves and uncover kaleidoscopic coral reefs.
St. Croix
St. Croix cruise ships dock in Frederiksted, a smaller west-end town with charming walkable streets with lots of historical architecture, beautiful beaches and restaurants that serve local specialties. St. Croix feels less developed than St. Thomas, but offers a deep look at Caribbean culture. You can tour Christiansted’s historic district, visit a local rum distillery or snorkel the protected reef at Buck Island (there’s an underwater snorkel trail that leads you from sign to sign as you swim around). Rainbow Beach is also a short ride from the cruise dock in Frederiksted and makes for a quick, peaceful beach day.
St. John
St. John does not have a cruise port, so access is by ferry or private boat from St. Thomas. If your cruise ship offers an excursion, take it. Two-thirds of the island is lush national parkland, with protected beaches covered in soft white sand and forested hiking trails that wind up to sparkling ocean panoramas. Trunk Bay is a popular stop for snorkeling and spotting fish, while Cinnamon Bay and Honeymoon Beach offer quiet stretches of sand perfect for laying out in the sun. Most visits to St. John are timed and guided, typically departing by boat from St. Thomas.
Which Cruise Lines Sail to the USVI?
The U.S. Virgin Islands are included on itineraries from major cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, Celebrity, Disney, MSC, Princess and Virgin Voyages. Most routes depart from Miami, Fort Lauderdale or San Juan. St. Thomas is the most visited port in the USVI, while St. Croix is featured on select sailings. St. John is typically offered as an excursion from St. Thomas.
Know Before You Go
Cruise port stops in the USVI typically last between six and nine hours — but times can vary depending on your liner. Taxis and safari-style buses are available at every port, and fares are regulated by zone. U.S. dollars are accepted everywhere, and most U.S. cell phone plans work without roaming charges. U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises do not need a passport to visit the U.S. Virgin Islands. Each traveler can bring home up to $1,600 in duty-free goods. Check out this full list of USVI travel tips for more information.
Discover More Things to Do in USVI
Go scuba diving in St. Thomas.
Relax at these spas on St. John.
Stay at a cozy B&B on St. Croix.