Welcome to St. Croix
St. Croix, the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, is a vibrant destination that combines pristine beaches, rich history, and a unique blend of cultures. Whether you're strolling through historic towns, exploring stunning coral reefs, or simply soaking up the Caribbean sun, St. Croix offers an unforgettable experience for every visitor.
Port Facts
- Location: St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
- Type of Dock: Dock; cruise ships typically dock at Frederiksted Pier
- Annual Visitors: Approximately 200,000 cruise passengers visit St. Croix each year
- Port Activity: St. Croix is less busy than other Caribbean ports, offering a more relaxed experience for visitors.
Transportation Options
- Taxi: Taxis are available at the port, offering fixed rates to popular destinations on the island.
- Public Transport: Public buses are available but can be infrequent. Taxis or rental cars are recommended for exploring the island.
- Car Rental: Car rentals are available near the port and are a popular option for tourists wanting to explore the island at their own pace.
- Walking: Frederiksted is a small town and can be easily explored on foot from the cruise dock.
Nearby Tourist Cities and Towns
- Christiansted: 28 km (17 miles) away, approximately 30 minutes by road
- Salt River Bay: 22 km (14 miles) away, approximately 25 minutes by road
- Point Udall: 43 km (27 miles) away, approximately 45 minutes by road
- Estate Mount Washington: 12 km (7 miles) away, approximately 15 minutes by road
Local Foods to Try
- Conch Fritters: A local delicacy made from conch meat, battered and fried to perfection.
- Johnnycake: A Caribbean staple, this fried bread is often served with local dishes.
- Roti: A delicious wrap filled with curried meats or vegetables, reflecting the island's Indian influence.
- Callaloo Soup: A hearty soup made with leafy greens, okra, and often flavored with pork or seafood.
- Bush Tea: A traditional herbal tea made from local plants, known for its medicinal properties.
Top 5 Attractions
- Christiansted National Historic Site: Explore the colonial-era buildings and learn about the island's history. Entry fee: $7.
- Buck Island Reef National Monument: A must-visit for snorkeling enthusiasts. Access is via boat tour; prices vary depending on the tour operator.
- Estate Whim Plantation Museum: Discover the history of sugar plantations on St. Croix. Entry fee: $10.
- Frederiksted Pier: A popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, right next to the cruise dock.
- Point Udall: Visit the easternmost point of the United States, known for its stunning views and photo opportunities.
Nice to Know Facts
- St. Croix is home to the only underwater national monument in the United States: Buck Island Reef.
- The island was once ruled by seven different nations, reflecting its diverse cultural heritage.
- St. Croix's original inhabitants were the Arawak and Carib peoples, long before European colonization.
Local Customs
- Greetings: It's customary to greet people with a friendly "Good morning" or "Good afternoon" before engaging in conversation.
- Tipping: Tipping is customary in restaurants and for services; 15-20% is the norm.
- Dress Code: While casual dress is common, beachwear should be reserved for the beach, and more modest attire is appreciated in towns and restaurants.
Suggestions for Parents
- Up to 6 years old: Visit the St. George Village Botanical Garden for a peaceful walk among beautiful plants, with plenty of space for little ones to explore.
- 7-12 years old: Take a family-friendly snorkeling tour at Buck Island, where kids can enjoy the vibrant marine life.
- 13-18 years old: Try an adventurous horseback ride along the beach or through the island’s lush trails with local tour operators.
Google Maps
St. Croix
Notice: Content and travel advice presented is created by a port moderator and/or AI, courtesy of ChatGPT. It is specifically designed for cruise passengers visiting this port of call. A port moderator could be a local individual, destination expert, port authority, or a tourism agency. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we recommend that you verify critical information like visas, health and safety, customs, and transportation with official sources before departure.