Location
In the US Virgin Islands, 40 miles east of Puerto Rico.
Time Zone
Atlantic Standard Time, no daylight saving.
Language
English.
Currency
US Dollar.
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Transport
Car and taxi.
Itineraries that visit
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise
Weather
Activities
Excursions
Tips
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St Thomas and St John are part of the US Virgin Islands, of which there are 107 islands, but only 10 are inhabited. St Thomas is the second largest of the US Virgin Islands, and a duty-free shopping haven. St John is the smallest of the Islands, and boasts beautiful white sand beaches and abundant wildlife.
The ship usually docks in Havensight, near Charlotte Amalie, the capital of St Thomas. All passengers must meet with US Immigration on the ship, even if they don't intend to go ashore.
Charlotte Amalie is the only part of St Thomas that can be explored on foot, for everywhere else, the best option is taxi. The taxis are unmetered, and charge standard, published rates that are based on destination. They carry multiple passengers, so be prepared to share a taxi. Rental cars are also available.
You'll find Safari Buses at Emancipation Park and along Main Street offering island tours, typically lasting an hour and a half at a nominal cost.
If you want to visit neighboring St John island, either go on one of Disney's organised excursions, or take a taxi to either Red Hook Ferry or Charlotte Amalie, and then take the ferry across.
There are 20 hiking trails on St John, so walking is encouraged here. You'll still need some form of motorised transport to get around the island, and there are many taxis that serve this purpose. Rental cars are available, but as time onshore is quite limited, one of the pre-arranged Disney excursions to the island might be the best option.
Visitors should note that it is illegal to go shirtless or wear just swimwear whilst on the street, and in public buildings and banks.