ANNOUNCING: THREE SHEETS REGATTA IN THE VIRGIN ISLANDS
ANNOUNCING: THREE SHEETS REGATTA
SAILING AND PARTIES COMING UP IN THE VIRGIN ISLANDS
The organizers invite you to join them for some spectacular sailing during the Three Sheets Regatta this December.
The Three Sheets Regatta, officially organized by the Virgin Islands Sailing Association (VISA) with sponsorship from the three island yacht clubs—St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John—promises an unforgettable experience on the water.
This year’s regatta will feature two signature races:
- The Three Island Race
- December 6: St. John to Frederiksted, St. Croix
- December 7: Frederiksted to St. Croix Yacht Club
- December 8: St. Croix Yacht Club to St. Thomas Yacht Club
- The Around the Island Challenge
- December 6: St. Croix Yacht Club to Frederiksted
- December 7: Frederiksted to St. Croix Yacht Club
We’re particularly proud to have VISA as the official race organizer, bringing its dedication to promoting sailing in the Virgin Islands. The full support of the three major island yacht clubs adds an extra layer of community and collaboration to this year’s regatta.
You’ll get to experience the stunning Virgin Islands from the water while connecting with a vibrant community of fellow sailors.
For more details, please check out our website: www.threesheetsvi.com. If you have any questions or need assistance with arrangements, feel free to reach out—I’d be thrilled to help.
Hope to see you on the water in December!
Juliet San Martin, President
Virgin Islands Sailing Association
Teamwork makes dreams work.
CARIBBEAN LAP REPORT SV JUBEL
SV JUBEL'S CARIBBEAN LAP
SV JUBEL just finished their 1 year lap around the Caribbean. BRAVO ZULU! Here they share their story:
We are currently in progress building an HH44 Catamaran in Cebu, Philippines, which will be completed in January 2026. It's our plan to cross the Pacific to meet the boat so we can move aboard directly from JUBEL. But we didn’t come all this way from Vancouver island to skip the Caribbean. Having crossed the (Panama) Canal in September 2023, we spent some time in Bocas del Toro, the San Blas, Panama, and Cartagena, Columbia. Knowing we wanted to see the Caribbean, we decided to do a speed loop of the Windward and Leeward Islands.
The trip started from Cartagena, Colombia and we set off for Puerto Rico, or maybe the DR, on March 26th, 2024. We didn’t know where we would end up. We had heard this passage was notoriously bad, and that we may have to divert westward. So loaded with 8 extra jerry cans of diesel, we set off, along with our friends on SV VIA, a Caliber 40LRC (that holds 400+ gallons of diesel!) This trip was exactly what they say it was. We motored for 700 miles, into the wind and the waves. At times doing 3 knots. We broke our davits due to the constant slamming into the waves. We also had some flat calm days. Overall, we sailed about 10 hours out of the entire 6 days.
We ended up in Boquerón, Puerto Rico. We spent time cruising Puerto Rico for a month along the southern side of Puerto Rico, and flew home in (to Canada) in May. Our highlights are Isla Caja De Muertos, where you can hike up to the top of an abandoned lighthouse, and Isla Culebra for its snorkeling and coral farms, and of course, Costco in San Juan.
With our boat loaded with a years worth of Costco supplies in Puerto Rico we made our way to the USVI’s where it was a surprise that they drive on the opposite side of the road. We spent a few days in St. Thomas, of course, stopping at the pizza boat where we attended a massive memorial day party hosted on a catamaran while we floated in the water.
A few days on the northern side of St. Johns before making our way to the BVIs. We have a dog on board so this was pretty difficult to sort out, as you have to have a lot of paperwork and health check proofs. We met the vet in Soper’s hole where he had to inspect Ricky, our dog, in person. Once that was dealt with we made our way to pussers for a rum! This was the first island we considered “the Caribbean”, and we made it!
We spent three weeks bouncing around the BVIs including Norman Island (and the infamous Willy Ts, where we floated behind it in our Sunchill, met friends, and had beers thrown into our pool!
Anchoring at the Baths, (where our engine died coming into the anchorage, that turned out to be ricky leaning on the shutoff button!), and spending time in Virgin Gorda was also great. Our favorite anchorages were Savannah bay, and the north side of Prickly Pear Island. Having the Rum Runner bring us blended cocktails right to our boat was (also) a highlight, along with visits to Saba Rock.
From The BVIs we checked out and headed to St. Martin, stopping at the French side first. The beaches here were phenomenal. While a little run down, its very pretty, and the French food supply is amazing. We had FKG rigging come out to the boat by dinghy to give us an estimate for the standing rigging replacement that we needed. They gave us a very, very reasonable estimate and we headed over to their dock on the dutch side to have the work done. A week later, everything was brand new. Highly recommend them! We also had a new generator motor shipped here and replaced that, as our previous one had water ingress due to a manufacturing defect. St. Maarten is an amazing location for boat work and supply, especially since its all tax free. There are also great restaurants here, where we met up with some other Young Cruisers and talked shop, so we will definitely come back at some point. St. Maarten is a hit on our list!
Our next stop was Guadeloupe. It was here that we rode out hurricane Beryl. On the west side of the island behind the mountain, we set out a 10-1 scope in 20 feet of water. Luckily (for us, certainly not the islands south of us) it headed south. We were hit with 35 knots of wind and a ton of rain, but otherwise, unscathed. After the weather cleared, the view was beautiful.
We worked our way down Guadeloupe, and anchored in some very rolly anchorages - There is not much for protection on this side of the island. We stopped in several hot springs and enjoyed the natural hot water that comes out all over the island. After an absolutely brutal sail crossing from Guadeloupe to Terre-de-Haut, a group of small islands south of Guadeloupe, we went to explore and island and old fort. There is a really cute little town (but not much for food available) that you can explore.
From there we made our way to the jewel of the Caribbean, Dominica. I can not say enough about this place. It is, by far, our favourite locale in the caribbean. Absolutely untouched and unspoiled. There were no tourists, the locals were the friendliest people we have ever met, and would do anything for you. The natural beauty of this island is absolutely stunning.Waterfalls, valleys, hot springs, gorges - It has it all.
What it doesn’t have are services, restaurants, fuel docks, or supply shops. You are on your own. So bring what you need, and stay as long as you can. We grabbed a mooring ball in Portsmouth bay for $10 a night, where the PAY (Portsmouth Association of Yacht Services) will come out to the boat and give you anything you need, and help you check in. We rented a car from a local company (that we had to swap out three times because they were not in great shape - Old cars imported from Japan), they also drive on the British side of the road (in Dominica). Its like driving in the game “crazy taxi”. We drove all over the island over 5 days.
We went to visit Titou gorge where they filmed parts of the Pirates of the Caribbean
Overall, Dominica gets a 10/10 for us. We will be back to this island before our cruising career is over. Its got so much to offer, and so much that we haven’t seen, for a small island. Our provisions were running low so it was time to carry on. We made our way to Martinique from here, where we knew we could provision. And provision we did. Wine, cheese, butter, oh my. The French have food nailed down. We were here during a summer festival and I have never seen so many boats on the move, ever.
Martinique was the busiest place we’d ever been. The bays were full, with hundreds if not thousands of boats. It was way too busy for us. And they’re very not dog friendly. So after we provisioned, we carried on down to Grenada. We skipped St. Lucia for safety concerns, and therefore had to skip St. Vincent and the Grenadines due to our dog and rabies rules. That, and its been hit hard by Beryl at this point.
Grenada became our home for about a month and a half while we waited for hurricane season to subside slightly. The next stop after this was Bonaire, so hurricanes weren’t a big concern. We met up with friends, enjoyed copious wing nights, went snorkeling, and hauled out because we had won a free haul out from Spice Island Marine at the Young Cruisers Association Cruisers Awards. We were here for Carnival which was amazing.
We had tried out all the anchorages and there was a weather window coming. It was September at this point, so it was time to carry on to Bonaire. After a sporty 3 day sail downwind (oh how nice it was to go downwind finally, after beating our way east all the way to Dominica), we arrived in Bonaire. The water clarity blew our minds.
However, the lack of Starlink was frustrating after having it for so long. So back to a cell phone data plan we went, we spent our days snorkeling and swimming. We rented a car and drove around the whole island, stopping to feed the roadside donkeys apples and carrots.
Bonaire was definitely another highlight. The freediving and snorkeling is amazing. Its everything its cracked up to be.
We skipped Curacao and headed to Aruba to meet friends and for my parents to fly in. We loved Aruba - Dove on a shipwreck, swam with turtles, went out to fantastic restaurants, played some slot machines, had some pool days at the Hyatt pool, and even found a Canadian bar that had Poutine and took Canadian money!
Now here we are in Cartagena once again, having crossed our track when we left 8 months ago, so very happy we traveled where we did and saw what we saw. The experiences will stick with us forever, and we hope to go back to some of the islands once again in the future. Now, its time to go back to San Blas one more time before we prepare for our grand adventure across the Pacific!
SY JUBEL 🇨🇦 Leah & Kyle - Gulfstar 44'
THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR HIGHLIGHTS FROM YOUR 8 MONTH CARIBBEAN LOOP
GREEN CAY MARINA 🇻🇮 SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE
GREEN CAY MARINA 🇻🇮 SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE
17° 45.5983' N 064°40.1116' W
x
We are proud to Sponsor the Ocean Posse.
We are offering a 10% discount off our Daily Rate.
10% off of our Monthly Rate for 1 month.
.05 cents a gallon discount on Diesel and Gasoline.
Discount does not apply to Utilities.
You must make a Reservation in advance. We don't always have slips available.
You must state you are with the Ocean Posse and give your Vessel Number.
CONTACT
| MARINA Manager Tel# +1-340-718-1453 |
| Email dar@tamarindreefresort.com |
| Website / URL https://greencaymarina.com |
| Address 5000 Southgate Christiansted, VI 00820 |
AMENITIES
- Pump out.
- Excellent US Mail Service for shipping in.
- Fuel: Diesel and 91 Octane Gasoline
- 30/50 amp electrical service. (No European service)
- Protected safe harbor with 154 slips (max L, D, W = 100ft, 8ft, 30ft)
- fresh water
- ice
- showers
- laundry facilities
- Pool
- On-site restaurant: The Deep End
- Gym
- Beach
- Free Wi-Fi
- Fitness center with cardio, circuit training & free weights.
- Tennis privileges on 4 tennis courts.
- Use of Tamarind Reef Resort's pool, kayaks, and snorkels
- 20% discount on rooms at Tamarind Reef Resort
- Premier North Shore location (close to Buck Island for easy recreation)
- 24-hour security, parking & storage units
We are a quiet Island off the beaten path.
Come see and Explore.
For the ultimate in relaxation, we give marina guests full access to the exclusive amenities at Tamarind Reef Resort. We encourage visitors to take advantage of our outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, fitness center, beautiful beach, and restaurants. Boaters can also borrow the resort’s kayaks and snorkeling gear free of charge. We even offer 20 percent off on guestrooms.
GREEN CAY MARINA APPROACH
OFFICIAL WEBSITE >>>
US VIRGIN ISLANDS DIGITAL CHARTS
US VIRGIN ISLANDS DIGITAL CHARTSIN MBTILES FORMAT
THE ABOVE FILES ARE FOR LOGGED IN USERS ONLY
ST. CROIX YACHT CLUB 🇻🇮 US VIRGIN ISLANDS · SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE
ST. CROIX YACHT CLUB 🇻🇮 US VIRGIN ISLANDS · SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE
Yes - St Croix looks forward to being a major stop for the Atlantic Posse!
St Croix Yacht Club, Teague Bay. Anchorage only, limited loading and unloading in about 6' at the end of our teedock, dinghy dock, galley, showers. SCYC welcomes visiting yachts, lovely restful location. Website:
Additional anchorages:
Frederiksted
Road stead with cruise ship pier (seldom occupied), beautiful town with sandy beaches, limited marine services.
Salt River
Tricky entrance. Columbus landed a shore boat here in 1493, natives are now much friendlier. Great diving! Home base of Gold Coast Yachts, builders of custom multihulls.
March through April is regatta season in our part of the Caribbean. Some events are large and rowdy (St Martin Heineken at beginning of March), some are small and intimate (St Croix, usually mid-April).
Over the years (about 30) have noted that cruisers enjoy regattas, sometimes as competitors, sometimes as volunteers, including work boats. Our events run from Puerto Rico to Granada. All events offer cruising classes and have recently developed programs within our Caribbean rating system (CSA) to quickly and inexpensively rate cruising boats.
Best wishes!
CONTACT
5100 Teague Bay
C'sted, St. Croix 00820
Phone: 340-773-9531
Brian Cayne, Manager Manager@StCroixYC.com
AMENITIES
SHIP STORE:
DINING FACILITIES: Wednesday Night Buffet
BAR: Friday Night Happy Hour
GATED:
SERVICES
SAFE APPROACH
MOORINGS MAP
LOCATION
ST. CROIX YACHT CLUB WEBSITE >>
VIDEO
NEARBY
Christiansted National Historic Site
Columbus Landing Site
Fort Christiansvaern
Rustoptwist Sugar Mill
Contentment Historical Site
Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve
St. Croix East End Marine Park Office
US VIRGIN ISLANDS 🇻🇮 CRUISING THE ANTILLES WITH THE OCEAN POSSE
Arriving in the U.S. Virgin Islands
When you approach the U.S. Virgin Islands, it’s hard not to appreciate the striking mix of blue waters, green hills, and bustling harbors. The islands of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix each offer something different, but they all have the essentials a captain needs: good anchorages, reliable facilities, and decent access to supplies.
St. Thomas is likely where you’ll make landfall first, especially if you’re coming from the east. The harbor in Charlotte Amalie is busy, thanks to cruise ships and ferries, but it’s well-equipped. Fuel, water, repairs—you name it, you can get it here. Once docked, you’ll find everything from high-end shopping to small, local markets. It’s a practical stop, though it can get crowded and commercialized.
St. John is where you head if you’re after a quieter, more natural setting. The majority of the island is a national park, so it’s perfect if your crew is into snorkeling, hiking, or just relaxing on an uncrowded beach. The anchorages are mostly mooring buoys, which saves you the hassle of anchoring in areas with fragile reefs.
St. Croix is the least hectic of the three main islands. The anchorages around Christiansted and Frederiksted are quieter, and the island itself has a laid-back vibe. It’s worth exploring if you’ve got the time. The island offers a bit more history than the others, with old forts and sugar plantations, but the sailing facilities are more basic.
2. Navigating the Waters: What to Expect
Sailing around the U.S. Virgin Islands is relatively straightforward if you know what you’re doing. The trade winds are steady, and the seas are generally calm. The distances between the islands are short, making it easy to island-hop.
The main thing to watch out for is the reefs. They’re everywhere and can be a serious hazard if you’re not paying attention. Navigation here is mostly visual, so keep a sharp eye out for color changes in the water, which usually signal shallow areas or reefs. Charts are reliable, but they don’t replace good situational awareness.
When anchoring, take advantage of the mooring buoys, especially in sensitive areas like the Virgin Islands National Park. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about protecting the reefs. And trust me, you don’t want to be the boat that damages a reef—it’s a fast way to lose respect among fellow sailors.
The approach to St. Thomas is pretty straightforward, though you’ll have to deal with traffic from other vessels. St. John is more isolated, with anchorages that are often only accessible by boat. It’s a good place to get away from the crowds. St. Croix offers more open waters and fewer boats, which can be a nice change of pace.
3. Onshore Realities: The Culture and the People
The U.S. Virgin Islands are a mix of cultures, and you’ll see that in everything from the food to the music to the people themselves. The islands have a unique history, with influences from Africa, Europe, and the Caribbean all mixed together.
Locals are generally friendly, but like anywhere else, respect goes a long way. Get to know the people, learn a few local customs, and you’ll find the islands much more welcoming.
If you’re in St. Thomas during Carnival, expect a lot of noise, color, and crowds. It’s a big deal here, with parades, music, and food. It’s worth checking out if you’re around, but it can also be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re looking for peace and quiet.
St. Croix has its own version of Carnival, the Crucian Christmas Festival. It’s similar but with its own flavor. The island has a strong sense of identity, and the festival reflects that. Don’t expect the same level of tourist infrastructure as in St. Thomas, though. Things move at a slower pace here.
Food on the islands is decent, especially if you like seafood and Caribbean cuisine. There’s no shortage of places serving up local dishes, and the rum is worth trying if you’re into that sort of thing. Just be prepared for island time—service can be slow, and things don’t always go according to plan.
4. Exploring Beyond the Beach: What’s Worth Your Time
If you’ve got time between sailing legs, there’s more to the U.S. Virgin Islands than just beaches. St. John offers some of the best hiking in the Caribbean, with trails that take you through dense forests and old sugar plantation ruins. It’s a good way to stretch your legs after a few days on the water.
For divers, St. Croix is the place to be. The Buck Island Reef is famous for its clear water and abundant marine life. There’s an underwater trail you can follow, which is a nice touch if you’ve got less experienced divers onboard. The wall dives off the north shore are more challenging but offer the chance to see bigger marine life.
History buffs will find St. Croix interesting, with sites like the Christiansted National Historic Site and various old plantations. It’s not a place for flashy attractions, but if you appreciate history, there’s plenty to learn here.
St. Thomas has a few historic spots worth checking out, like Blackbeard’s Castle and the old Danish forts. They’re more touristy, but if you’ve got an interest in the colonial past, they’re worth a visit.
5. Sustainability: Keeping the Islands Pristine
The U.S. Virgin Islands are beautiful, but they’re also fragile. As a captain, it’s part of your job to minimize your impact. This means using mooring buoys where available, managing your waste properly, and being mindful of your water usage.
Anchoring in coral is a big no-no. The reefs are what make these islands so special, and they’re easily damaged. Stick to the designated anchorages and use mooring buoys whenever possible.
Waste disposal can be tricky on the islands, so plan ahead. Some marinas offer recycling, but it’s not guaranteed everywhere. Reducing your waste and properly disposing of what you have is essential. Freshwater is also in limited supply, so use it sparingly and make sure your crew is on board with conserving it.
Supporting local businesses helps keep the islands’ economy strong and preserves the unique culture. Whether it’s buying provisions, eating out, or hiring local guides, your spending can make a difference. Engaging with the community responsibly is just as important as respecting the environment.
6. In Summary: The U.S. Virgin Islands for the Practical Captain
The U.S. Virgin Islands are a solid choice for any captain looking for a mix of good sailing, reliable facilities, and a bit of adventure. The islands have a lot to offer, from quiet anchorages and vibrant reefs to a rich history and a welcoming culture.
While they’re not without their challenges—like busy harbors and fragile ecosystems—they’re well worth the effort. With the right approach, you can enjoy everything these islands have to offer while leaving them in good shape for the next sailor.
In the end, the U.S. Virgin Islands are about as close as you can get to a perfect cruising ground in the Caribbean. They’re accessible, they’re well-supported, and they’re full of things to see and do. For captains who know what they’re doing and respect the islands and their people, they offer a rewarding experience that’s hard to beat.
MARINAS
1. Yacht Haven Grande Marina (St. Thomas)
- Latitude/Longitude: 18°20.324′ N, 64°55.793′ W
- Description: Yacht Haven Grande is a luxury marina located in Charlotte Amalie, offering 46 slips accommodating yachts up to 656 feet. The marina features high-end amenities, including fueling services, a full-service boatyard, and a shopping and dining complex.
- Contact Info:
- Address: 5304 Yacht Haven Grande, St. Thomas, USVI 00802
- Phone: +1 (340) 774-9500
- Email: info@yachthavengrande.com
- Website: igymarinas.com/marinas/yacht-haven-grande
2. Crown Bay Marina (St. Thomas)
- Latitude/Longitude: 18°20.290′ N, 64°56.710′ W
- Description: Crown Bay Marina is a full-service marina with 99 slips accommodating vessels up to 200 feet. Located close to the airport and downtown Charlotte Amalie, it offers fueling, repairs, provisioning, and various on-site services like restaurants and shops.
- Contact Info:
- Address: 8168 Subbase, St. Thomas, USVI 00802
- Phone: +1 (340) 774-2255
- Email: info@crownbay.com
- Website: crownbay.com
3. American Yacht Harbor (St. Thomas)
- Latitude/Longitude: 18°19.788′ N, 64°51.765′ W
- Description: Located in Red Hook, American Yacht Harbor is a popular marina with 123 slips, capable of accommodating vessels up to 110 feet. It offers fueling, provisioning, and maintenance services, as well as restaurants and shops in the vicinity.
- Contact Info:
- Address: 6100 Red Hook Quarters, St. Thomas, USVI 00802
- Phone: +1 (340) 775-6454
- Email: info@igy-americanyachtharbor.com
- Website: igymarinas.com/marinas/american-yacht-harbor
4. Compass Point Marina (St. Thomas)
- Latitude/Longitude: 18°19.697′ N, 64°51.058′ W
- Description: A more intimate marina located in the East End of St. Thomas, Compass Point Marina offers 95 slips, accommodating vessels up to 180 feet. The marina provides services such as fueling, provisioning, and access to marine service providers.
- Contact Info:
- Address: 6300 Estate Frydenhoj, St. Thomas, USVI 00802
- Phone: +1 (340) 776-4770
- Email: info@compasspointmarina.com
- Website: compasspointmarina.com
5. Independent Boatyard & Marina (St. Thomas)
- Latitude/Longitude: 18°19.616′ N, 64°51.195′ W
- Description: Independent Boatyard offers both marina and boatyard services, including 100 slips and haul-out capabilities. It caters to boats up to 80 feet and offers repair services, including mechanical, electrical, and hull work.
- Contact Info:
- Address: 6249 Frydenhoj, St. Thomas, USVI 00802
- Phone: +1 (340) 776-0466
- Email: info@independentboatyard.com
- Website: independentboatyard.com
6. Cruz Bay Marina (St. John)
- Latitude/Longitude: 18°19.810′ N, 64°47.897′ W
- Description: Cruz Bay Marina is a small but essential marina on St. John, catering to local ferries, small yachts, and day boats. It is conveniently located near the shops and restaurants of Cruz Bay.
- Contact Info:
- Address: Cruz Bay, St. John, USVI 00830
- Phone: +1 (340) 776-6346
- Email: cruzbaymarina@gmail.com
7. The Westin Resort & Villas Marina (St. John)
- Latitude/Longitude: 18°19.065′ N, 64°47.251′ W
- Description: The Westin St. John Resort & Villas features a private marina primarily for resort guests, offering slips for yachts and smaller vessels. The marina provides access to resort amenities, including restaurants, bars, and a spa.
- Contact Info:
- Address: 300A Chocolate Hole, St. John, USVI 00830
- Phone: +1 (340) 693-8000
- Website: marriott.com
8. St. Croix Marina (St. Croix)
- Latitude/Longitude: 17°44.888′ N, 64°42.060′ W
- Description: Located in Christiansted, St. Croix Marina offers 53 slips accommodating vessels up to 150 feet. The marina provides a full range of services, including fueling, repairs, and provisioning.
- Contact Info:
- Address: Gallows Bay, Christiansted, St. Croix, USVI 00820
- Phone: +1 (340) 773-0289
- Email: info@stcroixmarine.com
- Website: stcroixmarine.com
9. Green Cay Marina (St. Croix)
- Latitude/Longitude: 17°45.212′ N, 64°39.403′ W
- Description: Green Cay Marina is part of the Tamarind Reef Resort, offering 154 slips for yachts up to 100 feet. The marina is equipped with fueling, provisioning, and maintenance services, along with access to the resort’s amenities.
- Contact Info:
- Address: 5001 Tamarind Reef, Christiansted, St. Croix, USVI 00820
- Phone: +1 (340) 718-1453
- Email: greencay@tamarindreefresort.com
- Website: tamarindreefresort.com/marina
10. Salt River Marina (St. Croix)
- Latitude/Longitude: 17°46.571′ N, 64°45.710′ W
- Description: Located within Salt River Bay National Historical Park, Salt River Marina offers a quiet and scenic location with slips for yachts and small vessels. The marina provides basic services and is known for its peaceful setting and access to historical sites.
- Contact Info:
- Address: Salt River Bay, Christiansted, St. Croix, USVI 00820
- Phone: +1 (340) 778-9650
- Email: saltriver@live.com
- Website: saltrivermarina.com
WEATHER US VIRGIN ISLANDS
MAIN LOCAL WEATHER WEBSITE US VIRGIN ISLANDS
SEVERE WEATHER US VIRGIN ISLANDS
PILOT CHARTS US VIRGIN ISLANDS CLIMATOLOGY
SEVER STORM HISTORY
PORTS OF ENTRY US VIRGIN ISLANDS
1) Saint Croix, Virgin Islands
RR #2-9922 Henry Rohlsen Airport Kingshill, VI 00850
Phone: (340) 773-1490
Fax: (340) 778-7419
Report Boat Arrivals +1(340) 719-2857 / +1(340) 778-0216
Operational Hours: 6:00 AM-6:00 PM (AST) – November-June Seven Days A Week (7)
2) Cruz Bay (St. John), Virgin Islands
Victor W. Sewer Marine Facility, “The Creek”, St. John, VI 00830
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 27 Cruz Bay St. John, VI 00831
Tel : (340) 776-6741
Fax : (340) 693-8740
Report Boat Arrivals Phone: +1 (877) 305-8773
Operational Hours: Hours: Dailly 10:00 am-5:30 pm (AST)
3) Charlotte Amalie (Area Port of St. Thomas), Virgin Islands
Ron de Lugo Federal Building, 5500 Veterans Drive, Room 248, St. Thomas, VI 00802-6207
5500 Veterans Drive, Room 248 St. Thomas, VI 00802-6207
Tel: (340) 774-2510
Fax: (340) 776-3489
Report Boat Arrivals Phone: 1(877) 305-8774
Vessel & Clearance Phone: (340) 774-6755
Operational Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (AST)
1. Trunk Bay, St. John
- Latitude/Longitude: 18°21.284′ N, 64°46.573′ W
- Description: Trunk Bay is one of the most iconic beaches in the Caribbean, known for its pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters, and an underwater snorkeling trail that’s perfect for beginners and experts alike. It’s part of the Virgin Islands National Park, ensuring that its natural beauty is well-preserved.
- Best Time to Visit: December to April, when the weather is dry, and the crowds are manageable.
2. Buck Island Reef National Monument, St. Croix
- Latitude/Longitude: 17°47.219′ N, 64°37.778′ W
- Description: This protected marine area is famous for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. The island itself is uninhabited, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling, diving, and picnicking. The underwater trail here is a unique experience, offering a guided exploration of the reef.
- Best Time to Visit: February to April, when the water visibility is at its peak.
3. Cruz Bay, St. John
- Latitude/Longitude: 18°19.750′ N, 64°47.891′ W
- Description: Cruz Bay is the main town on St. John, a charming village with colorful shops, restaurants, and easy access to the Virgin Islands National Park. It’s a great starting point for exploring the island or just relaxing and enjoying the local vibe.
- Best Time to Visit: November to April, avoiding the hurricane season and enjoying cooler temperatures.
4. Christiansted National Historic Site, St. Croix
- Latitude/Longitude: 17°44.839′ N, 64°42.155′ W
- Description: This site preserves several 18th-century buildings, including Fort Christiansvaern, which offers a glimpse into the island’s Danish colonial past. The well-preserved architecture and historical significance make it a must-visit for history buffs.
- Best Time to Visit: December to April, when the weather is pleasant for walking tours.
5. Magens Bay, St. Thomas
- Latitude/Longitude: 18°21.441′ N, 64°56.867′ W
- Description: Magens Bay is arguably the most famous beach in the U.S. Virgin Islands, with a mile-long stretch of soft sand and calm waters ideal for swimming. The bay is surrounded by lush green hills, making it a picturesque and relaxing spot.
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings from December to March, before the cruise ship crowds arrive.
6. Hassel Island, St. Thomas
- Latitude/Longitude: 18°19.673′ N, 64°56.042′ W
- Description: Located in Charlotte Amalie harbor, Hassel Island is a historically significant site with ruins of British and Danish colonial structures. Hiking trails offer a blend of history and natural beauty, along with stunning views of the harbor.
- Best Time to Visit: December to April, when it’s cooler and less humid.
7. Coral World Ocean Park, St. Thomas
- Latitude/Longitude: 18°20.216′ N, 64°51.510′ W
- Description: This marine park offers an interactive experience with marine life, including sea turtles, stingrays, and sharks. The park also features an underwater observatory, providing a close-up view of coral reefs without getting wet.
- Best Time to Visit: January to April, when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are more enjoyable.
8. Annaberg Sugar Plantation Ruins, St. John
- Latitude/Longitude: 18°21.522′ N, 64°43.533′ W
- Description: The Annaberg Ruins are a well-preserved example of a sugar plantation from the Danish colonial era. The site offers insights into the island’s history and the impact of the sugar industry, with interpretive signs and occasional demonstrations of traditional skills like baking and basket weaving.
- Best Time to Visit: December to March, when temperatures are comfortable for exploring.
9. Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge, St. Croix
- Latitude/Longitude: 17°41.221′ N, 64°53.876′ W
- Description: This refuge is home to one of the longest stretches of sandy beach in the Caribbean, and it’s a critical nesting site for endangered leatherback sea turtles. The area is only open to the public on weekends, to protect the wildlife.
- Best Time to Visit: April to August for turtle nesting season, but also excellent from December to March for general visits.
10. Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
- Latitude/Longitude: 18°20.257′ N, 64°55.724′ W
- Description: The capital city of the U.S. Virgin Islands, Charlotte Amalie is rich in history, with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and vibrant markets. It’s also a major hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
- Best Time to Visit: November to April, to avoid the hurricane season and enjoy cooler weather.
11. Waterlemon Cay, St. John
- Latitude/Longitude: 18°21.666′ N, 64°43.053′ W
- Description: Located within the Virgin Islands National Park, Waterlemon Cay offers some of the best snorkeling in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The clear waters around the cay are teeming with marine life, including starfish, sea turtles, and a variety of tropical fish.
- Best Time to Visit: December to April, for calm seas and good visibility.
12. Point Udall, St. Croix
- Latitude/Longitude: 17°45.835′ N, 64°33.050′ W
- Description: The easternmost point of the United States, Point Udall offers stunning views of the sunrise and the Caribbean Sea. A monument called the Millennium Monument marks the spot, making it a popular destination for visitors looking to witness the first light of day in the U.S.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning year-round, but particularly nice from December to March for cooler mornings.
1. Budget Marine (St. Thomas)
- Services: Marine supplies, parts, and accessories for boats.
- Address: Frenchtown, St. Thomas, USVI 00802
- Phone: +1 (340) 776-5432
- Website: budgetmarine.com
2. Island Marine Outfitters (St. Thomas)
- Services: Full-service marine chandlery, including electronics, safety equipment, and rigging supplies.
- Address: 5302 Yacht Haven Grande, Suite 104, St. Thomas, USVI 00802
- Phone: +1 (340) 715-2000
- Email: info@islandmarineoutfitters.com
- Website: islandmarineoutfitters.com
3. Independent Boatyard (St. Thomas)
- Services: Haul-out, storage, repairs, and full-service yard with various marine services.
- Address: East End Rd, St. Thomas, USVI 00802
- Phone: +1 (340) 776-0466
- Email: info@independentboatyard.com
- Website: independentboatyard.com
4. Subbase Drydock, Inc. (St. Thomas)
- Services: Full-service shipyard offering dry docking, painting, mechanical services, and more.
- Address: Subbase, St. Thomas, USVI 00802
- Phone: +1 (340) 776-2078
- Email: info@subbasedrydock.com
- Website: subbasedrydock.com
5. B&C Marine (St. Thomas)
- Services: Marine electronics, electrical systems, and engine services.
- Address: 6501 Red Hook Plaza, Suite 201, St. Thomas, USVI 00802
- Phone: +1 (340) 775-1199
- Email: bcmarineusvi@gmail.com
- Website: bcmarineusvi.com
6. Ocean View Marine Services (St. Croix)
- Services: Mobile marine services, including engine repairs, rigging, electrical work, and more.
- Address: 8058 Queen Street, Frederiksted, St. Croix, USVI 00840
- Phone: +1 (340) 227-2793
- Email: oceanviewmarineservices@gmail.com
- Website: oceanviewmarineservices.com
7. Gold Coast Yachts (St. Croix)
- Services: Custom yacht building, repairs, and maintenance.
- Address: 5000 Estate Southgate, Christiansted, St. Croix, USVI 00820
- Phone: +1 (340) 778-1004
- Email: info@goldcoastyachts.com
- Website: goldcoastyachts.com
8. St. Croix Marine Corp (St. Croix)
- Services: Full-service marina with haul-out, storage, repairs, and a chandlery.
- Address: Gallows Bay, Christiansted, St. Croix, USVI 00820
- Phone: +1 (340) 773-0289
- Email: info@stcroixmarine.com
- Website: stcroixmarine.com
9. Compass Point Marina (St. Thomas)
- Services: Dockage, fuel, repairs, and a range of marine services.
- Address: 6300 Estate Frydenhoj, St. Thomas, USVI 00802
- Phone: +1 (340) 776-4770
- Email: info@compasspointmarina.com
- Website: compasspointmarina.com
10. Haas Electric Marine (St. Thomas)
- Services: Marine electrical services, including battery systems, wiring, and electronics.
- Address: 6100 Red Hook Plaza, Suite D-5, St. Thomas, USVI 00802
- Phone: +1 (340) 774-5050
- Email: info@haaselectricmarine.com
- Website: haaselectricmarine.com