Nestled in the Eastern Caribbean, St Croix is the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands and a true gem offering stunning natural beauty and rich history.
Once home to the indigenous Carib and Arawak peoples, St Croix later saw European colonization, with Denmark leaving a significant mark on the island’s culture and architecture.
Today, you can wander through the colonial-era streets of Christiansted and Frederiksted, snorkel the vibrant Buck Island Reef, and explore the island’s scenic nature reserves and pristine beaches.
In this blog post, I share practical info on the St Croix cruise terminal (located in Frederiksted) and the 10 best things to do in St Croix on a cruise!
Visit also our cruise port guides to San Juan, St. Thomas, Antigua, St, Maarten, Dominica, Puerto Plata, Aruba
St Croix Cruise Port
Cruise ships dock in the heart of Frederiksted town, at Frederiksted Pier, which can accommodate two cruise vessels simultaneously.
The pier is quite long and it takes around 7-10 minutes on foot to reach the exit. Small shuttle buses are available for guests with mobility issues.
Upon exiting the pier, you can grab free maps and brochures at a kiosk, book tours with independent tour operators, and enjoy shopping at an outdoor crafts market.
Taxis and tour buses are also available, offering rides to Christiansted and the island’s beaches and attractions.
Frederiksted Beach is the main public beach and it’s right next to the cruise terminal, within a 10-15 minute walk from the ship.
Getting Around St Croix
- St Croix is generally considered safe for tourists, but, of course, it’s important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
- Taxis and tours are typically the best options for cruisers who want to maximize their time on the island.
- You can find taxis right at the St Croix cruise port, and many offer fixed-rate island tours that hit major attractions like Christiansted, the beaches, and historical sites. Taxi vans often serve groups, so it’s also a good option for families or larger parties.
- If you’re looking for flexibility, renting a car is a great option, allowing you to explore at your own pace. There are rental car services near the cruise port, but be sure to drive on the left side of the road, as St Croix follows the British driving style despite being a U.S. territory.
- Many companies offer guided tours designed specifically for cruise passengers. These tours typically last a few hours and take you to the island’s main attractions, such as Buck Island, Christiansted, the Cruzan Rum Distillery, and scenic viewpoints.
- The currency in St Croix is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Debit and credit cards are widely accepted.
10 Best Things To Do In St Croix Cruise Port
Whether you’re a history buff, beach lover, or adventurer, you’ll find plenty to explore in this Caribbean gem, from the vibrant underwater world of Buck Island Reef to the colonial charm of Christiansted. Here’s the list of Saint Croix’s top attractions:
1. Explore Frederiksted
Located on the western side of St Croix, Frederiksted – the island’s major cruise port, offers several key attractions for visitors. Here are the main highlights you can explore within the town, all located within a short distance from the port:
1.1. Fort Frederik
Upon exiting the pier, on your left side, you’ll spot a striking red-and-white colonial fort that dates back to the 18th century.
Constructed by the Danish to defend the western coast of St Croix from pirates and foreign invaders, it served as a strategic military outpost during the colonial era.
Fort Frederik is a powerful symbol of freedom, as it was here, on July 3, 1848, that the emancipation of slaves in the Danish West Indies was declared.
The fort also played a role in the U.S. Virgin Islands’ transition to American ownership when the islands were sold by Denmark to the United States in 1917.
Today, the fort houses a small museum where you can explore exhibits on the history of St Croix, its colonial past, and artifacts from the emancipation era.
There’s a small entrance fee (around $5) and make sure to bring cash as cards may not be accepted.
1.2. Frederiksted Pier
The cruise ship port is actually a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, offering a chance to see vibrant marine life up close, including turtles.
Of course, when the cruise ship is in port, swimming and snorkeling are forbidden due to safety.
1.3. Frederiksted Beach
Right near the cruise port, this calm beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. You can rent umbrellas and sunbeds, have a refreshing drink in a bar, and take a dip in the crystal-clear waters overlooking the ship.
1.4. Waterfront Promenade
Lined with small shops and local vendors, the promenade is a charming place to take a walk and enjoy the Caribbean vibe. You can pick up souvenirs or grab a bite to eat at one of the nearby cafes or food stands.
1.5. Emancipation Park
Right next to Frederik Fort and at the end of the pier, this peaceful park commemorates the 1848 emancipation of slaves in the Danish West Indies.
1.6. Frederiksted Historic District
Only a few minutes walk from the port, you can explore the historic heart of the town where you’ll see a mix of pastel-colored structures with classic Danish colonial features, such as arched doorways, verandas, and red-tiled roofs.
Many of these buildings have been repurposed as shops, galleries, and cafes where you can enjoy shopping and grab a quick bite.
Explore Frederiksted tours and activities
2. Christiansted
Located on the northern coast of St Croix, around 15 miles (a 30-minute drive) northeast of the port of St Croix, Christiansted is one of the island’s most popular and visited destinations.
Founded in the mid-18th century by the Danish, Christiansted served as the capital of the Danish West Indies and became a hub for sugar production. The town boasts well-preserved colonial architecture and cobblestone streets that you can explore on a half-day trip from Frederiksted.
Must-see attractions in Christiansted include:
- Christiansted National Historic Site: The main landmark in the city, this site includes several key historic buildings, such as the 18th-century Fort Christiansvaern, the Danish Custom House, and the Scale House. Fort Christiansvaern is one of the best-preserved colonial forts in the Caribbean.
- Steeple Building: Originally a Lutheran church, the Steeple Building dates back to the 1750s and is now part of the National Historic Site.
- Government House: This grand 18th-century mansion once served as the residence of the Danish colonial governor. Today, the building is still in use by the local government, and visitors can take a guided tour.
- Whim Plantation Museum: Just outside Christiansted, this historic sugar plantation offers an in-depth look at St Croix’s sugar industry and the lives of those who lived and worked on plantations.
- Christiansted Boardwalk: After touring the historical sites, stroll along the scenic waterfront boardwalk, lined with restaurants, shops, and cafes. The boardwalk is a great place to relax, enjoy a local meal, or book a boat tour for snorkeling or sailing.
Christiansted is best visited on a guided tour from the port. Many taxi drivers also offer fixed-rate tours that include transportation to Christiansted, along with stops at other major attractions. Shuttle buses may also be provided to take you from the port into town for an extra fee.
Explore Christiansted tours and activities
3. Buck Island Reef National Monument
Renowned for its underwater snorkel trail and vibrant coral reefs, the Buck Island Reef is a protected national monument and the best place for snorkeling and diving in Saint Croix!
The Buck Island itself is uninhabited and only accessible by boat that usually departs from Christiansted. Plenty of guided tours are available at the port, but make sure to book ahead as they sell off quickly.
The popular snorkeling and diving locations include the Buck Island Underwater Trail, Coral Gardens, The Elkhorn Coral Barrier Reef, Buck Island Wall, and Turtle Beach.
Explore Buck Island Reef tours and activities
4. Cruzan Rum Distillery
Just outside of Frederiksted, you can explore this working rum distillery which has been in operation since 1760 and is one of the oldest in the Caribbean.
The distillery is historically important as it played a key role in the island’s economy, especially during the Danish era when rum was a major export.
Today, guided tours offer an insight into the rum-making process and different varieties of the famous Cruzan Rum, a brand that has been part of St Croix’s culture for centuries. You can enjoy tastings and purchase rum at the on-site shop.
If you like rum and enjoy history, this tour is a must!
Check out Cruzan Rum Distillery tours and activities
5. Cane Bay Beach
A 30-minute drive from the port, you can visit Cane Bay, a popular spot for diving and snorkeling due to the famous “Cane Bay Wall,” a steep underwater drop-off that attracts marine life and divers from around the world.
The beach itself is beautiful and calm, making it a great spot for sunbathing and relaxing. There are several dive shops, restaurants, and bars nearby, offering a laid-back atmosphere.
Explore Cane Bay tours and activities
6. Estate Whim Plantation Museum
Estate Whim is a beautifully preserved 18th-century sugar plantation located on the western side of the island, only a 7-minute drive from the port of St Croix.
The plantation dates back to the 1700s, during the height of the sugar economy, and it was worked by enslaved Africans.
Today, the museum highlights the lives of both plantation owners and workers, providing a complete picture of St Croix’s past.
You can take a guided tour of the Great House, the windmill, and other historic structures. It’s a great way to learn about the island’s agricultural history.
Explore Estate Whim Plantation Museum tours and activities
7. Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve
Just a 25-minute drive from the port, nature lovers will find this park, home to a diverse ecosystem with mangrove forests, seagrass beds, and coral reefs that support an abundance of marine and bird life.
The calm, sheltered waters of the bay are ideal for kayaking through mangrove channels where you can spot herons, pelicans, and other wildlife.
Besides its wonderful nature, this bay is historically significant as it was the landing spot of Christopher Columbus during his second voyage in 1493. It is also the only documented site where he set foot on U.S. territory.
The area also contains prehistoric sites that show the presence of indigenous peoples long before European arrival.
The park is best visited on a guided tour from Frederiksted port.
Check out Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve tours
8. Point Udall
Located a 1-hour drive east of the cruise port, Point Udall is the easternmost point of the United States and offers stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea.
It’s home to the Millennium Monument, which marks the easternmost sunrise in the U.S. for the year 2000. Built to celebrate the new millennium, the monument stands as a symbol of new beginnings.
The site is named after former U.S. Interior Secretary Stewart Udall, in recognition of his significant contributions to environmental conservation.
The Point Udall is best visited by taxi.
9. Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge
Only a 7-minute drive from Frederiksted, Sandy Point is a beautiful, long stretch of white sand beach and a protected area for nesting sea turtles, including the endangered leatherback turtles.
The beach is one of the most stunning on the island and is perfect for those looking to enjoy unspoiled natural beauty. However, keep in mind that the beach is only open to the public on weekends due to its status as a wildlife refuge.
Check out Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge tours
10. St George Village Botanical Gardens
Set on the ruins of a 19th-century sugarcane plantation, this 16-acre botanical garden features more than 1,500 species of plants, including tropical flowers, trees, and cacti.
The garden is located about 15 minutes from Frederiksted and is a peaceful spot to explore, with self-guided tours and special events throughout the year.
Wrapping Up
St Croix cruise port offers a perfect mix of history, natural beauty, and adventure for cruisers. From exploring colonial towns like Frederiksted and Christiansted to snorkeling at Buck Island and visiting nature reserves, there’s something for everyone!
You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Western Europe, Baltic & Scandinavia, USA & Canada, Australia & New Zealand
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