Guide to Frederiksted, St. Croix Cruise Port - Maps, Taxi Rates, Bus Info & More!
© GoToStCroix.com
Discover St. Croix, a captivating destination in the U.S. Virgin Islands, perfect for cruise travelers seeking a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. This guide offers essential information and tips to help you enjoy your visit to the fullest, exploring everything from historic towns to stunning natural landscapes.
St. Croix Map © GoToStCroix.com
About St. Croix
St. Croix, the largest of the US Virgin Islands (USVI), is a melting pot of cultures with a rich history evident in its two main towns: Christiansted and Frederiksted. Christiansted, known for its Danish colonial architecture, houses landmarks like the Christiansted National Historic Site and Fort Christiansvaern. Frederiksted, with its picturesque waterfront, offers vibrant cultural events and superb snorkeling opportunities at the Frederiksted Pier.
The island's diverse landscape includes lush rainforests, mountainous regions, and beautiful beaches. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Salt River Bay National Historical Park for kayaking in bioluminescent waters or relax at the Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for leatherback sea turtles. St. Croix also caters to a variety of interests with its world-class golf courses, rich culinary scene featuring local rum and seafood, and numerous festivals showcasing the island's lively community spirit.
Transportation in St. Croix
Navigating St. Croix is relatively straightforward, offering various transportation options suitable for cruise passengers. The proximity of these services to the Frederiksted cruise terminal makes exploring the island convenient and accessible.
St. Croix Taxis
Taxi services are readily available at the cruise port. They usually don't have meters, instead operating on fixed rates determined by the Virgin Islands Taxi Commission. Rates are per person and vary depending on the destination. For instance, a trip from Frederiksted to Christiansted might cost around $16-20 per person. It's advisable to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Shared taxis, known as 'safari taxis', are open-air buses that follow specific routes and are a cheaper, communal way to travel. Here are the taxi rates from Frederiksted to popular destinations in St. Croix:
Christiansted: $36 for 1-2 persons, $17 for each additional person.
Carambola: $41 for 1-2 persons, $17 for each additional person.
Divi Carina Bay: $54 for 1-2 persons, $27 for each additional person.
Sunny Isle: $30 for 1-2 persons, $15 for each additional person.
Hannah’s Rest: $12 for 1-2 persons, $6 for each additional person.
La Grange: $12 for 1-2 persons, $6 for each additional person.
Sunset Beach: $9 for 1-2 persons, $5 for each additional person.
St. Croix Buses
St. Croix Bus Route Map © VITRAN
The public bus system, known as VITRAN, operates across the island with routes connecting major towns and attractions. Bus fares are very affordable, priced at $1 per ride, making this a budget-friendly option for those with flexible travel plans.
Click here to learn more about VITRAN schedules and routes.
St. Croix Rental Cars
Car rentals are available, with several agencies located near the cruise terminal. Rates vary but expect to pay around $40-60 per day. Driving is on the left side of the road, which might be unusual for some visitors. A U.S. driver's license is valid for use in St. Croix.
Bicycles and Scooters in St. Croix
For shorter distances or more leisurely exploration, renting bicycles or scooters can be a fun alternative. Several rental shops are situated near the cruise terminal, with daily rental rates typically ranging from $15 to $40.
Frederiksted © GoToStCroix.com
Frederiksted: Shopping and Attractions
Frederiksted, a hub of activity when cruise ships dock, offers an engaging blend of shopping and attractions just steps away from the Ann Abrahmson Pier. The town is bustling with shops along the palm-lined waterfront, where you can find an assortment of local vendors selling crafts and souvenirs on cruise ship days. These shops present a wide array of items ranging from handmade jewelry to unique island crafts, ideal for visitors seeking tangible memories of their Caribbean adventure.
Apart from shopping, Frederiksted is rich in historical and cultural sites. Key attractions include the Frederiksted Pier, renowned for its scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities and a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. The iconic Fort Frederik, an 18th-century structure, stands as a testament to the island's colonial past and played a significant role in the history of emancipation on the island. The town's layout is compact and easily explorable on foot, offering a mix of well-preserved Victorian buildings and local street art, giving visitors a true taste of the island's character and heritage.
© GoToStCroix.com
Best Beaches in St. Croix
St. Croix's beaches are a highlight for many visitors, offering a range of experiences from serene relaxation to vibrant beachside activities. Here are some of the best beaches, each located within a convenient distance from the cruise terminal.
Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge
Located approximately 10-15 minutes drive from the Frederiksted cruise terminal, Sandy Point is a breathtaking beach known for its pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. It's a popular spot for nesting turtles, making it an essential visit for wildlife enthusiasts. This beach is only open on weekends and is closed from April to August for turtle nesting season.
Rainbow Beach
Just a short drive north of Frederiksted, Rainbow Beach is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning sunsets. It's a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports with beach bars and restaurants nearby, making it a great choice for a day of relaxation and fun.
Dorsch Beach
This beach, immediately south of Frederiksted, is a local favorite. It's a bit narrower than other beaches but is cherished for its intimate setting and beautiful sunset views. Dorsch Beach is easily accessible and is a great place to experience local island life.
Cane Bay Beach
Located on the North Shore, about a 30-minute drive from Frederiksted, Cane Bay Beach offers a picturesque setting with clear waters and vibrant marine life, ideal for snorkeling and diving. The beach is lined with bars and restaurants, providing a lively atmosphere for visitors. Horseback riding is also available in this area, offering a one-of-a-kind vacation experience.
Shoy's Beach
Near Christiansted and about a 30-minute drive from Frederiksted, Shoy's Beach is a hidden gem known for its calm waters and soft sand, making it ideal for a peaceful day by the sea. This beach's serene environment makes it a perfect escape from the busier tourist spots.
Sightseeing in St. Croix
St. Croix is not only a destination for beach lovers but also a treasure trove of historical landmarks and natural attractions. From its colonial heritage to its stunning natural preserves, the island offers a wealth of sightseeing opportunities. Here are some of the most popular attractions and shore excursions that showcase the diverse beauty and rich history of St. Croix:
Christiansted National Historic Site
This historic site in Christiansted is a preserved area showcasing the island's Danish colonial past. Key features include the 18th-century Fort Christiansvaern and old Danish customs house, providing a vivid window into the island's history and architecture.
Buck Island Reef National Monument
Just off the northeast coast of St. Croix, this small, uninhabited island is famed for its protected coral reef ecosystem. The monument is a popular destination for snorkeling and underwater exploration, showcasing a diverse range of marine life.
Estate Whim Plantation Museum
Situated near Frederiksted, this restored sugar plantation offers a historical journey into St. Croix's past. The museum features a restored great house, sugar mill, and other plantation structures, giving visitors an insight into the 18th-century sugar economy and life on the plantation.
Fort Frederik
Located within walking distance from the cruise terminal, Fort Frederik was built in the 1750s to protect the island from pirate attacks and played a pivotal role in the abolition of slavery in the Danish West Indies. The fort now serves as a museum and cultural center, offering a historical perspective on the island's struggle for freedom.
Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge
This beautiful beach area on the western tip of St. Croix is also a wildlife preserve, particularly known for being a nesting ground for endangered leatherback turtles. The refuge offers a serene beach experience along with the opportunity to observe native wildlife in their natural habitat.
Cruzan Rum Distillery
This distillery is a highlight in St. Croix, known for its rich history in rum-making. Visitors can explore the traditional process of rum production and enjoy tastings, making it a popular stop for those interested in the island's cultural heritage.
Conclusion
This guide to St. Croix for cruise tourists highlights the island's main attractions, from the historical sites in Frederiksted and Christiansted to its stunning beaches and natural preserves. Ideal for those planning cruises to St. Croix, it offers practical information on transportation, shopping, and sightseeing, ensuring a well-rounded and enjoyable visit to this Caribbean destination.
