Next Stop: St Thomas, US VI
St Thomas is one of the Caribbean’s top destinations with its pristine beaches, underwater beauty as well as offering a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Charlotte Amalie is known worldwide for its duty-free shopping, elegant dining, and spectacular nightlife. The island boasts some of the most beautiful natural harbors in the world and is both a historian’s and adventure seeker’s playground.
St Thomas is the second largest of the United States Virgin Islands spanning 32 square miles with its highest peak rising to 1,550 feet above sea level. For dramatic views of the Caribbean, take the Skyride 700 feet above the city or climb the famous 99 Steps of Charlotte Amalie. Just above, you’ll discover Blackbeard’s castle which offered a perfect vantage point to spot enemy ships entering the harbor or follow the footsteps of Sir Francis Drake and head up Drakes’ seat where he supposedly kept an eye out for Spanish invaders. The view from here is well worth it.
The island is also vibrant with life, from tropical birds to an array of butterfly species from around the world found in the Butterfly Garden. Horticulturists can immerse themselves in the multitude of plant life at either St Peter Greathouse Estate & Gardens or while visiting the Phantasea Tropical Botanical Gardens.
There are plenty of tours that offer a picture into life as it once was. Fort Christian, the most prominent historical landmark is located within the heart of Charlotte Amalie. Built in 1672 after the arrival of the first Danish colonists, it’s the oldest building on the island and has withstood the test of time and served many purposes throughout the centuries. This Danish-built fortress serves as a beautiful example of Dutch-Caribbean architecture in the Gothic-Revival style showcasing its red walls and an imposing clock tower. On the western end, traverse Hassell Island to encounter old military stations, barracks, and marine railways. Visit the ancient St Thomas Synagogue, the second oldest in all the US or check out the wide range of museums from extravagant restored homes such as the Seven Arches to the Pirate Treasure Museum where you can immerse yourself in long lost treasures from pirate raids. Art lovers can visit the French Heritage Museum and even see the childhood home of Camille Pissarro, one of the best-known French Impressionists.
If adventure is what you seek, St Thomas offers everything imaginable from zip lining, kayaking, parasailing and even flyboarding. There are plenty of snorkeling and diving opportunities as well. Experience world-class snorkeling in some of the clearest waters in the world; perfect for viewing stunning marine life. Discover 40 types of coral with more than 500 species of fish inhabiting the surrounding waters. Divers of all skill levels can explore some of the best wall diving in the Caribbean and explore shipwrecks that are still intact.
St Thomas has so much to offer; with over 40 beaches to discover from secluded coves to sun-kissed beaches teeming with lively entertainment. In October’s E-news, we will delve into the island’s most popular beaches to find your definition of the perfect beach getaway.
Join us as we set sail for St Thomas this February 2023.
BNB23 ITINERARY