Tour Charlotte Amalie

Charlotte Amalie is a major destination for Caribbean cruises, especially since U.S. travelers do not need a passport to visit.

This former hideaway for famous pirates such as Bluebeard and Blackbeard welcomes more than 1.5 million cruise ship passengers each year, making it one of the busiest ports in the Caribbean.

The city, named for a 17th century queen of Denmark, is capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Its permanent population is just over 20,000 people, though it usually supports a much larger population of tourists and temporary workers.


Situated on the island of St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie offers all the attractions for which the Caribbean is famous: white sand beaches, sparkling turquoise waters and beautiful forests and lagoons. A ride up Skyline Drive will offer spectacular views of St. Thomas Harbor, while a gondola known as Skyride can whisk passengers up 700 feet to one of the best vistas in the Caribbean.

There are also plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, sailing, fishing and just about any other water-based activity you can imagine.

Charlotte Amalie also has much to offer when it comes to taking in a bit of history. One can visit the old Danish Fort Christian, built in 1666 and currently housing a history museum and panoramic views from the roof. The legislature building and Grand Hotel are notable landmarks from the 19th century.

For some outdoor history, you can visit the U.S. Virgin Island’s copy of the Liberty Bell (each state has one as well) at Emancipation Park, or climb the famous 99 Steps, made from bricks brought to St. Thomas as ballast for Danish ships. If you’d like to climb to the top, however, make plans to climb an additional four stairs, since 99 Steps is actually composed of 103 steps.


More than perhaps any other city in the Caribbean, Charlotte Amalie is famous for its shopping. Allowing nearly double the normal rate of duty-free purchases, the city is home to more than 450 shops and boutiques. Most of these are located along Main Street, though many can be found in Havensight Mall or sprinkled in and around the downtown district.

While just about anything is available on the island, jewelry, gemstones, watches, designer clothing and spirits are among the best bargains in Charlotte Amalie. Being a U.S. territory, the dollar is used, and credit cards and traveler’s checks are generally accepted.

Food on the island is typical Caribbean fare with plenty of foreign influences. Diners can find casual dining for 10-20 dollars a person or elegant meals running closer to 100 dollars a person for a three course meal with drinks.

For a special culinary treat, check out one of the island’s Carnival Food Fairs, held several times a year and offering a taste of the island’s unique flavors and dishes.


Because of its popularity with tourists, a wide range of accommodation is available in Charlotte Amalie. From intimate Bed and Breakfasts to sprawling private resorts, variety is not an issue in the city.

Most of the lower-cost hotels and bed and breakfasts start at around $80 a night, though a few more affordable options are available. Marriott offers two resorts with rooms approaching $1,000 a night for those looking for true luxury in their accommodations.