Caribbean

St Croix | Virgin Islands Delight

St Croix is one of the U.S. Virgin Islands in the Caribbean. It has lush hills, warm blue water, rich history, and a tropical climate. It’s uncrowded and perfect for a stop on your yacht charter vacation.

Fifty-four sugar mills still rest in the shadows of stately eighteenth-century and nineteenth-century homes. With acres of rolling green hills, St Croix’s plantation estates also bore crops of okra, cabbage, corn, and other vegetables. As the sugar industry declined after the 1960s, tourism became the most important industry on the island.

St Croix Christiansted and Frederiksted

Christiansted and Frederiksted are the two main towns of St Croix. The island offers many activities, including fine dining, shopping, golf, scuba diving, and horseback riding.

Weather

St Croix’s subtropical climate and weather provide primarily warm, sunny days with a slight chance of rain. The temperature typically varies from 73°F to 88°F and is rarely below 69°F or above 91°F, and it can feel much hotter when the humidity is high.

Places to see

• Visit historic Fort Christiansvaern. It is one of the best-preserved colonial forts in the Caribbean and is the largest structure at the historic site. What’s more, it’s the oldest structure in Christiansted.
• Point Udall. Located at the east end of the island, it is the easternmost point (by travel, not longitude) in the United States. The Millennium Monument, a giant sundial, marks the azimuth of the first U.S. sunrise in 2000.
• Buck Island Reef National Monument.
• Spend the day at Rainbow Beach. The calm water at this beach allows for superb snorkeling.
• Carambola Tide Pools. Although there’s a long and somewhat strenuous hike to get to them, it is worth the effort. Check the tide charts before you go, and wear water shoes.
• Follow the St Croix Heritage Trail, a self-guided tour of the island’s many historical sites, cultural attractions, and natural areas. The trail links many of St. Croix’s major historical attractions, such as Whim Plantation Museum, one of the most prosperous sugar plantations of the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. Also on the trail are St. George Village Botanical Gardens and Christiansted National Historic Site, plantation and sugar factory ruins, churches, scenic views, and more.

Things to do in St Croix

• Travel to the heart of the rainforest and visit Mt. Pellier Hut Domino Club. This unique restaurant serves home-cooked food such as roti, chicken, and ribs. Be sure to see the resident pigs. You can feed these pampered swine (non-alcoholic) beer!
• Take a tour of the Cruzan Rum distillery.
• Have lunch at Turtle’s Deli or dinner at Rumrunners.
• Pick up a sea-themed gift at Cache of the Day or visit Baci Duty-Free for fine cigars.
• Dive. St Croix offers various dive sites that are easy to access by boat and, in some cases, by land. Popular locations include Cane Bay Wall, Deep Wrecks at Butler Bay, Salt River Canyon East Wall, Salt River Canyon West Wall, and Shallow Wrecks at Butler Bay.
• Declare your relationship status with a classic St. Croix love bracelet. The bracelet is worn with the hook pointing toward your heart to symbolize your love is taken. When the hook is worn away from your heart, it shows you are not in a relationship. According to legend, the seafaring men’s wives would make a bracelet from their fishing hooks to show their devotion while the men were at sea.

St Croix Marinas

• Tamarind Reef’s Green Cay Marina. A 154-slip marina located just minutes from downtown Christiansted. Green Cay’s sheltered lagoon provides easy access to Buck Island and excellent protection during a storm. Guests have full access to the amenities at Tamarind Reef Resort, including a pool, tennis courts, fitness center, and restaurants.
• Salt River Marina. This picturesque small marina is only minutes from many of the island’s dive sites. The marina has excellent year-round protection for both residents and visiting boaters alike. Amenities include a restaurant, a kayak tour company, and a dive operation.
• St Croix Marine. Offers 44 fixed slips for a maximum vessel size of 150 feet. It has a fuel dock, marine store, well-equipped onsite chandlery, full-service boatyard, haul, and launch. Additionally, there’s Wi-Fthere’sstaurant, bathrooms and showers, and 12-hour security.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I get started?

  There are a few necessary parameters to consider. For example, what type of boat, your destination, the time of year, and who will accompany you. The questions below can help guide your thought process, and your CKIM yacht charter broker will assist in asking the right questions and providing the expertise to design the perfect experience for you.

• Can I customize my USVI catamaran charter experience?

  Absolutely! Crewed charters specialize in personalization. You can typically customize:

  • Dining preferences
  • Itinerary routes
  • Water sports activities
  • Special occasion arrangements
  • Specific island destinations
  • Onboard entertainment
  • Dietary requirements

  Communicate your preferences with the charter company in advance to ensure a tailored experience.

• Can I visit multiple islands during my USVI motor yacht charter?

  Sure! USVI motor yacht charters let you explore St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. You can also visit the nearby British Virgin Islands.

• Do I need any special documentation for a USVI power catamaran charter?

  Guests should have a valid passport and any necessary travel documents. While most charters are within US territories, international travelers should confirm specific entry requirements with their charter company.

• How far in advance should I book my USVI motor yacht charter?

  It is best to book 6 to 12 months ahead. This is especially true during peak season, which is from December to April. Booking early helps you get your preferred boat and dates.

• How many people can typically be accommodated on a USVI motor yacht charter?

  Vessel capacity ranges from small 4-person yachts to larger boats. Some can hold 12 to 16 passengers, depending on the charter.

• How much does a USVI Sailing Catamaran Charter typically cost?

  Prices range from $30,000 to over $75,000 per week. This depends on the size of the vessel, the type of charter, the season, and the included amenities.

• What activities can I expect during a USVI power catamaran charter?

  Typical activities include snorkeling, swimming, island-hopping, sunbathing, fishing, exploring secluded beaches, water sports, wildlife viewing, and enjoying gourmet onboard catering. Many charters offer fully customizable itineraries.

• What are the cancellation and deposit policies for USVI crewed yacht charters?

  Cancellation policies vary, but typically:

  • A 50% deposit is required upon booking
  • Full payment is due 30-60 days before the charter
  • Cancellation fees depend on how close to the charter date
  • Travel insurance is recommended
  • Specific terms vary by charter company

• What is the best time of year to book a USVI Sailing Catamaran Charter?

  Peak season runs from December to April, offering optimal weather conditions with minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures. Shoulder seasons provide more affordable rates.

• What safety measures are in place during USVI Sailing Catamaran Charters?

  Reputable charter companies provide safety briefings, emergency equipment, communication devices, and experienced crews trained in maritime safety protocols.

• What should I pack for a USVI catamaran charter?

  Essential packing items include:

  • Lightweight, quick-dry clothing
  • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
  • Swimwear
  • Soft-sided luggage
  • Non-marking boat shoes
  • Personal medications
  • Waterproof camera
  • Reef-safe sunscreen

  Pack light and prioritize versatile, comfortable clothing suitable for maritime conditions.