Amazing Shore Excursions for Cruise Passengers in the U.S. Virgin Islands

The photogenic marinas and docks at St. John, St. Thomas, and St. Croix are like no other!

The U.S. Virgin Islands‘ best beaches, adventure sports, and attractions can be accessed independently or with guided excursions.

From snorkeling in clear waters to tasting rum and curried chicken, the options here are limitless.

Even if you’re just visiting for a day, simply grab your sunscreen and dive right in!

It’s time to delve into our guide of the best adventures awaiting you in the U.S. Virgin Islands!

Top 8 Shore Excursions for Cruise Passengers Visiting the U.S. Virgin Islands:

8. Half-Day Luxury Catamaran Turtle Snorkel And Beach

On this intimate excursion from St. Thomas, you will join a small group and head to a secluded snorkeling spot on a high-powered luxury catamaran.

An experienced English-speaking guide will tell you about the endangered marine habitat, colorful corals, and sea green turtles gliding by.

Next is Honeymoon Beach where you can read a book, sun bask, or swim in the warm waters.

The best part about this tour is that you can choose from several departure times.

A snorkeling guide, unlimited drinks, snacks, sanitized snorkeling gear, and a freshwater rinse are included in this shore excursion.

7. High-Speed Harbor Tour from Charlotte Amalie Cruise Port

This one is not for the faint of heart – get ready for one rough ride on a turbo-charged, 750-horsepower jet boat where the skipper will perform 360-degree spins and nose dives for you!

The jet boat leaves from St. Thomas Harbor and a local guide (or the skipper himself) will tell you about the islands’ history in a fun and informative way.

On the way, you’ll pass Hassel Island, and Water Island.

Bring a change of clothes for this shore excursion because you will be splashed from top to bottom!

Note: The tour is not for those with heart problems or other serious medical conditions.

You can also rent a jet ski and tour around the water on your own!

The options are fantastic. Make sure to to read our guide on Charlotte Amalie here.

6. Shop, See & Splash

Don’t be fooled by the short and sweet name – this marathon excursion lasts between six to seven hours, and you’ll be taken to prime shopping spots in downtown Charlotte Amalie to pick up souvenirs.

A custom-made itinerary includes stopovers with commentary at St. Thomas’ most notable attractions such as the Bluebeard and Blackbeard’s pirate castles, a rum daiquiri on the island’s highest point, and Sir Francis Drake’s Seat.

Your time will also include time chill out at Sapphire Beach, Coki Beach, and Magen’s Bay so you can rest your feet, take a dip, and appreciate the scenic location.

The ticket price includes a delicious selection of snacks and beverages!

5. St. Thomas Walking Food Tour

On this three-hour tour, you’ll learn to prepare and taste two rum cocktails (including Painkiller).

Dig into Creole specialties such as Creole fungi, conch fritters, and the famous curried chicken.

The guide will also brief you on the island’s colonial history.

This is an excellent option for those who are short on time but still want a feel of the island’s scents and flavors.

4. St John Island and Trunk Bay Beach Tour

Highly recommended is this excursion where you will be picked up from your cruise liner.

A guide will then take you to St. John’s most prominent sites.

Put on your snorkeling gear at Trunk Bay Beach and get ready for an encounter with multi-colored schools of fish, manta rays, and turtles.

After that, you will spend time at the ruins of a colonial sugar plantation called the Annaberg Sugar Plantation.

A drive through the atmospheric U.S. Virgin Islands National Park will immerse you in the sacred tranquility of the environs. It is a must-see destination in the USVI.

3. The Baths and White Bay

This is a wonderful chance to squeeze in a trip to the British Virgin Islands from the American Yacht Harbor at Red Hook in Saint Thomas. Our Red Hook guide is full of exciting tips so don’t forget to explore this town as well.

The Baths and White Bay tour begins with a guided exploration of The Baths and a fun 2-mile hike.

Enjoy a refreshing swim and take photos at Devil’s Bay, a boulder lines beach.

Next, you’ll head to the award-winning White Bay beach on the island of Jost Van Dyke.

A hearty seafood lunch awaits at any of the waterfront restaurants.

The much-talked-about Painkiller cocktail is best had at Soggy Dollar Bar.  

Note: you will require a valid passport and cash for customs fees.

2. St Croix Island Tour

On this guided tour, you’ll wander through cobblestone streets, marveling at old architecture, and palatial residences.

At the Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve, you’ll learn about indigenous cultures that have lived here for thousands of years before the settlers arrived.

Through a glass wall at the Sion Farm Distillery, watch the master distiller and his team craft an exquisite island vodka from scratch.

The excursion ends with an hour to yourself in Christiansted, St. Croix’s largest town.

Take photos of the quaint lampposts, arches, old churches, and courtyards – it’s like stepping back into a time capsule!

1. Horseback Riding Experience

This guided horseback riding tour through St. Croix’s breezy pastures and rainforests – promises to be an experience you will never forget.

Included is a stop at an old sugar mill where you can take photos and learn about the sugar industry.

Rides are suited to beginners as well, and helmets are provided.

The horses are beautiful and healthy and the trails are quite well-maintained so book this wonderful shore experience.

What To Bring On A Shore Excursion

This largely depends on what activities you plan on doing.

A good rule of thumb is to bring an extra change of clothes, towels, sunscreen, snorkeling gear, your bathing suit, and a camera.

You can’t go wrong with a sturdy pair of shoes!

It’s a good idea to carry cash and your passport.

How to Book a Shore Excursion

Most of the excursions can be booked via your cruise liner.

Alternatively, you can step off the cruise liner and talk to any of the tour agencies in town or simply book through popular booking sites like Viator, Tripadvisor, or GetYourGuide.

Shop around for the best price!