royal caribbean shore excursions for st thomas

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Top 8 Shore Excursions in St Thomas (USVI) Cruise Port Guide

All you need to know about the most popular shore excursions and tours for cruise passengers to St Thomas (Charlotte Amalie) port in 2022.

By: Editor-in-Chief Update: June 1, 2023

All cruise lines offer an array of shore excursions that cover all possible activities, attractions, and highlights in the cruise port of St. Thomas.

Even if you only want to relax on a beach or explore St. John ( a sister island) on your own, cruise lines have these types of shore excursions available. Cruise passengers should be aware that some of these excursions can only be experienced if you book onboard.

St John National Park

Photo Courtesy of Management

But there are also many attractions that can be explore on your own - or independently as savvy cruisers like to say - and it doesn't make sense to spend money onboard. For example, if the cruise ship passenger wants to go to Charlotte Amalie for a shopping spree, it doesn't make sense to pay for a tour.

The same is true if you want to explore the historical landmarks Charlotte Amalie. In fact many landmarks are not included in the excursion program. However, it is always good to look at what the cruise line offers - below, is the Editor's Choice of excursions organized by Cruise Lines and available onboard your cruise ship.

1. Best of St. Thomas and Shopping (and Magens Bay)

Photo © IQCruising.com

This is one of the most popular tours in St. Thomas combining sightseeing of the island and leisure time to shop in Charlotte Amalie. Some cruise lines (like Carnival and Princess) also offer a couple of hours of beach time at Magens Bay.

2. Kayak, Hike and Snorkel (Mangrove)

This tour takes the cruise ship passenger to the Mangrove Lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary and Marine Preserve - a 16 acre deserted island. Here the cruise ship passenger will paddle a 2-person sea kayak through mangroves and pristine waters. Snorkel the pristine waters of Cas Cay. Hike through the forest. Look forward to wildlife sightings like a visit to a hermit crab village, a coral beach, jellyfish, eagle rays, conch, sea cucumbers, starfish, turtles, octopus and so much more.

3. Tree Limin’ Extreme Zip Line

After a ride up St. Peter Mountain in a Swiss military vehicle to the summit, the cruise ship passenger will enjoy breathtaking views whilst crossing sky bridges to start the ultimate adventure in the Caribbean with 6 zip-lines. These include the exhilarating Yo-Yo zip, which allows you to travel backwards and forwards on the same line.

4. BOSS Underwater Adventure (Underwater Scooter)

BOSS, the Breathing Observation Submersible Scooter, is an amazing way of exploring the underwater world with no diving experience as it is designed to allow you to breathe normally while you drive undersea. On this excursion, a 60-foot custom dive yacht will take the cruise ship passenger to a site with crystal clear waters, where you will enjoy a stunning guided tour of wonderful tropical reefs with colorful fish.

5. Turtle Cove Sail &Snorkel (Buck Island)

Experience the thrill of sailing onboard a catamaran (or a pirate schooner) around the famous Buck Island and snorkeling in a beautiful cove. These are easy waters to snorkel with an abundance of tropical fish and brilliant corals. Optionally, you can just swim or soak up the sun on the open deck. Good to Know: full-day tours offer a Caribbean buffet and complimentary beverages, including rum drinks, besides snacks and sodas onboard. In the event of rough conditions at Turtle Cove, the boat will anchor at an alternate site

6. Sea Lion Encounter (Coral World Park)

Touch, pet and play games with agile sea lions on land and in water in the Undersea Observatory Tower. The excursion includes the admittance to the Coral World Ocean Park allowing free time for a self-guided tour. Here you can explore a stunning mangrove lagoon, a sea turtle pool, an open-air shark tank and 21 aquariums. Optionally, you can enjoy free time at Coki Beach just yards away from the park.

7. Screamin Eagle Jet Boat (Water Adventure)

Get ready to get wet on a wild ride in the St. Thomas waters with 180-degree spins, wild fishtails and power brake stops aboard a 650 HP turbo-charged jet boat at exhilaratingly high speeds. Please note that you will be sprayed by seawater. There will be stops for narration.

8. Exploring St. John (On your Own)

If the cruise ship passenger has already been in St. Thomas and explored this unique Caribbean island, the smaller St. John's island is close by and must see that will be both surprising in its pristine beauty and quaint charm. It is easy to visit on your own - literally - as all you need to do is get on a taxi to Red Hook and from here get on a ferry to Cruz Bay in St. John. Alternatively, you can have the transportation organized by your cruise line for an extra cost if it makes you feel more confident.

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The information on this page was accurate when last updated and published but changes may have occurred without notice. It is advisable to confirm details with local tourist information before planning your cruise, tour or excursion of St. Thomas. If any inaccuracies are found or if there are any suggestions to improve the content of this page please let us know.

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18 of the Best Beaches in the Caribbean and the Bahamas

Start planning your next island getaway now.

With their powdery white sand and gentle turquoise waters, beaches in the Caribbean and the Bahamas are the picture of paradise. There are countless stretches of sand across thousands of islands where you can laze beneath swaying palm trees with a tropical cocktail in hand. To make planning your tropical dream vacation a little easier, we've rounded up 18 of the best Caribbean and Bahamas beaches.

• Best tourist destination: Pig Beach, Big Major Cay, Bahamas
• Underrated hidden gem: Caracas Beach, Vieques, Puerto Rico
• Best for families: Labadee Beach, Haiti
• Best for couples: Trunk Bay, St. John, USVI
• Best for solo travelers: Pigeon Point Beach, Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago

Read on for where to go in the Caribbean and the Bahamas for snorkeling, swimming, and plenty of sun.

Pig Beach, Big Major Cay, Bahamas

Stunning white sands and clear, aquamarine waters aren't the only showstoppers in the Exumas, a chain of islands in the Bahamas . On uninhabited Big Major Cay, a colony of pigs (and adorable piglets!) takes center stage. The beach has become a tourist attraction, because who doesn't want to take a photo swimming with pigs? You can't stay here overnight, but many nearby islands offer excursions, including Staniel Cay.

Caracas Beach, Vieques, Puerto Rico

There is no shortage of beaches in Puerto Rico , but it's worth a quick ferry ride or flight from the main island to nearby Vieques. The island's beaches stand out for how untouched and calm they feel. If you crave seclusion, Caracas Beach is a great choice, as it's not uncommon to be the only one there, even on a beautiful day. And if you go to Vieques from December to mid-April, you might be able to see bioluminescence, when the water is illuminated an electric blue by a type of algae.

Labadee Beach, Haiti

Ken Wiedemann/Getty Images

Located on one of the largest islands in the Caribbean, Haiti boasts countless stunning beaches. One of the best to visit is Labadee Beach, which is now a private resort leased to Royal Caribbean , meaning you'll need to book a cruise to access this sandy shore. If you do, you'll be rewarded with heavenly views. For thrill-seekers, there is an option to zip-line across the water from atop a nearby mountain. Amenities like a rollercoaster, waterslides, and a water trampoline make this one of the best beaches in the Caribbean for families.

Trunk Bay, St. John, USVI

There are beautiful beaches, and then there are beaches that leave you speechless. A quick ferry from St. Thomas will bring you to St. John, where you'll find Trunk Bay, a beach that most certainly falls into the latter category. Tucked away 15 minutes' drive from the ferry port in Cruz Bay, the sand here is perhaps the whitest you've ever seen, even without an Instagram filter.

Pigeon Point Beach, Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago

While Trinidad is known to many for having one of the largest Carnival celebrations in the Caribbean , its sister island, Tobago, is where you go to cool off and unwind. There's no better place to do that than Pigeon Point Beach, the island's most popular beach on the southwest end. Take a glass-bottom boat ride to the Nylon Pool, an in-sea shallow point in the sea where you can safely stand and splash around, and do a bit of snorkeling in the clear waters.

Grand Anse Beach, Grenada

Postcard-perfect Grand Anse Beach is a two-mile stretch of powdery sand lapped by tranquil azure water. Sheltered between green hills on both sides, the beach is full of fun bars and overlooks a bay dotted with vibrantly colored boats. Find shade under an almond tree and you may never want to leave these panoramic views. In addition to jet skiing and parasailing, you can snorkel or dive at the nearby Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park — a unique installation created by artist Jason deCaires Taylor to help rebuild the coral reef ecosystem that has been devastated by hurricane activity.

Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

Often rated one of the most beautiful beaches in the world , Grace Bay lives up to its accolades. This miles-long beach boasts powder-soft sand and piercing blue waters, which are perfect for swimming. Many of the best hotels and restaurants on the island are along this beach, so it's easy to visit Providenciales and never have to leave this strip.

Doctor's Cave Beach, Jamaica

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Many of the best beaches in Jamaica are privately operated and connected to hotels. Doctor's Cave Beach, less than a five-minute drive from the airport in Montego Bay is this local favorite, available to the public for $8 for adults and $4 for children; you can rent beach chairs and umbrellas for $7. Access to the beach is free if you book a stay at the neighboring S Hotel . The tranquil water here makes swimming all day an easy task. Rehydrate from the heat with fresh coconut water from an on-site vendor

Bávaro Beach, Dominican Republic

Palm trees fringe this white-sand beach lapped by placid turquoise waters. Located in the popular area of Punta Cana, Bávaro Beach stretches 30 miles, so you can walk on pillowy sand for what feels like forever. It's a particularly nice beach for a sunrise or sunset stroll. Nearby all-inclusive resorts make this a complete getaway where you can leave the stress of your everyday life behind.

Varadero Beach, Cuba

Spanning 12 magnificent miles, Varadero Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island of Cuba. The sparkling blue waters separate it from the Florida Straits. There's never a shortage of water activities to choose from, including diving, sailing, snorkeling, fishing, or taking a ride in a glass-bottom boat.

The Baths, Virgin Gorda, BVI

cdwheatley/iStock/Getty Images

The British Virgin Islands are famously scenic, but few spots draw quite as much attention as the Baths, an area of sea pools sheltered by huge granite boulders. You'll have plenty of fun climbing around the rocks and wading through a maze of grottos, as well as snorkeling in nearby waters. Just be sure to get there early to beat the cruise ship crowds.

Brownes Beach, Barbados

Barbados, the easternmost island in the Caribbean, has gorgeous beaches, especially along its Platinum Coast. Located in the Carlisle Bay area, Brownes Beach offers some of the most stunning sand and water around. While here, embark on a snorkeling excursion to explore a shipwreck and spot an abundance of marine life, including green sea turtles if you're lucky. The warm, calm waters combined with good visibility and active marine life make Brownes Beach a great place to take kids snorkeling in the Caribbean.

Jalousie Beach, St. Lucia

Just south of the town of Soufrière, Jalousie Beach boasts crystal-clear waters, bright white sand, and amazing views, thanks to its position between the iconic twin Piton Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This beach is also a popular snorkeling point, as it's near a vast coral reef packed with schools of beautiful fish swimming all around.

Flamingo Beach, Aruba

Aruba's Eagle Beach and Baby Beach may be popular for their clear, aquamarine waters and powdery white sands, but you can find equally excellent beach quality and have close encounters with flamingos at Flamingo Beach. This exclusive beach is only accessible by visiting Renaissance Island , a private island that's part of Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort.

Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

For crystalline water and coral sand, look no further than stunning Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman. The beach is the ideal place to let your mind drift as you stare off into perfection. If you love eating well as much as you dig the beach, plan your trip to Grand Cayman for January, when the Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman hosts the annual Cayman Cookout ; this five-day culinary festival marries delicious food and drinks with even more gorgeous weather.

Little Ffryes Beach, Antigua, Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua has 365 beaches, one for every day of the year. But all you really need to feel at peace are two gorgeous adjacent stretches of sand: Ffryes Beach and Little Ffryes Beach. Little Ffryes has a leg up in that it's usually less populated. Both beaches have a handful of restaurants serving local food and drinks.

Coki Beach, St. Thomas, USVI

Coki Beach is where you really feel the flavor of St. Thomas. Here, locals lie out while enjoying fresh seafood and strong cocktails prepared by on-site beach bars. Always-on music and laughter create the soundtrack to the perfect day of frolicking in and out of the beautiful water.

Maho Beach, St. Maarten

This beach has great sand and water quality, but that isn't why it's one of the most photographed beaches in the Caribbean. While scrolling on social media, you've likely stumbled upon a photo of someone with a huge jet seemingly right above their head — and it was probably taken here. Maho Beach is located right next to the island's Princess Juliana International Airport, so on a good day, you can enjoy this gorgeous beach and seriously up-close plane spotting.

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Adventure Awaits: Must-Try Hiking Shore Excursions for Your Next Cruise!

Unlike traditional city tours or beach outings, hiking excursions allow you to immerse yourself in nature, offering a refreshing break from typical tourist activities.

This type of excursion allows you to get up close to breathtaking landscapes, explore interesting local flora and fauna, and truly experience the natural beauty of a destination. Additionally, hiking is a great way to stay active and engage in a more physically involved activity while on vacation.

Participants on guided hikes can look forward to encountering scenic trails, breathtaking viewpoints, and perhaps even historical or cultural sites along the way. Knowledgeable guides often provide insights about the area’s ecology, history, and geology, enriching the experience further.

Whether it’s trekking through lush forests, ascending to panoramic vistas, or exploring rugged coastlines, Shore Excursions Group offers you a sense of adventure and discovery that is both rewarding and memorable.

Read on for some of the best hiking shore excursions to consider for your next cruise vacation.

Cinque Terre Hiking Adventure in Italy

The Cinque Terre Hiking Adventure is a must-do for any hiking enthusiast visiting Italy . On this eight-hour guided hiking tour you will navigate challenging hillside trails while experiencing the region’s vineyards and rich cultural heritage along the way.

Begin your hiking expedition with an expert guide in the charming seaside town of Manarola , passing colorful hillside homes as you travel ancient cliffside walkways. Reach Corniglia and take time to explore this ancient Roman commune before pausing for lunch.

You’ll continue hiking to the charming village of Vernazza and admire the intricate architecture of Riomaggiore before your return to La Spezia .

Hiking Montes de Anaga in Tenerife

For those looking for a shorter or kid-friendly hike, the Hiking Montes de Anaga excursion in Tenerife has you covered. Perfect for beginning hikers or those short on time, this two-and-a-half-hour trek takes you through the beautiful Anaga National Park , the oldest part of Tenerife.

You’ll take a slow-paced walk through the ancient laurasilva forest in this protected Biosphere Reserve full of large willows, heathers, and laurels, as well as two tree species unique to the Canary Islands . Along the way you will enjoy breathtaking mountain top views and deep ravines. The small group size adds a personalized experience to your exploration.

Hiking and Snorkeling Combo in Puerto Vallarta

Combine hiking and snorkeling for an unforgettable adventure in Puerto Vallarta with the Hiking and Snorkeling Combo tour. This five-hour excursion begins with a leisurely hike through a coastal forest, followed by a refreshing snorkeling session in the clear waters.

Your destination? Colomitos Cove , a secluded beach accessible only on foot or by boat. You’ll follow a rocky, two-mile long hiking path that hugs the coastline at the bottom of the Sierras to a beautiful little cove housing Mexico’s smallest beach.

Once here, enjoy the warm waters as you snorkel past a wide variety of tropical fish including King Angels,Sergeant, eels, and pufferfish. With a picnic-style lunch and beverages included, this tour offers a perfect mix of land and sea activities.

Hiking The Tongass National Rainforest in Alaska

Alaska ‘s natural beauty is on full display with the Hiking The Tongass National Rainforest excursion. Spend approximately three hours exploring one of Alaska’s most beautiful attractions, the Tongass National Forest .

This intermediate-level hike is suitable for families and guests of all ages, making it a great choice for a family-friendly adventure. Led by an expert guide, you’ll trek along three miles of remote wilderness that will take you through meadows and past waterfalls, all within the intimate setting of a small group of fellow adventurers. Be sure to bring your camera for this one!

Volcano Hiking Adventure in St. Kitts

For a more challenging hike, consider the Volcano Hiking Adventure in St. Kitts . This expedition is a must-do for thrill-seekers and avid hikers. This six-hour adventure hike takes you to the highest point on the island, the summit of Mount Liamuga , standing proudly at 3,792 feet tall.

The climb is demanding and steep in places, but includes rest stops along the way — and rewards you with jaw-dropping views and a sense of accomplishment as you reach the top. You’ll be able to see the entire island of St. Kitts, as well as neighboring islands including St. Martin , St. Barths , Nevis , and Antigua .

Scenic Sintra Hiking Tour in Portugal

Explore the captivating charm of Sintra with the Scenic Sintra Hiking Tour . This six-and-a-half-hour tour takes you through the picturesque Sintra-Cascais region, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

On this journey you’ll visit the magnificent Pena Palace and enjoy a scenic hike to the renowned Praia da Adraga , a beautiful beach offering stunning views and a peaceful retreat. The five-kilometer coastal path takes you through the lush Sintra-Cascais Natural Park , peppered with ancient vineyards and spectacular sea vistas.

Hiking in Dragonja Valley in Slovenia

Nature lovers will appreciate the Hiking in Dragonja Valley excursion in Slovenia . This six-hour scenic hiking route takes you through the Dragonja Valley , where you’ll encounter waterfalls, ruins, and other great sights up close.

Escape the crowds as you walk through a rustic valley filled with waterfalls, flowerbeds, and the ruins of mills that once hummed throughout the region.

If you’re lucky enough to visit between autumn and spring, you’ll observe the fully flowing Dragonja River in all its glory. If visiting in the summertime, the receding river creates an unofficial natural border, providing the opportunity to “cross” between Croatia and Slovenia as you hike.

Hiking The Rainforest Adventure in St. Kitts

Experience the lush rainforest of St. Kitts with the Hiking The Rainforest Adventure tour. This four-hour hiking tour includes a journey to the Wingfield Estate aboard an open-air safari vehicle, followed by a hike through a beautiful rainforest trail.

Along the way you will see fascinating Carib petroglyphs and learn how Sir Thomas and a small group of others formed the Leeward Island’s first permanent European settlement. With snacks and beverages included, this tour offers a fun and engaging way to explore the island’s history and natural wonders.

Hiking Antigua’s Fort Berkeley with Pigeon Point Beach Break

Combine history and relaxation with the Hiking Antigua’s Fort Berkeley with Pigeon Point Beach Break tour. This four-and-a-half-hour historical hiking tour takes you on a scenic trek through the historic ruins of Fort Berkeley , offering stunning views of Falmouth Harbour .

After the hike, enjoy a refreshing swim in the mineral-rich sea waters of Pigeon Point Beach . These warm, healing waters are reported to hydrate your skin, soothe your muscles, and improve your circulation and immune function.

How much does it cost to hike in Cinque Terre?

The Cinque Terre Hiking Adventure is priced at $125.00, and is a wonderful way to explore four of the region’s five villages in one day.

Is a hiking tour worth it in Puerto Vallarta?

Absolutely! The Hiking and Snorkeling Combo offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a worthwhile experience.

What should I wear on a rainforest hike?

First things first: wear lightweight, loose-fitting LONG sleeves and LONG pants to protect yourself from the sun and any creepy crawlies. Bonus points if they are made of quick-dry material.

You will also want to consider a light hoodie or a sweater when hiking in high altitudes, and bring a lightweight, waterproof jacket or raincoat for any humid downpours (note: stick to patternless jackets in neutral or dark colors so as not to attract insects).

Regarding your feet: plan on a sturdy pair of hiking boots that will support your ankles and protect your feet as you navigate the uneven terrain. Include socks specifically made for hiking so you can tuck your trousers into them, as insects like to hitch a ride on your ankles. Bring along a comfortable pair of shoes to give your feet a break from the boots as you continue your explorations once you leave the trail.

Lastly, protect your head and face from the sun and insects with a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Buffs or neck gaiters help with this as well.

What is the best time of year to hike in Alaska?

The best time to hike in Alaska depends on where you are going. More southern cities like Anchorage can support hiking in May on the lower elevation trails, and conditions generally remain good until mid-October.

Hiking trails closer to the Arctic have a shorter time for accessibility, starting toward the end of June until September.

Tips to Make the Most Out of Your Hike

• Try to research the trail: clarify the trail’s length, degree of difficulty, and the type of terrain you will be covering
• Check the weather: be prepared for chilly days with extra layers, or pack a lightweight raincoat as needed
• Do a light warm up: take a few minutes for some stretching or light exercises before you hit the trail — especially if it’s a challenging one
• Bring a small backpack: pack essentials such as water, snacks, sunscreen, and insect repellent so your hands are free to assist you with any climbing or steep terrain
• Pack Safety items: it is always good to have some basic safety items on hand such as a whistle and a small first aid kit in case of emergencies. A personal locator beacon is beneficial if you will be hiking in a really remote area
• Stay on the trail: this one should go without saying, but for your safety and respect for the environment, do not stray from the trail and your group
• Honor your body: we get it — your adrenaline’s going — but try to pace yourself, and take advantage of rest breaks whether you feel like you need to stop or not
• Immerse in your surroundings: take photos of interesting items or inspiring sights, and don’t be afraid to ask your trail guide questions along the way

Book Your Next Hiking Excursion Today

Expand your hiking repertoire with Shore Excursions Group while discovering the natural beauty of your cruise destinations. Our carefully curated tours, delivered by local experts, offer unforgettable hikes in some of the world’s most stunning locations.

From the rugged landscapes of Alaska to the scenic trails of Cinque Terre, our affordable hiking excursions cater to all levels of hikers and adventure enthusiasts. Book your hiking excursion today, lace up your boots, and come join us on the trails.

Shore Excursions Group is proud to be recognized as the gold standard in shore excursions, with numerous awards including travAlliancemedia ‘s “ 2018 Travvy Award ” for “ Best Shore Excursions ” and the 2017 Magellan Award for “ Best Travel Website .”