Virgin Islands Cruises

The American Virgin Islands are located in the Lesser Antilles chain of the West Indies and consist of three islands and 50 islets. The three islands are Saint Thomas, Saint Croix and Saint John. Saint Thomas is home to the Virgin Islands' capital, Charlotte Amalie. When Christopher Columbus visited the Americas for the second time in 1493, he attempted to land on Saint Croix but met with fiery resistance from the natives. The Carib Native Americans were defeated and the Virgin Islands belonged to the Spanish Virgin Island Cruises throughout the 16th century. During the 18th and 19th centuries rule was passed to the Danish until the American Civil War erupted. This is when America began to take interest in the islands. They saw it as an ideal place to set up naval bases, but it was not until World War I that the Virgin Islands finally became property of the United States. Since then, because of the pristine sandy beaches, cobalt blue waters and lush mountains, the Virgin Islands have become a popular vacation spot. Many days throughout the year cruise ships can be seen entering the islands' harbors depositing throngs of vacationers on the beautiful shores of the Virgin Islands. After taking in all there is to see and do while visiting the Virgin Islands, the vacationers return to their ships, eagerly View of the Three Virgin Islands anticipating their next destination.

Saint Croix

Saint Croix is the largest of the Virgin Islands. Christiansted and Frederiksted are the two main cities to see while on Saint Croix. There is so much to do and see while in Saint Croix that partaking in a guided tour is often advised. Buck Island Reef is perhaps one of the most unique national monuments in the United States because it is underwater. The two major underwater trails are the East End Trail and the Turtle Bay Trail. After exploring the reefs, head over to Cramer Park and enjoy a nice picnic lunch. On weekends DJ's set up shop and spin some great music. The rum produced in the Virgin Islands' is infamous. To see how the entire process happens take a tour of the Cruzan Rum Distillery. Cinnamon Bay in the Virgin Islands Point Udall is the most eastern point in the United Sates. This is one of the most picturesque spots on the island.

Saint Croix has 15 acres of privately owned Rain Forest that is open to visitors at certain times. Lush foliage, stately tress and graceful mountain doves all create a serene untouched environment. St. Croix Leap is located in the Rain Forest. Woodcarvers create beautiful sculptures and furniture from the mahogany that grows on-sight. The Whim Greathouse is a historical point of interest. A main house, bathhouse, watch house, windmill and cook house are all located on the property. The property even has an apothecary. Located on the Caribbean, Christiansted is an absolutely breathtaking city. The Government House, which was built in 1747, is open to the public. The Outdoor Market is the best spot on the island to get fresh fruit. Christiansted also has some beautiful old churches. The city of Frederiksted also has many historical points of interest. The Old Danish School dates back to the 1830's. St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church was constructed with opulent coral stone. The Market, which has been a part of the city since 1751, still thrives today.

Saint Thomas and Saint John

There is plenty to do on Saint Thomas Island. Quaint houses located on rolling hills overlook the majestic waters surrounding the island. Blackbeard's Castle is the oldest historical building on the island. What were once the stomping grounds of many infamous pirates is now a hotel and restaurant. Not only does the Estate St. Peter Greathouse and Botanical Garden boast over 500 varieties of lush plants and trees but the house also features the works of local artistists. Art lovers can also visit the other numerous galleries that are located on the island. Saint John is the smallest of the three islands. The island is exploding with natural beauty, as over one half of St. John is a United Sates National Park. The various views from around the island of the sparkling blue waters, cays and white sandy beaches will leave visitors absolutely breathless. The park offers guided tours by jeep or safari bus. Estate Annaberg is an old abandoned sugar plantation that is now open to the public. To get a unique view of the island, it is best to do so by boat. There are some wonderful anchorage spots. Ferries travel back and forth between Saint John and Saint Thomas making it easy for travelers to conveniently experience both islands in the same day.