Port Description

Where You're Docked

At the pier in Fredericksted, the island's second largest town unless your ship carries less than 200 passengers (then it can dock in Christiansted).

Getting Around

On Foot: While Fredericksted, alas, offers some useful services--ATMs, Internet terminals, and pay phones, along with a lot of tourist trinkets, the big sites are elsewhere. There is a tourist market at the foot of the pier selling the usual Caribbean souvenirs.

Taxis: They congregate at the foot of the pier. The government sets prices but make sure you ask before you hop in.

Renting a Car: Most rental agencies are based either in Christiansted or the airport but Fredericksted does have two: Olympic-Ace and Budget are right off the dock. Reservations are helpful but not always necessary.

What to See and Do

Historic Christiansted, a 17-mile cab ride from Fredericksted. History buffs should take the walking tour, which showcases structures such as Fort Christiansvaern, the Virgin Islands' best preserved colonial fort. Start at the Visitor Center, which itself has some history; it was known as Old Scalehouse when it was built in the mid-19th century.

Shopping in Christiansted for artisan crafts; highlights include Folk Art Traders (1B Queen Cross Street) has unique paintings and sculpture; Mark Austin Gallery (Queen Cross Street) sells the artist's St. Croix-themed art; and Sonja (1 Company Street) has the unique Crucian knot bracelet. The Royal Poinciana (1111 Strand Street) has terrific Caribbean-made potions, soaps, and herbal teas.

The Estate Whim Plantation Museum, two miles east of Fredericksted, is a three-room historically-restored plantation house that dates back to the era of the Danes; there's a fantastic gift shop on site.

Nearby, the Cruzan Rum Factory offers free guided tours.

Snorkeling at Buck Island National Park, an 800-acre uninhabited island that is America's only underwater national monument. There are snorkeling trails. Buck Island Tours (340-773-4482), which uses catamarans, offers full (9:30am - 3:30pm, $70) and half (noon - 4:30pm, $45) day trips. Price includes snorkeling gear and instruction; full-day trip also includes a barbecue lunch on the beach. Advance reservations--at least 24 hours in advance--are absolutely required.

Where to Eat and Drink

Casual, in-town joints: At Stixx on The Waterfront (39 Strand Street, Christiansted, 340-773-5157) try the Mahi sandwich. Off the Wall Beach Bar & Restaurant (northshore, 340-778-4771). Blue Moon (17 Strand Street, Fredericksted, 340-772-2222) is known for salads and burgers and sandwiches.

Gourmet Lunching: Le St. Tropez is a fabulous French bistro (67 King Street, Fredericksted, 340-772-3000). Tyrone's Place (Caravelle Arcade - 38 Strand Street, Christiansted, 340-773-9080) is known for great grilled fare and salads with a Cajun flair. Indies (55-56 Company Street, Christiansted, 340-692-9440), located in a gorgeous 18th-century courtyard, features historic ambiance and Caribbean-influenced cuisine.

Staying in Touch

St. Croix Bike and Tours (70 King Street, Fredericksted, $5 for 30 minutes).
Strand Street Station (1102 Strand Street, Christiansted, $5 for 30 minutes).