Upon arrival at the cruiseport in San Juan, we not only saw the Jewell of the Seas, but also the Celebrity Summitt which was to be our (already booked) next cruise. Boarding was a simple and easy process and once onboard we quickly started exploring the ship. Once luggage had been delivered to the staterooms and we unpacked it was then time for the infamous Muster Drill. Once released from the Muster Drill we headed to the Sky Bar to enjoy “sail away” with some new friends and to enjoy a few adult beverages. Getting underway we headed for Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas.

St. Thomas is the gateway isle of the U.S. Virgin Islands in the Caribbean. It’s known for its beaches and snorkeling spots. Territorial capital Charlotte Amalie, founded by the Danish in the 1600s, is a busy cruise-ship port. Historic buildings include a 1679 watchtower called Blackbeard’s Castle, in reference to the area’s pirate history. On the harbor, 17th-century Fort Christian is now a local-history museum.

St. Thomas is largely mountainous. Many roads around the island offer terrific panoramic views of the island and ocean. Amongst the hills on St. Thomas and along the beaches you will find an assortment of accommodations; resorts, historic inns, guest houses, vacation homes, villas and condos.

St. Thomas has over 40 major beaches along its sun-drenched coasts. There are strands with crystal blue water and swaying coconut trees where a beach bum can enjoy a lazy-lazy day. For the restless beach goers there are sandy coves with activities like windsurfing and kayaks. Some shores are rugged and rocky offering beauty, solitude and the opportunity to daydream about castaway fantasies. Some of the more popular beaches include Magens Bay, Lindquist Beach, Sapphire Beach and Coki Point just to name a few. What’s your favorite St Thomas beach? Let us know in the comment section below.

Blackbeard’s Castle is another popular spot to visit. Local legend says pirate Blackbeard built the tower! History says the Danes built it around 1689 as a watchtower.

While roaming around the waterfront we discovered Greengos Caribbean Cantina tucked away in Hibiscus Alley. We have returned there several times!