St Thomas (USVI) Travel Information & Planning Guide

This page provides useful planning, pre-departure and travel information. From servicing airports to base arrival procedures, it will tell you what to expect to make your vacation smooth and care free. 

We suggest you read the following information carefully several weeks prior to departure and also print a copy to take with you.

Before You Travel

General Information 
Area: 31.24 sq miles 
Population:  51,634   
Capital city:  Charlotte Amalie   
People:  African descent (75%), White (13%), Asian (2%), Mixed (4%), Other (6%) 
Language:  English (76%), Spanish (17%) 
Religion:  Baptist, Roman Catholic, Episcopalian 
Government:  Organized, unincorporated territory of the USA 
Major industries:  tourism, offshore banking and fishing 
Tipping:  15-20% anywhere is generally accepted if it has not already been included 
Currency:  The Local currency is the United States Dollar (USD) 
Electricity:  The voltage used is 110-120 Volts (Same as U.S./Canada) 
Time:  UTC/GMT -4 hours.

Festivals & holidays 
New Years Day: January 1 
Three Kings’ Day: January 6 
Transfer Day: March 31 
Good Friday 
Easter Monday 
Children’s Carnival and Grand Carnival Parades: Last weekend in April 
Emancipation Day: July 3 
Liberty Day: November 1 
Christmas Day and Second Day (Boxing Day): December 25 & 26 

All standard United States public holidays are observed.

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How to Get There

Airport  
Cyril E. King Airport (CEKA) 
No. 70 Lindbergh Bay 
St. Thomas, USVI

Note: The airport (STT) is approximately 4 miles east of the capital city, Charlotte Amalie. It is located on the southwestern side of St. Thomas. 
There are many non-stop and connecting services from the US mainland to St. Thomas. Most flights connect in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Flights on inter-island carriers can be made from San Juan to St. Thomas and between other islands as well. Your Moorings Vacation Planning Specialist can assist you with flight arrangements.

• Air Sunshine
• American Airlines
• Cape Air
• Delta Airlines
• JetBlue
• Seaborne Airlines
• Spirit Airlines
• Sun Country Airlines
• United Airlines

Flights 
Due to the number of flights we organize, the Moorings can offer some great rates to many destinations. Please make sure you contact our inhouse flight specialist at 0330 332 1513 before you book your flights.

Private Charter Flights 
Through our partnership with a number of reputable airlines The Moorings can arrange private charter flights to St. Thomas and any other of our Caribbean destinations. Contact our in-house flight specialist at 0330 332 1513 for more details.

Transfers  
Taxis are readily available from the airport to the marina location you have selected for your St. Thomas yacht charter. The ride takes around 10 minutes and costs approx. $12/person. Tell your driver to go to Yacht Haven Grande Marina in Charlotte Amalie and drop you off at “Badass Coffee” at the marina, which is the shortest way to the Moorings office.

Car Rentals 
If you plan to spend more time ashore in St. Thomas either before or after your yacht charter, renting a car is a great way to see the whole island at your own pace. St. Thomas has several different rental agencies to choose from.

Rental agencies are conveniently located at the airport, in Charlotte Amalie and at large hotels.

Discount Car Rental: 1-877-478-2833 or 1-340-776-4858 
Budget Car Rental: 1-800-626-4516 or 1-340-776-5774 – www.budget.com
Premium Car Rental/Economy Rent A Car: 1-340-774-1977 
L&L Jeep Rental St. Thomas: 1-340-774-4889 
Dependable Car Rental: 1-800-522-3076 or 1-340-774-2253

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Boarding Time/Check Out

Boarding Time Procedures 
Charter Boarding Time: All charters start at 12:00 noon.

Late Arrivals  
If arriving after hours, a message will be left on the front door indicating the location of your boat.

Check Out Procedures

Charter End Time: All charters end at 10:00am at which time the boat must be returned and ready for debriefing and checks.

A debriefing and final walkthrough will be done upon return so please allow enough time to complete this before the charter end time.

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What’s on Board

Provisioning

The Moorings Provisioning
If you book a Moorings Crewed Yacht charter, all of your food and beverages are included (alcohol too)! Your gourmet Chef will prepare delicious meals, snacks and drinks that are customized for your dietary needs and preferences.

After reserving your yacht, we will provide you with a Cuisine and Beverage Preferences Form, where you may indicate the personalized selections for all guests. This assists your gourmet Chef in preparing dishes and drinks customized for everyone to enjoy. Speak with your Moorings Vacation Planning Specialist for details.

If you would like any additional provisions or personal items while you are aboard your Crewed Yacht, your crew will help you identify a shop in the area to suit your needs

If you are taking out a bareboat charter, provisioning will not be available to order online. However, there are several grocery options close to the base including: Natural Food Grocery and Deli, Pueblo Supermarket, and The Fruit Bowl.

If you would like groceries delivered directly to your yacht you can order provisioning through a local grocery store named Moe’s Fresh Market(link sends e-mail). 

While we don’t have a formal provisioning partner, the below stores all deliver to Yacht Haven Grande Marina:

• Pricemart
• Cost -u-less
• The Market
• We are Wine
• VIP Provisioning
• Pueblo Supermarket
• Moes

www.viprovisioning.com

Email:contact@viprovisioning.com

(340) 227-3984

Mobile phones  
Your cell phone may work in the Caribbean, check with your service provider before leaving home, for international services. No phone rentals are available.

Music/iPods  
While most of our newer boats have Bluetooth capability, we cannot guarantee all boats are outfitted with this equipment. For your convenience, we highly recommend you bring an AUX cord so you can listen to music from your mobile devices.

Electricity 
The United States (Canada and BVI too) uses 110 – 120 volts AC (60 cycles), compared to 220 to 240 volts AC (50 cycles) in most of Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. Downward converters that change 220-240 volts to 110-120 volts are difficult to find in the United States, so bring one with you.

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What to Bring

Customs & Immigration
Entry, exit, and visa requirements depend on the locations you are departing from and traveling to. You are responsible for having the correct documents so make sure to check with the consulate of the countries you plan to visit before you travel. Visit travel.state.gov for the latest information.

Cruising Licenses 
A cruising license is not required. A complimentary “Friendly Skipper” is not available in this destination. You may request a Skipper for an additional charge when booking your charter.

Passports, Visas & International Travel Regulations 
U.S. citizens are not required to have passports or proof of citizenship when ENTERING the U.S. Virgin Islands from a U.S. airport. All arrivals to the U.S. Virgin Islands from foreign airports are required to show proof of citizenship and pass through customs. All persons leaving the U.S. Virgin Islands, whether American citizens or not, must be prepared to show proof of citizenship upon leaving the islands to return to the mainland.

Accepted documents for Proof of Citizenship for Americans: 1. A passport issued under competent authority, 2. An Alien Registration Card (this applies to United States of America permanent residents only) 3. A certified copy of a birth certificate and government issued photo identification like a driver’s license 4. A Certificate of Naturalization, issued by the United States Immigration and Naturalization Service.

For international travelers – Citizens of any country other than the United States should follow U.S. travel regulations and requirements for entry into the United States. Be sure to check with your local Embassy for the most up-to-date Travel Requirements when visiting the U.S.,  U.S. Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands.

IMPORTANT: A B1/B2 VISA is required for non-American citizens to cruise The US or Spanish Virgin Island waters. If you plan to explore the USVI or Spanish Virgin Islands, please make sure you have the appropriate VISA requirements.

Luggage & Packing List 
Soft-sided luggage or duffel bags are best, as luggage storage space on your yacht may be limited. We have no facilities for holding luggage at the base. Pack lightly and review our suggested packing list for required and necessary items to bring.

• Pack essential prescription medicine and change of clothing in a carry-on bag*
• Passport and other travel documentation
• Tickets and paper confirmations for pre-planned activities
• Snorkelling mask and snorkel
• Light-coloured, light-weight clothing
• Formal wear for upscale dining establishments
• Swimwear and cover up
• Hats and sunglasses
• Sandals and flip-flops
• Athletic shoes and hiking boots
• Travel-sized toiletries and hygiene products
• Insect repellent and OTC pain relievers/ointments
• AUX cable for playing music through your device
• 12V DC to 110V AC power inverter (for boats without generators**)
• 12V to USB power adapter for charging mobile devices

*We would highly recommend packing prescription medicine and essential clothing (swimsuit, t-shirt and shorts) in your hand luggage as occasionally your luggage may arrive at the base after you do.

**All boats include a 12V DC outlet (a “car” outlet). Boats with generators have 110V outlets in the Caribbean and 220V in the Mediterranean and Exotic locations.

Currency 
In the US Virgin Islands, the local currency is the United States Dollar (USD). 
US Dollars, US travelers checks, and credit cards likes Visa and MasterCard are also widely accepted.

Gratuity 
15-20% anywhere is generally accepted if it has not already been included.

Taxes & Fees
The only local tax is an 12.5% surcharge added to all hotel rates. 

Tourist Information Center 
Charlotte Amalie Visitor’s Center 
Tolbod Gade, Charlotte Amile, US Virgin Islands 00801 
Tel: 1-800-372-8784 
Web: www.visitusvi.com

We highly recommend bringing enough of the local currency to cover these costs as they are not always payable by USD, debit, and/or credit cards. 

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Health & Safety

Vaccination and Immunization Information
Inoculations or vaccinations are not required for entry into the United States, unless you’re arriving from an area known to be suffering from an epidemic (particularly cholera or yellow fever). At time of publication, an International Vaccination Certificate is not mandatory.

Clients wanting more information on vaccinations and immunizations should contact: The Centers for Disease Control’s International Travelers’ Hotline in the USA at 404-639-3534. Detailed traveler’s advice on traveling abroad can also be found at www.cdc.gov/travel/index.htm. This website is in English.

Visit cdc.gov for the latest information.

Travel Advice   
Your health and safety are important to us. For advice on how to stay safe while on charter, please review our Travel Advice Information. Current travel and safety information can be obtained by visiting travel.state.gov 

Swim Safe 

Swimming is often a fun and important part of a vacation. However local rules, flag systems, currents and where swimming may be permitted, can be different and vary from country to country. Snorkel vests, Life Jackets and Diver Down flags are all available on board. 

Children

• Talk to children about water safety at the start of a vacation, making them aware of the potential dangers.
• Accidents can happen at any time on vacation, but often they happen on the first and last day, so keep watch and do not get distracted when your children are playing by, or in the water.
• Children in or near water should always be supervised by an adult and never left unattended. 
• Get in the water with them, it is easier to keep an eye on them as well as good fun. Floatation devices are highly recommended for children but are not a substitute for supervision.

Be aware of your surroundings

• Check warning flags and signage on the beach and only swim where it is permitted. 
• Beware of dangerous currents, these can be very powerful. Not all beaches have lifeguards and/or warning flags.
• Beware of underwater hazards, such as reefs, rocks, sudden changes in depth and marine life.
• Never swim where a sign says not to e.g. in zoned areas for jet boats or jet skis.
• Never swim at night or after drinking alcohol.

Look out for others

• Never swim alone, ‘buddy up’ with others in your party and use the snorkel vests provided.
• Know how and where to get help. If you see someone in difficulty; raise the alarm, preferably the emergency services. Ensure you know the correct number for the country you are in.

Do not overestimate your ability

• Consider swimming lessons before you go if you think it would be useful to learn proper swimming technique.
• Even if you regularly swim in a pool, remember that open water swimming can be very different.

Safety

All yachts are equipped with adult life jackets, harnesses, snorkel vests & diver down flags. You can see all this equipment demonstrated in our online safety briefing, and we strongly recommend that you make use this equipment during your vacation. This safety equipment will be displayed in the saloon of your boat on boarding – If you have any questions feel free to ask our base staff during your briefing. 

We have a very limited supply of children’s life jackets on base so highly recommend that if you are travelling with children, you bring their own. This ensures that children have correctly fitting jackets that are comfortable for them.  

Children should not be allowed in the dinghy without a life jacket or buoyancy aid and should wear a buoyancy aid or harness whilst on deck. 

Children under the age of 16 should not operate an outboard engine and should be supervised at all times when in the dinghy. 

Travel Insurance 
The Moorings offers comprehensive travel insurance for your peace of mind. If you have your own travel insurance, verify that it covers the destinations and activities of your Moorings vacation.

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Whether this is your fifth trip or the first of many, we want you to feel at home when you’re at a Moorings base.

About the Marina

Address  
Marina at Yacht Haven Grande 
5304 Yacht Haven Grande
Charlotte Amalie
St. Thomas, USVI 00802

Marina Facilities
Situated in St. Thomas’ Charlotte Amalie area, the Marina at Yacht Haven Grande offers first-class amenities, like on-site customs & immigration services, tennis courts, ROAM kiosk, WIFI, crew lounge, private shower facilities, lagoon style swimming pool, beach volleyball, 24-hour security, professional staff, and on-site shopping & dining options. There are multiple provisioning stores, including a small store at the marina and several within close proximity, and laundry services are available. 

Marinas – St. Thomas 
American Yacht Harbor – Tel: 340-775-6454 
Crown Bay Marina – Tel: 340-774-2255 
Compass Point Marina – Tel: 340-775-6144 
Oasis Cove Marina – Tel: 801-647-1007 
Sapphire Beach Marina – Tel: 340-714-3837 
Yacht Haven Marina – Tel: 340-774-9500

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Cruising Grounds

Cruising Area Restrictions  

Your itinerary will include destinations throughout the US Virgin Islands. You will receive a detailed chart briefing covering your cruising grounds prior to departure. On a Crewed charter your captain will meet with you to recommend itinerary stops based upon your vacation wishes, and create a custom itinerary that is exciting for all aboard.

It is strictly forbidden to sail alone, we require two persons minimum on board.

Charts & Pilot Books
All the charts and pilot books you will need for the cruising area are on board the yacht. 

Nighttime Sailing  
You must be moored at least one hour before sunset. Night Sailing is not allowed without permission from the base manager. The decision to allow night sailing is based on your skill level and can be requested in advance. Applicants will need to fill out the Sailing or Power resume for the base to review but we cannot guarantee approval.Moorings Fees & Taxes 
Your overnight anchorage or mooring will be reserved by your Captain if you are on a Crewed yacht. – On bareboat charters you will received detailed information on recommended moorings/anchorages during your charter briefing.  

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Around the Base

Accommodations
Hotels in the St. Thomas area include:

• Best Western Plus Emerald Beach Resort
• The Ritz-Carlton
• Windward Passage Hotel
• Pirates Pension at Bluebeards
• Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove
• Bolongo Bay Beach Resort

Banks
Banks in St. Thomas: FirstBank, 11A Curacao Gade, Charlotte Amalie. Tel: (340) 775-7777. Hours of Operation: Monday – Thursday 8:30am – 4pm and Friday 8:30am to 5pm.  The banks are your only option if you need to exchange currency.

Post Office  
Central Post Office   
9007 Havensight Shopp Ctr Ste D
St Thomas 
Tel: 800-275-8777   
Monday to Friday 9am-4:30pm, Saturday 9am – 1:00pm 

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Provisioning

The Moorings Provisioning

On a Moorings Crewed Yacht charter, all of your food and beverages are included (alcohol too)! Your gourmet Chef will prepare delicious meals, snacks and drinks that are customized for your dietary needs and preferences.

After reserving your yacht, we will provide you with a Cuisine and Beverage Preferences Form, where you may indicate the personalized selections for all guests. This assists your gourmet Chef in preparing dishes and drinks customized for everyone to enjoy. Speak with your Moorings Vacation Planning Specialist for details.

If you would like any additional provisions or personal items while you are aboard your Crewed Yacht, your crew will help you identify a shop in the area to suit your needs.

If you are taking out a bareboat charter, there are several grocery options close to the base including:  Moe’s Fresh Market(right at the base), Natural Food Grocery and Deli, Pueblo Supermarket, and The Fruit Bowl. The Market does not deliver but will refer you to a trusted taxi driver to deliver provisions. 

In addition, the following below stores all deliver to Yacht Haven Grande Marina:

• Pricemart
• Cost-u-less
• We are Wine
• Pheonix
• VI Provisioning (www.viprovisioning.com)

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Things to Do

Interesting Sites/Activities

• Walk the historic district of Charlotte Armalie.
• Visit the Moutain Top Viewing Deck and Shops for views of north side and Magen’s Beach. 
• Stop by at Magen’s Beach where you can lie out and snorkel for the day.  
• Go on a turtle swimming excursion aboard Fury, from Yacht Haven Grande. 
• Take a Fishing Charter to the famous North Drop.  
• Hop on the Sky Ride Gondola to Paradise Point and enjoy sunset drinks. 
• Visit Coral World or golf the scenic Mahogany Run Golf Course.  
• Enjoy Red Hook at American Yacht Harbor which offers live music, lots of restaurants, and bar options.  
• Shop until you drop at Yacht Haven Grande. 
• Sip on Bushwacker Drink at the Fat Turtle Restaurant overlooking the beautiful marina and Charlotte Amalie Harbor or relax by the pool.

Visit our Sample Itinerary for more information on all that you can see and do on a St. Thomas Yacht charter. The options are endless!

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Water Toys & Sports

For your convenience, you can add water toys to your charter prior to arrival at the base. They will be waiting on your boat upon arrival. For more information, please view our Water Sports Options.

Snorkeling
Please Note: Snorkelling equipment is NOT provided on bareboat sailing/power charters in this location. (Crewed yachts include snorkelling fins. Please bring your own snorkel and snorkelling mask.)

Fishing
The Closed Season schedule in the Virgin Islands is as follows. During this time no person shall catch, sell, offer for sale or buy. 
Margate: January 1 – March 31 
Red Hind: January 1 – March 31 
Nassau Grouper: March 1 – May 31 
Turtles: April 1 – November 30 
Lobster: July 31 – October 31 
Conch: August 15 – October 31 
Whelk: August 15 – October 31

Fishing Charters 
Double Header Sports Fishing – (340) 777-7317 – STT 
Ocean Surfari Charters- (340) 227-5448 – STT 
Capt. Alvin fishing Charters – 774-955-4122 – STT 
Just Fish – (340) 201-9329 – STJ

Diving 
Coki Dive Center (St Thomas) – (340) 775-4220  
Adventure Scuba (St Thomas)- (340) 774-3737  
Red Hook Dive Center (St Thomas) – (340) 777-3483  
Low Key Diving (St John) – (340) 693-8999  
Busy Bee Charters (St John) – (340) 201-4858 

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For more information on what’s included on your yacht, please view the full list for Bareboat Sailing and Power Charters here and for Crewed Charters here.

General Conditions

During the winter months (November to January) the wind is from the northeast at 15-20 knots. The Christmas winds can produce 25-30 knots for several days at a time. In February, the winds move to the east and by June it changes to the southeast at 10-15 knots. In September and October, the trade winds are at their weakest and the weather can be less settled. By November the high pressure system around Bermuda starts to stabilize and 15-20 knot breezes become the norm.  Immediate weather conditions can be found at http://www.weather.com.

Local Seas 
Local seas are “relaxed” seas and generally in the 3-4 foot range. 

Weather Forecasts 
Charterers can obtain the weather situation at any time by listening to the maritime weather forecasts. Weather updates are given hourly during severe weather.

• ZBVI 780 kHz AM 8:00am daily and up-date every hour on the ½ hour
• V.H.F. WX 03 (not available in all areas)
• WVWI 1000 Khz AM 7:55 am daily
• FM99 99.5 Mhz AM 7:55 am daily
• WOSO 1030 Khz AM every hour daily
• Weather Fax call 284-496-6900

Tides
In St. Thomas and the British Virgin Islands the tide range is very small.

Historical Weather (Averages by month):