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Adrenaline Rush on St. Thomas
St. Thomas is a paradise for sports lovers who enjoy active adventures both on land and sea. Some pursuits, such as bird-watching, hiking and snorkeling, can be enjoyed anytime on your own. Other activities, such as kayaking, day sails and golf, require advance reservations. Still other sports like scuba diving and kiteboarding require some prior skills in order to fully and safely enjoy.
On Land…
Bird Watching. More than 160 species of birds inhabit the U.S. Virgin Islands. Some of the best birding spots are at salt ponds on the east end of the island. The Audubon Club of St. Thomas conducts regular bird-watching tours. Call 340-774-3745.
Golf. President Barack Obama has played golf at the Mahogany Run Golf Course, and you can too. With some of the most beautiful 18 holes in the Caribbean, the real challenge is the "Devil's Triangle," a trio of holes so difficult that those who play all three without a penalty stroke receive an "I Survived the Devil's Triangle" certificate. For current rates and booking, call 800-253-7103, ext. 1 or 340-777-6006, ext. 1.
The Herman E. Moore Golf Course is located at the University of the Virgin Islands and is open to the public. Golfers use the course mainly to practice putting and driving, as there are no holes or other facilities.
Hiking. Serious hikers will want to head to the V.I. National Park on St John, where some 26 easy and arduous trails await. On St. Thomas, there’s a short steep self-guided nature trail atop Paradise Point that leads to an incredible view off the south side of St. Thomas, with St. Croix visible on a clear day. At the St. Peter Mountain Greathouse, follow an 800-foot nature trail past nearly 200 varieties of tropical plants, including an amazing orchid jungle. V.I. Ecotours offers a combination kayak-hike-snorkel tour that lets you explore the 15-acre deserted island of Cas Cay, a part of the Virgin Islands Park System. The trip takes three hours. Cost is $79 for adults and $49 for children under age 12. Please call 340-779-2155. Ecotours offers a combination kayak-hike-snorkel tour that lets you explore the 15-acre deserted island of Cas Cay, a part of the Virgin Islands Park System. The trip takes three hours. Cost is $79 for adults and $49 for children under age 12. Please call 340-779-2155.
At Sea
Parasailing. Caribbean Parasail and Water Sports at 340-775-9360 offers a 10-minute ride in the sky for $75 per person. Ten locations around the island and free pickup from hotels.
Boat Rentals. Renting a powerboat for a day is a great way to island-hop at your own pace. Most rental companies are located on the east end of the island, making it a breeze to zip to the British Virgin Islands for the day — just remember your passport. Customs and Immigration fees to enter the British Virgin Islands are $20 per person, with a $5 per person departure tax.
The rental fleet on St. Thomas includes 25- to 32-foot Fountains and 26- to 28-foot World Cat power catamarans. Boats are usually equipped with a VHF radio, basic safety and navigational equipment, an anchor and a cooler. Previous boating experience is preferred, or you can hire a captain for $80/half-day or $115/full day. Prices range from $355 to $550 for a half-day, and $405 to $600 for a full day, in addition to fuel. For information, call Nauti Nymph at 340-775-5066; See & Ski at 340-775-6265; and Waters Edge at 340 -998-8433.
For the ultimate in luxury, rent a fully crewed power yacht for the day. Magic Moments Luxury Excursions at 340-775-5066 and Waters Edge at 340-771-7356 offer 45.6- and 50-foot Sea Rays, -respectively. These sleek cruisers have ample space for dining, lounging and tanning, and carefully selected itineraries that include stops on St. John, the British Virgin Islands and even a few deserted isles. An open bar, gourmet breakfast and lunch, and limit of six guests makes for five-star treatment. Prices range from $1,600 to $2,600 for the day.
Kayaking. V.I. Ecotours (340-779-2155) offers a 2.5-hour guided kayak tour through the protected Mangrove Lagoon on St. Thomas' southeast side. A snorkel stop lets you see a mangrove nursery at work. Tours depart at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. daily. Cost is $69 for adults and $39 for children under 12. Bring a swimsuit, water shoes, towel and sunscreen.
Kiteboarding. In one three-hour lesson you can learn this sport that combines windsurfing, kiteflying and wakeboarding. Rates are $385 for a private lesson or $475 for two. The most popular spot is False Entrance, off the island's southeast side. Beyond this, any uncrowded beach with side-shore wind and flat water will do. Call Island Sol at 340-776-WIND.
Sailing. Calm seas and make St. Thomas ideal for sailing. Full days launch with a cruise across Pillsbury Sound to St. John. There are two snorkel stops, with a noontime lunch break. An open bar, snorkel equipment and other water toys are also provided. Per-person rates average $90 to $140. Romantic sunset sails and dinner cruises are typically two- to three-hour trips priced from $75 per person. Contact Charter Boat Center at 340-775-7990.
SportFishing. For fishing adventures, wahoo and yellowfin tuna keep the catching action exciting in the winter. Come spring, dolphin (mahimahi) appear in large schools, and individual fish can easily run up to 50 pounds. However, it's big blue marlin and other billfish like white marlin and sailfish that attract anglers. All catches are released.
Rates for a half-day of sportfishing average $900 for a party of four to six. Three-fourths-day or six-hour trips cost $1,300, while full days are priced at $1,600. Many captains offer a "marlin-only" trip that speeds you directly to the North Drop with no inshore trolling, for $1,700. All fishing charters include tackle, baits and beverages. Some of the most experienced charterboats are Black Pearl at 340-775-9982 and Mixed Bag at 340-513-0389 for marlin fishing, and outfitter Double Header Sportfishing at 340-777-7317 for inshore fishing.
Windsurfing. Many beachfront resorts and surf shops rent windsurfers. Some shops also offer lessons. Rates for lessons are $85/hour for one person or $120/hour for two. For lessons, call Island Sol at 340-776-WIND or West Indies Windsurfing at 340-775-6530. Sapphire Beach, Bluebeard's Beach (in front of the Ritz-Carlton) and Vessup Bay are popular windsurfing spots.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving. The many reefs, wrecks and drop-offs around the U.S. Virgin Islands offer hours of underwater exploration. St. Thomas has several full-service PADI and/or NAUI dive shops that offer programs for beginner and expert divers. One-tank dives start at $55; two-tank dives at $100. Call Blue Island Divers 340-774-2001.
BLUE ISLAND DIVERS
Crown Bay Marina, Suite 505
340-774-2001 • www.blueislanddivers.com / www.scuba.vi
Blue Island Divers is St. Thomas' wreck diving specialist, located within minutes of many well-known wrecks. The five-star PADI dive center caters to everyone from the very experienced to the brand-new diver. Enjoy small groups and personalized service from the professional, friendly staff. No experience? Try DISCOVER SCUBA! With just 30 minutes of instruction you will enjoy two dives in the ocean along with our certified divers in shallow water. A truly full-service dive shop.
BLACK PEARL SPORTFISHING CHARTERS
American Yacht Harbor, Red Hook
340-775-9982 • www.blackpearlsportfishing.com
Ready for a true Caribbean fishing adventure? Then get on board the Black Pearl a 38-foot Bertram Sportfisher equipped with tournament tackle and fighting chair. Captain Jim Estraca has fished for over 25 years from the famous North Drop to the South Drop and all points in between. The crew is professional, well-experienced and dedicated to showing you the best inshore/offshore fishing. Whether you are a novice or experienced angler your overall
B.O.S.S. UNDERWATER ADVENTURE
Call for Reservations
340-777-3549 • www.bossusvi.com
Experience the ultimate thrill of a lifetime with your own underwater motor scooter! The B.O.S.S. will allow you to view the marvels of the sea with no diving experience necessary… and you are the driver! As you are driving underwater, you will explore the brilliant undersea world and enjoy a guided tour of the stunning colorful fish and tropical reefs of the Caribbean. Join the staff of Aqua Adventures for a truly unforgettable experience!
CARIBBEAN WATERSPORTS & TOURS
6501 Red Hook Plaza, Suite 201, Red Hook
340-775-9360 • www.viwatersports.com
Caribbean Water Sports & Tours — Your Adventure Tour Company. Experience a breathtaking, high-speed tour on the Screamin' Eagle 650 HP turbo-charged jet boat with fun commentary and beautiful scenery. Go parasailing and experience the thrill of power boating, hot air ballooning, hang gliding and parachuting all in one. Have an adventure on Captain Nautica's Ultimate Snorkeling Excursion or take a Captain Nautica Mini Boat Tour where you are your own captain on a 14-foot boat. Full day, half-day and private charters available. "A World of Fun Under the Sun."
CHARTER BOAT CENTER
American Yacht Harbor, Red Hook
340-775-7990 • www.charterboat.vi
Your free personalized service connecting you with an extensive selection of chartering options throughout the Virgin Islands. Whether you are looking to explore the luminous grottos at The Baths on Virgin Gorda, hook a blue marlin at the infamous North Drop or simply sail off into the sunset, their charter specialists are dedicated to matching you with the perfect day.
CHILLAXIN' YACHT CHARTERS
Compass Point Marina
340-776-1211, 770-403-8760 cell • www.chillaxincharters.com
Chillaxin' means simply... Chillin' and Relaxin'! It's no secret… the Virgin Islands are one of the most spectacular destinations in the world. For the discerning adventurer they offer a day of Chillaxin' in luxury and style in the Caribbean. Imagine yourself on your own private motor yacht skimming atop the crystal blue tropical water to an amazing snorkeling spot, a rowdy beach bar, or a private, secluded, white-sand beach... you decide!
DOLPHIN WATER TAXI
Red Hook, East End
340-774-2628 • www.dolphinshuttle.com
Enjoy an easy and affordable day-trip to White Bay on Jost Van Dyke, arguably the most beautiful beach setting in the world. Dolphin departs every morning to this jewel of the British Virgin Islands from both St. Thomas and St. John. Reservations are required. Group discounts are available. Did you arrive on a late flight and miss your ferry to the BVI? Dolphin Water Taxi offers after-hours service to Tortola!
DOUBLE HEADER SPORTFISHING
St. Thomas/St. John
340-693-5929 • www.doubleheadersportfishing.net
A fleet of three boats will take you inshore or offshore for a half-, three quarter- or full-day fishing adventure. They specialize in live bait fishing to improve the number of catches. If you want to join others for a half-day inshore fishing trip, ask about their Party Mix trips. They catch all the local species inshore or offshore and will target monster shark trips.
MIXED BAG SPORTFISHING
St. John/St. Thomas
340-777-7317 • www.sportfishingstjohn.com
Kick off your vacation with the sportfishing experience of a lifetime. A day with Mixed Bag or Mixed Bag II is a must. Specializing in live bait, Captain Robert Richards and his crew offer year-round offshore and inshore sportfishing. Offshore species include marlin, dorado, tuna and wahoo. Inshore action offers opportunities to catch snapper, king fish, jacks, shark and more. Whether you are a novice or seasoned angler, we will exceed your expectations.
SEE AND SKI POWERBOAT RENTALS
A Dock, American Yacht Harbor, Red Hook
340-775-6265, 866-775-6268 • www.seeski.com
See & Ski provides a wide variety of superior-quality, twin-engine 26-foot to 34-foot powerboats, including Prowler Cats and Scarabs, all top of the line. All are powered by the new fuel-efficient four-stroke Yamaha engines, are Coast Guard approved and come fully equipped with radios, ice chests, large bimini tops, and built-in freshwater showers. See & Ski offers exclusive water-skiing trips, fully rigged fishing boats and sightseeing excursions.
VIRGIN ISLANDS ECOTOURS
St. Thomas, Mangrove Lagoon
St. John, Virgin Islands National Park, Caneel Bay
Historic Hassel Island,
Virgin Islands National Park, Frenchtown, St. Thomas
340-779-2155 • www.viecotours.com
Kayak, Hike & Snorkel Adventure of Cas Cay. Kayak past many small islands in St Thomas' Mangrove Lagoon. Enjoy a hermit crab race, a 10-minute walk to tidal pools, volcanic cliffs and a rare geologic blowhole. Snorkel in a mangrove nursery following an underwater trail to part of a shipwreck with colorful marine life. Fun for the Entire Family. Two-person, easy-to-paddle sit-on-top kayaks. Five-hour (including lunch), three-hour and two-and-a-half-hour tours. info@viecotours.com, www.viecotours.com. Reservations required. Phone 340-779-2155.
WATERS EDGE SPORTS POWER BOAT & YACHT CHARTERS
American Yacht Harbor, Red Hook
340-998-8433 • www.stthomasboatrentals.com
Experience the Caribbean first-class aboard a Waters Edge powerboat. Choose from an all-inclusive 50-foot luxury yacht or 31- to 35-foot powerboats. Experienced captains will guide you through the U.S. and British Virgin Islands or choose to bareboat with up to 10 people. Waters Edge now offers all-inclusive sport fishing charters. You can also go tubing, wakeboarding or water skiing on an extreme charter. Just a short ride to the calm waters of Magens Bay, then let the fun begin.
Adrenaline Rush on St. John
While St. John's relaxing beaches are the main attraction, the island has another side to it full of sports, action and plenty of fun in the sun.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
Snorkeling is one way to enjoy St. John's stunning undersea world. The underwater trail at Trunk Bay, which has lifeguards, comes complete with explanatory signs. Rent snorkel gear at Trunk and Cinnamon Bay, as well as at watersports shops located at hotels and in Cruz Bay and Coral Bay.
Get your diving feet wet with an introductory resort course at any one of the island's dive operators. Experienced divers who are certified can explore the colorful reefs off St. John with a dive boat trip.
Windsurfing, Kayaking and Boating
Go windsurfing with or without lessons at Cinnamon Bay, or paddle around in a kayak rented at Cinnamon Bay, Cruz Bay or Coral Bay. From Cruz Bay, you can take a guided kayak or sailing tour to offshore cays.
Powerboats can be rented for longer excursions in Cruz Bay and Coral Bay. If you're unsure of your boating skills, you can hire a captain for the day.
Prefer bigger boats? Set sail on a captained sailboat for a daylong trip. Most boats drop anchor for lunch and snorkeling in St. John's warm and welcoming waters. A few even go to the nearby British Virgin Islands.
Sportfishing
Head out to sea for a chance to catch the big one. Boats like Mixed Bag and Mixed Bag II leave from St. Thomas and St. John for points north and south on full-, half- and three-quarter-day trips. They depart from resorts, marinas and public docks located around the islands. If you're headed out to sea for either the North or South Drops, throw a line overboard for marlin, dorado, tuna, mahimahi, blue marlin and wahoo. Closer to shore, catch snapper, kingfish, skipjack, blackfin tuna, shark and barracuda. Boat sizes run in the 30- to 40-foot range with a few a bit smaller and some a little larger. Prices vary depending on the length of the trip and the season, and the summer season rates are cheaper. The boats provide all the equipment, bait and usually drinks, but some ask you to bring your own lunch. Don't forget your hat and sunscreen.
Hiking
Folks who prefer to have their feet on firmer ground will enjoy hiking St. John's many trails. Reef Bay is the most popular, and Virgin Islands National Park runs frequent trips down the two-mile path. Meet at the park's Visitor Center in Cruz Bay for the $6 ride to the trailhead on Centerline Road. A park ranger explains the flora, fauna and history as you head downhill. A $15 boat trip brings you back to the Visitor Center. Of course, you can hike the Reef Bay Trail by yourself, but you'll have an uphill trek to get back to Centerline Road.
If you're without a car, a trail to Lind Point and Solomon Beach starts right behind the Visitor Center. Another trail, which can eventually bring you to Caneel Bay Resort, departs near Mongoose Junction shopping center in Cruz Bay.
Other Sports
In Coral Bay, visitors can hop on a horse for a trip down country lanes. Tennis aficionados will find several courts to play on. Caneel Bay Resort and the Westin Resort and Villas both have tennis courts, and the public court located near the fire station in Cruz Bay is in good condition and open to all.
BAD KITTY and CALYPSO CHARTERS
St. John / Red Hook
340-777-7245 / 340-998-5564 • www.calyspovi.com
4 Islands 5 Stops. "BEST OF THE VIRGINS" on Bad Kitty. Includes the top destinations in the BVI: Virgin Gorda, Baths, Cooper, Norman and Jost Van Dyke Islands. Enjoy sailing and snorkeling on Calypso catamaran: Choose either full day to Foxy's and The Soggy Dollar Bar or around St John. We also offer half-day and magical sunset sails with open bar and hors d'oeuvres. Explore 12 St John beaches on your own, with full- and half-day center console -dinghy rentals.
BOYSON, INC.
Red Hook, St. Thomas and Enighed Pond, St. John/
340-776-6294 • www.boysininc.com
Boyson, Inc. is a family-owned corporation that has been "Bridging the Gap" for over 30 years. They provide reliable and safe transportation primarily between St. Thomas and St. John. Boyson, Inc. is prepared to satisfy your travel needs. Call them at 340-776-6294 or visit their website at www.boysoninc.com to find out how you can help Boyson, Inc. continue to Bridge the Gap.
VIRGIN ISLANDS ECOTOUR
St. Thomas, Mangrove Lagoon
St. John, Virgin Islands National Park, Caneel Bay
Historic Hassel Island, Virgin Islands National Park,
Frenchtown, St. Thomas
340-779-2155 • www.viecotours.com
Kayak, Hike & Snorkel Adventure of St John's Virgin Islands National Park.
Kayak over fabulous turquoise waters and past sandy beaches. Hike along a picturesque tropical forest trail with breathtaking views. Snorkel a colorful coral reef teeming with marine life. Professional Guides identify bird, plant and marine species. Fun for the entire family! Two-person, easy-to-paddle, sit-on-top kayaks. Limited space. Tours depart from the dock at Rosewood's Caneel Bay Resort. info@viecotours.com www.viecotours.com. eservations required. Phone 340-779-2155.
Adrenaline Rush on St. Croix
It all starts with the warm, clear waters surrounding the island — put a toe in them and you won't want to get out. Scuba divers have more than 50 sites to choose from, including underwater wrecks to the north and west, and the spectacular Cane Bay wall that drops thousands of feet along the north shore. An introductory resort course will get you started.
Snorkelers can wade or swim to coral reefs right off the beach or book a boat excursion over to Buck Island to get to know a host of colorful fish. For even more water time, buzz around on a Jet Ski or try kayaking, kitesurfing and parasailing.
Sportfishing is in season here throughout the year, so anglers can head into the deep to scout a record-setting blue marlin or reel in a wahoo, mahi-mahi or tuna. Even if you don't bring home dinner, you'll have a great day at sea.
Wide-open spaces and gently rolling terrain make the island a golfer's dream. Choose one of two 18-hole courses — the tournament-quality Carambola Golf Club or the Buccaneer Golf Course overlooking the Caribbean. Further east you'll find the nine-hole Reef Golf Course and even mini golf at the Divi Carina Bay resort.
Tennis courts, some lighted for night play, are available at several hotels and a few public parks. Rent a bike or all-terrain vehicle, or take an escorted tour driving an open jeep. No experience is necessary for escorted horseback rides through tropical forests down to the beach, or for hikes led by local naturalists.
CARAMBOLA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
Kingshill, St. Croix
340-778-5638 • www.golfcarambola.com
The championship Carambola Golf Club, awarded four stars by Golf Digest and a Gold Medal by GOLF Magazine, is a refreshing challenge for golfers and a treat for diners and sightseers. The driving range, practice green and spectacular Robert Trent Jones Sr. course, along with the open-air restaurant and sports bar overlooking the 18th green, are a perfect treat for one of St. Croix's perfect Caribbean days! Call for tee times and more information.
ST. CROIX WATER SPORTS CENTER
Hotel on the Cay, Christiansted
340-773-7060 • www.stcroixwatersports.com
Take an award-winning guided Jet Ski tour on top of the line cruisers. Enjoy magnificent vistas and snorkel at secluded coral gardens. All Jet Ski tours customized for you by a guide with more than 26 years of experience on these waters. Activities for the entire family are all located at one unique seaside facility: windsurfing rentals and lessons, snorkeling, paddle boats, kayaks and sunfish sailing. Voted "Best Water Sports," "Best Jet Ski Tours," "Best Tourist Activity" and "Best Local Tours" for 2010.
TAN TAN TOURS
31 Queen Cross St., Christiansted
340-473-6446 • www.StxTanTanTours.com
If you are looking for an island-style adventure, join the experienced guide of Tan Tan Tours as they take you to parts of St. Croix only accessible with four-wheel drive. These one-of-a-kind Jeep tours take you off the beaten path to discover tide pools, breathtaking views, hidden sugar plantation ruins and much more! Staying in St. Thomas or St. John? Catch a plane or ferry to St. Croix for a tour, then head downtown for shopping or stay overnight. We can help with all the arrangements!
CARIBBEAN SEA ADVENTURES
59 Kings Wharf
East End of Christiansted Boardwalk
340-773-2628 • www.caribbeanseaadventures.com
Discover the essence of serenity and splendor with Caribbean Sea Adventures, offering an impressive range of St. Croix watersports activities for the experienced and novice. Their fleet of seven vessels ranges from intimate and private six-passenger vessels to 49-passenger vessels, sail or power, and can accommodate groups of up to 200 people. If you are planning to see Buck Island, or enjoy a sunset sail, you will love St. Croix and Caribbean Sea Adventures. They look forward to your call.
WEST END WATER SPORTS
Rainbow Beach, Frederiksted
340-277-8295 • www.WestEndWaterSports.com
Rent Jet Skis, Kayaks, Snorkeling Gear, Umbrellas and Chairs at West End Water Sports located on Rainbow Beach, north of Frederiksted Pier. The Western waters are crystal clear and the riding area is second to none on St. Croix. Glide over the smooth, clear blue water while enjoying beautiful views of the bottom of the Caribbean Sea. Come experience the relaxing beach, great food at Rhythms, music, beach volleyball and ATV Rainforest Tours all at one beautiful spot.
Shark encounter, turtle encounter, sea lion swim and dive photos supplied by Coral World Ocean Park, St. Thomas.
Visiting the United States Virgin Islands and want to go fishing or diving, charter a yacht or sailboat for a week, or rent a boat or sailboat for the day? Check out the Activities Guide for contacts and information.
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