24 Hours in Crown Bay, St. Thomas, USVI

The first port of call for many tourists to St. Thomas, Crown Bay plays host to a full-service marina and shopping centre. Located on the south coast of the island, and in close proximity of the airport and bustling capital, Charlotte Amalie, Crown Bay offers an exciting range of first-class amenities.

Photography by Don Hebert, www.donhebert.com

1. Desert Island

A short ferry ride from Crown Bay Marina, Hassel Island is a quiet gem in the middle of Charlotte Amalie’s busy harbour. A mere 136 acres, the island has a rich history – it was used as a defense post by both the Danish and the British in the 19th century – and is now a U.S. National Park. Explore the isle’s ruined forts or play castaway on your very own deserted white-sand beach.

www.hasselisland.org

2. Shop ‘til you Drop

Offering an impressive range of duty-free items, locally made crafts, unique gifts and fine clothing, all can be found at the Crown Bay Center. Our fine stores include: Aseck Jewelers, Diamonds International, Duty Free – St. Thomas, Cardow, Omni's Inc., Blooming Things Clothing and Flower Boutique, Blue Island Divers and the Owl and Seahorse Bookstore.

3. Sail Away

With departures from the Crown Bay Center, enjoy a picturesque sail through Charlotte Amalie harbour, rum punch in hand, on the glass-bottom KON TIKI boat. Catch a glimpse of the colourful coral reef and its aquatic inhabitants below, before heading to Water Island for an hour of swimming and relaxing.

www.cruiseshipexcursions.com

4. Pamper Yourself

Located in Crown Bay Marina, Phoenix Visions Hair Design is a sanctuary of calm far from the hustle and bustle of the busy port. Treat yourself to a mani-pedi or a revitalising full body massage before embarking on a fun night out at Crown Bay Gaming and Entertainment Center.

www.phoenixvisionshairdesign.com

5. Island Flavours

Famous for their special Hibiscus, Mint and Island Blend lemonades, as well as delicious local dishes such as stewed mutton and johnny cakes, Island Flavor Restaurant offers a truly Caribbean experience on the waterfront at the Crown Bay Center. Soak up the tropical atmosphere and local beats, while watching luxury yachts and cruise ships pass by.

www.facebook.com/pages/Island-Flavor-Restaurant

6. All on Red

Try your hand with lady luck at Crown Bay Gaming and Entertainment Center. Located just steps from the cruise ships and shopping, you can sip cool drinks and relax listening to live music whilst having a go on state-of-the-art electronic Poker, Keno, Lotto and much more.

www.sgvi.com

7. Art & Culture

Learn about life in St. Thomas and view local artists’ work at the Sugar Mill welcome and information centre. Currently featuring an exhibition of over 100 images depicting life for ‘Coal Woman’ in the early 1900’s, on loan from the Sheen family, the exhibitions at the Sugar Mill change regularly.