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Cruising the U.S. Virgin Islands

Known as America’s Paradise, the U.S. Virgin Islands are comprised of the lovely, mountainous islands of St. Croix, St Thomas, St. John and Water Island, as well as many smaller islets. Purchased from Denmark in 1917, the USVI is steeped in history and old world charm. Fort Christian (C: 1671), and Blackbeard’s Castle (C: 1679) on St. Thomas, are excellent examples of the historic buildings of these amazing islands. The USVI territories total area is 133 square miles.

Incredible cruising ground

The Virgin Islands are considered the #1 cruising ground in the world, mainly due to the close proximity of the islands, the lovely white beaches and azure blue waters, incredible underwater sea life and the amazing and consistent trade wind breezes. The VI enjoys the most ideal climate year round. The average temperatures in the Virgins ranges from the low 70’s in the evening/low 80’s in the daytime (winter months) to high 70’s at night/high 80’s in the daytime (August through early October).

Ideal location

Island Yachts base in Red Hook, St. Thomas is at the gateway to the Virgins most popular cruising area. Just a forty-minute sail across Pillsbury Sound and you are in the US National Park waters of St. John. The offerings of this amazing, unspoiled island are endless. Pristine anchorages abound around this tiny island that is 2/3 National Park as well as hiking trails all over the island, sugar mill ruins and the cleanest water and healthiest underwater sea life in the Caribbean. A wonderful cruise is to circumnavigate St. John and stop at all the national park anchorages where secure park moorings are available for $26.00/night.

Here are some helpful links when planning a visit to the US Virgin Islands: