C R U I S E   N E W S

Most frequent high seas travelers are well aware that St. Thomas is to cruising what Atlanta is to Delta Airlines...it's almost a required stop. this largest of the Caribean's deep-water harbors is quite picturesque, with red-roofed houses and flowering foliage dotting the steep hillsides. But the big draw here is duty-free shopping, and this island knows how to promote its assets.

At each of the three docking spots, shopping is readily accessible without transferring to the original Main Street and its unique stores in old stone warehouses. Havensight, the main pier for major cruise lines, boasts a ‘mall’ that is actually several streets of shops, making up its own little town. It couldn’t be more convenient, as you step onto those streets right off the ship. Many of the stores are duplicates of their Main Street headquarters, plus a few extras.

The latest shopping extravaganza is Yacht Haven Grande, just a left turn along the waterfront from your ship. Here you’ll find an entirely different atmosphere. Elegant storefronts line up across from the grassy lawn leading to a marina filled with gorgeous yachts of all sizes. The scene is serene at the popular day spa and among the little pastel vendor’s cottages that are nicely spaced at the entrance. Then the mood becomes more upscale. Louis Vuitton, Bulgari, Ferragamo and Tommy Hilfiger mingle with familiar specialty shops such as White House/Black Market and Icing.

Fat Turtle restaurant serves all-day lunch or dinner on the awninged patio at water’s edge or indoors. The more sophisticated Grand Cru is open for dinner only. Both choices provide an uninterrupted view of those luxurious yachts. Recently, the yacht club opened in an octagon shaped building at the end of a short pier extending into the yacht harbor. Its restaurant Three60 refers to the spectacular 360◦ view from the windowed site. Menus run the gamut from burgers and tacos to rare vintage wines and white tablecloth service.

Even if you don’t shop or dine at Yacht Haven Grande Marina, stroll through this very pleasant new addition. A path next to Fat Turtle follows the waterfront to downtown Charlotte Amalie. You’ll enjoy the view…and it’s good exercise. www.yachthavengrande.com