St. Thomas to St Croix by boat

Pilotage Plan for a Voyage from St. Thomas, VI to St. Croix, VI

Overview

This route from St. Thomas to St. Croix offers an exceptional blend of scenic beauty, varied marine life, and a chance to experience the vibrant culture of the Virgin Islands. Ideal for both novice and experienced boaters, this journey stretches approximately 40 nautical miles across serene waters. The route takes you through some protected waters, with plenty of opportunities for shelter and exploration along the way.

Departure: St. Thomas, VI

Coordinates:(Long: -64.852133, Lat: 18.324967)

Before setting sail, ensure your vessel is seaworthy, with all safety equipment in good order. Verify the weather conditions, keeping a close eye on local forecasts. St. Thomas is well-equipped with marinas like Red Hook and Charlotte Amalie, providing facilities, fuel, and provisioning.

Local Points of Interest:
Magens Bay:Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, perfect for a quick swim or a beach stroll before departing.
Blackbeard's Castle:A pirate-themed attraction that provides a glimpse into the history of the Virgin Islands.

Route Overview

1. Departure from St. Thomas: Head southeast toward St. Croix

• Follow a course of approximately 120 degrees.
• Monitor navigation aids, primarily buoys, and markers leading you out of Charlotte Amalie harbor.

1. Navigational Aids:

• Pay special attention to the St. Thomas Light (Lighthouse)and the Hassel Island Light.
• Be cautious of the Coki Pointarea, known for local moorings and recreation activities. It's a common area for swimmers and divers.

En Route Considerations

As you traverse towards St. Croix, several hazards and navigational points warrant attention:

Buck Island:A stunning national monument that lies just northeast of St. Croix, Buck Island offers both natural beauty and great snorkeling opportunities. Consider this as a deliberate stop if the weather is favorable, taking ample care to respect marine preservation regulations during your visit.

Point Udall:Look out for this easternmost point of the U.S. mainland as you approach St. Croix. It’s marked and can help in navigation as you near your destination.

Southwest of St. Thomas:The waters can become choppy, especially if winds are high. Stay alert to sudden weather changes, having a designated area to anchor or retreat to in case conditions worsen.

Sheltering Options

Should the weather turn adverse, the following sheltered bays can provide safe harbor:

Hurricane Hole:A well-known anchorage surrounded by mangroves, offering shelter from strong winds and waves.

Christiansted Harbor:Upon nearing St. Croix, this active harbor provides excellent shelter and adequate facilities. It’s also rich in history, making it a great spot to explore upon arrival.

Arrival: St. Croix, VI

Coordinates:(Long: -64.602270, Lat: 17.754475)

Once you’ve arrived in St. Croix, the vibrant culture and history are yours to explore. The town of Christiansted offers charming waterfront shops, restaurants, and historic sites such as Fort Christiansvaern, built to protect against pirates.

Safety Recommendations

• Before departing, file a float plan with someone on land specifying your expected route and timeline.
• Always maintain a lookout and adhere to local navigation rules.
• Make use of reliable marine navigation apps, including Savvy Navvy, for real-time weather updates and route planning.
• Carry a VHF radio for communication as well as a first aid kit and life vests.

This route not only emphasizes safety but makes the journey from St. Thomas to St. Croix a memorable experience filled with natural beauty and cultural enrichments. Prepare well, pay attention to maritime regulations, and enjoy the rich tapestry of the Virgin Islands along the way!