Port #2 - Charlotte Amalie,
St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. (Day 4)

We departed San Juan at 10:00 PM on Monday (Day 3 of cruise) and arrived at St. Thomas at 8 AM. We had most of the day here since the departure time was at 6 PM. The above photo shows our coming into Charlotte Amalie, which is the capitol of St. Thomas.



After a fine breakfast, we ventured off the ship and headed to Paradise Point. There is a tram that takes visitors up Flag Hill for a spectacular view of St. Thomas harbor. The St. Thomas Skyride whisked us 700 ft. above the town of Charlotte Amalie.



Here is our crew getting to the top of Flag Hill. Sam was calm and collected as usual. It was a gorious day with temperatures in the 80's.




As you can see, the views were fantastic!



Grandpa Meads is happy to be here, but where is Grandma?



Ok- she found her a man with dreadlocks!



Once down from Paradise Point, we hurried back to the pier to connect with our tour to Magen's Bay. Magen's Bay (considered one of the top 5 beaches in the caribbean and top 10 in the world!) is located on the north coast of the island, about a 25 minute ride from the pier. What a ride that was!

We were on the back of an open "tourist taxi" and the driver was flying up the mountainous and winding terrain at breakneck speed. Hark! Our swimming bag with towels, snorkel, and shoes flew out of the vehicle and landed on the road. Cars behind us stopped and I shouted in my most Appalachian voice so the driver might stop this speed demon. It worked! Jeff retrieved the bag and its contents from the asphalt and we were soon on our way again.

We arrived safely. It was beautiful!

Upon approaching the beach, a fellow was hand feeding a local iguana. I loved it!

Jeff got Sam ready for his first salt water experience. Mom Sarah had gone to rent some chairs.

Since Sam's birth, his logo has been frogs. You should see his room. It is an amphibian paradise. Grandpa had to add to the surprise by getting a frog tatoo on his arm. This tatoo was a temporary decoration provided by tatoo vendors on the ship. Not really certain whether Sam was impressed, but Grandma was. (She wanted a HARLEY tatoo!)



It was a great afternoon at our first Caribbean beach.





On the way back in the "speed taxi", Sam showed the signs of a weary swimmer. He really enjoyed the placid and warm waters of Magen's Bay.




After some shopping, we returned to ship for another outstanding dinner. This night was the second of the Royal Promonade Parades. It is the Mardi Gras parade. I will be there.