GREAT CRUZ BAY

• Latitude: 18.3207
• Longitude: -64.7903
• Caribbean Sea
• Marina in U.S. Virgin Islands

Location: U.S. Virgin Islands

Great Cruz Bay, located on the island of St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, is a picturesque and popular destination for boating enthusiasts. The bay itself is known for its natural beauty, surrounded by lush hills, clear turquoise waters, and pristine beaches. While Great Cruz Bay is not primarily known for a large commercial marina, it does feature docking facilities, moorings, and amenities that cater to sailors, yachters, and boaters.

Description:

Scenic Beauty:

• Surrounded by lush hills and tropical vegetation
• Clear turquoise waters that are perfect for snorkeling and swimming
• White sandy beaches, including those near the Westin St. John Resort

Location:

• Situated on the southwest coast of St. John
• Close proximity to the town of Cruz Bay, the primary commercial hub of the island
• Easy access to the Virgin Islands National Park, which covers much of St. John

Specifications and Facilities:

Moorings:

• Multiple mooring balls are available in Great Cruz Bay
• Suitable for boats of various sizes, from small sailboats to larger yachts

Docking:

• Limited dock space, mainly associated with the Westin St. John Resort & Villas
• Docks are typically used for guest boats, with some availability for transient visitors

Anchorage:

• Open anchorage is available in the bay, but sailors should be mindful of depth and seabed type

Amenities:

• Fuel: Limited availability of fuel docks; plan to fuel up elsewhere, such as in Cruz Bay
• Water: Freshwater refills may be available at certain docks
• Internet: Wi-Fi services available through nearby resorts and some local hotspots
• Facilities: Access to resort amenities like restaurants, bars, and shops
• Repairs: Basic marine services can be found in Cruz Bay, but complex repairs may need to be referred to facilities on St. Thomas

Transportation and Access:

• Dinghy access: Easy access to shore via dinghy docks
• Proximity to Cruz Bay: Short taxi or shuttle ride to the larger town facilities in Cruz Bay
• Flights: The nearest major airport is Cyril E. King Airport on St. Thomas, with ferry services available to St. John

Environmental Considerations:

• Protected waters: Anchoring and mooring areas are managed to maintain the delicate marine environment
• National Park: Close to Virgin Islands National Park, which offers opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and exploring

Nearby Points of Interest:

Cruz Bay:

• Shopping, dining, and nightlife
• Ferry services to St. Thomas and the British Virgin Islands

Virgin Islands National Park:

• Offers hiking trails, historical ruins, and protected marine areas

Westin St. John Resort & Villas:

• Accessible to marina users for dining, accommodation, and other resort facilities

Recreational Activities:

• Water sports: Snorkeling, diving, paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing
• Beachcombing and sunbathing on nearby beaches

Regulations and Reservations:

• Mooring reservations are recommended during the high season to ensure availability
• Adherence to marine conservation regulations is mandatory to protect the local environment
• Inform yourself of any specific rules regarding anchoring and waste disposal

Overall, Great Cruz Bay is a charming and well-facilitated spot that provides a serene and convenient base for exploring St. John and the surrounding areas by boat.