ST JOHN BAY

• Latitude: 18.3345
• Longitude: -64.8485
• Caribbean Sea
• Port in U.S. Virgin Islands

Location: U.S. Virgin Islands

St. John Bay Marine Port Description and Specification

Overview:

St. John Bay is a picturesque aquatic location within the U.S. Virgin Islands, known for its stunning natural beauty and strategic significance for maritime activities. Though not as commercially bustling as its neighboring islands, St. John offers essential facilities for recreational boating, smaller commercial vessels, and ferry services.

Location:

• Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 18.33° N latitude and 64.73° W longitude.
• Accessible From: Cruz Bay and Coral Bay are the primary towns with docking facilities on St. John.
• Proximity: Located east of St. Thomas and southeast of Tortola in the British Virgin Islands.

Port Facilities:

1. Docks and Piers:

   • Cruz Bay: Main docking area with ferry service terminals, accommodating inter-island ferries and small to medium-sized boats.
   • Coral Bay: Smaller, more secluded docking options, catering mainly to yachts and recreational boats.

2. Anchorage:

   • Available at multiple bays with good holding ground. It is advisable to check for any specific local regulations or protected areas to preserve marine life.

3. Marinas:

   • Limited marina facilities compared to more developed Virgin Islands, but basic amenities are available at Coral Bay Yacht Club and other local establishments.

4. Depth:

   • Depths vary by location:
     • Cruz Bay: Approximately 12 to 20 feet near docks.
     • Coral Bay: Generally shallower, with depths averaging around 10 to 15 feet.

Accessibility and Navigation:

• Channels: Well-marked, but care should be taken due to coral reefs and shallow areas.
• Tides and Currents: Relatively mild, with tide variations of about 1 to 2 feet.

Services:

1. Fuel: Limited refueling options. It is recommended to check availability in advance or refuel in St. Thomas.
2. Water: Available at docking areas, but sailors should ensure adequate reserves due to occasional shortages.
3. Provisions: Basic grocery stores and supplies available in Cruz Bay.
4. Repairs and Maintenance: Basic repair services for minor issues, more extensive services may be available on St. Thomas.

Customs and Immigration:

• Entry and exit procedures must be followed in accordance with U.S. regulations. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) facilities are present to assist with clearance.

Environmental Considerations:

• St. John is part of the Virgin Islands National Park, and many areas are protected. Compliance with environmental regulations is mandatory to preserve the natural beauty and ecology.

Communication:

• VHF Channels: Local port operations usually monitor VHF channels 16 and 12.

Points of Interest:

• Tourism: Major attractions include Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, and other pristine beaches and snorkeling sites.
• Historical Sites: Explore Danish colonial history, sugar mill ruins, and local heritage.

Conclusion:

The St. John Bay Marine Port is ideally suited for recreational boating, yachting, and ferry services, with its tranquil waters, scenic landscapes, and basic yet sufficient facilities for boaters. It is a quieter alternative to the more commercial ports in the region, offering a serene and environmentally rich maritime experience.