Current Weather in Compass Point Marina, St. Thomas25°C • 15 kn • ENELive Forecast
Sailing Itinerary
7-day USVI sailing itinerary in Compass Point Marina, St. Thomas
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Complete Itinerary
Detailed day-by-day guide with insider tips, ratings, and everything you need to know.
Arrival, provisioning and local beaches
Settle in at Compass Point on St. Thomas’ east end. Complete check-in and provisioning, then enjoy nearby beaches or a low-key snorkel before an early night for tomorrow’s departure.
Mooring Information
Reserve a slip ahead of time; hail on VHF 16 for docking instructions and working channel on arrival.
Observe the posted no‑wake zone inside the marina and keep clear of ferry and commercial traffic.
Fuel, water and ice are typically available at nearby docks in the Red Hook area; confirm hours before arrival.
Use the dinghy dock for short trips ashore; secure dinghies with a long line to allow space for others.
Depths in approach channels vary—follow marks precisely and avoid cutting corners near shoals.
Top Restaurants
Caribbean Fish Market for seafood on the beach side of the east end.
XO Bistro in Red Hook for a relaxed dinner and solid wine list.
Island Time Pub overlooking the harbor for casual pizzas and views.
Duffy’s Love Shack for fun, tropical cocktails after sunset.
Pesce Italian in Red Hook for classic pasta and fresh fish.
Activities
Provision the boat and complete the safety briefing and systems walkthrough.
Take a quick snorkel at Secret Harbour’s reef to test gear and get comfortable in the water.
Stroll the Red Hook marina area for coffee, ice, and any last‑minute galley items.
Review charts and tides for Pillsbury Sound and St. John’s mooring fields.
Plan an early start to beat morning traffic and secure popular moorings later in the week.
Water Sports
Stand‑up paddleboard in the calm, protected waters near the marina entrance.
Snorkel the fringing reef at Secret Harbour for beginner‑friendly coral and fish life.
Kayak along the coastline in settled conditions, keeping clear of marked swim zones.
Practice mask and fin checks in shallow, sandy water to ensure a good fit for the week.
Short practice maneuvers under power in open water to familiarize the crew with handling.
Drone Spots
Red Hook harbor entrance for sweeping approach shots in early morning light (avoid flying over people or vessels).
Secret Harbour’s cove offers contrasting reef and sand visuals—maintain legal distances and line of sight.
Sapphire Beach headland for coastal panoramas; watch for gusts over the ridge.
Benner Bay mangrove edges for textures and color—avoid wildlife disturbance.
No flights near the airport or heli routes; always check local rules before launch.
Must See
Red Hook waterfront for last‑minute provisioning and a sunset stroll along the docks.
Secret Harbour Beach for an easy first swim and sheltered snorkeling along the rocky points.
Sapphire Beach and Smith Bay Park (Lindquist Beach) for wide sands and turquoise water.
Drake’s Seat overlook for a classic panorama of Magens Bay and the north shore of St. Thomas.
Benner Bay and nearby cays for a short shakedown cruise, weather permitting, before nightfall.
Services
Fuel, water, ice and basic chandlery items available in the Red Hook area.
Supermarkets, liquor stores and bakeries within a short taxi or dinghy ride.
ATMs, taxis and inter‑island ferries to St. John from Red Hook terminal.
Wi‑Fi and mobile coverage generally strong around the east end.
Waste and recycling points available; separate and dispose responsibly.
Hazards
Busy marina traffic and ferries—maintain a sharp lookout and stay right in channels.
Narrow channel edges and shoals—do not cut marks on approach or departure.
Sudden squalls can bring brief high winds and poor visibility; secure canvas.
Night entries are not recommended for first‑timers—plan movements in daylight.
Swimmers and paddleboarders close to shore—observe no‑wake speeds.
Tips
Shop early to avoid crowds; secure perishables in coolers while loading.
Confirm fuel dock hours and payment methods ahead of departure day.
Brief the crew on VHF etiquette (hailing on 16; switch to a working channel once answered).
Stow gear securely for the trades and short but choppy channels around Pillsbury Sound.
Set up a mooring hook and bow lines today so you’re ready to pick up balls quickly later.
North shore classic beach day
Cruise the short hop around St. Thomas to Magens Bay, famed for calm turquoise water and a long sweep of white sand—ideal for relaxed swimming and family time.
Mooring Information
Anchor in sand outside the swim zone; keep clear of the marked swimming area and mooring lines.
Good holding in sand—set and back down gently to avoid dragging in seagrass.
Expect light afternoon thermal winds; allow room to swing clear of other boats.
Dinghy to the beach landing area and pull well above the tide line.
A small admission fee applies to access facilities ashore via the beach entrance.
Top Restaurants
Magens Bay beach bar and grill for casual lunch on the sand.
Northside cafes and small eateries a short taxi ride from the beach.
Ice cream and snack stands near the main pavilion.
Sunset drinks at hilltop overlooks above the bay.
Dinner back on the east end or aboard for a quieter evening.
Activities
Swim and sunbathe along one of the Caribbean’s most famous beaches.
Snorkel near the rocky points for clearer water and reef fish.
Stroll the length of the beach and find a quiet corner away from the main entrance.
Enjoy casual beach bar snacks and refreshments ashore.
Take a taxi up to Drake’s Seat for a quick overlook and photo stop.
Water Sports
Stand‑up paddleboard in the bay’s typically calm morning conditions.
Kayak along the shoreline and observe sea life in the shallows.
Practice easy snorkeling entries from the sandy beach for all skill levels.
Beach games and low‑impact fitness sessions along the wide sands.
Short coastal swim workouts parallel to shore with a buddy and shore spotter.
Drone Spots
Magens Bay’s central arc for wide, cinematic sweeps—avoid flying over beachgoers.
Northern headland for dramatic cliffs and reef color contrast in low wind.
Dune line and palm canopy patterns from moderate altitude—respect privacy.
Golden‑hour shots from the east end for smooth water reflections.
Always confirm local rules; keep clear of birds and maintain line of sight.
Must See
The mile‑long curve of Magens Bay Beach with calm, clear water.
Shaded palms along the back of the beach for a relaxed picnic spot.
Rocky headlands at each end of the bay with better snorkeling visibility.
Drake’s Seat viewpoint above the bay for a postcard panorama.
Sea turtle and ray sightings in early morning along the sandy margins.
Services
Restrooms, showers and chair/umbrella rentals near the main entrance.
Lifeguards on duty in the primary swim zone during posted hours.
Trash and recycling points—pack out when possible.
Taxi stand near the beach pavilion for scenic overlooks.
Basic beach shop items such as sunscreen and hats.
Hazards
Occasional north swell can cause shore break and reduce visibility.
Crowded swim zones—keep a wide berth with dinghies and paddle craft.
Seagrass areas—avoid disturbing turtle habitat when anchoring.
Afternoon gusts can swing anchored boats; set adequate scope.
Watch for stand‑up paddlers and swimmers outside the main swim lines.
Tips
Arrive early for easier anchoring and fewer crowds ashore.
North swells can reduce water clarity—snorkel near the points if conditions allow.
Observe swim buoys and keep dinghies slow and outside marked areas.
Bring cash/cards for beach facilities and refreshments.
Secure valuables and lock the dinghy when going ashore.
Quiet national park anchorage
Sail east to St. John and settle into Francis Bay in Virgin Islands National Park—an uncrowded strand with excellent snorkeling, turtles, and access to the Francis Bay Trail.
Mooring Information
Use park moorings when available; anchoring is restricted to protect seagrass and coral.
Arrive by late morning to improve your chances of finding an open mooring.
Pay mooring fees as posted; rangers patrol and provide guidance on rules.
Rig a bridle to reduce squeak and chafe overnight in light swell.
Dinghy to the beach slowly—this is a designated no‑wake area with swimmers.
Top Restaurants
Pack a picnic for this quiet bay—there are no services on the beach.
Cruz Bay dining is a short sail west if you prefer a meal ashore.
The Longboard (Cruz Bay) for fresh bowls and cocktails post‑snorkel.
Morgan’s Mango (Cruz Bay) for Caribbean‑inspired seafood in the evening.
Cruz Bay Landing on the waterfront for casual breakfast or lunch.
Activities
Snorkel the bay’s perimeter for coral heads, rays and grazing turtles.
Walk the Francis Bay Trail and salt pond loop for a low‑impact hike.
Kayak to the edges of the bay in calm conditions for birdwatching.
Beach picnic under sea grape trees with ample natural shade.
Evening stargazing—light pollution is minimal on this coast.
Water Sports
Beginner‑friendly snorkels from the beach with easy sandy entries.
Stand‑up paddle along the shoreline in morning glass‑off conditions.
Short kayak paddle toward Mary Point—hug shore and avoid open passages.
Free‑diving practice over sandy patches with a surface spotter.
No tow sports within park boundaries—keep activities low impact.
Drone Spots
Drones are not permitted within Virgin Islands National Park without authorization.
Capture handheld shoreline footage instead; respect wildlife and visitors.
If filming, launch only outside park boundaries in accordance with regulations.
Use stabilization and wide lenses for smooth, low‑impact coastal shots.
Avoid overflight of boats, swimmers, and nesting areas at all times.
Must See
Francis Bay Beach for quiet sands and sea turtle sightings in seagrass fringes.
Francis Bay Trail and salt pond loop for easy nature walks and birdlife.
Nearby Whistling Cay for views back toward St. John’s north shore.
Snorkeling along the rocky edges where visibility is best.
Sunset colors over Mary Point and the outer cays.
Services
No fuel or water in the bay—top up before leaving St. Thomas.
Limited cell coverage; move seaward for a better signal if needed.
Park rangers patrol; pay mooring fees and ask questions if unsure.
Basic trash facilities may be limited—pack out whenever possible.
Dinghy landing on the beach; avoid sensitive vegetation above high tide.
Hazards
Shallow coral and seagrass—navigate slowly and avoid prop wash in the shallows.
Occasional current near points and cuts; weak swimmers should stay close to shore.
Jellyfish and fire coral possible—wear protective swim gear if sensitive.
Swell wrap from northerlies can add roll; choose a mooring with best lee.
No night swimming—visibility and boat traffic risks increase after dusk.
Tips
Review and follow all Virgin Islands National Park boating rules posted on site.
Use moorings rather than anchoring to protect seagrass and coral habitat.
Keep speeds to idle in dinghy lanes; watch for snorkelers near the points.
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen and pack out all trash to minimize impact.
Afternoon winds can lift chop—plan swims and paddles earlier in the day.
Snorkel Waterlemon, hike Ram Head
Make a short hop to Waterlemon Cay for standout snorkeling around the reef, then continue to Salt Pond Bay for an afternoon swim and the scenic Ram Head hike.
Mooring Information
Pick up NPS moorings in Leinster Bay for access to Waterlemon Cay; no anchoring on seagrass.
Expect current on the seaward side of Waterlemon—plan snorkels for slack and stay within comfort limits.
Continue to Salt Pond Bay and use park moorings; southern exposure can bring light roll.
Rig a stern line if needed to reduce swing in light swell at Salt Pond.
Use the dinghy line ashore and secure well before hiking Ram Head.
Top Restaurants
Plan to dine aboard—Leinster Bay and Salt Pond have no services.
Coral Bay (a short sail away) offers casual eateries for a later stop in the week.
Simple picnic fare works well between snorkels and the Ram Head hike.
Ice and extra drinking water are best stocked before leaving St. Thomas.
Consider an early dinner aboard to catch sunset from the mooring.
Activities
Snorkel a clockwise circuit at Waterlemon Cay if currents allow for easier returns.
Beach time and gentle laps inside Salt Pond’s protected corner.
Hike the Ram Head Trail—wear sturdy footwear and bring water.
Explore Drunk Bay’s rugged shoreline for photos and tide‑pooling.
Birdwatch along the salt pond edge in the cooler late afternoon.
Water Sports
Snorkel over seagrass meadows and patch reefs—keep fins up to avoid contact.
SUP near shore in light wind; sit‑down paddling if breeze builds.
Short kayak to Waterlemon from the mooring field in calm seas.
Skin‑dive on the inside of the cay for clearer, protected water.
No tow sports within park limits—keep wakes minimal.
Drone Spots
Drones are prohibited within Virgin Islands National Park without permits.
Use handheld cameras on the Ram Head Trail for sweeping vistas instead.
If filming seaward, confirm you are outside park boundaries and follow all rules.
Avoid wildlife disturbance along cliffs and nesting areas.
Keep all equipment secured on exposed headlands due to gusts.
Must See
Waterlemon Cay’s fringing reef with starfish, reef fish and occasional turtles.
Annaberg Plantation ruins above Leinster Bay for a dose of island history.
Salt Pond Bay’s clear water and calm swimming in settled weather.
Ram Head Trail for dramatic coastal views and sea breezes.
Drunk Bay’s wave‑washed shore and otherworldly rock formations.
Services
No fuel, water or provisioning at either bay; come prepared.
Mooring fee collection by park rangers; keep payment methods handy.
Limited mobile service—move offshore for a stronger signal if needed.
Basic trail signage at Ram Head; no shade on ridge sections.
Dinghy beach tie‑offs available; avoid fragile vegetation.
Hazards
Strong or swirling currents at Waterlemon Cay—wear bright snorkel vests for visibility.
Fire coral and urchins—maintain good buoyancy and avoid contact.
Heat exposure on Ram Head—hike early or late and carry water.
Light southern swell can roll Salt Pond moorings—secure loose items.
Slippery rocks at Drunk Bay—watch footing, especially when wet.
Tips
Arrive early to secure a mooring at Leinster Bay; it’s popular on calm days.
Check currents before snorkeling Waterlemon—consider drift direction and exit points.
Carry water and sun protection for the exposed Ram Head hike.
Pack out all trash; facilities in these bays are minimal.
Respect cultural resources at Annaberg—stay on marked paths.
Secluded beaches and relaxed vibes
Reach Water Island off St. Thomas for a mellow afternoon on Honeymoon Beach, a swim with turtles, and a coastal walk to the WWII‑era fort ruins and rugged Limestone Beach.
Mooring Information
Anchor in sand off Honeymoon Beach, clear of swim buoys and private moorings.
Expect wakes from passing traffic; set a bridle to reduce yaw and roll.
Allow ample swing room—depths change gradually from the beach.
Dinghy to the beach landing; secure with a long line and lock.
Monitor VHF 16 in case of harbor notices or weather updates.
Top Restaurants
Casual beach bars at Honeymoon Beach for burgers, tacos and cold drinks.
Charlotte Amalie waterfront (a short ride away) for broader dining choice.
Food trucks and pop‑ups may operate seasonally on Water Island.
Sundowners aboard with easy appetizers after a swim.
Breakfast ashore in town the next morning if you head in early.
Activities
Swim and snorkel the bay edges in the morning for best visibility.
Walk up to Fort Segarra for island history and sweeping views.
Beach picnic under palms with a mid‑day shade break.
Kayak the coastline, avoiding exposed corners when wind is up.
Sunset stroll along the sand before a relaxed dinner aboard.
Water Sports
SUP sessions along the beach in early light winds.
Snorkel the reefy points for schools of fish and the occasional ray.
Casual beach launches with kayaks—watch for swimmers.
Practice shallow free‑dives over sand with a safety buddy.
No high‑wake activities close to shore—protect swimmers and turtle habitat.
Drone Spots
Honeymoon Beach’s gentle curve makes for classic shoreline aerials—avoid crowds.
Fort Segarra hilltop for stable launch areas away from people.
Coastal rock textures at Limestone Beach from a safe altitude.
Glassy morning water shots near the anchorage with caution around boats.
Check local rules and avoid any aircraft or seaplane traffic corridors.
Must See
Honeymoon Beach on Water Island for calm, clear swimming.
Limestone Beach for a wilder shoreline and wave action.
Fort Segarra’s unfinished WWII fortifications and viewpoints.
Providence Point for coastal scenery and breezes.
Sea turtle sightings in the sandy shallows off the beach.
Services
Trash bins near beach access points—pack out when bins are full.
Fuel and water are available back on St. Thomas at established marinas.
Mobile coverage generally good with occasional dead spots behind hills.
ATMs, taxis and groceries are available in Charlotte Amalie nearby.
Basic beach rentals (chairs, shade) may be available seasonally.
Hazards
Boat wakes and afternoon chop—swimmers should stay within marked areas.
Seagrass beds—avoid damaging with anchors or props.
Coral heads near rocky points—approach slowly in good light.
Theft can occur anywhere—lock dinghy and secure valuables.
Slippery paths up to the fort after rain—use proper footwear.
Tips
Arrive by midday to find space in the anchorage ahead of afternoon crowding.
Respect swim zones—dinghies must idle speed outside marked buoys.
Bring cash/cards for simple beach refreshments, hours vary seasonally.
Secure hatches and gear—powerboat wakes can be frequent on weekends.
Keep deck lights minimal at night to preserve stargazing and reduce bugs.
Caneel area swim, evening in town
Sail to Honeymoon Beach within Virgin Islands National Park for a serene swim and an easy hike, then hop to Cruz Bay for dinner, shopping and a lively evening atmosphere.
Mooring Information
Pick up NPS moorings off Caneel/Honeymoon; anchoring is restricted in the park.
Dinghy to the designated landing area and keep speeds to idle within mooring fields.
For Cruz Bay, expect limited visitor moorings and busy traffic—arrive with daylight.
If staying aboard near Cruz Bay, choose a berth with protection from ferry wakes.
Use spring lines when alongside temporary town docks to manage surge.
Top Restaurants
The Longboard (Cruz Bay) for fresh bowls and coastal fare.
Morgan’s Mango for seafood and Caribbean flavors.
Lime Inn for ceviche, cocktails and a laid‑back vibe.
High Tide Bar & Seafood Grill on the waterfront for casual dining.
Cruz Bay Landing for breakfast or a relaxed lunch.
Activities
Morning snorkel at Honeymoon along the rocky edges for better visibility.
SUP in sheltered corners before trades build in the afternoon.
Hike Lind Point Trail into town for coffee, ice cream or shopping.
Sunset stroll along the Cruz Bay waterfront and dinner ashore.
Set lines and fenders for a quiet night, or return to a calmer nearby mooring.
Water Sports
Beginner‑friendly snorkel sessions from the beach over sand and turtle grass.
Kayak short shoreline hops—stay clear of mooring lines and swimmers.
Practice gentle breath‑holds over sand patches with a spotter.
No tow sports in park waters; keep dinghy wakes to a minimum.
Short open‑water swim parallel to shore with a chase dinghy at idle.
Drone Spots
Drones are not permitted within Virgin Islands National Park without authorization.
In Cruz Bay (town area), only launch where legal and never over crowds or ferries.
Handheld gimbal footage along Lind Point yields stable scenic shots.
Sunset color from the Cruz Bay point—use ground‑based filming instead.
Always check current local ordinances before any aerial operations.
Must See
Honeymoon Beach’s soft sand and calm, clear water for easy swimming.
Lind Point Trail linking Honeymoon Beach and Cruz Bay through dry forest.
Caneel area ruins and shoreline views toward Pillsbury Sound.
Cruz Bay’s colorful waterfront with boutiques and galleries.
Elaine Ione Sprauve Museum for local history (check opening days).
Services
Groceries, ATMs and pharmacies available in Cruz Bay.
Trash and limited recycling near town docks—pack out when possible.
Mobile coverage strong in town; weaker in some park bays.
Taxi stands and trailheads close to the waterfront.
Basic hardware and beach shops for small needs.
Hazards
Ferry and commuter traffic—maintain distance and monitor VHF 16.
Wakes and surge at docks—double up lines and use fenders liberally.
Swim zones near Honeymoon—dinghies must stay well outside buoys.
Coral and seagrass—no anchoring except where permitted by park rules.
Night navigation around Cruz Bay is busy—plan arrivals in daylight.
Tips
Honeymoon Beach is busiest midday—arrive early for quieter water.
Carry reef‑safe sunscreen and water on the Lind Point hike.
Cruz Bay traffic includes frequent ferries—watch wakes and cross‑currents.
Restaurant reservations are recommended in peak season.
Lock the dinghy in town and remove valuables from view.
Final snorkel and short hop home
Enjoy a last swim and snorkel at Christmas Cove off Great St. James—known for turtles and clear water—before an easy return to Compass Point for refueling and disembarkation.
Mooring Information
Pick up day‑use moorings at Christmas Cove; avoid anchoring near coral heads.
Arrive early on weekends—mooring balls fill quickly in fair weather.
Maintain slow speeds through the field; swimmers and turtles are common.
Before returning, call ahead for fuel dock timing and slip assignment on VHF.
Rig fenders and lines for an efficient docking on arrival at Compass Point.
Top Restaurants
Red Hook waterfront for casual post‑charter dinners with harbor views.
Seafood grills and pizza spots on the east end for easy group dining.
Cocktail bars near the ferry terminal for a celebratory sundowner.
Ice cream and coffee shops for a quick treat after refueling.
Quiet dinner aboard if you prefer an early night before travel.
Activities
Snorkel a relaxed loop inside the cove where visibility is best.
Stand‑up paddle near the shoreline in the morning calm.
Pack and secure gear underway so docking is smooth and fast.
Top off fuel and water, then complete checkout procedures.
Celebrate the week with a final dinner ashore on the east end.
Water Sports
Snorkel along the rocky edges for schools of jacks and colorful reef life.
Short SUP cruise with a buddy; keep well clear of mooring lines.
Gentle laps for confident swimmers parallel to the beach.
Underwater photography in bright mid‑morning light.
No tow sports inside the cove—keep wakes low.
Drone Spots
Coastal arcs of Christmas Cove from moderate altitude—avoid overflight of boats.
Early morning glass‑off near the moorings makes for stable footage.
Cliff textures on Great St. James with careful line‑of‑sight operations.
Final approach to Compass Point for closing route visuals—no flights in the marina.
Respect wildlife and maintain generous buffers from pelicans and frigates.
Must See
Christmas Cove’s clear water and lively reef fish around the points.
Sea turtles grazing in sandy patches—observe from a respectful distance.
Views across Pillsbury Sound toward St. John under the trades.
Short coastal cruise past Dog Island and the east end of St. Thomas.
Sunset glow over the cays if you linger before the final hop home.
Services
Fuel, water and ice on return at Compass Point/Red Hook area docks.
Trash and recycling stations—separate and dispose responsibly.
Taxi stands and car rentals available nearby for airport transfers.
Wi‑Fi and mobile signal are generally strong at the base.
Marine technicians available for any debrief or maintenance notes.
Hazards
Reef and rock shelves around Great St. James—navigate in good light.
Turtles and swimmers—maintain idle speeds in mooring fields.
Trade‑wind gusts in Pillsbury Sound—hold course and reef if needed.
Channel traffic near Red Hook—monitor VHF 16 and keep clear of ferries.
No‑wake inside the marina—watch your stern wash when docking.
Tips
Have lines, fenders and documents ready before entering the fuel dock.
Stow snorkel gear dry and organized for quick turnaround at base.
Mind the ferries and channel traffic on the approach to the east end.
If the cove is full, consider a very short swim stop at a nearby, legal anchorage.
Confirm taxi timing or luggage logistics well before sunset.
7-day USVI sailing itinerary in Compass Point Marina, St. Thomas
Plan a week of effortless island-hopping around the US Virgin Islands. This 7-day route starts and ends on St. Thomas, with short, scenic passages to St. John’s national park bays and the laid-back anchorages of Water Island and Great St. James. Days are deliberately unhurried so you can spend more time in the water and on the trails.
Highlights include world-class beaches at Magens Bay and Honeymoon Beach, exceptional snorkeling at Waterlemon Cay and Christmas Cove, and the Ram Head hike from Salt Pond Bay. Practical mooring guidance, safety tips, and low-impact snorkeling advice are woven into each day to help you enjoy the USVI responsibly.
With easy line-of-sight navigation, generally protected waters, and plentiful moorings in the national park, this itinerary suits new skippers and mixed crews seeking calm anchorages, wildlife encounters, and memorable shore time.
