Shore excursions
 

Any tips for shore excursions in San Juan & St Thomas. Can I get to St John easily from St Thomas?

In St. Thomas, take a taxi to Red Hook. There are vans near the dock going in that direction. The drivers will direct you to them.
You can then catch the ferry to St John. This is a less crowded, faster and cheaper alternative to the excursion option booked on board.
Then take a taxi out of Cruz Bay to any beach of your choice. The taxis runs constantly and in either direction from Cruz.
Snoop around the internet before you go to decide on a preferred beach. Trunk Bay is the most popular destination and might be your choice but you won't be restricted by the excursion and if it isn't you'll avoid the masses.
This also allows for the option to hike, if you like. Take a look at Caneel, Chocolate Hole, Cinnamon etc. With the taxi, you can get off wherever you like.
As for San Juan, we always enjoyed just exploring Old San Juan on foot. You can also stroll down to the fort, El Morro, and tour it. It's an interesting way to experince their history and do it at your own pace- and without a fee.

I forgot to mention that, for complete freedom on St John, you can rent a jeep near the dock in Cruz bay. Of course, this gives up the economic advantages of an "excursion". Depends on your budget and sense of adventure. The island is very easy to navigate- not too many roads.

You can do your own walking tour of Old San Juan which is quite nice, available in guide books or on the web. It is probably similar to the walking tours provided by the cruiseline.

It's easy to walk around Old San Juan.
If you dock at the piers close to Old San Juan you can just walk right into the town from the ship. If you dock at the other piers on teh other side of the water, take a taxi (recommend a taxi to El Morro as then all your walking will be downhill).

Once in Old san Juan, just wandaer around, but make sure you see, El Morro, The Cathedral, San Juan Gate, Governors Mansiona and Paseo La Princesa.

Food: Parrot Club, Tantra, Amadeus, Al Dente
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In Old San Juan, after touring the forts, etc., stop at El Convento Hotel for a drink in their courtyard.