Taking our first cruise to the Eastern Caribbean end of January. Would like advice on best things to do, in a half a day, at St. Thomas USVI, and St. Maarten islands. Thanks.

It would be helpful to know the kind of activities that interest you. Are you looking for a beach, shopping, etc?? You might want to check the cruise board and the caribbean board.

post on the Caribbean Board--you are on the US board

If you are going to St. Thomas, and you are interested in shopping, this is a great port to get some decent bargains--especially on jewelry and electronics, plus the shopping is duty free. If you are not interested in shopping, highly recommend taking an excursion to St. John, either for a beach day or snorkeling. Don't waste time on Megan's Beach, even though it is touted as one of the most beautiful beaches, it can't come close to Trunk Bay on St. John. It is paradise. St. Martin is also good for shopping, and most likely they will dock right in Phillipsburg. There is accessible shopping not too far from the ship. Otherwise, again, you could take excursions to the French side of the island, Marigot, or a couple of great beaches I have been to were Orient Bay and Dawn Beach at the Dawn Beach Hotel. Normally, there is an excursion to Orient Bay. Just be warned that it used to be next to a nudist colony and you will see nude and/or topless people. I'll add that those who were nude shouldn't have been, if you know what I mean. Also, there are water sports are available here, and if you have the guts....absolutely recommend parasailing at Orient Bay, especially if you've never done it before. Now at Dawn Beach, you can take a taxi from the ship to get there, if memory recalls. The last thing you should do, especially on my recommendations in St. Maarten, is ask the tour agent the conditions of the beaches. A few years ago a hurricane hit there and it was my understanding that Orient, and maybe Dawn Beach, too, were hit relatively hard. They should be in better condition by now, but you should check to be sure. It may also be possible to do a little morning shopping and schedule your excursions in the afternoon. Again, check with the tour desk. Have a great time.

Just a side note to hugglynn's post. The beaches on SXM are all fine now since we haven't had a major hurricane in a number of years.

I agree that you will get more responses by posting your question on the Caribbean board.