St John Island USVI (Cruz Bay, US Virgin Islands)

Saint John Island is one of the US Virgin Islands (USVI) - an unincorporated US territory in the Caribbean Sea. The isle is located approx 6,5 km (4 mi) southwest of Tortola Island (BVI). In close proximity (approx 1 mi / 2 km to the southeast of St John) is the private island Lovango Cay - a popular snorkeling destination visited via charter boats or on boat tours from both St John and St Thomas.

St John has land area 51 km2 (19,6 mi2) and population around 4,500. Since 1956, around 60% of the island is a protected area (Virgin Islands National Park) administered by the USA's National Park Service.

The island's economy is based exclusively on tourism.

Cruz Bay (nicknamed Love City) is St John Island's cruise port and largest town (population around 3,000). It is located on the isle's west coast and is its largest commercial center and principal port. The primary access to the island is through Cruz Bay Harbor.

Besides cruise vessels, the port is frequently visited by barges and ferries (passengers and cars) connecting St John to St Thomas Island. Regular ferry services are offered between Cruz Bay and Tortola (BVI), Virgin Gorda (BVI) and Jost Van Dyke (BVI).

Cruz Bay town is a popular tourist destination featuring plenty of shops and restaurants, USVI National Park Visitor Center, library, post office, bank. Near Cruz Bay's waterfront are the headquarters of the USVI National Park Service, also the US Customs and Immigration.

All USVI beaches (including on St John) are public and free of charge (no entry fees required).

St John Island USVI cruise terminal