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We are going to be visiting St Thomas USVI in mid-April for the day as part of a cruise (sorry to the people/residents who find the tourists trying I hadn't realized it was such a problem until I read some of the discussions on this forum and learned how many ships dock daily, must be tough on you locals).
We would really like to see a bit of the island even though our time is short and since we both have motorcycle licenses thought scooters would be ideal to see some of the lest touristy places. Several sites mention that there are scooter rentals but I haven't been able to find any further information. If anyone has any information or suggestions I'd appreciate your help. And if anyone knows of spots within an hour or so of the port where the ships dock that are interesting or historical or just beautiful and less visited that would be helpful too. Thanks a bunch for any help
There's 2 or three right across the street from Havensight. BUT...................and I repeat BUT...........................having a bike license from the states has nothing to do with anything down here. First, you don't need a motorcycle license to rent a scooter here, just a license. But more than that, it's the roads here.................this isn't like riding Interstate 40 or anything, there are extremely steep grades here, holes everywhere in the road and these scooters are like 150CC's and stuff.
Lots of people rent scooters here. All I'm saying is don't take ANYTHING for granted; ie: the roads, your experience and ESPECIALLY THE OTHER GUY as far as riding anything down here goes.
I rode motorcycle my whole life and I too would like to discourage you from renting a scooter! I have seen many mishaps with scooters and you will be taking your life in your own hands! Also, not knowing where you are going, add driving on the left, = disaster! If you do it, PLEASE be careful! Another idea that quite a few cruisers do is to rent a car for a day! If your ship is coming into Havensight, there is a Budget rental business right there!
Enjoy yourselves! 🙂
ps- many of these scooters can barely make it up the HILLS! Not many flat areas to ride!
Do you know what we call the scooter renters?
Patients...
as suggested be CAREFUL.! Not only yourself but the other guy. And pay special attention to the road conditions. The pot holes ae bigger than your wheels are on a scooter.
billd
There is a car rental place right near the Donor Cycle Rentals. Rent a car and save the riding for home. If you really need the wind in your hair then hire a safari driver to give you a tour of the island, drink some rum and enjoy the view while he deals with the traffic.
My 2 cents.
Enjoy your trip
Jay
Donor Cycle Rentals: You drive 'em- We harvest 'em...
Hello Ellen,
If you rent a vehicle you can take a scenic drive around the northside of the island, stopping at spots like Drakes Seat lookout and Mountain Top. This isn't off the beaten track, its a popular route for taxi tours, however its a nice drive with several lookout points for taking in the view. And then head east for some beach hopping; you can pick beaches less traveled by cruise passengers. For reference, the top three beaches with cruise passengers are Magens, Coki and Sapphire.
--Islander
Thanks very much to all who replied. You've given me some good info and I appreciate it. I was just wanting to get a bit more of the real atmosphere of the place rather than just the touristy stuff and thought a scooter boot around would be the thing but it doesn't sound like it's the better option afterall. Thanks again for your help and advice.
ellen,
the real atmosphere of the place or the adventure is determined by the driver - not the vehicle.
I know after a couple days of driving in STT, you will cofirm how smart the advice you have received on this board has been
have a great time - KEEP LEFT!
