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We will be going on a cruise including St Thomas next month. I am in a power wheelchair and I am wondering if there are shops at the port and is that area wheelchair friendly? Also does anyone know if they offer and wheelchair taxis or charters?
We are heading there soon.... my father has multiple sclerosis so I understand your question completely.... I'll check out things and report back when I get home. Others may have more info. sooner for you...
Both ports (Havensight and Crown Bay) have shops, and I'm pretty sure both ports meet ADA standards for accessibility. There's even a tour company - Accessible Adventures - that offers tours in a special vehicle that can accommodate mobility vehicles. They ususally offer their tours on certain cruise lines, so maybe their tours aren't available on your ships. I think there's another group here offering something similar, but I've forgotten the name. It may be Dial-A-Ride. I think if you google accessible tours st thomas their website should come up.
But in general terms, the USVI is not very wheelchair friendly. You will be limited in where you can safely go.
Again the answer is yes. Depending on which dock in St Thomas you came in on. From Havensight to town is the best bet. Most of the sidewalks have been adjusted there for wheelchairs. However, currently there is construction from Havensight to town so the transporters Ms411 talked about should be the way to go.There are a few stretches from the Crown Bay Dock that are iffy. There are some stores in town that you would need assistance and others with easy access. Both shopping areas on the docks are ADA ready. I see most every day both motorized and regular wheelchairs everywhere. Can't speak for St Croix.
The tropical trolley that takes wheelchair bound tourists around goes to Mountain Top which is totally accessible. They have an electric lift down to the deck to see the view.
Hello Cruiselady,
If you are docked in Havensight there are lots of shops right there and next door is Yacht Haven Grande with more shops, restaurant, marina. Both areas are wheelchair friendly. Other dock is in Crown Bay, it has some shops.
If you want to do an island tour you can check out Accessible Tours/Tropical Trolley at http://www.accessibleusvi.com/index.html.
There is a dive shop that offers special programs for people with physical disabilities; check their site for more information at http://www.aadivers.com/.
--Islander
