Windward Passage is the practical, central choice in Charlotte Amalie, and it suits travellers who want to be in the middle of things rather than on a resort beach. The hotel stands on Veterans Drive, a minute on foot from the harbour, with the inter-island ferry terminal across the street and the town’s shopping and sights within an easy walk. It has 151 rooms, from standard rooms with a king or two double beds to superior rooms with an ocean view and a private balcony. Rooms have air conditioning, a safe, a television, a coffee maker and free Wi-Fi. The hotel has an outdoor freshwater pool on a second-floor sundeck, a Windward Restaurant serving breakfast and dinner with Continental and West Indian dishes, a bar and lounge with live entertainment on some nights, a small fitness centre, a dive shop and a small gaming room. A complimentary van takes guests to Magens Bay Beach, and self parking is free. It is a hotel for sightseeing and island-hopping, with the harbour on the doorstep.
Location and getting around
The hotel is in Charlotte Amalie, about nine minutes by car from Cyril E. King Airport. On foot, Fort Christian, the 99 Steps and the synagogue are about ten minutes away, and Blackbeard’s Castle about fifteen. Hassel Island and the Magic Ice Gallery are within five minutes, and the cathedral is close too.
The ferry terminal opposite is the starting point for inter-island boats, so it is a useful base for a day trip. Taxis wait in town for longer rides to the beaches on the north and east sides of the island.
The rooms
Standard rooms are about 320 square feet and sleep two to four, and superior rooms have an ocean view and a balcony. Rollaway beds and cribs are not available, so check the occupancy of the room you choose. The hotel has an elevator, and the building has three floors.
Who it suits
Travellers on a short stay, cruise passengers adding a night, divers who want the on-site dive shop, and visitors who plan to spend their days on boats and beaches elsewhere. It is not a beach resort. The building is practical and has some age, so keep your expectations in line with the price rather than expecting a luxury finish. Children are welcome, though the minimum check-in age is 21.
Good to know
A cooked-to-order breakfast is available for a fee per person, and the restaurant’s opening can vary, so check when you book. Check-in runs into the evening, and there is no after-hours arrival. Pets are not allowed, though service animals are welcome. Free cancellation applies to selected rates only, and taxes and extra-person charges may be added, so check the final price. A government photo ID and a card or cash deposit are needed at check-in.
Why stay here
- ✓Harbourfront location
- ✓Heated freshwater sundeck pool
- ✓Windward Restaurant
- ✓Free van to Magens Bay
- ✓Dive shop on site
- ✓Free self parking
- ✓Free Wi-Fi
- ✓Elevator
Good questions
Does Windward Passage have a beach?+
No. It is a town hotel, and a free van runs to Magens Bay Beach. Check the van times when you book.
Is it close to the ferries?+
Yes. The inter-island ferry terminal is across the street, and the harbour is about a minute away on foot.
Is parking free?+
Yes, self parking is free, though many guests will not need a car when they stay in town.
