Blackbeard’s Castle
Blackbeard’s Castle
4
This location was reported permanently closed
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This place is temporarily closed due to a natural disaster. One of St. Thomas's most famous historical sites. A Walking Tour rich in History and Beauty. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Spectacular views, sparkling pools, life size pirates and more.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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4.0
767 reviews
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Mary M
16 contributions
Dec 2020
We made the trek up the 99 steps to the castle. Best thing on my first trip was the caterpillars in the plumeria tree. Later we found Moe of paradise taxi. He took us back up and captured the photos for us. He took them through the gate at the front. If you need arise, I can’t say enough good things about Big Moe 404-713-8430
Written December 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
PirateKoz
Twin Cities2 contributions
I am a Pirate re-enactor, and I love all Pirate history. When I had the opportunity to sail the Islands aboard a Royal Caribbean ship, my head spun with all of the piratey possibilities. One of my destinations, touted on several websites and in my shore excursions book, was Blackbeard's Castle. I pictured an attraction along the same lines as the excellent Pirates of Nassau museum in the Bahamas. Imagine my disappointment when I discovered that “Blackbeard’s Castle” was nothing more than: a small Martello-type tower from the wrong time period, a couple of 1800’s era houses full of antiques, swimming pools (?), a cheesy gift shop and some OK pirate statues, including one of Johnny Depp as Jack Sparrow! (Badly mislabeled as Henry Every). Not a whole lot of Pirate Goodness for $12.00 per person. Follow that with a long, hot sweaty walk down to Charlotte Amalie’s shopping district and you have a discouraging afternoon better spent at the beach.
Written June 22, 2006
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
hctravelers
Fishers, IN1,086 contributions
Oct 2010 • Couples
Take Note: The castle schedule operates with the cruise ship schedules. If there are ships in port they are open. No ships, they are closed. Hours are 9am-3pm. From the pier we took a taxi up to the castle, which cost us $5 each. We each paid $12 for entrance into the castle grounds and a map of the walking tour. Blackbeard's Castle is actually the remains of Fort Trygborg, which was built around 1679 as a watch tower. It is located at the top of Government Hill and is absolutely the best views of the Charlotte Amalie Harbor. The view is the reason it was built there, so Danish soldiers could keep an eye out for enemy ships and protect Fort Christian from attacks. After taking numerous pictures, we sampled some of the rum, and the rum cake. We then did the self guided walking tour down the 99 steps (actually 103) and visited the houses built in the 1800’s and the amber museum. It was 90 degrees that day and very humid, so we enjoyed the refuge of the cool buildings and the breezes. At the end of the steps is Main Street and if you turn right it takes you directly to the shopping areas.
Written September 25, 2011
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KrisyP
Philadelphia, PA1 contribution
Jun 2011 • Couples
I wish I could give this place ZERO circles! On my honeymoon, I convinced my husband to go to Blackbeard's Castle when our cruise ship docked in St. Thomas. After a crammed taxi ride through the island at morning rush hour - we arrived at Blackbeard's Castle only to find out we were an hour early for their opening. I thought we were in the clear when we found an ex-pat worker on his way in to start his shift. How nice he was... he escorted us to the bar (because it's also a hotel too), and told us to get a coffee and wait.
Then my dreams were quickly shattered. After sitting down, we were immediately questioned by the "bartender" who demanded our room number. When I confessed we were just waiting for the site to open - he quickly escorted us out! He wouldn't even sell me a cup of coffee!
Even though Blackbeard's Castle sounds like a fun and interesting place - it's a SCAM and TOURIST TRAP!
If you've seen pictures of Blackbeard's Castle, you've seen it all. Even if your kids beg you to go there, just take them to the beautiful beaches of St. Thomas and enjoy the true island culture.
Then my dreams were quickly shattered. After sitting down, we were immediately questioned by the "bartender" who demanded our room number. When I confessed we were just waiting for the site to open - he quickly escorted us out! He wouldn't even sell me a cup of coffee!
Even though Blackbeard's Castle sounds like a fun and interesting place - it's a SCAM and TOURIST TRAP!
If you've seen pictures of Blackbeard's Castle, you've seen it all. Even if your kids beg you to go there, just take them to the beautiful beaches of St. Thomas and enjoy the true island culture.
Written July 29, 2011
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Good Day! Blackbeard’s Castle is an amazing historical property located in the heart of St. Thomas. Unfortunately this comment is directed at our property while we were closed and does not speak to the experience during operating hours. There are over 14 attractions at Blackbeard’s Castle including a Rum Factory, several historical homes, the Caribbean World Amber Museum, the Treasure Company, the Pirates Den, and more! Like other businesses we cannot open our doors until we are fully staffed and prepared. This ensures the safety for our patrons as well as a wonderful experience. We have several ways for you to check our hours of operations previous to your arrival on the island. Our website has lots of information available and we may also be reached by phone. Please feel free to contact us regarding hours of operation or more information, we are happy to help!
Written September 23, 2011
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Allison O
Grand Blanc, MI129 contributions
Apr 2011
We were in St. Thomas off of the Carnival Liberty and with 2 boys (ages 6 and 9) in tow, decided to pop over for some piracy. We were not disappointed! The entry fee was reasonable and we opted to wander on our own. The gift shop had some really fun stuff and the view from the tower was breathtaking. There are statues of famous pirates all over, including Blackbeard, Anne Bonney, Captain Morgan and even Jack Sparrow. The boys loved seeing these.
There is a small rum distillery there and the rum tasting was great. I highly recommend the very smooth coconut (which isn't as sicky-sweet as Malibu) and the mango. The grounds are lovely, with a few small pools for swimming as well as spectacular views of the harbor. There are 2 preserved historical homes, 2 bars (the one at the bottom/end of the tour is historical in it's own right) as well as the Amber Museum (don't miss the dinosaur!) on the property. The 99 Steps is really 104 now but the kids liked going down such a big stairway.
All of the staff were very friendly and helpful. It was peaceful, leisurely and fun for the whole family!
There is a small rum distillery there and the rum tasting was great. I highly recommend the very smooth coconut (which isn't as sicky-sweet as Malibu) and the mango. The grounds are lovely, with a few small pools for swimming as well as spectacular views of the harbor. There are 2 preserved historical homes, 2 bars (the one at the bottom/end of the tour is historical in it's own right) as well as the Amber Museum (don't miss the dinosaur!) on the property. The 99 Steps is really 104 now but the kids liked going down such a big stairway.
All of the staff were very friendly and helpful. It was peaceful, leisurely and fun for the whole family!
Written April 11, 2011
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Good day! I am so glad that you and your family had a great time. Blackbeard's Castle is perfect for the whole family with lots to do for adults and children. I agree, the coconut rum that we blend here on the property is so smooth and yummy! Try mixing it with Sprite for a nice sunset cocktail. I would like to let you know that we now have a Facebook page. Just simply sign in to your Facebook account and search for “Blackbeard’s Castle”. Check out our page, you can click to follow us, and be sure to click the “LIKE” button as well! Also, we would love to see your photos from your adventures at Blackbeard’s Castle, please post them on our page!
Written August 31, 2011
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
TazsGirl
Ohio178 contributions
Jun 2011
On a recent cruise stop we decided to forgo the ship's excursions and chose Blackbeard's Castle based on some reviews we had seen. We took a cab from the dock to the museum and it appeared we were the only ones from the ship that went there. For $14 admission we got our money's worth! Pirates, a rum distillery (try the mango!) historic homes, pools, 2 historic homes, a bar, restaurant, beautiful gardens, the Amber museum and an excellent view of St. Thomas. The tour was self guided but we were given great instruction and historical information at the beginning and throughout. Robert, in one of the historical homes, was extremely knowledgable and passionate about his work! And Madeline at the Amber museum gave us 25,000 years worth of amber history and I did leave having purchased an amber pendant. We realized at the end of the tour that we had spent several hours at Blackbeard's and enjoyed it immensely. Though we didn't have children with us, I believe this is a great attraction for kids and adults alike.
Written June 15, 2011
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Good day! I'm very pleased that you had such a wonderful time at Blackbeard's Castle and that you enjoyed our amazing staff! Robert is a fantastic tour guide and his enthusiasm for the historical home Britannia House is contagious. One of my favorite attractions is the Amber Museum and I agree, Madeline is a delight! I would like to let you know that we now have a Facebook page. Just simply sign in to your Facebook account and search for “Blackbeard’s Castle”. You can follow us on there and be sure to click the “LIKE” button! Also, we would love to see your photos from your adventures at Blackbeard’s Castle, please post them on our page!
Written August 31, 2011
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Julia L
wisconsin6 contributions
We LOVED Blackbeard's Castle! It was the best secluded, romantic stop on our whole vacation!!! Blackbeard's Castle DOES NOT HAVE A CASTLE, but a mini-tower which you can climb. The mini-tower is the only historic portion of the compound. The rest of the "castle" includes 3 or 4 pools, an outdoor bar/lounge and several well-perserved historic houses which you can tour. We LOVED the privacy of this place. We arrived on a Tuesday around 10 a.m. and stayed until 3 p.m. During the entire 5 hours we were there........we saw ONE other couple, and one tour group of about 10 seniors. The employees said Blackbeards used to be a popular place to drink and hang out in the afternoons, but now is pretty dead. We LOVED how dead it was.........so secluded and romantic! We walked through the historic houses at our own pace and enjoyed the information provided by the guides, who were stationed inside the houses. The outdoor grotto type bar has a great cliff-side view of the Caribbean Sea. You can also see the Caribbean Sea from many of the pools. The bartenders were very friendly and knowledgeable. We LOVED this place for the seclusion and quietness. No mobs or crowds. A great ADULT get-away. Nice place to hang out and REALX for an afternoon. It was a little difficult to find, but we asked people on the streets, who were more than happy to guide us there. You DO have to walk up the 99 steps (unless you take a taxi), so be prepared!!! Overall, we definately felt like we were in the Caribbean, enjoying an afternoon of drinks, swimming and sun, in a secluded, quiet, adult-friendly hang-out. You definately feel like you are on VACATION here. Oh, did I mention the free RUM tastings?? One of the historic houses that you tour is the storage area of a rum distillary. The guides were so great that they put out huge jugs of dark and white rums and just let you at it!!!!!!!!! Such friendly staff, free rum shots, the pools, the view.......................LOVED IT!
Written February 7, 2007
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
David J
Orlando, FL62 contributions
Nov 2018 • Couples
Well... it's still closed. It would have been nice to have some notice of that before walking up the hill from the bay.
Written December 4, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KelleyAndMatt
New Jersey35 contributions
Oct 2013 • Couples
We anticipated *something* else, and we weren't terribly disappointed by what was actually there - but it is by no means a "castle." Nor is it Blackbeard's. It is instead a 2-level tower, albeit with an excellent view of Charlotte-Amalie's harbor. It was a short taxi ride from the cruise ship, not expensive ($5 each?). If you've got nothing else to do and you want to take a nice walk down the "99 steps" (there aren't 99, and they aren't "steps"), and if you've got a bathing suit and a taste for good rum, then this is a fairly easy activity that takes a couple of hours, and leaves you off at the main shopping/eating area of town. The rum tasting isn't free, but is worth it - the rums were very good and we bought several bottles (mango, pineapple and vanilla).
The tower itself is an easy climb, and as I said, the view is really nice. We were there during an "off" season and the people who run the tower weren't overly friendly or informative, seemed like they could have cared less, actually, but I imagine during more active seasons they must put on some kind of effort. Especially the rum tasting - I swear that lady was bored out of her mind, pouring shots for us to taste. Complete lack of enthusiasm on her part, however, she must stand there all day, every day, pouring shots for tourists, which I do imagine would be tiresome. We did our best to crack a smile on her but failed miserably. Oh well. *Shrug*
The walk down the "steps" is interesting, nice homes and gardens, lots of pirate statues and ample photo opportunities. And, if you've got a bathing suit under your clothes, there are a few places to stop and take a dip on a hot day. Kids might enjoy this, too - not the really young ones (the hills are a bit steep for strollers and dragging along toddlers), but the older kids would probably enjoy the sights and statues.
The amber museum is interesting, but don't buy anything there - that is NOT real amber they try to sell you, not matter what they say. It's resin, and pretty obviously, too.
To recap: it's not a castle it's a tower, and it's not even Blackbeard's tower, but it is interesting, and there's rum, pirate statues and the occasional small pool, so what's to not enjoy?
The tower itself is an easy climb, and as I said, the view is really nice. We were there during an "off" season and the people who run the tower weren't overly friendly or informative, seemed like they could have cared less, actually, but I imagine during more active seasons they must put on some kind of effort. Especially the rum tasting - I swear that lady was bored out of her mind, pouring shots for us to taste. Complete lack of enthusiasm on her part, however, she must stand there all day, every day, pouring shots for tourists, which I do imagine would be tiresome. We did our best to crack a smile on her but failed miserably. Oh well. *Shrug*
The walk down the "steps" is interesting, nice homes and gardens, lots of pirate statues and ample photo opportunities. And, if you've got a bathing suit under your clothes, there are a few places to stop and take a dip on a hot day. Kids might enjoy this, too - not the really young ones (the hills are a bit steep for strollers and dragging along toddlers), but the older kids would probably enjoy the sights and statues.
The amber museum is interesting, but don't buy anything there - that is NOT real amber they try to sell you, not matter what they say. It's resin, and pretty obviously, too.
To recap: it's not a castle it's a tower, and it's not even Blackbeard's tower, but it is interesting, and there's rum, pirate statues and the occasional small pool, so what's to not enjoy?
Written September 5, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bdun87
Windsor27 contributions
Jul 2011
Unfortunately just a small tower that had nothing to do with the history of Blackbeard although he was in port nearby in the 1700's. The guide gave an entertaining story of Blackbeard's death but it was different than what we saw on the history channel. You get a tour of rum making and the amber museum is OK . The $80 for 5 of us was not a great value.
Written July 14, 2011
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Good day! Blackbeard's Castle, also known as Skytsborg Tower (meaning sky tower), was built in 1679 by the Danes as a watchtower for the harbor of Charlotte Amalie. It is located at the highest point on Government Hill and offers visitors a stunning 45 mile panoramic view. Danish Soldiers used Skytsborg as a vantage point to spot enemy ships and protect impressive Fort Christian from attacks. Fort Christian is at sea level, which was ideal for warding off attackers with canon fire, but did not offer a good enough view of the incoming ships before they entered the harbor. It is not known what year Skytsborg Tower took on the name of Blackbeard's Castle, but the infamous Edward Teach, commonly known as Blackbeard the Pirate, did sail the Caribbean waters in the early 1700s. It has become part of the lore of the island that he used the Tower as a vantage point for his own treacherous purposes. Blackbeard's Castle is one of four National Historic sites in the US Virgin Islands. Blackbeard’s Castle offers over 14 attractions including the Rum Factory, Caribbean World Amber Museum, Hotel 1829, Villa Notman, Britannia House, Haagensen House, the Salty Dog, and more! With so many attractions at one location, Blackbeard’s Castle offers plenty to do for adults and children alike at a great value!
Written August 31, 2011
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hi does anyone know if this attraction is open? I’m coming in June and was wondering if I’ll be able to visit. Tried to call and number and it was disconnected.
Written June 10, 2020
We are here now. We drove by yesterday and it still has the same sign that says closed due to hurricane. The number listed on Google maps is disconnected. However some says they visited 2 weeks ago, so 🤷♂️
Written June 28, 2020
We are going on a cruise February 2020. Will Blackbeards Castle be open?
Written March 8, 2019
You have to call them, even if they’ve reopened, they aren’t always open every day. Call to find out. I believe it’s based on the ship schedule
Written March 22, 2019
Good Evening,
I am going on a cruise to here in September with my Mom & sister, do you remember how much this was and any other suggestions on what to do while here? We we be here about 5/6 hours.
Thanks in advance,
Belinda
Written January 8, 2019
This attraction was closed for repairs when we were there in October, 2018. There was no indication available as to when they might reopen. Other attractions were still undergoing repairs and not ready for visitors but you could go inside and see what was going on there but not at Blackbeards Castle. We wanted to walk the 99 steps an were rewarded with a beautiful view and got some good pictures but the only thing in that area open and ready for visitors was the Synagogue. It was fascinating and actually was our favorite place visited.
The majority of the shops are open and welcome you even if you are "only looking". The prices are reasonable--about like the other islands. The jewelry stores generally have beer and soft drinks as well as water for people who are "shopping" there. There are stores of every kind. If you have the time and are remotely interested in shoes there is a unique store selling hand made leather sandals. The name begins with a Z I think. I believe it is a person's name. Makes a good souvenir to bring home. Also there is a mall cafe on a side street called Gladys Cafe. She makes and sells hot sauce and has several flavors which you can try if you are eating there and may be possible otherwise. We brought several home with us and they bring back good memories when we use them. On that same side street --actually a 6 ft wide passageway--there is a GREAT little shop selling a few clothing items, marvelous handcrafted jewelry, handmade bowls, paintings, and much more. The owner is a delight to talk with. She is a retired teacher and does most of the jewelry, bowls, etc herself. I bought a pair of Larimar ear rings and love wearing them and the good memories they bring back. I cannot think of the name of this shop but the owner's name is Tulip and her door is justfeet from Glady's door. Please go there.
If you want to stay in the downtown area there is plenty to see and do but if you want to take a taxi there are other shopping areas nearby. I hope you enjoy your brief time on St Thomas as much as we loved our time there. While in the shopping area treat yourself and have a Bushwacker. It is beyond good!!! You can get one at Gladys or in most any food or drink place.
Written January 8, 2019
Has the island of St. Thomas recovered from the last devastating hurricane.? Is that why the castle only has limited open days ?
Written October 31, 2018
I was there in 2018. There was some damage and some attractions weren't open, but the damage didn't look too bad.
Written March 22, 2019
proudmary79
Irmo, South Carolina
This answer was posted months ago. So the answer isn’t relevant
Written July 19, 2018
Can you walk the site 99 steps, see the view, & hang out at the property other than Tuesday & Wednesday?
Written September 2, 2017
We walked up the steps but had an informal self-guided tour before dinner. I'm not sure about the actual days when tours are available.
Written September 5, 2017
Hi, I am going on Carnival cruise and I would like to visit this castle, but first I have few questions :
1. Can we walk from port to this location ?
2. How much does it cost for a tour ?
3. Can we visit the castle by our self ?
4. Does Black beard really lived there ?
5. Tips :P
Thank you so much and have a good day
Vittoria
Written April 3, 2017
The taxi to the top cost us $4 per person. Considering what I paid for the cruise...my wallet opened up pretty quick for that! At the end of the "tour" you end up at the bottom of the hill about a 5 minute walk from the downtown area. Again, another $4 taxi ride per person takes you back to the cruise ship pier. Would be a 30 minute walk to get back on foot. Tour I think cost us about $30 per person. Took us about 45 minutes to get to the bottom, but you could stretch it out to a few hours and hit the 2 bars for some wobbly pops on the way. Also a swimming pool at the top you are allowed to use and if it was a hot day and you were inclined to do so; well worth it. The taxi to the top cost us $4 per person. Considering what I paid for the cruise...my wallet opened up pretty quick for that! At the end of the "tour" you end up at the bottom of the hill about a 5 minute walk from the downtown area. Again, another $4 taxi ride per person takes you back to the cruise ship pier. Would be a 30 minute walk to get back on foot. Tour I think cost us about $30 per person. Took us about 45 minutes to get to the bottom, but you could stretch it out to a few hours and hit the 2 bars for some wobbly pops on the way. Also a swimming pool at the top you are allowed to use and if it was a hot day and you were inclined to do so; well worth it.
Written April 4, 2017
hi !!:) can we visit the Castle by ou self or we have to take a tour with a guide? and how Much IT cost ?
thank you !!
Written March 25, 2017
Eso es como un parque que uno puede conseguir diferentes atracciones?
Written February 19, 2017
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