Questions guests ask
Staying near the Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas, answered plainly
The questions people type into Google before they book on the East End, with straight answers.
Is there a cheaper alternative to The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas?
Yes. Island Time is a privately owned condo in Cowpet Bay West, the residential beachfront community on the bay next to the Ritz's Great Bay. You get a full kitchen, a living room and a private balcony for $550 to $649 a night, depending on season, instead of a hotel room rate. Island Time has no connection to the Ritz; it is simply next door.
How close is Cowpet Bay West to The Ritz-Carlton?
They sit on adjoining bays on the East End of St. Thomas. Cowpet Bay West is directly on Cowpet Bay; the Ritz is on Great Bay. The resort is a landmark you can see and walk toward from the beach.
Is Cowpet Bay a good beach?
It is a calm, protected beach shared with the St. Thomas Yacht Club and the residents of Cowpet Bay West and East. The lawn runs straight to the sand. It is quieter than a resort beach and you will see moored sailboats rather than crowds.
Can I walk to restaurants?
Yes. The two beachfront restaurants at Cowpet Beach Resort (The Elysian), Caribbean Fish Market and Beachside Bistro, are next door. Red Hook, with the East End's main cluster of restaurants and bars, is minutes away by car or taxi.
How do I get to St. John?
Passenger ferries to Cruz Bay, St. John leave from Red Hook, minutes from the condo. The car barge also runs from Red Hook.
Does the condo have a kitchen?
A full one: range and oven, microwave, dishwasher, full-size refrigerator, beverage fridge and a marble island with seating. There is a grocery store in Red Hook.
What happens if the power goes out?
Cowpet Bay West has a community standby generator, which is not a given on St. Thomas.
How many people does it sleep?
Seven, across three bedrooms and three baths. Each bedroom has a king bed, and one bedroom also has a twin.
Is there parking?
Yes. One guest parking spot is included.
What are the rates and fees?
$649 a night, and $550 a night from June 15 to November 1. There is a $300 cleaning fee per stay. The owner confirms your total with your dates.
What are the check-in and check-out times and house rules?
Check-in is 4 pm and check-out is 11 am. No pets, no smoking, and no parties or large groups after 10:30 pm.
Is there laundry?
Yes, in the unit.
How far is the airport?
Cyril E. King Airport (STT) is about 30 to 40 minutes away by car, depending on traffic.
Is Island Time affiliated with The Ritz-Carlton?
No. Island Time is an independent, privately owned condominium. The Ritz-Carlton is mentioned only as a nearby landmark and for comparison. Ritz amenities, beach and services are for Ritz guests under the resort's own policies.
Still deciding?
See the numbers side by side
Condo vs. Ritz room: space, kitchen, parking, beach, weekly cost.