Haulover Cut

Overview

Haulover Cut is an artificial channel located in Frenchtown, Saint Thomas Island, U.S. Virgin Islands. The landmass was separated in 1860 by the Danish administration to aid better circulation of boats and water in the harbor of Charlotte Amalie. It is located between Hassel Island and St. Thomas Island. Haulover Bay offers the best anchorage along the north coast. The water in this bay is pristinely clear. The traffic that comes through makes it not so great for swimming but a few people brave the waters to Hassel Island and back.

General Information

The narrow passage of Haulover Cut is a busy channel. It is an active seaplane landing and operating area that sees dozens of tourist boats, ferries, dinghies, charter yachts, and people crossing over to Hassel Island.

A reef lies at the southwest entrance of the channel about 80 yards into the cut from Hassel Island, while rocks perimeter the northwest side. Seaplanes generally take off on a southeast heading from Cay Bay and land on a northeast heading.

Where to Anchor

Frenchtown Harbor Marina

The dock allows vessels up to 180 feet, provides water, and has restrooms. It also offers trash and pump-out services.  The channel has a depth of at least 12 feet through the center. One can also sail to nearby Crown Bay Marina, or in the opposite direction to St Thomas Harbor. Yacht Haven Marina is also a good option. It has moorings and an anchorage in 16- to 30-foot depths. St. Thomas Harbor is deep and easy to enter for all types of boats, no matter the weather conditions. It can accommodate wide vessels, and the different marine facilities provide repairs and concierge services. Please note that the cut only allows for speeds of 5mph. Also, watch out for seaplanes landing and taking off at a high rate of speed.

History and Culture

Charlotte Amalie is the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands. This busy port is on the shores of St. Thomas Harbor. The name Charlotte Amalie was the name of a Danish Queen. One can still see a lot of classic European architecture today in the historic homes and buildings. The channel was dug by the Danish in the 1860s and widened by the United States Army Corps of Engineers in 1919 after the United States purchased the now United States Virgin Islands. Before that, Hassel Island was a peninsula of St. Thomas with its rich history.

Places of Interest

Hassel Island

The Virgin Island National Park on this island encourages hiking to see such sights as the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company, the marine railway, a signal station, and a coaling station.

Villa Olga Property

Villa Olga overlooks the Haulover Cut channel in St. Thomas. It has 1600 feet of shoreline and houses Oceana restaurant, Olga’s Fancy, and a natural saltwater pool.

Blackbeard’s Castle

Blackbeard’s Castle was constructed in 1679 by the Danish government to protect the harbor. Blackbeard’s Castle was called Skytsborg, but later got renamed for Edward Teach commonly called Blackbeard, the pirate. The watchtower is located at the highest point of Government Hill.

Places to Eat

Oceana Restaurant & Bistro

Oceana Restaurant & Bistro is one of the best restaurants on the Virgin Islands. It is located beside the ocean and provides outdoor seating for patrons. The sounds and sights of water hitting the rock produce a tranquil environment perfect for the delicious 3-course meals they serve.

Hook, Line, and Sinker

This seafood restaurant cooks up delicious plates of food that are just as great to look at as they are to eat. They deliver fresh seafood and beautiful cocktails every day.

Places to Stay

Olga’s Fancy

Olga’s Fancy is a pretty boutique resort in Frenchtown, Charlotte-Amalie. This pleasant hotel is near the beach and close to restaurants and other attractions.  It is well known for its hospitality, warmth, cleanliness, and attention to detail. It is family-friendly and serves breakfast.