Water Island, U.S. Virgin Islands

Water Island () is the fourth and most recently acquired main island in the U.S. Virgin Islands, a United States territory located in the Caribbean Sea. The island is of volcanic origin and lies to the south of Saint Thomas in the Charlotte Amalie harbor. Ferry service runs regularly from Crown Bay, Saint Thomas to Phillips Landing, Water Island; the ferry ride is about 10 minutes.

At in size, Water Island is the smallest of the main U.S. Virgin Islands. It is administratively a part (subdistrict) of the St. Thomas District. Water Island is a residential island, with a population of 161 (2000 census) and no significant commercial establishments. A number of homes on Water Island are available to accommodate visitors. The main attractions are beaches, including Honeymoon Beach, plantation ruins, and Fort Segarra, an underground fort partially constructed by the U.S. during World War II. The northern end of the island is a gated community, Sprat Bay Estates, which includes Sprat Bay Beach. All of the beaches in the USVI are public.

History

The earliest known Water Island settlers were Taíno Indians in the 15th century.Water Island was named by Europeans for its natural ponds of fresh water. Many islands in the Lesser Antilles lack potable water, so Water Island was a frequent stop for pirates seeking to replenish their ships' stores of fresh water.

Danish claims to the island date to at least 1769. During the 18th century and early 19th century, the...
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