Is the event a sailing cruise?

No, this holiday celebration is dockside only; the Denis Sullivan does not sail during the event.

Can I bring my own alcoholic beverages?

Due to liquor licensing, outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted, but a cash bar is available.

Are children allowed to attend?

There are no specified age restrictions, but the event includes alcohol and live music, so discretion is advised.

Is food included in the ticket price?

Yes, hors d'oeuvres and one complimentary holiday drink are included for attendees.

What is the best way to get to Gallows Bay?

Gallows Bay is easily accessed from the nearby town of Mount Welcome; consider driving or arranging local transport.

Is this event wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility information is not specified, so contact organizers directly for details on accommodations.

Celebrate the Season Dockside Aboard Denis Sullivan in St. Croix | Events | Boat Tour

Experience a one-of-a-kind holiday celebration on St. Croix with the festive "Holiday Spirits aboard Denis Sullivan," a special dockside event held at Gallows Bay. Situated in the charming town of Mount Welcome, this seasonal gathering invites visitors and locals alike to kick back in the spirit of the holidays without leaving the shore. The Denis Sullivan, a renowned tall ship known for its grace and historic presence in the U.S. Virgin Islands, serves as an atmospheric backdrop for an unforgettable evening of warmth, music, and merriment.

Unlike typical sailing adventures, this event remains dockside, creating an intimate and accessible environment for guests to mingle amid the ship’s classic rigging and rigged masts. Sponsored by Mutiny Vodka, attendees receive hors d’oeuvres and a complimentary holiday-themed drink upon arrival. A cash bar extends the drink options, making it easy to find the perfect festive cocktail while enjoying the tropical air and gentle sea breezes.

Musical entertainment is at the heart of the experience, providing lively tunes that fill the air and elevate the mood. Whether you come with friends or family, the event fosters a joyful atmosphere to connect over seasonal cheer. Capture memorable photos with the majestic Denis Sullivan as your backdrop, offering a unique holiday card-worthy setting in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

St. Croix itself offers rich natural scenery and cultural history, being the largest of the USVI with plenty of Caribbean charm. Gallows Bay, where the event is hosted, is easily accessible from the nearby town of Mount Welcome, known for its friendly community and convenient accommodations. Visitors can explore in combination with this event, extending their stay to enjoy local restaurants, beaches, and snorkeling spots nearby.

This event is unique because it blends the maritime heritage of the Denis Sullivan with a festive celebration in a tropical setting where sailing is optional but good cheer is mandatory. No sailing experience or technical skills are required since the event is fully dockside. Guests should note that for licensing reasons, no outside alcoholic beverages are permitted, though water bottles are welcome.

Whether you’re seeking a distinctive holiday outing, a lively social event, or a chance to celebrate local maritime culture in the USVI, the Holiday Spirits aboard Denis Sullivan provides a refreshing alternative to the standard seasonal party. Gather under the Caribbean stars, savor festive drinks, enjoy savory bites, and savor a warm island vibe that’s hard to match anywhere else in the winter season.

About World Ocean School

World Ocean School delivers hands-on ocean education and community sails based in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. The organization operates public and private sails aboard historic vessels including the Denis Sullivan and the Roseway, combining cultural interpretation, ecology programming, and seasonal events. Sails range from two-hour educational trips that highlight local ecology and wildlife to gala fundraisers, holiday parties, and appreciation sails that raise funds for student programs.

Programming partners include local historians from CHANT and the St. Croix Environmental Association, who lead cultural and ecological discussions onboard. These collaborations reinforce curriculum quality and ensure accurate, locally rooted storytelling. Tickets, events, and fundraising galas support school scholarships, in-classroom materials, and experiential learning for St. Croix students.

Staff and volunteer crew include trained educators and experienced sailors who supervise hands-on activities such as raising sails and observing marine life, maintaining safety standards while promoting active learning. Vessel operations adhere to standard safety and hospitality practices, with refreshment services provided during public sails.

Community engagement is central: the organization hosts public holiday events like the St. Croix Christmas Boat Parade viewing, family-focused end-of-season sails, and donor appreciation evenings. Annual signature events—gala fundraisers and sunset send-offs—connect supporters directly to educational impact.

Through documented partnerships, recurring public events, and targeted fundraising, World Ocean School positions itself as a credible provider of maritime education and community experiences. Prospective guests and donors can expect professionally run sails that blend cultural history, environmental education, and memorable island views. Booking information, schedules, and tickets are available online today.