The Tower
Built in 1679. Still keeping watch.
Blackbeard’s Tower was constructed in 1679 and has always been standing.
This makes Blackbeard’s Castle and Skytsborg Tower one of the oldest structures in the United States and Western Hemisphere with consistent use.
Erected by the Danes as Skytsborg — the sky tower — to guard Charlotte Amalie Harbor and Fort Christian. The original watchtower has stood here for nearly three and a half centuries.
The property took on the name Blackbeard’s Castle in a nod to the era of piracy that shaped this stretch of the Caribbean. Today the tower is one of five National Historic Landmarks in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Climb to the top and you’re looking out over the same harbor that watched ships in and out of port for 17th-century Denmark, 18th-century pirates, and every era since. Eight rooms sit on the grounds below it, so a handful of guests wake up to that same view every morning.
The spiral staircase inside Skytsborg
One ticket. One pour.
Your admission includes a complimentary sample for each guest in the Rum Room, a small cellar of local and Caribbean rums chosen by the property. Sip slowly, climb the tower, then head down to Jolly Roger’s for the chaser.
Home of Blackbeard’s Castle Rum — take a bottle home as a souvenir for $30.
Built to outrun the enemy.
The Danish-cut stair-streets that climb to the tower were engineered for one reason: so soldiers could sprint down to Fort Christian the moment they spotted enemy sails from up here. Three and a half centuries later they’re a postcard-favorite climb — and the most direct walking route between Downtown Charlotte Amalie and the property. Worth knowing before you take them on: our hotel guests start at the top.
About a quarter-mile from Main Street
Open walking directionsWhat’s included.
$15 · per person
Get Tickets Now- Climb the historic Skytsborg watchtower
- Access to the historic Blackbeard’s Castle grounds
- Pool & lounge access
- Rum Room access with a complimentary tasting
- Stunning panoramic harbor views
Eight rooms · On the grounds
You can also sleep here.
Most people climb the tower and head back down the hill. Eight rooms sit on the grounds below it, inside the same National Historic Landmark, with the harbor filling the window and the pool a few steps from the door.
Charlotte Amalie is a short walk downhill. The tower is right outside.
Daily, 9 AM – 5 PM.
Self-guided. Last admission 4:30 PM.