St. Thomas has a brand new destination to explore — but it’s older than almost any place on island. Welcome to Bluebeard’s Tower Museum at the recently renovated Bluebeard’s Castle hotel and restaurant complex.
Steeped in history and mystery, construction of the original building began back in 1666. At one time, the Tower served as a lookout point for Danish troops. Centuries later — long after the facility opened as a sprawling hilltop hotel — The Tower interior was completely renovated and became the resort’s exclusive honeymoon suite.
Ironically, the legend of Bluebeard recounts a dastardly pirate who regularly murdered his current wife to make way for the next. Now there’s a honeymoon story “to die for.”
Above: In addition to The Museum Tower, Bluebeard’s Castle also is home to Pirate’s Chest retail shop.
Top of page: The Museum Tower at Bluebeard’s Castle hosts fascinating tours by private appointment.
A display in the Pirate’s Chest retail shop showcases that legendary rascal himself — infamous Bluebeard the Pirate.
The two-story Museum Tower at Bluebeard’s Castle offers displays of ancient Caribbean artifacts, pirate paraphernalia, shipwreck treasures, and more.
Above: Museum curator, Sean Loughman, has fascinating tales to share about colorful pirates, Caribbean shipwrecks, lost treasure, and more.
No matter. The Tower is now home to surprisingly spacious dual-level display rooms filled with endless fascinations ranging from pirate lore to treasure troves of authentic artifacts and imagery. The tour finale takes you up to the rooftop for amazing panoramas and photo opportunities overlooking Charlotte Amalie Harbor.
Best of all, the entire experience comes to life, courtesy of the museum’s knowledgeable guide and curator, Sean Loughman.
You may have seen Sean on the Travel Channel’s “Caribbean Pirate Treasure” with Philippe and Ashlyn Cousteau. He also has been featured on BNC-TV’s “Secrets of the Caribbean.” No stranger to the museum scene, he also is a partner at Pirates Treasure Shipwreck Museum.
An island resident since 1988, Sean is a seasoned Caribbean diver and treasure hunter with intriguing tales to tell about shipwrecks, pirates, and so much more. In fact, Sean has fascinating info on virtually every item displayed at Bluebeard’s — from cannonballs, swords, and pistols to inkwells and anchors to a Royal Navy officer’s coat from the 1700s.
Sean’s ultra-specialty is rare treasure coins and authentic coin jewelry. After being closed for the last four years due to hurricane damage, his retail shop, Pirate’s Chest, has relocated and also is operating at Bluebeard’s Castle.
The Museum Tower tour experience is available by appointment. To schedule a tour or for information, call or text Sean Loughman directly at 340-998-3819.
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