Hi Mary!
Congratulations on your first cruise adventure with Disney Cruise Line! I had a lot of questions when I first cruised with Disney, and I'm thrilled to help you with yours! When the Fantasy pulls into port and the ship is cleared by the authorities, you will be free to disembark the ship at your leisure. The gangway is usually located on Deck One for your convenience. When your crew heads ashore, you will want to carry your "Key to the World" card along with photo ID (for Guests over 18). Disney Cruise Line does offer a wide variety of
Port Adventures for your time on the islands including sightseeing tours, nature excursions, splashtacular experiences and family-friendly opportunities. By reserving through the cruise line, everything will be taken care of for you. But, Guests are free to explore on their own if they choose to do so.
St. Maarten is a gorgeous island, and if you want to venture out for shopping and beach time, taxis and tour buses will be available when you disembark. Front Street has shopping, restaurants, casinos and a beach. This area is located on the Dutch side of the island, Philipsburg. If you want to travel to the French side, Marigot, you will pay a bit more for the ride over, but once you arrive everything is within walking distance. From my experience, traffic can be a bit congested on this island so make sure to leave plenty of time to get back to the ship before all aboard.
In St. Thomas you will find some shopping at the pier, but not a beach. Maagen's Bay is one of St. Thomas's most known beaches and can be reached by taxi or bus.
I hope this information helps with your planning! Please let me know if I can help you further!
Have a magical day!
Nancy