National Park Snorkeling Excursion

Imagine stepping aboard a sleek 47-foot power catamaran, Reef Surfari, ready to take you through the stunning waters around St. Thomas and St. John. For just $90 per person, this snorkeling adventure lasts about three and a half hours, giving you ample time to explore the Virgin Islands National Park, searching for sea turtles, tropical fish, and vibrant coral reefs. It’s a well-organized trip, starting in Red Hook and extending to Cruz Bay to pick up local guests, with multiple meeting points including Crown Bay and Havensight—perfect if you’re staying on the islands or arriving via cruise ship.

What we love about this tour? First, the knowledgeable crew, especially guides like CJ and Darian, who make every stop informative and fun without talking your ear off. Second, the flexibility of the snorkeling spots—these are chosen daily based on weather and sea conditions, keeping the experience fresh and exciting. Plus, the open bar with rum punch, painkillers, cold beers, and sodas offers a relaxing way to unwind after swimming. A possible consideration? It’s a moderate physical activity, so if you’re not comfortable in the water, chat with the crew beforehand. This tour is ideal for families, first-time snorkelers, or those wanting a laid-back, scenic day on the water.

Key Points

• All equipment is provided, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
• Flexible snorkel stops are selected daily for optimal conditions.
• The crew’s expertise makes a difference, from safety to wildlife spotting.
• Open bar and snacks add a fun, relaxing element to the trip.
• Multiple meeting points accommodate different island accommodations.
• Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, offering peace of mind.

Exploring the Virgin Islands Snorkeling Tour

This tour opens a window into the vibrant underwater world of the US Virgin Islands, focusing on authentic marine encounters and convenient planning. We’ll walk through what makes this experience truly appealing, and how it balances adventure with comfort.

Starting Point and Itinerary

Your day kicks off at Ocean Surfari’s retail store in Red Hook at 9:00 am, where you’ll check in and meet your crew. The boat, Reef Surfari, is a new, clean, and well-maintained vessel designed for comfort and safety. The group size is limited to 49, but typically feels intimate due to the spacious boat and friendly crew.

By 9:30, the boat departs for Cruz Bay, where local guests join the trip. This allows you to explore both St. Thomas and St. John, enhancing the variety of underwater sights. The crew’s logistics are well planned, with a drop-off back at St. John around noon and return to St. Thomas by 12:30 pm, making it a perfect half-day escape.

The Snorkeling Spots

The two stops are carefully chosen based on weather and sea conditions, which keeps the experience fresh and less predictable—something many reviews appreciate. You might visit Hawks Nest Bay in the national park, where crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life create an ideal snorkeling environment. Or you might explore Christmas Cove off Great St. James Island, known for shipwrecks and a vibrant marine ecosystem.

Some reviewers mention seeing sea turtles, squids, octopuses, and a variety of tropical fish. For example, Brittany raves about turtles, squid, octopus, and tons of fish, while others mention spotting stingrays and even a shipwreck. The guides are praised for their helpfulness, often getting in the water with guests to point out critters or help the less confident swimmers.

Comfort and Safety

Snorkeling gear is included, and according to reviews, the equipment is of high quality, with most guests feeling comfortable using it. There was some mention of cheaper gear elsewhere, but the consensus is that these rental sets are reliable and fine—though guests are always welcome to bring their own.

The crew’s informative approach makes the experience safer and more enjoyable. Guests note Darian, CJ, and John as especially helpful—they’re attentive to safety, patient with beginners, and eager to share their marine knowledge. Whether you’re a first-timer or experienced snorkeler, you’ll likely appreciate this friendly, professional crew.

Post-Snorkel Relaxation

Once back on the boat, you can enjoy the open bar, which is served only after swimming and snorkeling are over, maintaining safety and moderation. The drink options include rum punch, painkillers, cold beers, sodas, and water. Light snacks are also provided, making this a laid-back, social part of your day.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Many reviews reveal that the group size feels intimate—around a dozen or so guests—thanks to the boat’s capacity and the crew’s attentive service. Guests frequently mention how friendly, knowledgeable, and fun the crew is, making the trip feel less like a tour and more like a day out with friends.

Cost and Value

At $90, this snorkeling tour offers excellent value considering the inclusions—all gear, multiple snorkel stops, an open bar, snacks, and the guidance of experienced crew. Many reviewers emphasize that they saw sea turtles, rays, and countless fish, often described as “worth every penny”. Compared to other activities, the cost is quite reasonable, especially given the focus on quality equipment and personalized service.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for a relaxed, well-organized snorkeling experience with the chance to see marine life up close, this tour suits families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a scenic day on the water. The crew’s knowledgeable guides and flexible snorkeling spots make it particularly appealing for travelers wanting an authentic, wildlife-rich adventure without the hassle of planning all the details themselves.

It’s also perfect if you’re a cruise passenger wanting a reliable, efficient trip, or a stay-on-island visitor eager to explore the marine environment with comfortable safety and a lively social atmosphere. The open bar encourages a laid-back vibe, ideal for those who want to combine wildlife encounters with some refreshing drinks.

The Sum Up

This National Park Snorkeling Excursion from Reef Surfari offers an authentic, well-managed way to explore the underwater beauty of the Virgin Islands. With expert guides, carefully chosen snorkel spots, and inclusive amenities, it turns a half-day into a memorable adventure. The ability to see sea turtles, squid, rays, and vibrant fish makes it a highlight for many travelers. Its moderate price point provides great value, especially considering the quality equipment and personalized service.

Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or a seasoned marine enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the friendly guides and flexible itinerary. The relaxed atmosphere, combined with the natural beauty of the waters, makes this a fantastic choice for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a genuine taste of the Virgin Islands underwater world.

If your goal is a fun, safe, and wildlife-rich snorkeling trip with excellent reviews and high recommendations, this tour is hard to beat. Just remember to arrive on time if you’re on a cruise, and pack your sense of adventure—and perhaps your own snorkel gear if you prefer.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including the snorkeling stops and return.

Where does the trip depart from?
You can meet the crew at Ocean Surfari in Red Hook, or at Cruz Bay if you’re staying on St. John. The meeting time is 9:30 am.

Are the snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, all snorkeling gear is included, and reviews suggest the gear is of high quality.

Can I bring my own gear?
Absolutely. Guests are welcome to bring their own equipment if they prefer.

Is alcohol served during the trip?
The open bar with rum punch, painkillers, beers, sodas, and water is available after snorkeling for safety reasons.

Is the trip suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Many reviews mention family-friendly experiences, and staff are attentive to safety, making it suitable for kids and non-swimmers with proper flotation devices.

Overall, this snorkeling tour offers a relaxing, wildlife-filled day on the water with friendly guides, flexible spots, and plenty of opportunities to see sea turtles and tropical fish. It’s a strong choice for those wanting an authentic marine adventure with the added bonus of refreshing drinks and a convivial crew—a true highlight of any Virgin Islands trip.