St. Thomas Maho Bay Turtle Snorkel Sail – Ritz-Carlton

Imagine spending a leisurely five hours on a spacious catamaran, cruising along the calm waters of the US Virgin Islands, diving into crystal-clear bays to swim alongside green and hawksbill sea turtles, then relaxing with a good picnic lunch and unlimited drinks. That’s exactly what you get with the St. Thomas Maho Bay Turtle Snorkel Sail—a trip that combines scenic sailing, exceptional snorkeling, and a laid-back island vibe, all starting from the luxurious Ritz-Carlton.

What we love most about this tour is how smoothly it balances adventure and comfort. The boat itself, Lady Lynsey, is described as beautiful and spacious, making it easy for everyone to find a comfy spot. The crew, including Captain Heather and her team, clearly prioritize safety and hospitality—something that can make or break a day on the water. Plus, being able to snorkel in two different bays with abundant marine life, including plenty of turtles, is absolutely a highlight.

One small thing to consider: the tour does tend to attract a crowd, so if you’re after a quiet, intimate experience, this might feel a bit lively. But that’s part of the fun for many travelers who appreciate the social atmosphere and the chance to mingle with other ocean lovers. This tour suits those who love wildlife, good food, and a relaxed sailing experience—perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see the best of St. John’s bays.

Key Points

• Snorkeling with turtles in two stunning bays offers an unforgettable wildlife encounter.
• All equipment and a picnic lunch are included, making it a convenient day out.
• Open bar after snorkeling provides a relaxing way to unwind and socialize.
• Experienced guides enhance safety and provide interesting insights about marine life.
• Spacious, well-maintained boat assures comfort and safety throughout the trip.
• Duration of about 5 hours offers a full, rewarding experience without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This tour is distinctly valuable for travelers seeking an authentic encounter with marine wildlife in a comfortable setting. The snorkeling stops at Maho Bay and Honeymoon Beach are chosen for their calm waters and visibility, which means you’re more likely to see turtles, colorful fish, and vibrant coral reefs. We loved the way the crew shared their enthusiasm and knowledge—reviews highlight how Captain Heather and her team are friendly, attentive, and eager to make sure everyone has a good time.

The all-inclusive lunch and open bar are a huge plus: the picnic-style meal is described as tasty, and the drinks flow freely once you’ve finished snorkeling. For many, this makes the day feel like a true escape—no need to worry about extra costs or planning, just relax and enjoy.

However, it’s worth noting that since the tour is popular and accommodates up to 40 travelers, it can get lively. If you prefer a quieter, more intimate experience, consider this when booking. Also, onsite parking at the Ritz-Carlton is available for $25, which is a practical detail for those driving.

This adventure is especially suited for those who want a well-rounded, fun-filled day that combines wildlife viewing, scenic sailing, and good eats. Reviewers repeatedly praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, noting that the trip is ideal for families, first-time snorkelers, or anyone eager to see turtles in their natural habitat.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Meeting at the Ritz-Carlton

Your day begins at the Ritz-Carlton in St. Thomas, where you’ll check in around 10:15 am. The easy proximity to public transportation makes it accessible, and the check-in process is straightforward. The boat, Lady Lynsey, is a beautiful, spacious vessel, perfect for a group of up to 40 people. The crew meets you on the beach beforehand, making the first moments friendly and welcoming.

First Snorkeling Stop at Maho Bay

As the boat departs, you’ll cruise along the coast toward Maho Bay on St. John, renowned for its calm, clear waters and abundant sea life. This is the star stop for snorkelers, with some reviewers mentioning seeing multiple turtles and colorful fish. The water’s calmness and visibility make this ideal for both beginners and more seasoned swimmers alike.

Guests frequently comment on the expertise of the guides, who provide helpful instructions and safety tips, ensuring everyone feels comfortable. The underwater environment is lively, with coral reefs, stingrays, and the chance to observe turtles in their natural habitat. The water is described as pristine, with many noting how easy it was to spot marine animals.

Picnic Lunch on Board

After the first swim, everyone gathers back on the boat for a delicious picnic-style lunch. The food is described as more than adequate, with many reviews emphasizing how tasty and plentiful it was. Think sandwiches, local snacks, and fresh fruit—enough to refuel after a dip in the water. The lunch break is relaxed, giving you time to chat with fellow travelers or simply enjoy the scenery.

Second Snorkeling Stop at Honeymoon Beach

Post-lunch, the boat sails along the shore of Honeymoon Beach, another renowned snorkeling spot. This area offers a different underwater landscape, with coral formations and more chances to see turtles and tropical fish. Multiple reviews mention the great visibility and the variety of sea life, making this second stop equally rewarding.

Sailing Back to St. Thomas

Once the snorkeling is done, the boat gently sails downwind back toward the Ritz-Carlton, with the sails up for a scenic, relaxing cruise. Many travelers enjoy the smooth ride and the chance to unwind with a drink from the open bar—reviewers highlight that “the crew is fantastic” and the atmosphere is lively yet laid-back.

Post-Trip and Additional Details

The tour concludes at the original meeting point, around 3:15 pm, giving you plenty of time to plan your afternoon. Parking at the Ritz-Carlton costs $25, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, with some review mentions of accommodating food allergies with advance notice.

Authentic Experiences Shared in Reviews

Many travelers rave about the knowledgeable and friendly guides, like Adam who says, “Captain and crew are fantastic,” and “Snorkeling was great, food tasty, and vibe was right.” The crew’s enthusiasm and attention to safety shine through in countless reviews, making the day not just fun but educational.

Others highlight the quality of the snorkeling—noting “many turtle sightings” and “abundant fish,” which makes this tour a hit with wildlife lovers. The delicious food and drinks also receive high praise: “Lunch was a buffet, better than expected,” and “The bar was very good, and the drinks flowed freely,” enhance the relaxed island mood.

Several reviews mention the value for money, considering that all gear, lunch, and drinks are included. For around $179 per person, you’re getting a comprehensive experience that combines adventure, comfort, and plenty of social opportunities.

Some guests note that the larger group size can lead to a lively environment, and a few mention that the area can be crowded with other tours, which might impact your snorkeling experience if peace and quiet are your priorities.

The Sum Up: Who Should Book This Tour?

This snorkel and sail excursion is best suited for travelers who love wildlife, enjoy social outings, and want a hassle-free day on the water. It’s a fantastic choice for families, couples, or solo adventurers eager to see sea turtles in their natural surroundings, sip drinks in comfort, and enjoy a scenic boat ride.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, fun-filled day with knowledgeable guides and great food, this tour ticks all the boxes. While it can be lively and crowded, many find the convivial atmosphere adds to the fun. It’s perfect if you want a comprehensive, value-packed experience that combines wildlife viewing, sailing, and island scenery—all from a luxurious setting.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts around 5 hours, from departure at 10:15 am to return in the early afternoon, giving you plenty of time for snorkeling, relaxing, and enjoying the scenery.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, all snorkeling gear is included, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own or renting locally.

Can I snorkel if I don’t know how to swim?
While most travelers participate comfortably, the guides are attentive and helpful, providing instructions and support. If you have specific concerns, it’s best to discuss with the crew beforehand.

Is food included?
Yes, a full picnic-style lunch is served on board, and reviews praise it as tasty and plentiful.

Are drinks included?
Yes, after snorkeling, guests can enjoy unlimited alcoholic beverages from the open bar.

What is the boat like?
The Lady Lynsey is described as beautiful and spacious, providing comfort and safety for all guests.

Is parking available at the Ritz-Carlton?
Yes, onsite parking is available for $25, which is convenient for those driving to the meeting point.

This tour offers a lively, scenic, and wildlife-rich day that’s hard to beat in the US Virgin Islands. Whether you’re a snorkeler eager to see turtles, a lover of sailing, or someone looking for a relaxing island experience, this trip delivers on all fronts—making it a memorable highlight of any VI vacation.