Antigua isn’t just about pristine beaches and vibrant culture; it also offers some of the Caribbean’s best opportunities for canoe and kayak adventures. Whether you’re paddling through mangroves, exploring coral reefs, or capturing stunning drone photos, Antigua’s calm waters and scenic landscapes make it a perfect playground for water lovers. We especially like the Triple Activity Tour, Bike Kayak Hike, which combines three different ways to see the island—an excellent choice for those wanting a well-rounded day.
If eco-conscious exploration is your style, the SoCoHo Eco Half Day offers a peaceful kayak through mangroves followed by snorkeling at Cades Reef, giving you a true taste of Antigua’s underwater life. For a more unique perspective, the Crystal Kayak & Snorkel Eco Tour features transparent kayaks and drone photography—an ideal combo for capturing memories. Below, we detail each experience to help you choose the perfect Antigua adventure.
1. TRIPLE ACTIVITY TOUR, Bike Kayak Hike, ANTIGUA
At number 1, this multi-sport tour stands out for its variety and personalized attention. For around $130 per person, you’ll bike through local villages, paddle over calm waters, and hike to a historic fort—all in about 2 hours 45 minutes. Your guide, Giles, is praised for sharing engaging facts about Antigua’s history and culture.
What makes this tour truly special is the seamless mix of activities, allowing you to see different sides of the island without feeling rushed. The small group size (limited to 11) ensures more personal service. Reviewers love Giles’ knowledge and the chance to swim in the ocean and explore Antigua’s streets in a single morning. It’s perfect if you want a balanced introduction that combines physical activity with cultural insights.
Bottom line: For active travelers who want a compact, engaging tour with a local guide, this is a top pick—just remember to pack a swimsuit for a quick beach refresh.
2. SoCoHo Eco Half Day – Mangrove Kayak & Reef Snorkeling
Coming in at number 2, this eco-focused tour offers a 4-hour journey—ideal for nature lovers. It’s priced at $135 per person and combines kayaking through a quiet lagoon of mangroves with snorkeling at Cades Reef, one of Antigua’s best marine sites. The tour starts with a scenic paddle through the lush mangroves, which is both soothing and eduative, thanks to the guide’s commentary.
Afterward, you’ll board a boat to explore the reef, where you’ll see sea turtles, stingrays, and a variety of colorful fish. Reviewers mention how well-organized and friendly the guides are, along with the quality of snorkeling gear provided. Snacks are included, and an optional lunch is available for extra convenience. The tour lasts about 4 hours, making it an excellent half-day activity that balances adventure with relaxation.
Bottom line: This trip suits travelers looking for a gentle, environmentally conscious experience with plenty of opportunities to see Antigua’s underwater wildlife.
3. Crystal Kayak & Snorkel Eco Tour (with transfer)
At number 3, this eco-friendly outing combines calm, crystal-clear waters with innovative glass kayaks—priced at $89 per person for approximately 3 hours. What makes this tour stand out is the included round-trip transportation—perfect for ease and comfort. The tour begins in Antigua’s tranquil bays, lined with mangroves and rock beds, where you’ll glide quietly in a transparent kayak, observing marine life from a unique vantage point.
Guides share insights into the local ecosystem, making it as educational as it is relaxing. After paddling, you’ll visit a coral reef for snorkeling, encountering vibrant sea creatures. The reviews highlight the friendly staff and the excitement of seeing marine life through the clear kayaks. This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a mix of eco-awareness, comfort, and memorable wildlife encounters.
Bottom line: If you want a family-friendly, smooth, and immersive eco tour with transportation included, this offers excellent value.
4. Snorkeling, Kayaking and Paddle Board Activity in Antigua
Number 4 delivers a dynamic water experience for around $110, combining kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling over 2 hours. It covers iconic spots like Galleon Beach and Nelson’s Dockyard, allowing you to explore Antigua’s coast and historical sites on the water.
The tour provides all necessary gear and is flexible with scheduling, offering both morning and afternoon options. Reviewers note how well-organized the activity is and mention encounters with sea turtles and shipwrecks during snorkeling. It’s particularly good for those who want a fast-paced tour that mixes adventure with a bit of history.
Bottom line: Suitable for active travelers who want a comprehensive water outing with the chance to see marine life and historical landmarks.
5. Crystal Clear Kayak Drone Photography Antigua
Placed at number 5, this photoshoot experience offers a 20 to 30-minute session for $153 per person. It’s the only tour on our list that combines drone photography with kayaking—perfect for capturing stunning aerial shots of your vacation.
You’ll paddle in a transparent kayak with your photographer assisting to get the best angles. The drone captures lively images of you on the water, making it a hit for romantic couples or anyone wanting high-quality souvenirs. Reviewers rave about the professionalism and the fun of being photographed from above, even mentioning that flipping the kayak wasn’t as big a deal as they feared, thanks to the helpful staff.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want memorable photos from a fresh perspective, especially if celebrating a special occasion.
6. Antigua Zipline & Kayaking Combo From St. John’s
Number 6 combines ziplining and kayaking for a full-day adventure at $222.47 per person. The tour kicks off with an energetic drive through Antigua’s rainforest to reach the zipline canopy, where you can soar across up to 300 feet in the air on eight different lines.
After the adrenaline rush, you’ll switch gears for a more tranquil experience kayaking around Great Bird Island, with options for snorkeling and lunch. The guides are praised for safety and friendliness. This tour suits those who enjoy a mix of physical activity—perfect for thrill-seekers who also love relaxing in the water.
Bottom line: Best for active travelers seeking a combination of high-altitude adventure and marine exploration in one day.
7. Clear Kayak Tour in Mangrove Antigua
Number 7 is a focused 1-hour eco tour priced at $90, emphasizing Antigua’s biodiversity. You’ll paddle through vibrant mangroves in crystal-clear kayaks, with guides explaining the importance of these ecosystems. It’s suitable for all skill levels and offers a peaceful, educational experience.
While brief, the tour provides a close look at local wildlife and plant life, making it perfect for those short on time but eager to learn about Antigua’s natural environment. Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the tranquility of the coastal waters.
Bottom line: Great for eco-minded travelers looking for an accessible, short but meaningful immersion into Antigua’s mangrove habitats.
8. SoCoHo Eco Kayak and Snorkel Tour
This 3-hour eco tour at number 8, priced at $85, guides you through a mangrove lagoon to a vibrant reef at Cades Bay. The tour emphasizes wildlife spotting—fish, crabs, jellyfish, and seabirds—while paddling in protected waters.
After the kayaking, you’ll snorkel on Cades Reef, with options for a Caribbean lunch for just $10. Reviewers highlight the professionalism of the guides and the richness of marine life. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed, educational outdoor experience with a focus on nature.
Bottom line: Perfect for eco-conscious travelers who want to combine paddling with reef exploration and wildlife viewing.
9. Under the Sea Snorkeling (Stingray/Kayak/Power Snorkel available)
Number 9 offers a flexible 3-hour snorkeling tour, starting at $150. You can customize your experience—snorkeling at Cades Bay, Long Bay, or English Harbour, with options for Green Island or Great Bird Island.
While the reviews are mixed, they mention that drivers and staff are accommodating, and the tour can adapt to individual interests. It’s suitable for travelers wanting a tailored water activity with options for power snorkeling or kayaking.
Bottom line: Best for those who prefer a customizable, semi-private snorkeling trip that can be tailored to specific islands or marine features.
$150.00 per person
10. Shoreline Crystal Clear Kayak Drone Photoshoot
Finally, the Shoreline Drone Photoshoot is a short but impactful experience at $200 for about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for those wanting aerial photos of their time on Antigua’s coastline. This experience is more about personalized photography than kayaking or snorkeling, capturing your trip from the sky.
While it has no reviews yet, it promises creative visuals that tell a story of your vacation. It’s ideal for celebrations, milestones, or anyone eager to document their trip with professional-quality images.
Bottom line: For travelers seeking a memorable visual keepsake with a drone perspective, this is a high-end but unique option.
$200.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Antigua Water Adventure
When selecting your ideal canoe or kayak experience, consider your fitness level, interests, and what you most want to get out of your time in Antigua. If you love a full-day adventure that combines ziplining and paddling, the Zipline & Kayaking Combo is perfect. For a short, eco-focused trip, the Clear Kayak Tour in Mangrove offers quick but meaningful wildlife encounters.
Those wanting to capture memories from above should consider the Drone Photoshoot, while history and culture buffs might prefer the Triple Activity Tour for its diverse activities and local insights.
Budget-wise, eco and snorkeling tours tend to be more affordable, while experiences including drone photography or combo adventures are priced higher but offer more specialized memories. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on these popular tours.
To sum it up, Antigua’s water-based activities are as varied as its landscapes. Whether you’re paddling through mangroves, snorkeling over reefs, or capturing stunning photos from the air, there’s an experience suited for you. For the active traveler, the Triple Activity Tour offers a balanced mix. For eco-conscious explorers, the Eco Half Day is hard to beat. And for those wanting lasting memories, the Drone Photoshoot will deliver spectacular shots.
Whatever your preference, these Antigua canoe and kayak experiences promise unforgettable views and fun-filled days on the water. Book early, pack your sense of adventure, and enjoy your time exploring this beautiful island’s coast from a new perspective.