Antigua is a boat lover’s paradise. With its pristine waters, colorful coral reefs, and dramatic coastlines, it’s no surprise that the island offers a wide variety of boat tours & cruises for every taste. Whether you want to snorkel along coral reefs, enjoy a sunset sail, or explore uninhabited islands, Antigua has it all. We’re particularly fond of the Snorkel – Lobster Lunch Cruise to Bird Island and Paradise Reef for its combination of snorkeling, delicious food, and relaxed vibe—plus, it’s rated 5.0 out of 5 from hundreds of happy travelers. For those seeking a more adventurous day with some off-the-beaten-path exploration, the Adventure Power Boat Tour Antigua and Private Laviscount Island offers a full day of discovery in lesser-visited spots. And if your idea of perfect vacation is watching the sunset with a cocktail, the Antigua Sunset Catamaran Cruise from St. John’s provides a relaxing end to any day.
Each of these tours showcases a different side of Antigua—whether it’s the stunning marine life, scenic coastline, or secluded islands—making it a true water-based playground. With plenty of options, it’s worth choosing based on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend on the water.
1. Snorkel – Lobster Lunch Cruise to Bird Island and Paradise Reef
This highly-rated snorkeling cruise is perfect if you love the combination of marine exploration and good food. For around $185 per person, you’ll spend about 6 hours drifting to some of Antigua’s most beautiful secluded islands. The tour departs from Jolly Harbor and takes you to Maiden Island, where you snorkel on a coral reef teeming with fish and coral formations. The highlight is a beachside lunch featuring grilled lobster (or chicken/fish if out of season), served with plenty of drinks from the bar. Unwinding on the beach with a rum punch or tropical cocktail makes this trip feel like a slice of paradise.
What makes this tour stand out is its friendly crew, well-organized itinerary, and the chance to relax in a less crowded part of the island. The reviews emphasize the clean boat, great snorkeling guide, and terrific food. Some travelers noted the snorkeling was over a dead reef, but most still enjoyed the experience and the laid-back vibe. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a hassle-free day of reef exploration, island lounging, and delicious seafood.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a relaxed day with excellent snorkeling, tasty lobster, and drinks in a quiet setting.
2. Adventure Power Boat Tour Antigua and Private Laviscount Island
This full-day adventure costs about $199 per person and lasts around 6.5 hours. It’s a great pick for explorers who want to see more of Antigua’s coast and marine life. The tour explores the North East Marine Management Area, with stops at over two dozen small islands and cays. Highlights include visiting Laviscount Island, where you can see giant Aldabra tortoises and enjoy the scenery, and Hell’s Gate, with its rocky bridge, limestone caves, and rugged beauty. The tour then wraps up with snorkeling off Great Bird Island, allowing you to see vibrant coral reefs and marine species.
The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, with many reviews mentioning the adventure aspect of visiting lesser-visited locations. Some travelers noted the itinerary is a bit shorter than expected and that Great Bird Island could be more involved. Still, the chance to see tortoises and explore caves makes this trip a hit for active travelers and families.
Bottom Line: A full day of off-the-beaten-path exploration, great for those who want a mix of nature, history, and snorkeling without the crowds.
3. Antigua Sunset Catamaran Cruise From St. John’s
For a romantic, scenic end to your day, the Sunset Catamaran Cruise offers a 2.5-hour sail along Antigua’s coast. Priced at about $133 per person, this tour takes you out from Dickenson Bay to watch the sun set over the Caribbean. You can sip cocktails, nibble on canapés, and enjoy Caribbean music as the sky turns shades of orange and pink. The captain guides you to spots where land-based crowds don’t reach, giving you a peaceful, photo-worthy experience.
Rated 4.5 stars, travelers love the relaxed vibes, the attentive crew, and the chance to capture stunning sunset photos. It’s perfect for couples or anyone seeking a calm, beautiful evening on the water. The included hotel pickup simplifies logistics, so all you need to do is relax and enjoy.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a romantic sunset, this tour is a seamless way to enjoy Antigua’s coastline with drinks and music in hand.
4. Sail and Snorkel at Cades Reef
This sailing and snorkeling trip costs $110 per person for a full 6-hour day and is great for family or friends. The tour departs from St. John’s on the Mystic catamaran, taking you to Cades Reef, the largest reef formation in Antigua. The reef is a protected marine area where colorful fish, sea turtles, and coral gardens await snorkelers. The crew prepares a barbecue lunch, and you can relax on the boat or swim in the turquoise waters afterward.
The reviews highlight the friendly crew, good snorkeling gear, and the enjoyable barbecue lunch. Some mention that the boat ride can be a little long, but the overall experience of exploring Antigua’s marine life makes up for it. Open bar service adds to the fun, making it a well-rounded day for water lovers.
Bottom Line: A classic Antigua day—sail, snorkel, eat, and drink—perfect for those who want a full experience on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim.
5. Stingray City Experience Antigua – Cruise Ship Passengers Edition
Rated 4.5/5 and costing about $140, this stingray experience is a must for travelers wanting a hands-on encounter with marine life. After a quick boat ride, you’ll stand on a floating platform and then gently touch and hold the rays in shallow water. The operation is safe and supervised, with knowledgeable staff making sure everyone feels comfortable.
Many reviews praise the professionalism and friendliness of the guides. It’s a short, 3-hour trip suited for cruise passengers or travelers looking for a memorable, interactive activity in a controlled environment. Swimming with the rays is often described as a “once-in-a-lifetime” event, and it’s a hit with families and couples alike.
Bottom Line: This is the most memorable and accessible way to swim with stingrays, perfect for a quick shore excursion or a family outing.
6. Reef Explorers Transparent Boat and Beach Tour
For something truly unique, try the Reef Explorers Transparent Boat. Priced at $89, this 3-hour trip allows you to see below your feet through the boat’s glass bottom as you cruise past reefs and beaches. It’s a great way to explore Antigua’s marine environment without getting wet if you prefer to stay dry.
Reviewers love the novelty of the transparent vessel and the friendly crew. The stops include Hawk’s Bill Rock Formation, Five Islands village, and Deep Bay Beach, offering a mix of sightseeing and beach time. Some mention weather can impact the experience, but overall, it’s a fun, different way to experience Antigua’s coastline.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families or travelers who want a comfortable, view-focused tour with minimal snorkeling.
7. Power 360 Sightseeing and Snorkel Cruise Antigua
At about $146, this power catamaran tour offers 6 hours of island exploration with sightseeing and snorkeling. It includes cruising past the Pillars of Hercules and Devil’s Bridge, two iconic spots with great photo opportunities. The snorkeling stop allows you to see vibrant marine life, while the tour also provides commentary on Antigua’s landmarks.
The reviews suggest the crew is knowledgeable and accommodating, making the trip enjoyable. It’s best suited for travelers wanting a combination of sightseeing and snorkeling with a comfortable, fast boat. Because it’s a full-day tour, it’s perfect if you want to maximize your time exploring Antigua’s most famous natural sights.
Bottom Line: Great for active travelers who want to see multiple sites in a day while enjoying snorkeling and scenic cruising.
8. Antigua Seafood Lunch Cruise From St. John’s
This seafood lunch cruise costs about $172 and lasts roughly 6 hours. It combines a scenic sail with stops at beautiful beaches, where you can swim or relax. The highlight is a seafood buffet featuring grilled lobster (seasonal), enjoyed onboard with sparkling wine, accompanied by Caribbean music. The tour departs from St. John’s and includes time to unwind at beach stops.
Many reviews praise the delicious food, smooth sailing, and stunning ocean views. It’s a good choice for seafood lovers or travelers seeking a laid-back day with a focus on relaxation and good eats. The tour offers excellent value, given the quality of food, scenery, and the all-inclusive drinks.
Bottom Line: Perfect for seafood fans and anyone wanting a leisurely day of sailing, swimming, and feasting.
9. Cades Reef Snorkel Cruise from St. John’s Antigua
This snorkel cruise costs approximately $173 for 6 hours of exploration. It’s designed for lovers of marine life, taking you to Cades Reef, one of Antigua’s top snorkeling sites. You’ll see barracudas, moray eels, and colorful fish in warm water. Included is all snorkel gear and a tasty lunch afterward.
While some reviews mention that the boat ride can be a bit long and that the reef is damaged from a hurricane, the overall experience remains rewarding for underwater enthusiasts. This is a good tour if you want to spend your day immersed in Antigua’s vibrant marine environment.
Bottom Line: For dedicated snorkelers who want to discover Antigua’s marine biodiversity in a safe, guided setting.
$173.20 per person
10. Coastal Cruise to Turners Beach Experience
This coastal cruise costs $120 and lasts about 5 hours. It’s geared toward travelers who want scenic views, with stops at Turners Beach, Hawksbill Beach, Jolly Beach, and Fort Barrington. The tour includes a relaxing stop at Turner’s Beach Bar & Restaurant and time to swim or enjoy the sun.
Although it has no reviews yet, the itinerary suggests a flexible, relaxed day of coastline exploration. It’s suitable for those who prefer a mix of sightseeing and leisure, with the convenience of a guided tour.
Bottom Line: A good all-around coastal experience for travelers who want to see a variety of beaches and landmarks in one trip.
$120.00 per person
11. Private Yacht with Skipper
For those seeking exclusivity, the Private Yacht with Skipper allows you to tailor your day. Priced at $2,000 for up to 10 people, this 7-hour cruise lets you visit beaches, coves, and landmarks like Reef Restaurant or Jumby Bay in style. Your skipper helps craft a personalized itinerary, including swimming in remote spots or admiring celebrity mansions.
This is perfect for special occasions or travelers wanting privacy and flexibility. Reviews are limited, but the concept of a private, fully customizable experience makes it highly appealing for those wanting a luxury day on the water.
Bottom Line: Best suited for groups or couples wanting privacy and a bespoke day on the sea.
$2,000.00 per group (up to 10)
12. Full Day Private Shore Tour in Antigua from Antigua Cruise Port
Finally, the full-day private shore tour at around $752 per person provides a comprehensive look at Antigua’s top sights. Starting at the cruise port, your guide takes you to Nelson’s Dockyard, Devil’s Bridge, and English Harbour. The itinerary is customizable, making it ideal for cruise passengers who want to see the highlights without rushing.
Reviews aren’t available yet, but the flexible, private nature of this tour makes it attractive for travelers who want exclusivity and a tailored experience. It’s an excellent option if your time in Antigua is limited but you want a full, personalized overview.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise travelers seeking a private, all-encompassing day exploring Antigua’s most iconic sites.
$752.30 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Antigua Boat Tour
When selecting your boat experience, consider your budget, time available, and interests. For a relaxed snorkeling day with gourmet food, the Lobster Lunch Cruise hits the mark. If adventure and visiting multiple islands appeal, the Adventure Power Boat Tour offers a full day of exploration. For romantic evenings, the Sunset Catamaran creates a memorable closing experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the private yachts or the cruise ship shore excursions. Think about your fitness level and if you prefer guided or private options—each tour offers different experiences tailored to various traveler preferences.
To sum it up, Antigua’s boat tours span from tranquil sunset sails to action-packed island adventures. For those seeking a relaxed day with excellent food and snorkeling, the Lobster Lunch Cruise is superb. If you want to explore less-visited islands and see tortoises, the Adventure Power Boat Tour is a great pick. And for a romantic evening, the Sunset Catamaran can’t be beaten. Whatever your style, Antigua’s waters promise memorable moments—just remember to book early and pick the one that suits your travel style best.