St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands is a prime destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. Its crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and intriguing wrecks make it a favorite for divers of all levels. What sets St Thomas apart is its variety of options—whether you’re a seasoned diver looking for a two-tank certified dive or a curious beginner wanting to learn with a Discover Scuba program. We’re especially fond of the Two-Tank Dive for Certified Diving because it offers access to some of the most beautiful reefs and wrecks, guided by expert dive masters who know these waters well. If you’re new to diving, the Discover Scuba Diving with No Certification gives you a safe, guided introduction to this underwater world. For a personalized experience, the Private Full Day Guided Snorkeling or Diving Charter offers tailored adventures that can include snorkeling, diving, or a mix of both.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we cover a range of top-rated scuba diving experiences in St Thomas. Whether you’re interested in certified two-tank dives, beginner programs, or private charters, each offers a unique way to explore the underwater landscape. For more details, click on the links to each experience.
1. Two-Tank Dive for Certified Diving in St Thomas
For those who already hold a certification, this two-tank dive is a practical way to see the best of St Thomas’s underwater sites. The tour typically lasts around 3 hours and 30 minutes, offering two dives led by an experienced dive master. The locations include stunning reefs and intriguing shipwrecks, with the option for small groups—making the experience intimate and personalized. The crew provides all equipment, so you only need to bring your certification card and a sense of adventure. Recent reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the crew, with one diver noting, “Best scuba we have done in a while,” emphasizing the quality of the experience.
This tour is perfect for certified divers looking to maximize their time underwater without the hassle of logistics. Because beverages and snacks are provided, it’s a comfortable way to spend your morning or afternoon. The small group setting ensures you get plenty of guidance and attention, which is especially helpful if the weather conditions aren’t perfect.
Bottom Line: If you’re a certified diver eager to explore some of the best wrecks and reefs in St Thomas, this two-tank dive is a reliable, well-reviewed option.
2. Discover Scuba Diving with No Certification in St Thomas
For those who aren’t certified but want to experience the underwater world, this Discover Scuba program is ideal. It combines a short classroom lesson with an ocean dive from a boat, usually lasting around 3 hours and 30 minutes. The tour includes one open-water dive and a snorkeling option, making it flexible depending on your comfort level. The small group size—just four students per instructor—means plenty of personal attention. Many reviews mention feeling safe and well-informed, even for first-timers, with one diver saying, “Jamie was very patient and encouraging,” which can make a big difference for nervous beginners.
The program offers all necessary equipment and post-dive water, soft drinks, and snacks. The focus here is on learning and enjoying the moment without the pressure of certification. For many, this experience sparks a desire to pursue full certification later on.
Bottom Line: If you’re a beginner eager to try scuba for the first time, this Discover Scuba experience offers a safe, fun, and hassle-free introduction.
3. Discover Scuba Diving
This half-day beginner course is perfect for those new to scuba diving. It starts with a classroom session led by a knowledgeable instructor, followed by shallow water practice. After mastering the basics, you’ll head out to deeper water for your first dives in the Caribbean Sea, sometimes visiting two different sites. The program includes all equipment and offers a take-home booklet to reinforce what you’ve learned.
The emphasis on safety and personalized instruction makes it suitable for first-timers who want a comprehensive but relaxed introduction. Recent reviews praise the patient instructors—one guest mentioned, “Jack was very patient and clear with his instructions”—which is vital when learning a new skill underwater. The overall value includes the full instruction, equipment, and the chance to see vibrant coral and tropical fish.
Bottom Line: For an affordable, structured introduction to scuba diving, this Discover Scuba course is a solid choice if you want a memorable first underwater experience.
4. Private Full Day Guided Snorkeling or Diving Charter in St Thomas
For travelers who want a customized day on the water, this private charter offers complete flexibility. The 6 to 8-hour trip takes you on a personalized journey to explore coral reefs, shipwrecks, and swimming spots. The boat is a luxurious 42-foot vessel designed for comfort and eco-friendliness. You can choose your stops, whether it’s snorkeling with sea turtles or exploring wreck sites, with all snorkel gear provided. Adults can enjoy rum punch and other beverages, making it a relaxing day for friends or family.
The itinerary includes multiple stops, such as Buck Island’s snorkeling sites and possibly a lunch break at Secret Harbour, depending on your preferences. Reviews mention the personalized service and the ability to tailor the day to your interests. Because the boat is private, it’s suitable for honeymooners, families, or groups seeking a more exclusive experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a luxury, flexible day on the water with personalized stops, this private charter makes for an unforgettable experience.
5. Island Wreck and Reef Scuba Excursion
This wreck and reef tour is tailored for certified divers who want to explore deeper into the local underwater environment. The tour lasts around 4 hours and is conducted on a large, stable boat with plenty of space to relax. It focuses on wreck exploration and reef viewing, with dives that are described as easy and fun. Recent reviews highlight sightings of turtles, sharks, and colorful fish, along with the eerie charm of shipwrecks.
The tour maintains high safety standards, with low diver-to-divemaster ratios and personalized gear fitting. It requires participants to have completed an Open Water Diver certification or higher. Because of the focus on wrecks, it’s best suited for divers with some experience and a desire to see more unusual sites.
Bottom Line: If you’re a certified diver wanting to combine wreck exploration with reef viewing, this Island Wreck and Reef tour offers a well-organized, enjoyable outing.
6. Discover Scuba and Snorkel Excursion in Charlotte Amalie
This half-day adventure is designed for beginners wanting a quick, engaging introduction to both snorkeling and scuba. The tour runs on a large, stable boat and offers ample space to relax. It includes all necessary equipment, and the instructors are licensed, emphasizing safety and fun. While it doesn’t have reviews yet, the focus on personalized fitting and experienced staff suggests a high-quality experience.
It’s a good option for travelers with limited time or those who want a taste of both snorkeling and diving without a full commitment. The tour is flexible enough for families or groups of friends interested in a shared adventure.
Bottom Line: For a brief, beginner-friendly excursion that combines snorkeling and scuba, this Charlotte Amalie experience is practical and enjoyable.
$185.00 per person
How to Choose Your Best Scuba Experience in St Thomas
When selecting a tour, consider your budget—from $175 for beginner programs to $3,225 for private charters—as well as your experience level and interests. Certified divers should look at the two-tank dives or wreck excursions, while newcomers will find the Discover Scuba options more suitable. If privacy and customization matter, the full-day private charter offers the most flexibility. Remember to check booking availability early, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
St Thomas offers a diverse range of scuba adventures that cater to every type of traveler. For seasoned divers, the Two-Tank Dive for Certified Diving provides access to the best wrecks and reefs, while the Island Wreck and Reef Scuba Excursion offers a more immersive exploration experience. Beginners and first-timers will appreciate the safety, guidance, and fun of the Discover Scuba Diving programs.
A private full-day charter is perfect if you want a tailored day with friends or family, while short excursions in Charlotte Amalie deliver quick but memorable underwater encounters. No matter your choice, booking early is wise—these popular experiences fill up quickly, especially during high season. Dive into the clear waters of St Thomas and discover why it’s such a favorite for underwater explorers.