Sail, Shop and Snorkel in St. John from Frenchman’s Reef

An Authentic Day of Sailing, Snorkeling, and Shopping in St. John

Imagine a perfect six-hour escape from the buzz of the Caribbean cruise port or the busy beaches of St. Thomas. For just $129 per person, you can hop aboard the Flying Frenchman, the sleekest catamaran in the fleet, and set sail toward the pristine waters and charming shores of St. John. Departing from the Westin at Frenchman’s Reef, this trip combines sailing, snorkeling, and land exploration into a well-rounded, fun-packed adventure.

What makes this experience truly appealing? First, it offers a taste of two islands in one day—cruising from the busy harbor of St. Thomas to the tranquil, less-developed St. John. Second, the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters followed by a full open bar as you sail back adds a nice touch of relaxed luxury.

A small caveat: the price includes snorkeling gear, lite bites, and an open bar for those over 21, but you’ll want to budget extra for meals on St. John and parking if you’re driving yourself. This experience is best suited for those who appreciate a balanced mix of land and sea, love authentic island shops, and enjoy social sailing with friendly crews. If you’re looking for a laid-back, fun, and well-organized day out, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• St. John & Cruz Bay exploration offers a taste of local shops, bars, and restaurants.
• Snorkeling at Honeymoon Beach provides a calm and scenic underwater experience.
• Full open bar (for guests over 21) is included after snorkeling, adding a relaxing vibe.
• The crew’s friendliness and knowledge earn high praise, making the day even more enjoyable.
• The six-hour duration strikes a good balance between activity and relaxation.
• Optional extras like meals and parking are available but not included, so plan accordingly.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Departure

The adventure kicks off at The Westin St. Thomas Beach Resort & Spa at 9:30 am, a convenient location for most travelers staying nearby. The boat, Flying Frenchman, is touted as the newest catamaran in the fleet—luxurious, stable, and perfect for relaxing on deck as you cruise across the water. The small group size—up to 80 travelers—ensures a lively atmosphere without feeling crowded.

Cruising to St. John and Cruz Bay

The sail over to Cruz Bay is generally smooth and offers fantastic vistas. We love the way the crew keeps everyone informed and engaged, making the journey part of the fun. Once in Cruz Bay, you’re free to explore on your own—shops, bars, and eateries are only steps from the dock. Many reviews highlight how much they appreciated the chance to wander freely, enjoy some local snacks, or simply soak in the Caribbean atmosphere.

Lunch and Land Exploration

While the tour doesn’t include a provided meal, it encourages you to enjoy lunch on your own. This setup gives you the flexibility to choose from Cruz Bay’s delightful array of eateries—whether you want a casual Caribbean snack or a sit-down meal. Several reviewers mention how they enjoyed browsing the shops and soaking in the relaxed island vibe, with some calling it “the best way to experience St. John.”

Snorkeling at Honeymoon Beach

After exploring Cruz Bay, it’s time to head to Honeymoon Beach for snorkeling and beach time—a highlight of the trip. The crystal-clear waters and calm conditions make it ideal for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike. You’ll use provided snorkeling equipment, and the experience is often described as “amazing,” with sightings of colorful fish and marine life.

However, it’s worth noting that one reviewer mentioned not seeing much aquatic life during their trip. Nature can be unpredictable, so don’t expect constant sightings, but the scenery and tranquility still make it worthwhile.

The Return Sail and Open Bar

Post-snorkel, you’ll reboard the boat for the return journey to Frenchman’s Reef. Here’s where the full open bar shines—after a day in the sun and water, nothing beats relaxing with a cold drink in hand while enjoying the breeze and views. Many guests find this part of the trip to be wonderfully laid-back and perfect for unwinding.

Additional Details and Practicalities

• The tour includes lite bites and all taxes and fees, which adds value and convenience.
• You’ll need to bring your government-issued ID if you want to indulge in the open bar.
• Parking is available for $10, which you can pay at the hotel front desk.
• Reservations are confirmed instantly, and the tour operates rain or shine, with cancellations allowed up to 24 hours in advance—important for those planning around weather.

What We Really Like About This Tour

The combination of sailing and land exploration makes this a well-rounded experience. Not only do you get beautiful views and snorkeling, but also the chance to wander Cruz Bay’s charming shops and cafes. Several reviews praise the friendly and knowledgeable crew, making the journey more personal and engaging.

Another highlight is the full open bar after snorkeling, which many find adds a relaxing, festive touch to the day. It’s a chance to toast the day’s adventures, chat with fellow travelers, or simply enjoy the breeze.

Considerations for Potential Travelers

While most reviews are positive, some mention the chance of less marine activity or last-minute cancellations. The latter underscores the importance of booking with flexibility and understanding that nature’s unpredictability can influence snorkeling conditions. Also, if you’re on a tight schedule or need to park nearby, be mindful of the extra $10 parking fee and plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers who want a balanced day of water and land activities without overly strenuous excursions. It’s especially suitable if you appreciate friendly guides, authentic shopping, and casual snorkeling in scenic spots. If you’re someone who enjoys a lively boat ride with a full bar, this trip hits that sweet spot.

Final Thoughts

The Sail, Shop and Snorkel in St. John from Frenchman’s Reef offers a well-organized, friendly, and authentic way to enjoy the Virgin Islands. With its beautiful sailing, easy access to Cruz Bay shops, and calm snorkeling, it combines the best of both worlds—beachside relaxation and island exploration—without breaking the bank.

While you might want to pack a few extra dollars for meals or parking, the value is clear: a memorable day on the water, exploring a gorgeous island, and winding down with a drink in hand. This tour is particularly suited for those who cherish authentic local experiences and prefer a mix of guided fun and free exploration.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Transportation is via the Flying Frenchman catamaran, and the tour departs from the Westin St. Thomas. The meeting point is at the hotel, making it convenient if you’re staying nearby.

How long is the trip?
The entire tour lasts about six hours, including sailing, land exploration, snorkeling, and the return journey.

What should I bring?
Bring government-issued ID if you plan to partake in the open bar, plus cash or card for shopping and meals on St. John. Don’t forget sun protection, water, and snorkeling gear if you prefer your own.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, the snorkeling spot at Honeymoon Beach is suitable for all levels, with provided equipment. However, some may see less marine life than expected, depending on conditions.

Can I cancel if the weather looks bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. The tour depends on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll get a full refund or reschedule.

Are there age restrictions?
Guests over 21 can enjoy the full open bar. The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but check accessibility if you have specific needs.

Is parking available?
Yes, parking is available for $10 per vehicle, payable at the hotel front desk.

What about gratuities?
Gratuities are not included, so consider tipping the crew if you enjoyed the experience.

How crowded is the tour?
The maximum group size is 80 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable atmosphere.

What do reviews say about the crew?
Reviewers consistently praise the crew as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, greatly enhancing the overall experience.

In summary, this tour offers a fantastic blend of sailing, snorkeling, and island life—a practical choice for anyone wanting to see the best of St. John without overcommitting. With its friendly crew, scenic views, and relaxed vibe, it promises a memorable Caribbean day that balances adventure and leisure perfectly.