St. John’s; Combo Laviscount Island & Swimming with Stingray

If you’re visiting Antigua and wonder how to make the most of your limited time, this 4.5-hour tour offers a fantastic blend of nature, culture, and fun. For around $100 per person, you’ll experience swimming with gentle stingrays, feeding some of the largest Aldabra Tortoises, and exploring a vibrant island filled with parrots and wildlife. Guided by local experts, the tour combines sightseeing, interactive animal encounters, and cultural insights—perfect for travelers craving a taste of authentic Antigua without feeling rushed.

What makes this trip stand out are two specific elements: firstly, the chance to swim among stingrays in their natural habitat—an experience that’s both thrilling and surprisingly gentle—and secondly, the opportunity to get up close with the giant tortoises on Laviscount Island, some of which are over 200 years old. These intimate animal interactions are what many reviews highlight as unforgettable.

However, a consideration worth noting is that the tour’s duration is relatively short, so if you’re looking for a full day of exploration, this might feel a bit condensed. Also, for guests staying at Nonsuch Bay Resort, some parts of the tour, like Stingray City, are not included due to the distance. That said, it’s an excellent choice for cruise ship passengers, hotel guests, or anyone eager for a diverse, engaging Antigua experience in just a few hours.

This tour is especially well-suited for families, animal lovers, and first-time visitors who want a comprehensive snapshot of Antigua’s charm—without sacrificing adventure or authenticity.

Key Points

• Varied Highlights: Combines cultural sights, animal encounters, and marine adventures.
• Authentic Animal Experiences: Swim with stingrays and feed giant tortoises in natural environments.
• Local Insights: Guides share captivating stories about Antigua’s history and heritage.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance or reserve now, pay later.
• Convenient for Cruise Passengers: Clear pickup instructions and short walk options.
• Value for Money: A well-balanced tour packed with memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Antigua Combo Tour

What You Can Expect from the Itinerary

This tour is designed as a mini adventure packed into just under five hours, with a focus on interactive animal encounters and cultural highlights. The experience begins with a pickup at a convenient location—for cruise ship visitors, at Heritage Quay, just a short walk from the dock, making sure you won’t miss your ship.

Once onboard, the guide (who speaks excellent English) kicks off with a 30-40 minute ride highlighting Antigua’s history and key landmarks. Expect to see notable sights like the Prime Minister’s Office (The White House), the Old Sugar Factory, and the national flag—the colors of which are proudly displayed across the island. You’ll also pass the local hospital and Parliament, providing a quick insight into Antigua’s governance and daily life.

The cultural part of the journey continues at Willikies Village, where your guide shares stories about the island’s ancestors and their fight for freedom. These stories deepen your understanding of Antigua’s spirited past and give context to the island’s vibrant present.

Stingray City: The Marine Highlight

The first major stop after the cultural drive is Stingray City, a shallow, calm area perfect for swimming and interacting with these graceful creatures. The boat ride itself is brief but scenic, and once you arrive, you’re encouraged to get into the water—guided by experienced crew members—to meet the stingrays up close.

Many reviews describe this as a “thrilling yet gentle” experience, which is true. Stingrays are often misunderstood, but Antigua’s environment allows you to interact safely and personally. You’ll learn about their habits and significance in local culture, making the encounter educational as well as fun. The guides are attentive, ensuring everyone feels comfortable, even if you’re a first-time swimmer.

Laviscount Island and The Giant Tortoises

Next, a short boat trip takes you to Laviscount Island—home to friendly parrots, colorful birds, and over 50 Aldabra Tortoises. These giants are some of the most impressive animals you’ll see; some weigh over 600 pounds, with a lifespan that can reach 200 years.

The highlight here is feeding and petting the tortoises—an experience that many guests describe as “impressive” and “touching.” The tortoises move slowly and calmly, providing a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to get close to animals that have changed little since the dinosaurs roamed the Earth. You’ll love the way your guide explains their history and habitat, adding depth to the encounter.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Bounty of Beverages and Snacks

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy refreshing rum punch or fruit punch, a nice touch to relax and take in the scenery. These drinks are often praised for their quality and flavor—none of that watered-down stuff here. It’s a small but appreciated detail that adds to the island vibe.

Practical Considerations

The tour’s timing and logistics are well thought out. If you’re a cruise passenger, the quick walk from the dock to the meeting point makes it easy to fit this experience into your schedule. Guides are clear about meeting times, and detailed instructions help you find the right spot, especially at Heritage Quay.

For hotel guests, meeting at your hotel lobby ensures a hassle-free start. Keep in mind, if you’re staying at Nonsuch Bay Resort, some parts of the tour (like Stingray City) are excluded due to distance. Also, a towel is recommended for the water activities, and smoking isn’t allowed in the vehicle.

Authenticity and Value

Guests consistently praise the informative and friendly guides who enrich the experience with stories about Antigua’s history and wildlife. One reviewer mentioned that their guide “had and board with STARS erop vast” and gave great local insights, which helped make their trip memorable.

The price is competitive considering the variety of activities packed into this half-day tour. You’re paying for a well-organized, engaging experience that covers Antigua’s natural beauty and cultural richness, all with the convenience of transportation and a knowledgeable guide.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for families, first-time visitors, and animal lovers looking for a quick but well-rounded Antigua adventure. If you enjoy interactive wildlife experiences and want a taste of Antigua’s history, this trip offers both with minimal fuss.

It’s especially suitable for cruise ship passengers and hotel guests who appreciate easy logistics and a mix of cultural and nature highlights. If you’re staying at Nonsuch Bay Resort, be aware that some parts may be excluded, but the core experiences remain rewarding.

Final Thoughts

This combo tour from Star Times Adventure Tours offers a well-crafted balance between interaction, education, and relaxation. The chance to swim with stingrays, feed giant tortoises, and learn about Antigua’s history all within a few hours makes it a smart choice for travelers short on time but eager for authentic experiences.

The guides’ friendly demeanor and local insights make the day more meaningful, and the scenic stops leave lasting impressions of Antigua’s natural beauty. The drinks and casual vibe just amplify the island feel—no stuffiness, just genuine fun.

In summary, if you’re after a value-packed, engaging, and authentic taste of Antigua in a morning or early afternoon, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for those who want a little bit of everything—marine life, wildlife, culture—and to do it comfortably and conveniently.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers? Yes. The meeting point at Heritage Quay is just a short 2-3 minute walk after security, making it easy to join without missing your boat.

What should I bring? A towel is recommended for water activities, and comfortable footwear is a good idea for walking around the island and animal encounters.

Are there any age restrictions? The reviews suggest that this experience is suitable for all ages, especially those interested in animals and marine life. However, always check with the tour operator if you have very young children.

What’s included in the price? The tour includes transportation, a guide, boat rides, animal encounters, and drinks like rum punch or fruit punch.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

Are guides English-speaking? Absolutely. All guides speak English and provide informative, friendly commentary throughout the trip.

What if I stay at Nonsuch Bay Resort? Due to the distance, some parts of the tour—like Stingray City—are excluded, but the rest of the activities remain accessible and enjoyable.

This Antigua combo tour offers an engaging, authentic, and convenient way to see some of the island’s best sights and animals in just a few hours. Perfect for those who crave natural beauty, animal encounters, and cultural insights—all wrapped into a friendly, well-organized package.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby