Antigua: Galleon Beach Sea Scooter Snorkeling & Turtle Swim

Summary

Sea scooter snorkeling in antigua with turtles rays and coral reefs

You’ll start right from Antigua’s Galleon Beach, grabbing your own sea scooter and following a local guide into clear waters packed with turtles, rays, and bright fish. Glide easily over coral reefs all the way to the Pillars of Hercules rock formations. With pickup included and underwater photos to take home, you’ll remember how wild and close it all felt long after you dry off.

What’s the experience like?

"You just press this button and let it pull you," our guide said, grinning as he handed me the sea scooter. I’d never tried anything like this before. The water at Galleon Beach was warm against my ankles, and there was this salty breeze that kept blowing my mask strap sideways. We started from the shore—no boat, which honestly made it feel more real somehow. Our group was half nervous laughter, half trying to look cool as we zipped out into Freeman’s Bay.

I didn’t expect how easy it would be to move—just squeeze and suddenly you’re gliding over rocks and patches of coral. Our guide (I think his name was Marcus?) pointed out a sea turtle almost right away. It moved so slowly compared to us on the scooters, but there was something peaceful about it. I caught a glimpse of a ray hiding in the sand too. The sun kept flickering through the water, making everything look wobbly and brighter than above.

We stopped near these wild rock formations—the Pillars of Hercules—and floated for a bit while Marcus told us about shipwrecks nearby. I tried to say “conch” properly when he showed us one; Li laughed at my accent and I probably butchered it. There were bursts of color everywhere—tiny fish darting around, some spiky urchins tucked under ledges. My hands got a little cold gripping the scooter handles but I barely noticed because I was just staring at everything moving below.

Afterwards, we rinsed off on the sand with that sticky feeling only saltwater leaves behind. Someone handed out water bottles and we scrolled through photos our guide had snapped underwater (my hair looked ridiculous in every shot). I still think about that turtle sometimes—how close it felt, like we were guests in its world for an hour or so.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Scooter snorkeling at Freeman's Bay

• Walk from shore to water
• Use sea scooter to snorkel
• Explore marine life at Freeman's Bay
• Visit Pillars of Hercules rock formation
• Spot turtles, rays, and tropical fish
• Follow guide's marine life explanations

Top questions

Is pickup included for the Turtle Beach Power Snorkeling Adventure?

Yes, shared pickup and drop-off are included with your tour booking.

Do I need previous snorkeling experience for this Antigua sea scooter tour?

You should be able to swim or have snorkeled before; non-swimmers cannot join.

Are turtles guaranteed on this Galleon Beach snorkeling trip?

Turtle sightings are more likely during afternoon sessions but not guaranteed.

How long does it take to reach the Pillars of Hercules by sea scooter?

The Pillars are not far from shore; you’ll reach them quickly after starting from Galleon Beach.

What equipment is provided for this snorkeling tour?

Your tour includes a sea scooter, life vest (mandatory), mask, snorkel, fins, drinking water, and underwater photos.

Can pregnant travelers join this Antigua snorkeling activity?

No, this activity is not recommended for pregnant travelers due to safety reasons.

Is public transportation available near Galleon Beach?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby if needed.

What’s the weight limit for participants on this tour?

The maximum weight allowed is 300 lbs (136 kg).

What’s included

Your day includes shared pickup and drop-off from your location in Antigua, use of a sea scooter plus all snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins), a mandatory life vest for safety, fresh drinking water after your swim, underwater photos taken by your guide so you don’t have to worry about bringing a camera yourself—and time spent exploring with someone who knows these waters inside out before heading back sandy and happy.