Antigua North Sound Eco Tour: Snorkeling, Bird Island & Hells Gate

Summary

Snorkel reefs, climb Hells Gate cave and taste real island life

You’ll ride out across Antigua’s North Sound with local guides who know every island by heart. Snorkel two different reefs—even if you’re new to it—and hear stories about turtles and mangroves along the way. Climb through Hells Gate cave and taste real Antiguan lunch before sharing rum punch with new friends as the sun starts to dip.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the water around Antigua’s North Sound looked almost fake—like someone had dialed up the turquoise just to mess with me. We skimmed past these tiny green islands (our guide, Eli, called out their names like old friends), and the boat’s engine had this low hum that mixed with the wind. At Jumby Bay, we stopped for a turtle talk—thirty years they’ve been tracking them here, which I didn’t expect. The way Eli described the hatchlings scrambling for the sea made me weirdly emotional. Maybe it was the sun or just thinking about how fragile everything is.

I’m not a great snorkeler but nobody made a big deal—one of the crew gave me a quick lesson right there on deck. The reef at Maiden Island felt alive under my hands; fish everywhere, some so bright they looked painted on. There was a bit of current but honestly, floating above those corals with nothing but my own breath in my ears—I still think about that silence. Later we drifted by Guiana Island and Eli pointed out mangroves that shelter baby fish (and apparently more than a few crabs). It smelled kind of earthy-salty, if that makes sense.

Bird Island was next—sand so soft it squeaked underfoot—and we actually saw one of those Antigua Racer snakes (not poisonous, thank god). Lunch was grilled chicken and something spicy I never caught the name of; Li laughed when I tried to say it in Mandarin—probably butchered it. Last stop: Hells Gate. Climbing through that cave was messier than I thought (bring shoes you don’t mind getting wet) but popping out over that natural bridge with Atlantic waves on one side and Caribbean calm on the other… well, you get why people keep coming back. Homemade rum punch at the end tasted like sunshine and sugar cane.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore North Sound islands and snorkeling

• Anchor at Long Bay Island
• Learn about Turtle Project
• Pass Guiana Island mangroves
• Swim and snorkel at Bird Island
• Lunch and drinks included
• Snorkel and climb at Hells Gate Island

Top questions

How long is Eli's Original Eco Tour in Antigua?

The tour lasts a full day exploring Antigua’s North Sound and offshore islands.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this eco tour?

Yes, all snorkeling equipment is provided as part of your tour.

Do you visit Bird Island on this Antigua eco tour?

Yes, there is a beach stop at Bird Island where you might see an Antigua Racer Snake.

Is lunch included during the tour?

Yes, a local lunch and drinks are included in your booking.

Are there restroom facilities on board?

Yes, there is a restroom available on board during the tour.

What wildlife can you see during this day trip from Antigua?

You may see turtles at Jumby Bay and indigenous birds or snakes at Bird Island.

Is this eco tour suitable for all ages?

The tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels; infants must sit on an adult’s lap.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your accommodation if needed, all snorkeling gear (with lessons if you want), snacks and bottled water throughout, a homemade Antiguan lunch with drinks—including rum punch after activities—and access to restrooms onboard before returning to shore together.