Montego Bay: Snorkeling Tour, Margaritaville & Hipstrip Pickup

Summary

Snorkel Caribbean reefs then unwind at Margaritaville Montego Bay

You’ll jump right into Montego Bay’s Caribbean waters for snorkeling above bright coral reefs before chilling out at Margaritaville with food or drinks. Private transport means no stress about getting there or back, plus there’s time for souvenir shopping along Hipstrip if you want it. Expect laughter, salt on your skin, and maybe a new favorite memory.

What’s the experience like?

We pulled up in Montego Bay just as the sun was starting to get a little fierce — not that I minded. Our driver, Andre, had reggae on low and pointed out a bakery where he said the patties are “dangerous” (I think he meant good). I was still half-awake when we got to the dock, but the salty air hit me and suddenly I was wide awake. The crew handed us masks and fins — mine felt a bit too tight but honestly, I was too excited to care.

The boat ride out was maybe ten minutes? Hard to say — time gets weird when you’re watching the water go from turquoise to this deep blue that almost looks fake. When we stopped, our guide (I think her name was Shanice?) showed us how to clear our masks. She laughed when I tried it — apparently I’m not a natural. But once we slid into the water, everything else faded out except for the sound of my own breathing and these flashes of yellow fish darting around coral. There’s this one moment where I looked up and saw sunlight rippling through the surface — still sticks with me.

Afterwards, we dried off quick in that sticky Jamaican breeze and headed over to Margaritaville. It’s loud in there — music bouncing off every wall, people laughing over frozen drinks. I grabbed a margarita (obviously) and just sat for a bit watching everyone come and go in their beach clothes. Someone started dancing by the bar at noon; nobody seemed to mind. Later we wandered down Hipstrip for souvenirs — lots of Bob Marley shirts and wood carvings. The shopkeeper taught me how to say “thank you” in patois but I probably butchered it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling and Margaritaville visit

• Pickup by professional driver
• Receive snorkeling equipment
• Board boat to snorkeling site
• Snorkel among corals and fish
• Visit Margaritaville Montego Bay
• Relax with drinks and food
• Optional shopping on Hipstrip
• Return to resort safely

Top questions

How long does the snorkeling part of the tour last?

The boat ride is about ten minutes each way; snorkeling itself lasts roughly 30-45 minutes depending on group pace.

Is hotel pickup included in this Montego Bay snorkeling tour?

Yes, private round-trip transportation is included from your accommodation to all stops.

Do I need my own snorkeling equipment?

No, all necessary snorkeling gear is provided as part of the tour.

Can I shop on Hipstrip during this excursion?

Yes, there’s an optional stop at a souvenir/gift shop on Hipstrip before returning.

Is lunch or food included at Margaritaville?

No meals are included but you can purchase food or drinks at Margaritaville during your visit.

Is this tour suitable for beginners or non-swimmers?

The snorkeling is suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for non-swimmers or those with certain health conditions.

Are public transportation options available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near pickup points if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes private air-conditioned transport from your hotel to the excursion site and back again, all snorkeling equipment provided by the crew, plus an optional complimentary stop at a souvenir shop on Hipstrip before heading home. You’ll have time at Margaritaville to buy food or drinks if you want before returning relaxed (and probably sandy) to your resort.