St Thomas: 2-Tank Dive for Certified Divers & Small Groups

Summary

Small group diving reefs & wrecks around St Thomas with local crew

You’ll join a small group of certified divers in St Thomas for two guided dives over reefs and wrecks—with all equipment included if you need it. Expect help from friendly local crew, snacks between dives, and rum punch after surfacing. It’s relaxed but professional—and you might find yourself smiling at nothing as you ride back to shore.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was nervous when I realized I’d left my logbook at the hotel. The crew at Saga Haven Marina just grinned and said, “No worries, we’ll sort it out.” There’s something about the way locals in St Thomas laugh off little hiccups that makes you relax—maybe it’s the sea air or just their vibe. Our dive guide, Marsha, checked our certifications and cracked a joke about her own first dive (“I came up with my mask on sideways—no one tells you about that part!”). It set the tone: not too serious, but you could tell they knew their stuff.

The ride out was short—maybe twenty minutes? Hard to keep track because I got distracted watching pelicans skimming the water. The sun was already sharp by 9am and there was this salty tang in the breeze that made me hungry before we even started. They gave us a quick safety rundown, then helped everyone gear up. My wetsuit felt snug (maybe too many island snacks lately), but once I did that giant stride off the boat into blue-green water, all nerves vanished. The first reef was alive with movement—parrotfish crunching coral, a turtle gliding past so close I could see its mottled shell. You know that feeling when your ears finally settle and everything goes quiet except your bubbles? Still gives me chills.

Between dives we sat on deck munching pineapple slices and sipping cold soda while Marsha pointed out where we’d head next—a shallow wreck site she called her “office window.” She told us stories about local divers who swear they’ve seen octopus there at dawn (I didn’t spot one but maybe I blinked). Second dive went by too fast; visibility was clear enough to count every stripe on a sergeant major fish. Back on board, someone passed around cups of pirate punch—sweet and strong enough to make you laugh at nothing. I still think about that view coming back toward the marina: sunlight bouncing off wet hair, salt drying on my skin, everyone quiet in that happy-tired way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Two-tank dive in St Thomas

• Meet at Aqua Marine Dive Center
• Check-in 30 minutes before start
• Get fitted for gear and show certification
• Complete waivers and safety briefing
• Boat ride to first dive site
• Gear up and enter water for first dive
• Surface interval with snacks and drinks
• Boat ride to second dive site
• Second dive for about one hour
• Enjoy punch and snacks on return ride

Top questions

Do I need to be certified to join this two-tank dive in St Thomas?

Yes, this trip is only for certified divers—you’ll need to show proof of certification when you check in.

How many people are usually in each dive group?

Groups are small—typically six divers or fewer per guide for a more personal experience.

Is scuba equipment included or do I bring my own?

Dive equipment is available if needed—it’s included in your booking along with tanks and weights.

Where does the tour start?

You’ll meet at Aqua Marine Dive Center at Saga Haven Marina for check-in before departure.

Are snacks or drinks provided during the trip?

Yes—snacks, water, soft drinks during surface intervals, plus rum punch after diving (for adults 18+).

Can beginners or non-divers join this tour?

No—this is only for certified divers. If you haven’t dived in years they recommend a refresher course first.

What should I bring with me?

Your certification card or proof of recent dives is required; bring swimwear and any personal gear if preferred.

Is pickup from my hotel or cruise ship included?

No direct pickup is included but they can help arrange taxis from port or resorts if needed—just ask when booking.

What’s included

Your day includes two guided tank dives around St Thomas reefs and wrecks with all scuba gear provided if needed, plus tanks and weights. You’ll get snacks and drinks between dives—think fresh fruit and sodas—and finish off with pirate punch for adults before returning to the marina.