St Thomas: Catamaran Turtle Snorkel & Honeymoon Beach Small Group

Summary

Swim with turtles near Buck Island then unwind at Water Island’s Honeymoon Beach

You’ll snorkel alongside sea turtles at Buck Island with a small group (never more than 12), then unwind at Honeymoon Beach on Water Island. With all your gear sorted by friendly guides, plus snacks and unlimited drinks after swimming, you’ll get both adventure and downtime — and probably leave feeling lighter than when you started.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to be nervous about snorkeling — but as we pulled away from St. Thomas on that catamaran, my stomach did a little flip. Maybe it was the salt air or just seeing the crew move around like they’d done this a thousand times. Our guide, Jamie, handed out gear and grinned when I fumbled with the mask (I always forget which way it goes). The boat only had about ten of us onboard, so it felt more like a group of friends than a tour.

The first stop was Turtle Cove at Buck Island. I could hear someone laughing behind me as we slid into the water — the ocean was cooler than I thought, kind of bracing in that wake-you-up way. Jamie pointed out a green sea turtle gliding below and suddenly all my nerves just vanished. There were flashes of yellow fish and soft swaying coral, but honestly it’s the slow movement of those turtles that stuck with me. Afterward, back on deck, we got snacks and someone passed me a rum punch (they wait until after you’re done swimming for the open bar — smart move).

We cruised over to Honeymoon Beach next. You could stay on the boat or float in the shallows or just wander onto the sand — I ended up half-dozing on one of those big floats, listening to people chat and feeling sun-warm and salty. The crew kept checking in without hovering. I liked that there wasn’t any rush; nobody herded us anywhere or tried to sell anything extra. It was just easygoing — maybe that’s what I’ll remember most.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Luxury catamaran snorkel and beach

• Board luxury power catamaran
• Snorkel at Turtle Cove with guide
• Swim with sea turtles and fish
• Enjoy snack and open bar
• Ride to Honeymoon Beach
• Relax on boat, floats, or beach

Top questions

How many people are on this St Thomas catamaran tour?

The tour is limited to 12 guests per trip for more space and personal service.

Do I need snorkeling experience for Turtle Cove?

No prior experience needed; your guide will give instructions before you enter the water.

Are drinks included on this catamaran tour?

Yes, unlimited top-shelf drinks are served after snorkeling activities are finished.

Is snorkeling gear provided or do I bring my own?

All sanitized snorkeling equipment is provided by the crew.

What beaches do we visit during this day trip?

You’ll snorkel at Turtle Cove (Buck Island) and relax at Honeymoon Beach (Water Island).

Is lunch included on this tour?

No full lunch is included but snacks are served onboard after snorkeling.

Can children join this St Thomas turtle snorkel trip?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed onboard.

Is there hotel pickup for this catamaran tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are nearby.

What’s included

Your half-day includes all sanitized snorkeling gear, guidance from a professional crew who’ll help you spot turtles at Buck Island, plus fresh water rinses after swimming. Afterward you’ll have snacks and unlimited top-shelf drinks from the open bar once you’re back onboard. There’s also an easy-access swim platform, modern bathroom facilities, fuel covered — basically everything except full lunch or hotel pickup.