St Thomas: Full Day Sailing & Snorkeling with Lunch & Drinks

Summary

Sail St Thomas waters with lunch, snorkeling gear included and a friendly crew

You’ll join a small group for a relaxed sail from St Thomas, with plenty of time to snorkel clear waters (gear included), enjoy Mediterranean-style lunch onboard, and sip rum punch while swapping stories under the sun. Expect friendly crew, good company, and moments that stick with you long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

I remember stepping onto the boat at Red Hook—still a little groggy from the early start, but the smell of sunscreen and sea air woke me up fast. Max (the captain) greeted us with this easy grin, like we were old friends. There weren’t many of us onboard—maybe eight? It felt more like joining someone’s group of pals than a big tour. The water was glassy that morning, and I kept thinking how blue it looked compared to anywhere else I’ve swum.

We set off quietly at first, just the hum of the boat and some reggae playing low. Our guide pointed out a few tiny islands as we passed—she told us stories about who lived there (or didn’t), which made me laugh because one was apparently just goats now. When we anchored for snorkeling, I hesitated getting in (cold shock gets me every time), but the crew handed out gear and gave tips without making anyone feel silly. Underwater was another world—fish everywhere, bits of coral waving around. Someone spotted a turtle and everyone got excited all at once.

Lunch came after swimming—grilled chicken with orzo salad, fruit and cheese on the side. Honestly, I didn’t expect to care about food on a boat but it was actually really good. The Mediterranean flavors surprised me; maybe it’s just that everything tastes better when you’re salty and sun-warmed? Rum punch showed up next (dangerously easy to drink), and people started swapping stories while drying off in patches of sun. At some point I lost track of time completely—just sea breeze, soft drinks clinking, people laughing at bad jokes.

We drifted back toward St Thomas in the afternoon sun. I caught myself staring out at nothing in particular—just that wide blue stretch—and feeling weirdly grateful for such an unhurried day. Even now I can almost hear the water slapping against the hull if I close my eyes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full day sailing and snorkeling

• Meet at American Yacht Harbor
• Depart from Red Hook at 9:15am
• Enjoy sailing and snorkeling with guide
• Have Mediterranean style lunch onboard
• Drink soft drinks, beer, and rum punch
• Return to harbor around 3:15pm

Top questions

Where does the full day sail depart from?

The tour departs from American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook, St Thomas at C dock next to the Marina office.

What time does the sailing tour start and end?

The sail starts at 9:15am and returns around 3:15pm; times can be adjusted for cruise ship schedules.

Is lunch included during the sailing trip?

Yes, lunch is included—a Mediterranean-style meal with grilled chicken, orzo salad, fruit and cheese platter.

Are drinks provided on board?

Yes—all soft drinks, bottled water, beer, wine, and Caribbean rum punch are included throughout the day.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes—all snorkeling gear is included along with instruction and a guide if needed.

How many people are usually on board?

The boat carries fewer passengers than most charters for a more intimate experience; typically around 8 guests.

Are children allowed on this sailing tour?

Yes—children under 5 are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap during the trip.

What should I bring for this sailing trip?

You should bring sunscreen (non-spray), towels, and consider gratuity for your crew (15-20% is standard).

What’s included

Your day includes all snorkeling equipment with guidance if you want it, unlimited soft drinks plus an open bar featuring beer and Caribbean rum punch, Mediterranean-style lunch served fresh onboard after swimming stops—and you’ll be looked after by a friendly local crew from start to finish before returning to Red Hook in the afternoon.