St Thomas: Mangrove Lagoon Kayak & Snorkel Tour with Pickup

Summary

Kayak and snorkel St Thomas mangroves with local pickup

You’ll paddle through St Thomas’ mangrove lagoon with a small group, spotting wildlife above and below the water before snorkeling in calm shallows. With hotel or port pickup included, plus all your gear and some snacks, it’s an easygoing adventure that leaves space for quiet moments — and maybe even a laugh with your guide.

What’s the experience like?

I’d never really pictured myself kayaking through a mangrove lagoon in St Thomas — but there I was, paddle in hand, trying not to splash my shoes (I failed). The water had this quiet, greenish clarity and the air smelled like salt and something earthy. Our guide, Jasmine, kept pointing out little flashes of movement under the surface — needlefish darting past, a heron just standing there like it owned the place. I kept drifting off course because I was too busy staring at everything.

The best part was probably slipping into the water for the snorkeling bit. It’s shallow here, so you don’t get that deep-ocean feeling — more like floating above a secret garden. There were these tiny snails on the roots and weird little crabs scuttling sideways. Jasmine handed me a piece of sea lettuce to try (salty, not my thing), and laughed when I made a face. The sun came out for a second and everything went gold-green for a minute — I still think about that light sometimes.

Getting picked up from the port made things easy — no stress about taxis or timing. Our driver chatted about island life on the way over; apparently everyone knows everyone here. On the way back, I was salty and tired in that good way you get after being outside all afternoon. If you’re looking for something mellow but still kind of magical, this kayak and snorkel tour is honestly worth it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Mangrove kayak and snorkel tour

• Taxi pickup before tour
• Arrive at Mangrove Lagoon marina
• Kayak through mangroves
• Spot sea birds and marine life
• Snorkel in shallow mangrove lagoon
• Return taxi to ship or hotel

Top questions

What time does the Mangrove Lagoon Kayak & Snorkel Tour start?

The morning tour starts at 10:00am and the afternoon tour starts at 2:00pm.

Is pickup included from my hotel or cruise ship?

Yes, hotel or port pickup is included before your tour and drop-off after.

How long before my tour will I be picked up?

You’ll be picked up by taxi 30–45 minutes before your tour depending on location.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, all kayak and snorkel gear is included in your tour.

Are snacks or drinks provided during the tour?

You’ll get water and a candy snack during your excursion.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?

A moderate level of fitness is recommended; beginners are welcome but should be comfortable kayaking and snorkeling.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed according to site policy.

What happens if my cruise ship leaves early?

If your ship departs unexpectedly early, transportation will be arranged to your next port-of-call as per terms and conditions.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel or port pickup by taxi to the marina at Mangrove Lagoon, use of lockers for your stuff, all kayaking and snorkeling equipment, water with a candy snack along the way, plus guidance from a local expert before returning you safely to your ship or hotel afterwards.