St Thomas: Snorkeling Tour with Turtles & Pirate Punch

Summary

Swim with turtles & rays at two St Thomas reef sites with local guides

You’ll snorkel alongside turtles and rays at two different St Thomas reef sites, guided by locals who know every nook of the water. Expect laughter over snacks on deck, real stories from your crew, and pirate punch as you dry off in the sun — plus those quiet moments underwater you’ll remember long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

"If you spot a turtle, just float and let it come to you," our guide Marcus said, grinning like he’d done this a thousand times. He handed me my mask and I swear I fumbled it twice — nerves or excitement, who knows. The water was that perfect blue-green you see in postcards but never quite believe until you’re in it. I could smell sunscreen and salt and something sweet from someone’s bag of cookies. We started off slow, just drifting over the reef while Marcus pointed out these tiny Christmas tree worms waving from coral. I tried to remember all the names — French angelfish, purple sea fans — but honestly, I mostly remember how quiet it felt underwater except for my own breathing.

The second stop was a bit deeper, more fish darting around and even a ray gliding by so close I almost forgot to keep swimming. There was talk about maybe seeing a shipwreck if the current behaved, but we didn’t make it that far (next time). Still, floating above those reefs in St Thomas made me feel oddly small in a good way. On the boat back, everyone was laughing about who’d eaten the most cookies (not me for once) and Marcus poured us pirate punch — strong enough that I had to double-check if I’d put sunscreen on my nose. The wind dried us off quick; someone’s towel nearly flew overboard.

I liked that nobody rushed us — we had time to ask questions about the marine life or just sit quietly watching the horizon. The captain told us stories about old shipwrecks and private islands nearby; half of them sounded true, half pure legend. It’s funny how easy it is to forget your phone exists when you’re out there bobbing on the waves with salt drying on your skin. That feeling stuck with me longer than any fish name did.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling tour around St Thomas

• Meet friendly snorkel guide
• Receive snorkeling equipment
• Snorkel at first marine site
• Identify sea life species
• Snorkel at second marine site
• Possibly see shipwreck or private island
• Enjoy water and light snacks
• Drink pirate punch returning to dock

Top questions

Do I need snorkeling experience for this St Thomas tour?

No prior snorkeling experience is required but all guests must be able to swim.

What marine life can I see during the snorkeling trip?

You may see sea turtles, rays, French angelfish, Christmas tree worms, purple sea fans, and more tropical fish.

Are snacks or drinks included on this snorkeling adventure?

Yes, light snacks like cookies and chips are included along with water, soda, and pirate punch for adults 18+.

How many snorkel sites do we visit around St Thomas?

You will visit two different snorkeling sites during the tour.

Is equipment provided or do I bring my own?

All snorkeling equipment is provided as part of your booking.

Is there a guide in the water with us?

Yes, a certified in-water snorkel guide accompanies you throughout.

Can children join this St Thomas snorkeling tour?

The minimum age is 10 years old; children must be accompanied by an adult.

Is transportation available to reach the dock?

Public transportation options are available nearby; pickup is not specified in this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes use of all snorkel equipment plus guidance from a certified local expert at both reef stops around St Thomas. You’ll have light snacks like cookies or chips onboard along with water and soda for everyone — adults can enjoy pirate punch on the way back too. A USCG licensed captain leads your trip for safety throughout.