St Thomas & St John: Reef Surfari Snorkeling Tour with Bar

Summary

Snorkel clear waters spot sea turtles sip rum punch after swimming

You’ll float above coral gardens in Virgin Islands waters, maybe spot a sea turtle or two, then relax with snacks and a cold drink as you cruise back past green hillsides. Includes all snorkeling gear, pickup from St Thomas or St John, and a friendly local crew who make you feel like you belong—even if you can’t say “painkiller” without laughing.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if the water around St John really is that blue? I did too, until we hopped on Reef Surfari one morning in Red Hook. There was this salty breeze that made my hair stick up and the crew—Trey and Jess—were already joking about who’d spot the first turtle. We picked up a few more folks at Cruz Bay (I nearly tripped getting back on board, but nobody seemed to notice). The boat felt new but not fussy, like it’s seen some fun days already.

The Virgin Islands National Park looked different from the water—greener somehow, and quieter than I expected. Our guide pointed out a cove where locals sometimes fish for snapper. When I slid into the water at our first snorkel stop, it hit me how much cooler it felt compared to the sun on deck. I kept drifting near these bright corals and suddenly there was a sea turtle right below me. Not huge, just sort of gliding along. Someone nearby let out this muffled laugh through their snorkel.

I didn’t expect to get so hungry after swimming, but fruit and snacks tasted way better out there than they would’ve at home. Once everyone was back onboard (and counted), Trey started pouring painkillers and rum punch—only after we were done swimming, which made sense. The ride back to St John was mellow; salt drying on my skin, music low, people swapping stories about what they saw underwater. I still think about that view over Cruz Bay as we pulled in—sunlight bouncing off the waves and all those boats bobbing around like they had nowhere else to be.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling tour around St John

• Depart from Ocean Surfari Red Hook
• Pick up guests at Cruz Bay beach
• Snorkel at two different spots
• Enjoy open bar and light snacks
• Return to St John for drop off
• Return to St Thomas

Top questions

Where does the snorkeling tour depart from?

The tour departs from Ocean Surfari in Red Hook on St Thomas at 9:00 am and picks up guests from Cruz Bay beach on St John at 9:30 am.

How many snorkeling stops are included?

The tour includes two different snorkel spots around the Virgin Islands National Park area.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, all snorkeling equipment is included for use during the tour.

Are drinks or snacks included?

Yes, soda, water, fruit and light snacks are served before snorkeling; beer and rum drinks are available after swimming.

What time does the tour return?

The boat returns guests to St John by 12:00 pm and then to St Thomas by 12:30 pm.

Can cruise ship passengers join this excursion?

Yes; select Crown Bay or Havensight cruise ship ports if arriving by cruise ship when booking.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Are public transportation options nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near departure points.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from either St Thomas or St John depending on where you’re staying (or cruise port if needed), use of all snorkeling gear so you don’t have to bring your own mask or fins, plus fruit and light snacks before you swim. After snorkeling two different spots with your local guide in Virgin Islands waters, enjoy cold sodas before diving into an open bar—beer, rum punch and painkillers—on your way back to port.