St. Thomas to St. John: Turtle Snorkel, Pizza Pi & Sunset Sail

Summary

Swim with turtles, eat boat pizza and sail into a Caribbean sunset

You’ll sail from St. Thomas with local guides who know every island story, snorkel with turtles at Maho Bay, enjoy New York-style pizza delivered by boat from Pizza Pi, and end your day sipping champagne under a Caribbean sunset—all on a semi-private catamaran where every moment feels easy and real.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever had pizza delivered by dinghy?” our captain grinned as we left St. Thomas behind, the salt wind already tangling my hair. I didn’t know what to expect—just that the boat felt like someone’s living room with strangers who were quickly turning into co-conspirators. The crew—locals, full of stories about pirates and shipwrecks—kept us laughing as we crossed Pillsbury Sound. There was this moment when the sun hit the water just right and everything went quiet except for the slap of waves against the hull.

We anchored in this cove—I’m not sure I could find it again if you paid me—and there they were: sea turtles, just gliding under us like it was no big deal. I fumbled with my snorkel mask (still salty about that) but eventually got it sorted and drifted above them, watching stingrays flick sand up from the bottom. Lunch came floating over in a little boat—Pizza Pi’s New York slices, hot and cheesy even out here. I swear, eating pizza while treading turquoise water is something everyone should try at least once.

After that, we sailed past Cinnamon Bay and Trunk Bay—those beaches are so white they almost hurt your eyes—and then stopped at Maho Bay for more swimming. Our guide pointed out a turtle poking its head up for air and everyone cheered like kids. The water was so clear you could see your own shadow on the sand below. Someone handed me a drink from the open bar (I stuck to rum punch), and we all just floated for a while, half-talking, half-listening to nothing but sea breeze.

The ride back was slower—the light got gold and soft—and there was this hush over everyone as we watched the sky melt into pinks and oranges. We toasted with champagne as the last bit of sun dipped behind St. John. I still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy at home—you know? It’s funny how one day can stick with you like that.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sail, snorkel, pizza, and sunset toast

• Depart from St. Thomas
• Sail across Pillsbury Sound
• Drop anchor in protected cove
• Swim with sea turtles and stingrays
• Enjoy fresh NY style pizza
• Sail along North Shore of St. John
• Pass Cinnamon Bay and Trunk Bay
• Snorkel at Virgin Islands National Park
• Relax on sunset sail
• Champagne toast to end day

Top questions

Is this turtle snorkel tour only available from St. Thomas?

Yes, this trip departs exclusively from St. Thomas.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?

No, snorkeling equipment is included for all guests.

Is food provided during the tour?

Yes, lunch includes cheese or pepperoni pizza from Pizza Pi delivered by boat.

How many people are on the catamaran?

The tour is semi-private with a maximum of 12 guests onboard.

Are drinks included on this sailing trip?

Yes, there’s an open bar plus light snacks available throughout the day.

Will we see sea turtles for sure?

You’ll stop at Maho Bay where sea turtles are often seen while snorkeling.

Does the tour include pickup or transportation?

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

Is this trip suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels according to the operator.

Are restrooms available on board?

Yes, there is a restroom on board the catamaran for guest use.

What’s included

Your day includes sailing on a semi-private catamaran with Coast Guard certified local crew members guiding you across Pillsbury Sound from St. Thomas; use of snorkeling gear; cheese or pepperoni pizza lunch delivered by Pizza Pi's boat; open bar with light snacks; champagne toast at sunset; restroom facilities onboard; plus all captain and fuel costs covered before returning in the evening.