St Thomas: Turtle Cove Catamaran Snorkel & Sail Tour

Summary

Swim with turtles at Little Buck Island then sail back sipping rum

You’ll board a catamaran in St Thomas for a relaxed sail to Little Buck Island’s Turtle Cove, where you can snorkel among sea turtles and tropical fish with local guides nearby. Afterward, unwind on deck with snacks and drinks as you head back across the Caribbean — it’s more than just swimming; it’s sharing laughter and quiet moments that linger.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t think I’d be nervous about snorkeling in St Thomas, but standing on the wooden dock at Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove, watching The VI Cat bob around, I got that little flutter. Maybe it was the salty air or just seeing the crew laugh together while they checked everyone in — it felt like we were about to join a family picnic instead of a tour. Our guide, Jamie, handed out fins and cracked a joke about “turtle traffic” at Turtle Cove. I grinned but honestly wasn’t sure what to expect.

The sail out to Little Buck Island was louder than I thought — wind snapping the sails, reggae playing low from someone’s phone, sun flickering through clouds. Jamie pointed out the wildlife refuge as we got closer (“that patch of green there — no one lives there but turtles and fish”). When we finally dropped anchor at Turtle Cove, the water looked almost too clear. I slid in and instantly felt how warm it was, kind of like slipping into a bath that smells faintly of seaweed and sunscreen. There were flashes of yellow fish everywhere and then — right below me — a green sea turtle gliding by so slow it almost looked fake. I tried not to squeal through my snorkel.

Afterwards, everyone flopped back onto the deck (somehow saltier and happier), and Jamie passed around drinks only after all the gear was packed away — strict rule apparently, which made sense once you saw how strong they poured the rum punch. Snacks tasted better than expected; maybe everything does when you’re sunburned and tired in that good way. Someone asked if turtle sightings always happen here on this catamaran tour from St Thomas, but Jamie just shrugged: “They’re locals too — sometimes they show up late.” That made us laugh.

The sail back was slower, quieter somehow. People stretched out on towels or leaned against each other, nobody really talking much except for someone humming along with Bob Marley. I kept thinking about that turtle moving through sunlight under the water — it’s weird how something so simple can stick with you long after you’ve dried off.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkel and sail at Little Buck Island

• Arrive at Marriott's Frenchman's Cove
• Check in with The VI Cat crew
• Board the 54-foot sailing catamaran
• Sail to Little Buck Island
• Snorkel at Turtle Cove
• Enjoy snacks and beverages on board
• Relax or tan on the catamaran
• Sail back to Marriott's Frenchman's Cove

Top questions

Where does the Turtle Cove Catamaran Snorkel tour depart from?

The tour departs from the wooden dock at Marriott's Frenchman's Cove in St Thomas.

Are turtle sightings guaranteed during this St Thomas catamaran tour?

No, turtle sightings are common but not guaranteed since they are wild animals in their natural habitat.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this day trip?

Yes, snorkeling equipment including mask, snorkel, fins, and vest is included.

Are drinks included on this Little Buck Island snorkel tour?

Yes, unlimited drinks are served after snorkeling is finished.

How long is the Turtle Cove Snorkel & Sail trip?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours from departure to return.

Is hotel pickup included for this catamaran tour?

No, guests must arrange their own transportation to Marriott's Frenchman's Cove dock.

Can children join this Turtle Cove snorkeling trip?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult; infants may ride in a stroller or pram.

What time should guests arrive for check-in?

You should arrive 30 minutes before departure time to check in with The VI Cat crew.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes use of all snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel vest, fins), guidance from friendly local crew members who offer safety tips or even beginner lessons if needed at Little Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge; plus light snacks and unlimited beverages (alcoholic options only after swimming) as you relax on your return sail back to St Thomas.