Coral Reef and Turtle Discovery Tour

Beneath the shimmering turquoise waters off the coast of St. Thomas lies a vibrant world waiting to be discovered. The Coral Reef and Turtle Discovery Tour promises an unforgettable adventure, where kayakers and snorkelers can enjoy a living marine ecosystem teeming with colorful coral formations and the graceful movements of sea turtles. With no prior experience required, this guided tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the island’s natural wonders up close, while enjoying a picnic lunch and the company of fellow adventurers. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a day of sun-soaked exploration, this tour is sure to leave you captivated and eager to uncover more.

Good To Know

• Five-hour excursion featuring kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming to explore a coral reef and sea turtle habitat.
• No prior experience required for snorkeling and kayaking with safety measures in place.
• Guided tour includes a picnic lunch, snacks, beverages, and optional photo service.
• Observe diverse marine life, including corals, sponges, tropical fish, and majestic sea turtles.
• Flexible booking policies with free cancellation and transportation options for added convenience.

Tour Overview

The Coral Reef and Turtle Discovery Tour promises a captivating adventure through the crystal-clear waters of the US Virgin Islands.

Rated 5.0 out of 5 with 3 reviews, this 5-hour excursion allows participants to kayak, snorkel, and swim among vibrant coral reefs and sea turtles.

No prior experience is required for the snorkeling and kayaking activities, making it accessible to travelers of all skill levels.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, the tour takes visitors to two stunning locations: a coral reef and a sea turtle habitat.

Along the way, they’ll enjoy a picnic lunch, snacks, and beverages, as well as the opportunity to capture photos above and underwater for an additional fee.

Itinerary and Activities

Guided by a knowledgeable expert, the adventure begins with a short safety orientation, after which you will kayak through the crystal-clear waters to a shell-covered beach.

Upon arrival, snorkeling equipment will be distributed, and guests will have the opportunity to explore the vibrant coral reef. Here, they’ll encounter a diverse array of corals, sponges, and tropical fish.

The tour then continues to a sea turtle habitat, where guests can observe these gentle creatures in their natural environment.

Throughout the journey, a picnic lunch, snacks, and beverages will be provided to fuel the exploration.

1. Kayak through clear waters to a shell-covered beach
2. Snorkel the coral reef and observe its vibrant marine life
3. Discover a sea turtle habitat and watch the turtles in their natural home
4. Enjoy a picnic lunch, snacks, and beverages during the adventure

Transportation and Meeting Details

For participants’ convenience, pickup from St Thomas hotels or the cruise port can be arranged for an additional charge. The meeting point is the Emerald Beach Resort, where guests should check in 15 minutes before the 9:30 am start time. Free parking is available at the resort.

Transportation	Meeting Point	Schedule
Pickup from hotels/cruise port	Emerald Beach Resort	Check-in 15 mins before Tour starts at 9:30 am
Free parking at resort

The tour’s accessible location and transportation options make it easy for travelers to join this immersive coral reef and sea turtle adventure.

Health and Safety Requirements

Participants must be at least 5 years old and accompanied by an adult.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, there are a few health and safety requirements. Participants must know how to swim and be able to walk on uneven surfaces.

The tour isn’t recommended for individuals with back problems, heart conditions, or serious medical issues. Plus, there’s a maximum weight limit of 225 pounds per individual and 425 pounds for tandem kayaks.

• Minimum age: 5 years old
• Must know how to swim and walk on uneven surfaces
• Not recommended for those with back problems, heart conditions, or serious medical issues
• Maximum weight limit: 225 pounds per individual, 425 pounds for tandem kayaks

Booking Information and Policies

Booking this Coral Reef and Turtle Discovery Tour is simple and straightforward. The minimum booking is for 2 guests, making it ideal for couples, families, or small groups.

Should you need to cancel, you can do so free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience starts. For larger groups of 5 or more, an automatic 20% gratuity is added, though 15-20% is recommended for smaller parties.

When booking, be sure to communicate any dietary restrictions, as the tour provides a picnic lunch with sandwich choices and beverage preferences.

With these flexible policies, you can plan your adventure with confidence.

Explore the Coral Reef

Kayakers embark on a tranquil journey across the crystal-clear waters, eventually arriving at a vibrant coral reef teeming with diverse marine life.

The snorkeling adventure provides an up-close encounter with the reef’s remarkable ecosystem:

1. Colorful corals in various shapes and sizes sway gently in the current, creating a dazzling underwater landscape.

2. Schools of tropical fish, including parrotfish, angelfish, and clownfish, dart between the coral branches, their vibrant hues gleaming in the sunlight.

3. Giant sea fans and sponges add texture and depth to the scene, providing shelter for a multitude of invertebrates.

4. With luck, guests may even spot a majestic sea turtle gliding effortlessly through the water, a true highlight of the snorkeling experience.

Discover the Sea Turtles

After exploring the vibrant coral reef, the tour transports guests to a protected sea turtle habitat.

Here, snorkelers have the opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural environment. Gliding gracefully through the clear, warm waters, the sea turtles come up for air, occasionally exposing their distinctive shells.

Guests can watch as the turtles forage for food, rest on the seafloor, and bask in the sunlight. The guide provides insights into the turtles’ behaviors and conservation efforts to protect this vulnerable species.

Witnessing these ancient mariners up close is a truly awe-inspiring experience, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the underwater world.

Picnic Lunch and Photos

Having observed the captivating sea turtles, the group gathers for a well-earned picnic lunch.

The tour provides a delightful assortment of options, including:

1. Freshly prepared sandwiches with a choice of fillings.
2. Refreshing beverages to quench the thirst after the adventures.
3. Healthy snacks to fuel the body.
4. Mouthwatering desserts to satisfy the sweet tooth.

As the group enjoys the meal, they’ve the opportunity to capture the memories of the day with the provided photography services.

For an additional $40, guests can purchase the stunning photos, taken both above and below the water’s surface, to cherish long after the tour has ended.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Marine Life Can I Expect to See?

On this tour, you’ll discover an abundance of vibrant marine life. Expect to see colorful corals, playful tropical fish, and if you’re lucky, the graceful movements of the iconic sea turtles gliding through the crystal-clear waters.

Is the Tour Suitable for Non-Swimmers?

The tour isn’t suitable for non-swimmers as participants must know how to swim and be able to walk on uneven surfaces. However, the minimum age is 5 years old, so families can enjoy this kayaking and snorkeling adventure together.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?

Yes, participants can bring their own snorkeling gear, though equipment is provided. This allows them to use gear they’re familiar with and ensures a comfortable snorkeling experience on the tour.

Is There a Restroom or Changing Area Available?

Yes, there are restrooms and changing areas available at the Emerald Beach Resort, the meeting point for the tour. Guests can comfortably prepare for the water activities before and after the excursion.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available?

The tour operator doesn’t currently offer any discounts or packages. However, they may provide seasonal promotions or bundle deals on their website, so it’s best to check their online listings for the latest offers and specials.

The Sum Up

The Coral Reef and Turtle Discovery Tour offers a captivating adventure, immersing participants in the vibrant underwater world of St. Thomas. Kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming alongside vibrant coral reefs and majestic sea turtles provide an unforgettable experience. With a picnic lunch and expert guidance, this tour promises an engaging and memorable day for all ages, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the island’s stunning marine ecosystems.