Half Day Sail and Snorkel With the Turtles

The ‘Half Day Sail and Snorkel With the Turtles’ tour in the US Virgin Islands offers travelers an opportunity to explore the National Wildlife Marine Refuge and Buck Island. Participants can enjoy the serene waters, snorkeling alongside playful sea turtles while equipped with provided gear. The crew’s expertise and the open bar with refreshments complement the overall experience, creating a well-rounded outing. However, before embarking on this adventure, it’s important to consider the tour’s restrictions, as participants must be able to navigate a vertical ladder. With a maximum group size of 25, this personalized tour promises an unforgettable encounter with the local marine life, leaving you curious to learn more.

Key Points

• The tour departs from Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands and provides access to the National Wildlife Marine Refuge.
• Participants can sail to Buck Island for a snorkeling experience and use the provided snorkeling equipment and freshwater shower on board.
• The tour includes an open bar with rum punch, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks, along with a knowledgeable crew sharing insights on local sea turtle biology and behavior.
• The meeting point is at the R Bar within the Yacht Haven Grande Marina in Charlotte Amalie, with clear directions provided by the tour operator.
• The tour has 265 reviews and a maximum group size of 25 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Tour Overview

This half-day sailing and snorkeling tour departs from Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands, providing access to the National Wildlife Marine Refuge and the opportunity to sail to Buck Island for snorkeling.

During the tour, you will have use of snorkeling equipment and access to a freshwater shower on board the boat.

An open bar offering rum punch, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks is included, as is the chance to learn about the biology and behavior of turtles.

The tour is limited to a maximum of 25 travelers and confirmation is subject to availability within 48 hours of booking.

Inclusions

The tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment, allowing participants to explore the underwater world during the snorkeling portion of the experience.

Guests can freshen up with a freshwater shower on board the boat after their swim.

An open bar serves rum punch, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks to quench thirsty sailors.

Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable crew shares insights about the local sea turtle biology and behavior, enriching the experience.

With these inclusions, guests can fully enjoy the natural wonders of the National Wildlife Marine Refuge and Buck Island during this half-day sailing and snorkeling adventure from Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas.

Meeting Point

Participants meet at the R Bar located within the Yacht Haven Grande Marina in Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas, to begin their half-day sailing and snorkeling adventure.

This centrally located meeting point is convenient for travelers staying in the area.

Once everyone’s gathered, the group boards the boat and sets sail toward their first destination – the National Wildlife Marine Refuge.

The tour operator provides clear directions to the meeting location, and participants are encouraged to arrive on time to ensure a smooth start to the day’s activities.

With the marina as a starting point, the tour will transport guests to the beautiful waters off the coast of St Thomas for an unforgettable snorkeling experience.

Restrictions

Certain physical limitations apply for this tour, as participants must be able to climb a 7-foot vertical ladder without assistance to get in and out of the water. Plus, those with heart problems, serious medical conditions, or back problems may find the tour unsuitable.

Infants must also sit on laps during the sailing and snorkeling activities.

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the operator has the following restrictions:

1. No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
2. Not recommended for travelers with back problems
3. Must be able to climb a 7-foot vertical ladder without assistance
4. Infants must sit on laps during the tour

Reviews and Capacity

This tour has garnered 265 reviews, indicating a popular and well-received experience.

The operator limits group sizes to a maximum of 25 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized outing.

With a cap on the number of participants, guests can expect attentive service and the opportunity to interact more closely with the guides and fellow travelers.

The small group size also allows for greater flexibility and responsiveness, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Whether you’re seeking an exciting adventure or a chance to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the US Virgin Islands, this tour provides an excellent option that has been consistently well-received by past participants.

Confirmation and Booking

Travelers can expect confirmation of their booking within 48 hours, subject to availability. This ensures customers can plan their trip with confidence.

Once confirmed, guests should plan accordingly:

• Pack all necessary medications, as the tour operator can’t provide or store any prescription drugs.
• Arrive at the designated meeting point, the R Bar at Yacht Haven Grande Marina in Charlotte Amalie, with enough time to check-in before departure.

Guests should also be prepared to:

• Climb a 7-foot vertical ladder without assistance to get in and out of the water for snorkeling.
• Understand that infants must sit on laps during the tour, as it isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Medications and Restrooms

Bringing any necessary medications is advised, as the tour operator can’t provide or store prescription drugs.

Restrooms are available on board the boat for guests’ convenience. It’s recommended to pack all vital medications, whether over-the-counter or prescription, that you may need during the trip.

The tour boat is equipped with restrooms, so you won’t have to worry about finding a place to go during the sailing and snorkeling adventure. Be sure to use the restroom facilities on board as needed to stay comfortable throughout the half-day excursion.

The tour company prioritizes the safety and wellbeing of all participants, so planning ahead with medications and accessing the onboard restrooms are important considerations.

Highlight: Turtle Biology

The tour operator provides an opportunity for participants to learn about the fascinating biology and behavior of the turtles that inhabit the National Wildlife Marine Refuge during the snorkeling portion of the excursion. The guide will share insights into:

The unique physical characteristics of sea turtles, including their streamlined bodies, flipper-like appendages, and protective shells.

The remarkable navigational abilities of turtles, which use the earth’s magnetic field to migrate thousands of miles between feeding and nesting grounds.

The varied diet of these marine reptiles, which can include seagrass, algae, crustaceans, and even small fish.

The threats faced by sea turtle populations, such as habitat loss, hunting, and entanglement in fishing nets, and the conservation efforts underway to protect these ancient creatures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Add Additional Food or Snacks?

Yes, the tour offers an open bar with rum punch, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks. Additional food or snacks can be purchased separately, though they’re not included in the tour price. Travelers should inquire about any food options when booking the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear or Is It Required to Use the Provided Equipment?

You can bring your own snorkeling gear, but the tour provides it as well. Using the provided equipment is recommended, as the gear is well-maintained and ensures a comfortable and safe snorkeling experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children Participating in the Tour?

The tour has an age restriction – infants must sit on laps during the tour. Children of any other age can participate, but must be able to climb a 7-foot vertical ladder without assistance to get in and out of the water.

Is There a Photo Package or Opportunity to Purchase Photos From the Tour?

The tour operator doesn’t offer a dedicated photo package, but there are opportunities to take photos during the sailing and snorkeling activities. Travelers can purchase individual digital photos from the crew at an additional cost.

Can I Request Specific Departure Times or Is the Schedule Fixed?

The tour operates on a fixed schedule, but customers can’t request specific departure times. The departure times are set and provided by the tour operator. Travelers should check the schedule when booking to ensure the departure time works for their needs.

Recap

The ‘Half Day Sail and Snorkel With the Turtles’ tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the National Wildlife Marine Refuge and encounter sea turtles in their natural habitat.

With an open bar, knowledgeable crew, and a personalized experience, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive marine adventure in the US Virgin Islands.

However, participants must be able to climb a vertical ladder without assistance.