National Park Snorkeling Excursion

The National Park Snorkeling Excursion offers a chance to take in the breathtaking underwater world of the Virgin Islands. Participants can expect to encounter vibrant coral formations, tropical fish, and perhaps even sea turtles during this immersive experience. With all necessary equipment provided and an open bar to enhance the enjoyment, this excursion caters to both cruise ship passengers and St. John travelers alike. Flexible pickup options and a convenient 3.5-hour duration make it an accessible and attractive option for those seeking to discover the natural wonders beneath the surface. Those intrigued by the prospect of exploring this captivating aquatic environment won’t want to miss the opportunity.

This experience made our list of the 9 Best Snorkeling Experiences In St Thomas.

Key Points

• Explore the underwater wonders of the Virgin Islands National Park with the opportunity to see turtles, tropical fish, and vibrant coral.
• Experience two snorkeling stops with all necessary equipment provided, including an open bar with cocktails, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Enjoy a convenient and all-inclusive excursion with gratuity for the captain and crew included in the price.
• The tour departs at 9:30 am and lasts approximately 3.5 hours, suitable for cruise ship guests and St. John travelers.
• Consider physical limitations, as the excursion may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions or limited mobility.

Overview of the Excursion

This snorkeling tour immerses visitors in the underwater wonders of the Virgin Islands National Park, providing a chance to glimpse turtles, tropical fish, and vibrant coral.

The tour includes two snorkeling stops where you’ll use the provided equipment to explore the diverse marine life.

After your aquatic adventures, you can relax and enjoy refreshments from the open bar, including cocktails, cold beers, sodas, and water.

The tour provides a well-rounded experience, allowing you to fully learn about the beauty of the Virgin Islands’ natural environment both above and below the surface of the sea.

Inclusions and Amenities

The snorkeling tour consistently includes an open bar with alcoholic beverages, such as soda, water, beer, rum punch, and pain killers, both before and after the snorkeling activity.

Plus, the tour provides all necessary snorkeling equipment as well as gratuity for the captain and crew.

Travelers must also pay a fuel surcharge of $5 per person.

This ensures that participants can fully enjoy the underwater experience without worrying about the logistics.

Whether you’re looking to refresh with a cold drink or need proper gear for snorkeling, the tour has you covered.

The inclusions and amenities make this an all-inclusive and convenient way to explore the beauty of the Virgin Islands National Park.

Meeting and Pickup Locations

The tour provides convenient meeting and pickup locations for participants, including options for St. John guests and cruise ship passengers.

Those joining from St. John should meet at 9:00 am at the Ocean Surfari, next to the ferry dock in Cruz Bay. Cruise ship passengers can select the corresponding cruise ship port, either Crown Bay or Havensight, as their pickup location.

The main meeting point is Ocean Surfari – Reef Surfari Snorkel Excursions on Smith Bay Road in Red Hook, St. Thomas, where the tour departs at 9:30 am. These flexible pickup options make it easy for travelers to join the snorkeling adventure, no matter their starting point in the Virgin Islands.

Tour Duration and Schedule

The excursion commences at 9:30 am, providing ample time for participants to experience the underwater wonders of the Virgin Islands National Park.

The tour includes two snorkeling stops where visitors can explore the vibrant marine life, including turtles, tropical fish, and colorful coral.

After the snorkeling adventure, guests can enjoy an open bar, including beer, rum punch, and pain killers, as they return to port.

The total duration of the excursion is approximately 3.5 hours, ensuring a well-rounded experience that allows ample time for both underwater exploration and relaxation on the boat.

Whether you’re a cruise ship guest or staying on St. John, the tour’s meeting points ensure convenient access for all participants.

Suitability and Recommendations

Although the snorkeling tour offers an exciting underwater adventure, it may not be suitable for all travelers. Individuals with back problems, pregnant women, and those with heart conditions or other serious medical issues should avoid this activity, as the physical demands may prove challenging.

Plus, travelers should possess a moderate level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the snorkeling experience and navigate the boat comfortably. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it’s not recommended for those with limited mobility.

However, for those who are able, the opportunity to explore the vibrant marine life of the Virgin Islands National Park is an unforgettable experience. Proper preparation and consideration of one’s physical abilities are key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable snorkeling excursion.

Review Highlights

Overwhelmingly, reviewers praise the National Park Snorkeling Excursion for its outstanding underwater experiences, with many highlighting the diverse marine life and vibrant coral formations they encountered.

Travelers consistently report seeing a wide array of tropical fish, turtles, and other fascinating sea creatures during the two snorkeling stops.

The equipment provided, including masks, snorkels, and fins, receives high marks for being well-maintained and comfortable.

Guests also appreciate the convenient meeting locations and the friendly, knowledgeable crew who ensure a safe and enjoyable outing.

The open bar with refreshing cocktails and cold beverages after the snorkeling activities is an added bonus that reviewers thoroughly enjoy.

Booking and Confirmation

Booking the National Park Snorkeling Excursion is a straightforward process, with confirmation provided at the time of reservation. Travelers can select their preferred cruise ship port – Crown Bay or Havensight – or opt to meet at the designated location in Cruz Bay, St. John for those staying on that island. The excursion starts at 9:30 am, and participants are advised to arrive at the meeting point by the specified time.

The tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions or physical limitations.

Snorkeling equipment and an open bar with alcoholic beverages are included in the package.

Gratuity for the captain and crew is covered in the price.

Additional Information

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s located near public transportation.

Travelers should have a moderate level of physical fitness, as the excursion isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or people with heart conditions or other serious medical concerns.

The tour can accommodate a maximum of 49 travelers, and confirmation is provided at the time of booking.

While on board, guests can enjoy a variety of beverages, including alcoholic options like beer, rum punch, and pain killers, along with soda, water, and snacks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?

Yes, you can bring your own snorkeling gear. The tour includes the use of provided equipment, but you’re welcome to use your personal gear if you prefer. Keep in mind the tour operator’s equipment is included in the price.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is suitable for most children, but it’s important to consider their swimming ability and comfort level in the water. Children must be accompanied by an adult and able to use the provided snorkeling equipment comfortably.

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?

Pets are not allowed on this snorkeling tour. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing pets, as they’re not suitable for the water activities and could disrupt the experience for other participants.

Can I Bring My Underwater Camera?

Guests are welcome to bring their underwater cameras on this snorkeling tour. The crew will provide guidance on how to safely use cameras while snorkeling to capture the vibrant marine life and coral reefs.

Is the Tour Guided or Self-Guided?

The tour is guided, with the captain and crew providing instruction and leading the group to the designated snorkeling spots. Travelers don’t explore on their own, but rather follow the guided experience provided by the tour operators.

Recap

The National Park Snorkeling Excursion offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the vibrant underwater world of the Virgin Islands.

With all equipment provided, two snorkeling stops, and an open bar, it’s an immersive experience in the natural environment.

The excursion caters to both cruise ship passengers and St. John travelers, making it a convenient choice for those looking to discover the area’s marine wonders.