Snorkel & Swim with Turtles. Semi Private Tour to Buck Island & Honeymoon Beach

If you’re visiting St. Thomas and craving a day to connect with nature, this Snorkel & Swim with Turtles tour offers a compelling mix of underwater adventure and relaxing beach time. While we’ve not personally taken this trip, reviews and tour descriptions paint a vibrant picture of a well-rounded experience suited for those who love marine life, scenic views, and comfortable small-group outings.

What makes this tour especially appealing? First, the opportunity to swim with sea turtles and explore coral reefs that burst with colorful tropical fish. Second, the chance to unwind at Honeymoon Beach, often ranked as the top beach on TripAdvisor, with its soft white sands and crystal-clear waters. But like any activity, there are a couple of points to consider—primarily weather’s influence on snorkeling quality and the need for good physical health to enjoy the full experience.

All in all, this tour caters best to travelers who want a half-day of adventure with a laid-back vibe, combining marine wildlife, scenic cruising, and easy access to a gorgeous beach. Families, small groups, and anyone seeking a taste of authentic Caribbean waters will find this a worthwhile way to spend a few hours.

Key Points

• Small, semi-private group size enhances comfort and personalized attention.
• Multiple snorkeling spots, including Buck Island and Honeymoon Beach, provide diverse aquatic experiences.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge, safety, and friendly attitude.
• The tour balances adventure and relaxation, with time for drinks and beachside leisure.
• Weather conditions can influence the snorkeling experience, with possible substitutions.
• Vessels are modern and well-equipped, offering comfort during transit.
• Cost is $160 per person, offering significant value considering the included activities and amenities.
• The tour is ideal for travelers with moderate physical fitness and an interest in marine wildlife.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Duration

This tour departs from the Havensight Cruise Pier in Charlotte Amalie around 9 am or 2 pm, with the entire adventure lasting roughly 4 hours. The choice of departure times offers flexibility, whether you’re starting your day early or easing into the afternoon. The small group cap, with a maximum of 31 travelers, ensures a more intimate journey—no big cruise ship crowds here.

The Vessels and Comfort

Depending on availability, you’ll be aboard a 36′ Island Flyer, a 2019 Twin Vee power Ocean Cat, or a 31′ Wellcraft powerboat. These boats are described as clean, modern, and comfortable—making the transit between snorkeling sites and beaches a pleasant part of the trip rather than a rough dash across open water. Many reviews highlight how the crew’s professionalism and friendliness make guests feel at ease, especially those new to snorkeling.

Snorkeling at Buck Island and Turtle Cove

Once on site, you’ll gear up with snorkeling equipment and explore coral reefs teeming with tropical fish like snapper, hamlets, parrotfish, surgeonfish, and squirrelfish. The highlight? The chance to swim alongside sea turtles, which multiple reviewers describe as unforgettable. One guest noted, “We saw several turtles, and one swam right past me,” emphasizing how close and personal encounters can be.

The coral reefs provide vibrant underwater scenery, and some reviews mention sightings of stingrays and small sharks—though they are part of the natural environment, so encounters are not guaranteed. The guides are attentive to safety and eager to share their knowledge, making the snorkeling both fun and informative.

Post-Snorkeling Refreshments

After the underwater portion, guests are invited to enjoy cold beers, sodas, and bottled water. Many travelers appreciate the eco-friendly water practices aboard, with all water sourced from Virgin H2O. The casual atmosphere allows for conversations about what you’ve seen beneath the waves.

Water Island and Honeymoon Beach

Following snorkeling, the boat whisks you away to Honeymoon Beach on Water Island, considered the #1 beach on TripAdvisor in the area. Here, you’ll find white sands and crystal-blue waters, perfect for lounging, more swimming, or just soaking up the Caribbean sun. The beach offers a famous beach bar, Dinghy’s, where you can sip on Pain Killers or enjoy Mahi Tacos, a hit according to reviews.

Guests often describe the visit here as a “highlight” and mention how the calm waters make for excellent snorkeling even if the weather earlier was rough. If you’re hungry, the beach bar offers options, but note that lunch is available but not included—so bringing cash or snacks might be wise.

The Return and Overall Vibe

The trip wraps up with a boat ride back to Yacht Haven Grande, where you’ll likely leave with plenty of photos and memories of a day spent immersed in nature. Many reviews praise the friendly, knowledgeable captains—particularly Captain Rusty and Captain JW—for making the day enjoyable and safe.

Analyzing the Value

At $160 per person, this tour offers a solid balance of activities and comfort. The inclusion of multiple snorkeling spots, beverages, and the boat ride makes it competitive for this price range. Reviewers consistently mention the small group size as a major plus, allowing for personalized attention and better chances to spot turtles.

The quality of the vessels and the professionalism of the crew contribute significantly to perceived value, transforming what could be an average boat trip into a memorable adventure. Considering the all-inclusive drinks and gear, many guests feel they receive a fair deal, especially given the personalized experience and the chance to see sea turtles and diverse marine life.

What to Pack and Tips

Bring sunscreen, towels, and some cash for optional purchases at Honeymoon Beach. Because weather can influence the snorkeling experience, it’s wise to check the forecast and understand that some sites may be substituted depending on conditions. And if you’re not comfortable swimming, you might want to assess your physical readiness; most reviews suggest a moderate fitness level will help you enjoy everything fully.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a nature lover eager to see sea turtles in their natural habitat, this trip hits the mark. It’s excellent for travelers who prefer small, relaxed groups over large cruise excursions, and those who want a balanced mix of adventure and leisure. Families with kids who can comfortably snorkel will find this experience especially rewarding.

It also suits travelers who value knowledgeable guides and authentic marine encounters over overly commercialized tours. If you’re looking for a scenic boat ride combined with unforgettable underwater moments and a visit to the best beach on the island, this tour should be on your shortlist.

Summary of Benefits and Drawbacks

Pros:

• Intimate, semi-private atmosphere
• Multiple snorkeling spots with diverse marine life
• Friendly, knowledgeable guides
• Comfortable, modern boats
• Beautiful, calm water at Honeymoon Beach
• All drinks included, eco-friendly water practices

Cons:

• Weather can impact snorkeling quality—some sites may be substituted
• Requires moderate physical fitness (for snorkeling and swimming)
• Lunch isn’t included, so plan accordingly

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 4 hours, including boat rides, snorkeling, and beach time.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from the Havensight Cruise Pier in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas.

What vessels are used?
Depending on availability, guests may ride on a 36′ Island Flyer, a Twin Vee Ocean Cat, or a Wellcraft—all modern and well maintained.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, all snorkeling gear is included in the tour.

Can I see sea turtles?
Many guests do, and some have very close encounters, but wildlife sightings depend on conditions.

What drinks are included?
Guests can enjoy beer, soda, and bottled water throughout the trip.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level. Call ahead if children under 2 are in your party.

Are lunch and food included?
No, lunch is available at Honeymoon Beach but must be purchased separately.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Snorkel & Swim with Turtles tour offers a balanced glimpse into the natural beauty of St. Thomas. It’s especially well-suited for those craving an intimate, personal experience with marine life and a chance to relax at one of the island’s top beaches. The knowledgeable guides, modern boats, and clear waters make it a worthwhile addition to any Caribbean itinerary.

Whether you’re a snorkeling novice or a seasoned sea lover, you’ll appreciate the mix of adventure and comfort. The chance to see turtles swim alongside you and relax on Honeymoon Beach makes this an experience worth considering—and one you’ll remember long after you leave the boat.

Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget your camera, your sense of adventure, and maybe a little cash for that perfect Pain Killer at Dinghy’s Beach Bar.