St Thomas Shore Excursion: Mangrove Lagoon Kayak and Snorkel Tour

Exploring the renowned Mangrove Lagoon in St. Thomas is a must-do on any Caribbean adventure. This immersive shore excursion offers travellers the chance to paddle through the protected waterways and uncover the lagoon’s diverse marine life. With morning and afternoon departures, the Mangrove Lagoon Kayak and Snorkel Tour provides a flexible schedule to suit every preference. As participants glide through the lush mangrove forests, they’ll have the opportunity to spot vibrant wildlife, including stingrays and a variety of endangered bird species. But the true highlight lies in what lies beneath the surface – a thriving underwater world waiting to be discovered.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In St Thomas.

Key Points

• The tour provides an immersive kayak and snorkel experience through the Mangrove Lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary and Marine Preserve in St. Thomas.
• Participants have the opportunity to spot diverse wildlife, including stingrays, tropical fish, and endangered bird species on the uninhabited Cas Cay island.
• The tour offers both morning and afternoon departures to accommodate visitors’ preferences for a serene or later start.
• The comprehensive package includes hotel or port pickup, all necessary gear, and a knowledgeable guide to enhance the snorkeling and wildlife-viewing experience.
• The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness and ensures enhanced COVID-19 sanitation protocols for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Tour Overview

This St. Thomas shore excursion provides an immersive kayak and snorkel tour through the Mangrove Lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary and Marine Preserve, offering participants the chance to paddle along serpentine channels and explore the vibrant underwater ecosystem.

Guided by experienced tour operators, explorers will have the opportunity to spot stingrays and other captivating wildlife as they glide through the protected mangrove forests.

The tour also includes the option to visit the unspoiled Cas Cay, an uninhabited island home to endangered bird species.

With morning and afternoon departures available, this adventure promises an unforgettable way to experience the natural wonders of the US Virgin Islands.

Departure Times

The St. Thomas shore excursion offers both morning and afternoon departures, providing visitors with scheduling flexibility to experience the Mangrove Lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary and Marine Preserve.

The morning tour departs in the early part of the day, allowing participants to explore the serene mangrove channels and snorkel the vibrant underwater world when it’s cooler and less crowded.

The afternoon option caters to those who prefer a later start, giving them the chance to enjoy the sanctuary’s natural beauty as the day winds down.

Regardless of the time, both tours promise an unforgettable adventure amidst the unique ecosystem of the Mangrove Lagoon.

Tour Inclusions

The St. Thomas shore excursion includes a comprehensive package of amenities to enhance the overall experience.

Participants receive hotel or port pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to their adventure.

All necessary gear and equipment, such as kayaks, snorkeling gear, and life jackets, are provided for the duration of the tour.

To keep travelers hydrated and energized, the package also includes bottled water and a candy snack.

While gratuities for the knowledgeable guides aren’t included in the tour price, visitors are welcome to tip at their discretion.

Wildlife Sightings

As participants paddle through the protected Mangrove Lagoon, they’ll have the chance to spot an array of fascinating wildlife.

Stingrays gliding effortlessly through the serpentine channels are a common sighting, captivating onlookers with their graceful movements.

Vibrant schools of tropical fish darting among the coral-fringed mangrove roots, showcasing the lagoon’s rich underwater ecosystem.

Endangered bird species, such as the reclusive Roseate Tern, perching on the shores of the remote Cas Cay.

A diverse array of mangrove crabs, snails, and other invertebrates thriving in the unique coastal environment.

The chance to witness this abundant wildlife adds an extra layer of wonder to the already captivating kayak and snorkel experience.

Snorkeling Highlights

Snorkelers on the Mangrove Lagoon tour can explore a vibrant underwater world teeming with diverse marine life. They’ll dive beneath the surface to discover coral-fringed mangrove roots and schools of tropical fish darting through the clear waters.

Colorful parrotfish, angelfish, and damselfish hover near the mangrove roots, while curious stingrays glide gracefully through the shallows. Snorkelers may even spot tiny crabs and juvenile sea turtles hiding amongst the tangled branches.

The tour’s snorkeling component allows participants to fully enjoy the Sanctuary’s captivating ecosystem, witnessing firsthand the delicate balance between land and sea. With the guidance of experienced naturalist guides, snorkelers can gain a deeper appreciation for the Mangrove Lagoon’s vibrant marine life.

Cas Cay Exploration

Visitors who opt to explore Cas Cay, an unspoiled deserted island within the Mangrove Lagoon Sanctuary, will discover a haven for endangered bird species and the opportunity to hike along its pristine shores.

The island offers a unique experience for nature enthusiasts, with the chance to:

1. Spot rare and protected birds, such as the Caribbean coot and the yellow-breasted crake, that have made Cas Cay their home.
2. Explore the island’s undisturbed mangrove forests and coastal habitats, learning about the fragile ecosystem.
3. Hike the well-maintained trails and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding turquoise waters and lush vegetation.

This optional excursion provides a glimpse into the untouched beauty and ecological significance of Cas Cay, adding depth to the overall Mangrove Lagoon adventure.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour begins with a pickup service, where participants are collected from their hotel or the cruise port 45 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Travelers are then transported to the VI Ecotours meeting point located at 6526 Estate Nadir in St. Thomas, VI 00802, which also serves as the end point for the excursion.

Logistics
Pickup	45 minutes before tour start time
Meeting point	VI Ecotours, 6526 Estate Nadir, St. Thomas, VI 00802
End point	Same as meeting point
Maximum travelers	25 per tour

This convenient transportation ensures a seamless start to the adventure, allowing guests to fully enjoy the Mangrove Lagoon experience.

Additional Details

Confirmation of the booking is received immediately after the reservation is made. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are permitted. Travelers should possess a moderate level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the experience.

Enhanced COVID-19 sanitation protocols have been implemented to prioritize the safety and well-being of all participants.

Gratuities for the knowledgeable guides aren’t included in the tour price.

Complimentary water and a candy snack are provided during the excursion.

The tour’s meeting and drop-off point is the VI Ecotours location at 6526 Estate Nadir, St. Thomas, VI 00802.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?

Travelers can bring their own snorkeling gear for the tour, but the tour operator provides all necessary equipment, including masks, snorkels, and life jackets. Using the tour’s provided gear ensures a proper fit and functioning equipment.

What Should I Wear on the Tour?

Wear quick-drying, lightweight clothing that can get wet, such as a swimsuit, shorts, and a T-shirt or rashguard. Bring water shoes or sandals that can get submerged. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended for sun protection.

Is There an Age Limit for Participants?

There’s no age limit for participants on this tour. Children of all ages are welcome, though younger kids may need assistance from an adult during the kayaking and snorkeling activities. The tour provider ensures the experience is accessible for families.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Amount of Luggage?

There are no specific restrictions on the amount of luggage participants can bring. However, it’s recommended to pack light as storage space on the tour is limited. Travelers should only bring what they need for the kayaking and snorkeling activities.

Can I Purchase Additional Snacks/Drinks During the Tour?

Travelers can purchase additional snacks and drinks during the tour. The tour includes water and a candy snack, but visitors can bring or purchase extra provisions if desired to supplement the provided refreshments.

Recap

The Mangrove Lagoon Kayak and Snorkel Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the US Virgin Islands’ natural wonders. Guests can paddle through the protected mangrove forests, spot diverse wildlife, and visit the unspoiled Cas Cay.

With flexible departure times, this shore excursion provides an unforgettable way to take in the Mangrove Lagoon’s remarkable ecosystem.