Discover the Ultimate Picnic Snorkel Sail Adventure in Cruz Bay, St. John

Read the full experience

Set sail from Cruz Bay, the vibrant gateway to St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, on an unforgettable five-hour journey across crystalline Caribbean waters aboard a spacious 65-foot luxury catamaran. The Picnic Snorkel Sail blends the serenity of open-sea cruising with the exhilaration of snorkeling untouched reefs and secluded offshore cays. This family- and adult-friendly excursion invites you to dive beneath the surface and explore vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life thriving within the island’s protected waters. Cruz Bay itself is a lively harbor town with colorful Caribbean charm, providing the perfect backdrop to the adventure. As you depart from the Ritz-Carlton meeting point, the seasoned crew ensures a smooth, safe journey while offering local insights into St. John’s stunning underwater ecosystem, renowned for its clear visibility and abundant tropical fish. The boat’s design maximizes comfort and space, providing shady lounge areas and wide decks ideal for soaking in panoramic ocean views. The core of the experience is the two-stop snorkeling adventure. Guests snorkel at an offshore cay or an "off the beaten path" reef, selected for vibrant coral formations and rich sea life. The waters here host species such as parrotfish, angelfish, and sea turtles, all darting through the coral reefs unique to the Caribbean’s volcanic geology. After snorkeling, the boat turns into a floating picnic spot with fresh water showers to rinse salt away, towels, and a well-curated lunch to refresh you amid the sea breeze. An open bar follows the swim, featuring a selection of beverages that help guests unwind and toast the stunning natural beauty around them. Whether young or old, beginner snorkeler or seasoned adventurer, this tour encourages all levels of comfort and curiosity. The trip requires moderate mobility but supplies sanitized snorkel gear with floatation aids, ensuring safety and ease. As part of St. John’s outdoor recreation offerings, the Picnic Snorkel Sail stands out for its seamless blend of leisure, nature immersion, and high-end sailing in a region famous for its marine sanctuary status. It supports sustainable tourism by limiting participant numbers and respecting local feeding and touching restrictions, helping maintain the reefs for future visitors. Explore hidden oceanic landscapes, reconnect with nature, and create lasting memories in this Caribbean snorkeling and sailing experience. For those planning a trip to the U.S. Virgin Islands seeking an accessible yet enriching water adventure, this Picnic Snorkel Sail is a top choice to anchor your travel itinerary.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

moderate.

Duration

5 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for guests with moderate physical ability, able to snorkel and move around the boat comfortably.

Frequently asked questions

Is snorkeling experience required?

No prior snorkeling experience is necessary as floatation devices and gear are provided, making it accessible for beginners.

Are children allowed on this trip?

Yes, children aged 3-12 can join at a discounted rate, and those under 3 ride free with adult supervision.

What if the weather is bad?

Tours are weather dependent and may be rescheduled or canceled to ensure passenger safety.

What food and drinks are included?

The trip includes a picnic lunch and an open bar with a variety of beverages served after snorkeling.

Where do we check in?

Check-in is at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas, 15 minutes prior to departure.

Is transportation provided to or from the dock?

Transportation is not included; guests should arrange their own travel to the meeting point in Cruz Bay.

Local insights

Wildlife

Green sea turtles
Colorful parrotfish

History

St. John’s coral reefs remain protected under the Virgin Islands National Park, established in 1956 to conserve its natural marine habitats.

Conservation

The tour operates with strict guidelines to prevent reef damage, encouraging no-touch snorkeling and using reef-safe products to minimize environmental impact.

About Cruz Bay Watersports

Cruz Bay Watersports operates from Cruz Bay, St. John, offering a selection of guided tours and private charters across St. John and nearby St. Thomas. The operator runs a fleet that includes a 65' luxury catamaran used for picnic snorkel sails, the Flying Frenchman catamaran for afternoon turtle snorkels and dinner sails, a VanDutch 40' powerboat called Lady Luxe for private full-day charters, and a 37' Axopar available for customized excursions. Guided Jet Ski Tours depart after a safety briefing at The Westin Resort, St. John, and include WaveRunners with a professional guide. Cruz Bay Watersports offers experiences that combine snorkeling stops, open bars, picnic lunches, beach time at Salomon or Honeymoon Beach, and sightseeing in the waters around St. John and St. Thomas. Private charters include captain service, snorkeling gear, and refreshments as described for each trip. Trips feature sanitized gear, professional captains or guides, and small-group options appropriate for families and adult groups. Featured on The Adventure Collective, Cruz Bay Watersports lists clear trip summaries and vessel-specific details to help guests select the right experience. Whether booking a multi-stop snorkel sail, a private VanDutch or Axopar charter, a Frenchman dinner sail, or a guided jet-ski tour, guests can choose based on vessel type, trip length, and included amenities.

Base locationCruz Bay, St. John

Tours offered43+

Specialtywater-activities

Stewardship

Adventure tips

Arrive Early to Check InPlan to arrive 15 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth start to your snorkel sail adventure.

Use Reef-Safe SunscreenProtect the delicate marine ecosystem by applying reef-safe sunscreen before snorkeling.

Bring Motion Sickness RemediesIf you’re prone to seasickness, take preventative measures or medication before boarding.

Stay HydratedDrink plenty of water throughout the trip to stay refreshed under the Caribbean sun.

Recommended gear

Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protects your skin and the coral reef ecosystem during the sunny Caribbean day.
Swimsuit: Essential for snorkeling and enjoying the water stops comfortably.
Light Cover-Up or Rash Guard: Offers extra sun protection while sailing between stops.
Waterproof Camera or Phone Case: Capture underwater and on-deck moments without worry of water damage.