Skip the crowds and spend a focused half-day aboard a luxury catamaran snorkeling with green sea turtles at Buck Island and relaxing on Honeymoon Beach, Water Island. Small groups, guided snorkel instruction, snacks and a top-shelf open bar make this an efficient, social way to experience southern St. Thomas.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The catamaran slips away from the cruise ship dock and the harbor noise thins into the splash of hull on blue-green water. Salt air sharpens; palms on Water Island lean away like curious onlookers. In under an hour you’ll be hovering at Turtle Cove, where clear shallows invite a slow surface swim and the steady, deliberate heads of green sea turtles glide through seagrass.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate — comfortable swimming at surface and able to move around on a boat for several hours.
Wildlife
History
Buck Island and surrounding reefs were set aside for conservation to protect marine habitat; Water Island has relics of Fort Segarra from WWII-era military activity.
Conservation
Stick to reef-safe sunscreen, don’t touch or stand on coral, and follow guides’ directions to minimize disturbance to turtles and reef life.
Reserve your spot on the Half Day Luxury Catamaran Turtle Snorkel And Beach today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Oils and chemicals harm coral; choose labeled reef-safe sunscreen and apply before boarding to avoid contaminating the water.
Arrive early at the cruise dock
Dockside logistics move fast — be at the WICO/Havensite Cruise Ship Dock 20 minutes before departure to clear embarkation smoothly.
Use the boarding ladder
Boarding from the swim platform is safest; use the custom ladder and wait for crew assistance if the sea is choppy.
Secure phones and valuables
Bring a dry bag or leave valuables ashore — waves and activity make loose items easy to lose.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects reefs and reduces sunburn during long exposure on deck and in shallow water.
summer
Snorkel vest or flotation aid
Adds buoyancy and confidence for surface swimming, especially useful for less experienced snorkelers.
Quick-dry swimwear and rashguard
Protects skin from sun and light abrasions while staying comfortable on deck.
summer
Waterproof phone case or dry bag
Keeps electronics and small items safe from spray and accidental drops.