Private Golden-Hour Snorkel & Sunset Cruise — St. John and St. Thomas
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels—must be able to get on/off the boat and swim short distances in calm water.
Overview
Catch sea turtles in turquoise shallows, nibble Pizza Pi in Christmas Cove, and watch the sky ignite from the deck of a private 2–3 hour sunset snorkel cruise. Captains tailor the route for calm water and the best sunsets along St. John and St. Thomas.
Private Golden-Hour Snorkel & Sunset Cruise — St. John and St. Thomas
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The boat eases away from the dock and the harbor noise falls behind like an old radio. Salt slicks the rail and the captains, hands sure and practiced, steer toward the north shore where coral gardens wait in shallower water and the late-afternoon light begins to thicken. Onboard, conversations thin as people lean over the gunwale; a turtle surfaces, blinks, and then slips beneath a sheen of gold. The day loosens its grip and the ocean—willing and wide—starts to perform.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
The islands require reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral—apply at least 20 minutes before entering the water.
Mask fit matters
Bring your own well-fitting snorkel mask to avoid leakage and fog; rentals are available but sizes vary.
Arrive early for boarding
Plan extra time for parking at American Yacht Harbor C-dock or the Cruz Bay NPS dock—taxi times from the cruise pier on St. Thomas can be 20–30 minutes.
Watch for motion
If you’re prone to seasickness, take preventative medication or choose a spot mid-boat where motion is least felt.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Green sea turtle
- Reef fish such as parrotfish and sergeant majors
History
The waters around St. John and St. Thomas were shaped by seafaring trade and colonial settlement; many coves once served schooners and small cargo boats tied to the islands’ sugar and rum economy.
Conservation
The cruise operates around parts of Virgin Islands National Park and emphasizes reef-safe practices; guests are encouraged not to touch coral and to use reef-safe sunscreens to reduce local environmental impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Cruz Bay
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Snorkel mask (personal)
A well-fitted mask improves visibility and comfort during 30–60 minute snorkel stops.
summer specific
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin and the reef—apply before boarding and after swims.
summer specific
Water shoes
Protects feet on rocky beaches and when boarding from shallow cove entries.
summer specific
Light windbreaker or rash guard
Keeps you warm on the return as the sun drops and wind picks up on open water.
summer specific