Private Sail to Virgin Islands National Park from St. Thomas | Snorkel & Beach Day
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; must be able to board a small sailboat and swim short distances with snorkeling gear.
Overview
Set off from St. Thomas on a private sail to Virgin Islands National Park: snorkel clear reefs with turtles, lounge on powdery beaches, and learn local conservation practices from an experienced guide. This curated half-day trip balances relaxed cruising with actionable local insight.
Private Sail to Virgin Islands National Park from St. Thomas | Snorkel & Beach Day
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The hull rocks with a patient rhythm as the harbor recedes and the hills of St. Thomas shrink into green lumps. Salt spray lifts off clear water and the captain trims the mainsail; the boat answers, cutting toward the reef-fringed shores of the Virgin Islands National Park on St. John. Guests trade hotel lobbies for a small deck table where a light lunch waits—fresh fruit, sandwiches—and the conversation slides into easy time: which beach to visit, where the turtles like to feed, who will jump first from the bow.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring a fitted snorkel mask
Loaner masks are provided but a well-fitting personal mask prevents fogging and makes snorkeling more comfortable.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply biodegradable sunscreen before boarding and reapply only where allowed to protect coral health.
Watch for movement on deck
Boat decks can be slippery; keep a low center of gravity when moving and wear non-marking water shoes.
Take seasickness precautions
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take medication an hour before departure and sit mid-boat for a steadier ride.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Green sea turtle
- Parrotfish
History
The Virgin Islands National Park was established in 1956 and protects much of St. John’s shorelines, reefs, and historic plantation ruins.
Conservation
Anchoring is restricted in sensitive reef areas and operators encourage reef-safe sunscreen and no-touch policies to support coral recovery.
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Adventure Hotspots in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Fitted snorkel mask
Ensures a leak-free fit and clearer underwater photos compared with rental masks.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin while helping prevent coral damage—apply before boarding.
summer specific
Water shoes
Protect feet on rocky entries and reefy beaches and improve traction on wet decks.
summer specific
Light windbreaker
Blocks the trade wind chill on the open deck during early mornings or late afternoons.
winter specific