Private Snorkel Charter in the USVI: Maho Bay to Christmas Cove
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours (half-day) — full-day options available
Fitness Level
Light to moderate; you should be comfortable swimming short distances with fins and getting on and off a ladder from the water.
Overview
Set out from Cruz Bay or American Yacht Harbor on a private catamaran that stitches together the Virgin Islands’ best snorkel sites—Maho Bay, Waterlemon Cay, Caneel Bay, and Christmas Cove. Expect close encounters with turtles, thriving coral patches, and even a floating pizzeria for a playful finish.
Private Snorkel Charter in the USVI: Maho Bay to Christmas Cove
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The engine settles into a soft, confident hum as the catamaran slips away from the dock—Cruz Bay’s coral-strewn shallows give way to open turquoise and a coastline stitched with hidden coves. Salt air pushes against your face and the Captain calls the first stop: a shallow bay where green sea turtles glide like slow, ancient submarines. You put on fins and a mask and the water pulls you in.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen
The park prohibits harmful sunscreens—use a mineral, reef‑safe SPF to protect coral and skin.
Prep for seasickness
Take motion‑sickness medicine an hour before departure if you’re sensitive; morning sailings tend to be calmer.
Wear water shoes
Rocky shorelines and boat decks are easier with sturdy water shoes for short landings and stepping on reefs.
Hydrate and snack smart
Bring a refillable bottle and light snacks—the operator supplies water and a cooler but bring what you need for comfort.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Green sea turtles
- Tropical reef fish and elkhorn coral formations
History
The shorelines here sit within Virgin Islands National Park, established in 1956 with land donated by the Rockefeller family; the marine zones protect long‑standing reef ecosystems.
Conservation
Visitors are asked to use reef‑safe products, avoid touching coral, and follow no‑take rules in the national park to minimize impact on endangered species.
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Adventure Hotspots in Cruz Bay, St. John
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Protects your skin while preventing chemical damage to coral reefs.
Personal snorkel mask (optional)
A well‑fitting mask improves visibility and comfort for longer swims.
Water shoes
Protects feet on rocky shore entries and boat decks.
Polarized sunglasses and hat
Reduces glare for navigation and provides sun protection while underway.
summer specific