Board a 47' power catamaran in Red Hook and head into Virgin Islands National Park for two guided snorkel stops among coral gardens and sea turtles. This half-day excursion includes gear, light snacks and an open bar served after swimming—ideal for travelers with moderate fitness and basic snorkeling ability.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The catamaran slips away from Red Hook as the harbor light slides past—salt on your lips, a trade wind pushing the bow toward St. John. By 9:30 the boat picks up in Cruz Bay, and the open water opens up: clear blue that dares you to drop in. The crew rigs masks and points toward two reef sites inside Virgin Islands National Park, where sea turtles forage among coral fingers and parrotfish polish the shallows.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness and basic swimming ability; comfortable entering and exiting the water from a ladder is required.
Wildlife
History
Virgin Islands National Park was established in 1956, largely from land donated by Laurance Rockefeller to protect St. John’s coastlines and historical sites.
Conservation
Boats in the park follow anchoring and mooring rules to protect reefs; visitors are asked to use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching marine life to limit impact.
Reserve your spot on the National Park Snorkeling Excursion today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Check pickup location before you book
This tour departs Red Hook (St. Thomas) at 9:00 and picks up in Cruz Bay (St. John) at 9:30—choose the correct departure when booking.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply reef-safe sunscreen before boarding to protect coral and avoid contaminating the water while snorkeling.
Secure belongings in a dry bag
Bring a small dry bag for phones, keys, and medications—the boat has limited dry storage and swims can be bumpy.
Consider motion-sickness prevention
If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication before boarding and sit mid-ship where motion is gentlest.
Mask, snorkel and fins (if you prefer your own)
The tour provides gear, but bringing a familiar mask improves fit and comfort in the water.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin and the coral reef—apply before boarding to reduce contamination.
Light waterproof jacket or windbreaker
Useful for cooler, windy mornings on deck after leaving port.
winter
Small dry bag
Keeps valuables and electronics dry during swims and transfers between islands.