Ride the Current: Montego Bay’s Private Seabob Snorkel Charter
A private boat, Jamaica’s only Seabob experience, and a fast track to Montego Bay’s best water.
The water off Montego Bay wakes before the city does. Trade winds comb the harbor and the surface ruffles like fresh linen, inviting you out past the docks of Pier One and into the wide Caribbean morning. From the deck, the shoreline glides by—fishing skiffs, a scatter of palms, the Hip Strip already stretching into the day. Then the Seabob hums to life in your hands, and the sea offers you a dare: keep up. You squeeze the trigger and slip forward, one long breath, the water lifting, carrying, urging you along the reef.
Trail Wisdom
Master the Seabob in Shallow Water
Start in waist-to-chest-deep water to get the feel for buoyancy and control before heading over deeper reef.
Protect the Reef, Protect Your Skin
Use reef-safe mineral sunscreen or wear a long-sleeve rash guard to avoid chemical impact on corals.
Choose Morning for Best Visibility
Early departures typically mean calmer seas and less boat traffic, which improves water clarity and wildlife encounters.
Secure Your Shades
Wear polarized sunglasses with a retainer strap; the Caribbean is notorious for claiming unsecured gear.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Montego Bay Marine Park mooring buoys for easy, low-impact snorkeling access
- •Dead End Beach for plane-spotting at sunset after your charter
Wildlife
Parrotfish grazing over coral heads, Spotted eagle rays cruising sand channels
Conservation Note
The Montego Bay Marine Park protects coral reefs and seagrass beds; use reef-safe sunscreen, never stand on coral, and keep a respectful distance from wildlife.
Montego Bay grew as a sugar export port in the 18th and 19th centuries; nearby Sam Sharpe Square honors the leader of the 1831 Emancipation uprising.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Bright water clarity, Active reef life
Challenges: Occasional trade-wind chop, Sun intensity
Spring brings breezy, sunny days with lively conditions and clear water—great for reef color and quick Seabob runs.
summer
Best for: Warmest water temps, Typically calm mornings
Challenges: Heat and humidity, Afternoon squalls
Summer seas are bathtub-warm and often glassy early; plan for heat management and keep an eye on pop-up showers.
fall
Best for: Fewer crowds, Warm water
Challenges: Tropical systems possible, Variable visibility
Shoulder-season calm meets storm season—watch forecasts, but enjoy quiet reefs and mellow harbors between fronts.
winter
Best for: Dry air and stable weather, Excellent visibility
Challenges: Occasional cold front swells, Breezy afternoons
Crisp, clear mornings dominate winter; some days see north swells, but early departures usually dodge the chop.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Long-Sleeve Rash Guard (UPF 50+)Essential
Provides sun protection and reduces the need for sunscreen, which helps keep the reef healthy.
Reef-Safe Mineral Sunscreen (SPF 30+)Essential
Zinc or titanium formulas protect your skin without harming coral ecosystems.
Polarized Sunglasses with Retainer
Cuts surface glare so you can spot coral heads and marine life from the boat.
Compact Dry Bag (5–10L)
Keeps phones, wallets, and a change of clothes dry between swims.
Common Questions
Do I need to be a strong swimmer to use the Seabob?
You should be a confident swimmer comfortable in open water. The Seabob is intuitive, but basic swimming and snorkeling ability are required.
Is snorkel gear provided?
Most charters provide masks and snorkels; confirm with the operator when booking if you prefer to bring your own.
How many people can the boat accommodate?
This is a private experience for your group; capacity varies by vessel, so confirm your group size when reserving.
What about seasickness?
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take non-drowsy medication 30–60 minutes before departure and choose a morning slot for calmer seas.
Are refreshments included?
Light refreshments are included; check your booking for specifics and bring extra water if you prefer.
Can children participate?
Older children who are strong swimmers can enjoy the snorkel and ride as passengers on the boat; ask the operator about minimum age and weight guidelines for the Seabob.
What to Pack
Reef-safe sunscreen to protect skin and coral; long-sleeve rash guard for sun protection without chemicals; compact dry bag to keep phones and wallets safe; motion-sickness tablets if you’re sensitive to chop.
Did You Know
Montego Bay Marine Park, established in 1991, was Jamaica’s first national marine park, designated to protect coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds within the bay.
Quick Travel Tips
Book a morning departure for calmer seas; bring small cash for tips and dockside snacks; confirm pickup and meeting point at Pier One ahead of time; keep electronics in a dry bag between swims.
Local Flavor
After docking at Pier One, linger for grilled snapper or a cold Red Stripe with harbor views. For classic jerk, head to Scotchies on the outskirts of town. If you’re strolling the Hip Strip, the Pelican Grill serves old-school Jamaican staples, and a sunset stop at Doctor’s Cave Beach rounds out a perfect salt-soaked day.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Sangster International (MBJ), about 8 minutes to Pier One. Meeting point: Pier One, Montego Bay. Drive time from most Hip Strip hotels: 5–10 minutes. Cell service: Generally strong near shore, spotty further out. Permits: No personal permits required; follow Marine Park regulations and crew guidance.
Sustainability Note
This charter operates within the Montego Bay Marine Park—avoid touching or standing on coral, use reef-safe sunscreen, and follow mooring or sandy-bottom anchoring practices to protect fragile habitats.
Continue Reading
Into the Blue: Diving Dahab’s Iconic Blue Hole
A deep vertical sinkhole on the Sinai coast, the Blue Hole draws divers, freedivers, and curious travelers with its dramatic drop and vibrant reef rim. Here’s a practical guide to experiencing it safely and respectfully.
Dahab, South Sinai
Lanai Island: Small-Island Solitude Between Maui and the Horizon
Lanai is an island of contrasts: protected reefs for effortless snorkeling, raw northshore coasts accessible only by 4x4, and high ridgelines that deliver sweeping views—all with few tourists and a quiet, deliberate pace.
Lanai City, Hawaii