All-Inclusive Day Sail from Cruz Bay — Snorkel with Sea Turtles in St. John
Set off from Cruz Bay on a relaxed, all-inclusive day sail that visits sheltered cays, offers guided snorkeling with sea turtles, a gourmet deli lunch and an open bar. This small-group experience focuses on calm waters, close wildlife encounters and easy, authentic sailing in Virgin Islands National Park.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
The operator enforces no-touch rules—use reef-safe sunscreen and reapply before getting in the water to protect corals.
Motion-sickness prep
If you’re prone to seasickness take preventative medication and choose a spot mid-boat where motion is least felt.
Wear water shoes
Beaches can have sun-warmed coral rubble; water shoes protect feet when hopping ashore or exploring tidepools.
Hydrate and pace alcohol
The trip includes an open bar—alternate cocktails with water between swims to stay hydrated.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Henley Cay shallow sandbar—an easy snorkel and picnic spot
- •Maho Bay seagrass flats—excellent for spotting turtles from shallow water
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtle
- •Parrotfish and other tropical reef fish
Conservation Note
Operators emphasize reef-safe practices: no touching corals or turtles, proper sunscreen, and minimizing plastic waste to protect fragile reefs.
Much of St. John is part of the Virgin Islands National Park, created in the 1950s to preserve historic plantation ruins, reefs and trails influenced by Danish colonial agriculture.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the bow approaching a protected cove
- • On deck while anchored for a low-angle horizon
- • Shoreline on the white sand beach for turtle-in-grass shots
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects reef ecosystems and prevents sunburn during prolonged sun exposure on deck and in the water.
Light windbreaker
Morning and late-afternoon sea breezes can be cool—layering keeps you comfortable on deck.
Slip-on water shoesEssential
Protect feet on rocky shorelines and make boarding ladders easier.
Seasickness medication or wristbands
Prevents nausea for those prone to motion sickness on open water.
Common Questions
Where do we board the boat?
Boarding is on Cruz Bay beach in front of High Tide Restaurant, next to the Cruz Bay ferry terminal—plan to arrive a few minutes early.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes—mask, snorkel and fins are provided and fitted by crew; you may bring your own if you prefer.
Can non-swimmers participate?
Yes—this trip is suitable for non-swimmers though snorkeling is optional; crew provide flotation devices and supervision.
Are children allowed?
Children are welcome; the operator notes stroller access and infant seats are available—check age guidelines and supervise young swimmers.
What if the weather is bad?
Trips may be cancelled for bad weather or insufficient travelers; the operator’s policy is all sales final but they will cancel and refund for unsafe conditions.
Do we leave U.S. waters?
No—this itinerary stays within U.S. Virgin Islands waters, so there are no customs or immigration fees.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Cruz Bay, U.S. Virgin Islands
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be able to board a small ladder and swim short distances for snorkeling.
Ready to Explore Cruz Bay?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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