Antigua Reef Exploration: Snorkel Cades Bay, Stingrays and Power Snorkel Options
Three hours of shallow coral gardens, turtles, and stingrays off Antigua’s southern coast—choose Cades Bay, Long Bay, or English Harbour, or extend to Great Bird Island. This private, island-wide pickup tour pairs flexible logistics with options like power snorkel and kayak for varied comfort levels.
The Experience
Before You Go
Confirm pickup time
Operators pick up from hotels and ports across Antigua; contact the supplier the day before to lock in your pickup location and time.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
The tour includes drinks but not UV protection—use reef-safe SPF to protect both skin and coral.
Mask fit matters
A well-fitting snorkel mask keeps water out and improves visibility—test it before you jump in.
Morning is calmer
Winds typically pick up in the afternoon—book an early slot for better visibility and gentler currents.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Great Bird Island for quieter snorkeling and seabird viewing
- •The small coral bommies off Cades Bay that hold lobsters and conch at low tide
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtles
- •Southern stingrays
Conservation Note
Reef areas are sensitive—use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid standing on coral, and take only photos. Operators often follow routes that limit contact with fragile zones.
English Harbour and Nelson’s Dockyard were key British naval bases in the 18th century; the maritime infrastructure shaped the island’s coastal communities.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the boat bow above the reef edge
- • Shallow reef channels where rays glide
- • Near English Harbour docks for scenic harbor plus reef shots
What to Bring
Snorkel mask and snorkelEssential
A well-fitting mask improves comfort and underwater visibility—bring your own if you prefer a custom fit.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects your skin and the coral—apply liberally before boarding and reapply after swimming.
Water shoes
Useful for rocky launch points and slippery docks if you choose kayak options.
Waterproof camera or housing
Capture turtles, rays, and colorful reef life without risking your phone.
Common Questions
Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes — you should be comfortable in the water and able to float or tread for short periods; guides can provide flotation aids if needed.
Is snorkel gear provided?
Provided for Cades Reef and power-snorkel trips; Long Bay requires you to bring or rent equipment locally.
Can we add Great Bird Island or Green Island?
Yes — tours can be customized to include those islands; confirm during booking as logistics and travel time change.
Are drinks included?
Bottled water and fruit punch are provided; many operators also offer rum punch and beers at the dock after the trip.
What is the cancellation policy?
All sales are final; the operator may cancel for bad weather or insufficient travelers and will notify you if that happens.
Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant travelers?
Infants must sit on a lap; the tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers—check with the operator before booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
English Harbour, Antigua
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; must be comfortable in the water and able to swim short distances.
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