Snorkel, Pizza & Sunset: Do-It-All Reef Surfari from St. Thomas & St. John
Spend an afternoon snorkeling two Virgin Islands National Park sites, enjoying fresh Pizza Pi in Christmas Cove, and closing with an open-bar sunset dance cruise between St. John and St. Thomas. Practical, fun, and built for social travelers.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Sunscreen that’s free of oxybenzone and octinoxate protects reefs and is required by many operators; apply ashore before boarding.
Prevent seasickness ahead of time
Take a proven antiemetic before departure or use acupressure bands—the boat's motion and afternoon swells can trigger nausea.
Pack a small waterproof camera
Underwater and sunset shots are the day's highlight—compact housings or action cameras capture both snorkel life and golden-hour silhouettes.
Notify dietary needs 72 hours prior
The operator can accommodate allergies or food restrictions with advance notice, though substitutions may incur extra cost.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Christmas Cove’s quiet snorkeling pockets for sea grasses and juvenile fish
- •The shallow reefs near Leinster Bay for calm snorkeling and abundant coral formations
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtles
- •Parrotfish
Conservation Note
Tours operate within National Park rules—avoid touching coral or wildlife, and use reef-safe products to reduce damage to fragile reef systems.
The route skirts islands formed by ancient volcanic activity and coral growth; Cruz Bay and Red Hook evolved as maritime hubs linking the islands’ communities.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow of the boat facing St. John on the return
- • Christmas Cove shoreline for pizza-and-boat candid shots
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects coral ecosystems and meets local preservation standards
Light windbreaker or hoodieEssential
Afternoon breeze and evening boat rides can get cool after sunset
Snorkel mask (personal)
Using your own mask improves fit and fog reduction, though rental gear is provided
Waterproof phone case or small camera
Secures photos during snorkels and the sunset cruise without risking your device
Common Questions
Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No—snorkeling equipment is provided, but many guests prefer to bring their own mask for fit and comfort.
Is alcohol served during the trip?
Yes—alcoholic beverages are served after the second snorkel stop when no one is in the water, per National Park Service rules.
Can cruise ship passengers join?
It’s not recommended; the company cannot guarantee return to the ship on time because ports are about 30 minutes from the dock.
Are children allowed?
Children are welcome if they meet minimum age and swimming requirements—confirm specifics with the operator when booking.
What if I have food allergies?
Alternative food items can be arranged with at least 72 hours’ notice and may involve additional charges.
What happens in bad weather?
Trips are canceled and fully refundable if weather conditions make the tour unsafe; check the 24-hour cancellation policy when booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5–6 hours
Location
Cruz Bay, U.S. Virgin Islands
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Should be comfortable with short swims, ladder transfers, and standing on a moving boat; basic swimming ability required
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