5 Top Ocean Adventures in St. Thomas

Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, St. Thomas is renowned for its rich historical heritage, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene, making it a unique and captivating destination for travelers from around the world. As part of the United States Virgin Islands, this enchanting destination boasts pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, and lush landscapes. It’s no wonder the island is a must-do for cruisers who visit in the Caribbean.

Located in the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Thomas is a paradise for ocean enthusiasts and animal lovers alike. This 32-square mile tropical haven is a magnet for cruisers, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Cruisers are drawn to St. Thomas not only for its stunning beaches but also for the myriad of water-related activities it offers once the ship anchors in one of Charlotte Amalie’s two ports on the south side of the city.

From snorkeling at colorful coral reefs to diving alongside majestic sea turtles, the island provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore the mesmerizing underwater world. The island’s rich marine life and diverse ecosystems make it a utopia for animal lovers, allowing visitors to witness exotic fish, dolphins, and other fascinating marine creatures in their natural habitat. With its captivating beauty and endless opportunities for aquatic exploration, St. Thomas truly stands out as a haven for those seeking the ultimate cruise experience.

This unforgettable snorkeling adventure in St. Thomas begins with a journey aboard a luxurious 46-foot ketch. As the boat glides through the azure waters, you are treated to a splendid sight: stately cruise ships and colorful buildings dotting the horizon as you head toward the open sea. What sets this excursion apart is the exceptional professionalism of the crew, who expertly navigate the waters, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of every guest.

Onboard, the atmosphere is nothing short of delightful, with the crew offering complimentary drinks and snacks, creating a comfortable ambiance that adds to the overall sense of relaxation and adventure. You can sit in the cockpit and get a first-hand look at how one of these nimble vessels are commandeered, or you can relax on the bow or at the stern, soaking in the sun’s rays and enjoying the gentle breeze as your vessel plows through the water to Buck Island sanctuary.

Once anchored inside the sanctuary at Turtle Cove, the excitement begins! Snorkelers are greeted by an underwater wonderland filled with marine life, from graceful sea turtles gliding elegantly through the water to the ever elusive octopus. The coral reef is teeming with life, including colorful schools of fish, curious conch, and delicate sea urchins. Swimming among these creatures in their natural habitat is both awe-inspiring and humbling, providing you with a deep appreciation for the delicate balance of marine ecosystems.

Hiking and Kayaking

Get ready for a trek in St. Thomas that combines the thrill of exploration with the breathtaking beauty of nature. One of the most inspiring excursions in this Caribbean paradise is this five-hour multi-eco trip that seamlessly intertwines kayaking and hiking within the Inner Mangrove Lagoon Sanctuary and Cas Cay.

Your journey commences with a tranquil kayak ride through a maze of small islands, navigating the intricate paths between the active coral rubble barrier reef, Patricia Cay, and Long Point. The shallow, crystal-clear waters beneath your kayak reveal a hypnotic world of marine life, including delicate brittle stars, colorful sea urchins, and other aquatic wonders. As you paddle deeper into the sanctuary the scenery transforms, leading you into enchanting mangrove alleyways where you will find majestic pelicans overhead and graceful eagle rays gliding beneath your kayak. Also underneath your kayak will be several shipwrecks you pass over as you head to Cas Cay with its wildlife sanctuary to learn about the ecosystem and watch a hermit crab race.

While in Cas Cay you and your group will enjoy a picnic lunch followed by a spirited hike, where you find yourself traversing volcanic cliffs adorned with lush vegetation. Explore the sandy coastlines decorated with sea shells and the Red Point Blow Hole, a natural wonder where the Caribbean waves powerfully crash against the rocks. Take a few minutes to snorkel around the cay, then enjoy a guided tour of a shallow marine habitat before boarding your kayak for a paddle back to the marina.

Dolphin Experience

Don’t miss this excursion to St. Thomas’s new Sea Sanctuary, a unique and exhilarating experience where the wonders of the ocean come to life. Here you will have the extraordinary chance to learn about dolphins up close and personal, interacting with these noble creatures while standing on a submerged platform under the guidance of your marine mammal specialist. Learn about the dolphins who live at the facility, as well as the steps that are being taken to preserve the delicate marine environment that dolphins call home.

This immersive encounter is just one of the many attractions the sanctuary offers. Your tour also includes access to the Coral World Ocean Park with its appealing Undersea Observatory, the dynamic Caribbean Reef Encounter, and the fascinating Stingray Pool. For a more serene experience, the Turtle Pool provides a peaceful oasis to observe these ancient animals, while the Lorikeet Aviary lets you connect with colorful avian companions. The Critter Corner introduces you to land animals including ducks and iguanas, sparking curiosity and understanding.

Through engaging activities, demonstrations, and exhibits, the park not only entertains but also educates, fostering a new awareness for the ocean’s environment and its inhabitants.

Coral World Ocean Park 

Visiting Coral World Ocean Park is one of the top things to do in St. Thomas with family. During this fun day trip you are greeted by a plethora of attractions such as the Underworld Observatory where you can observe marine mammals and more in their natural habitat without needing to dive. The park’s commitment to conservation and environmental awareness is evident in every encounter, reinforcing the significance of preserving marine habitats for future generations. Visitors of all ages are captivated by interactive sessions and informative guides, fostering a deeper understanding of our oceans’ vital importance.

As part of the education, the park offers feeding demonstrations that not only showcase the incredible skills of the park’s marine experts but also emphasize the importance of responsible feeding practices. Imagine the awe-inspiring sight of stingrays gracefully gliding in the Stingray Lagoon, juvenile sharks circling the Shark Shallows, or gentle turtles basking in the sun at the Turtle Pool. Visitors get a chance to interact with these marvelous creatures, forging a connection that transcends the barriers between species. While here, make sure to catch the sea lion show!

In the Critter Corner you can meet the island’s land ambassadors as you take a walk through the aviary and nature trail where you will find parrots, iguanas, turtles, ducks, and more.

Shark Encounter at Coral World

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Coral World Ocean Park delivers with the Shark Encounter. Experience the rare opportunity to embark on a thrilling encounter with juvenile sharks, observing these magnificent predators up close.  

You and three other guests (at a time) will step into the 42-inch deep Shark Shallows Pool where you will be greeted by a variety of nurse, black tip, lemon, and reef sharks as they circle around within a few feet of you! Witness the raw power and grace of these creatures while you learn about them and their crucial role in the marine ecosystem. This encounter not only leaves you with an unforgettable memory but also instills a deep respect for sharks, encouraging efforts to protect these misunderstood creatures.

After your breathtaking adventure you will have access to the remainder of Coral World Marine Park where you can explore the Underworld Observatory, Caribbean Reef Encounter, Critter Corner, and more. Watch the stingrays glide around in the Stingray Lagoon and visit the Turtle Pool with its rescued inhabitants. There are a plethora of demonstrations and exhibits for you to enjoy that will leave you with a deeper appreciation of ocean conservation efforts.

Discover Paradise in St. Thomas

From the moment you step foot on this vibrant island, you are welcomed by countless fun-filled activities that St. Thomas has to offer. Scuba dive in the crystal-clear turquoise waters to explore striking coral reefs, get up close and personal with dolphins, or simply bask in the sun on one of the island’s pristine beaches. For the adventurous souls, hiking the lush tropical trails offers panoramic views of the magnificent landscapes. Let us get you set up for an exciting time in St. Thomas!