Turtle Cove Catamaran Snorkel and Sail at Little Buck Island STT

St. Thomas , United States Virgin Islands

Turtle Cove Catamaran Snorkel and Sail at Little Buck Island STT

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(2086 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Come swim with the resident green sea turtles and tropical fish on this 3 hour snorkel & sail adventure in St. Thomas aboard The VI Cat. From your departure, set sail on our 54-foot US Coast Guard inspected catamaran to the idyllic Caribbean waters of Turtle Cove at Little Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge. Seeing the green sea turtles in their natural habitat truly is a life-long memory. Note this is Little Buck Island located off of St. Thomas.

Enquire about a morning tour during the busier holiday weeks.

*Turtle sightings are often reported and not guaranteed as the green sea turtles are in their natural habitat.

Available options

Turtle Cove Catamaran Snorkel and Sail at Little Buck Island STT

What's included

Use of snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, snorkel vest, fins)

Local guide

Unlimited Drinks (alcoholic beverages after in-water activities)

Snacks

Detailed itinerary

Arrive at 12:30pm to check-in with The VI Cat crew on the wooden dock of the Marriott's Frenchman's Cove. Tour departs promptly at 1pm (AST - Atlantic Standard Time). Guest is to provide their own transportation to the Marriott's Frenchman's Cove. After checking in with security, follow signs that say "public access to the beach". Free parking can be found in a large gravel parking lot on the right hand side AFTER the security booth.

Board 'The Cat', a spacious 54-foot sailing catamaran for an exhilarating sail to the uninhabited Little Buck Island, located off of St Thomas. You'll snorkel at Turtle Cove, Little Buck Island, the National Wildlife Refuge, where you'll experience an unforgettable, fun-filled, marine life adventure.

Your friendly crew will provide snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins, snorkel vest), brief instruction and safety tips and if needed, a beginner's snorkeling lesson when you reach Little Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge. You may choose to swim and snorkel in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea, tan on the special deck of the catamaran, or relax in the shaded cabin area. However you choose to spend your day on the boat, you will no doubt have fun!

Water, light snacks and a variety of beverages. NOTE: Alcoholic, non-alcoholic beverages and light snacks are served AFTER the snorkeling/in-water portion of snorkel & sail trips.

Enjoy the relaxing sail back to the Marriott's Frenchman's Cove, where your fun-filled tour will conclude.

What's not included

Gratuities (suggested)

Souvenir T-Shirts and Dri-Fit Shirts (available for purchase)

Guest provides own transportation to and from the Marriott's Frenchman's Cove

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

611 reviews

5★

521

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

1,475 reviews

5★

1332

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Must arrive 30 minutes prior to departure. Check-in with Cat Crew on Dock of Marriott's Frenchman's Cove. We cannot accommodate late-comers.

Use Google Maps. Type "The VI Cat" or "Marriott's Frenchman's Cove". 1. Pull into the Marriott Frenchman's Cove (the property with all of the colorful buildings). The Marriott Cove has a large stone/brick entrance. 2. Check in with the security guard at the security booth. They will ask that you park in the large, flat gravel parking lot on the right AFTER the security booth. 3. After parking, walk down the hill, on the road, towards the pool and follow signs that say public beach access. 4. Look for the wooden dock located off of the beach. 5. You will check in with The VI Cat crew on the wooden dock approximately 30 minutes prior to departure.

The VI Cat's Standard Cancellation Policy: To receive a full refund, customers may cancel up to 72 hours before the excursion start date in the local timezone. No refunds will be given after that time period. "No-Shows" will be charged the full price of the excursion. In the event The VI Cat cancels the excursion due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, customers may receive a full refund or rebooking.

Note that the Marriott's Frenchman's Cove is the time-share portion of the Marriott. This location is different than The Westin Beach Resort & Spa at Frenchman's Reef

All tours are listed in local time - Atlantic Standard Time Zone (PLEASE NOTE THIS MAY BE DIFFERENT THAN YOUR SHIP TIME)

Be sure to mention any allergies or medical conditions to the Captain

The Marriott's Frenchman's Cove is 7-10 minute taxi ride from the WICO cruise ship dock and 20-30 minute taxi ride from the Crown Bay cruise ship dock

At time of booking, cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time

Children MUST be accompanied by an adult • Minimum drinking age is 21 years

Alcoholic beverages will be offered after the in-water activities.

If guest or vessel's Master determines safety issue, a full refund will be given.

To find dock, please reference map in photos.

MUST arrive 30 minutes prior to trip departure time. We cannot accommodate late arrivals.

Any guests with medical concerns (including pregnant travelers) are encouraged to address them with their own medical professional prior to attending excursion.

Facial coverings are optional while onboard.

Meeting point

Guest is to provide their own transportation to the Marriott's Frenchman's Cove. Check in with security and make your way to the DOCK and follow signs that say public access to beach. Arrive 30 minutes prior to trip departure time. We are cannot accommodate late arrivals. *Reference map in photos.

Important notes

1. MUST be to Marriott's Frenchman's Cove DOCK at 12:30pm
2. Tour departs promptly at 1pm and returns at 4pm
3. We cannot accommodate late-comers
4. Type in: "Marriott's Frenchman's Cove" into Google Maps
5. Check in with security booth
6. Park in large, flat, gravel parking lot on right side AFTER security booth (DO NOT park in garage spaces)
7. Walk down hills, in road. Follow signs that say "beach access"
8. Find wooden dock off of beach
9. Check in with The VI Cat crew on wooden dock at 12:30pm

Other notes:
• Call or text 340-690-2287 or email: info@thevicat.com with any questions.
• The Marriott's Frenchman's Cove is 7-10 minute taxi from the WICO cruise ship dock and 20-30 minute taxi from the Crown Bay cruise ship dock
• A ladder with 5 to 8 steps is used to enter and exit the water from the boat
• An alternate snorkeling site may be used if weather conditions are not favorable
• Participants must be at least 21 years old to consume alcohol
• Wear a swimsuit, BRING A TOWEL and adequate sun protection.
• Souvenir T-shirts and Dri-Fit shirts are available for purchase
• Be sure to mention any medical allergies or medical conditions to the Captain
• All cruises aboard The VI Cat are barefoot cruises
• Bring cash for gratuities for your crew
• There are marine bathrooms available on board
• Tours are listed in local time (Atlantic Standard Time Zone)
• The Marriott's Frenchman's Cove is the time-share portion of the Marriott.
• Cancellation policy: To receive a full refund, customers may cancel up to 72 hours before the excursion start date in the local time zone. No refunds will be given after that time period. "No-Shows" will be charged the full price of the excursion.
• Pool and beach chairs are for resort guests only. If found using resort property, you may be asked to leave which may result in forfeit of excursion ticket

About St. Thomas

St. Thomas is a vibrant island in the US Virgin Islands known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich history. It offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences, making it a perfect tropical getaway.

Top Attractions

Magen's Bay

A stunning, crescent-shaped beach with turquoise waters and soft white sand, often ranked among the world's best beaches.

Beach Half day to full day Free entry, parking fee of $10

Charlotte Amalie

The capital city of St. Thomas, known for its colorful buildings, historic sites, and vibrant shopping scene.

Historical/Cultural Half day to full day Free to explore, entry fees for attractions

Corporation Beach

A popular beach near Charlotte Amalie, offering water sports, dining, and a lively atmosphere.

Beach Half day Free entry, fees for rentals and activities

Dragon Island

A small, uninhabited island known for its hiking trails and scenic views, accessible by kayak or paddleboard.

Nature/Adventure Half day Free, but kayak or paddleboard rental required

Dunkirk Park

A historic park in Charlotte Amalie with a mix of natural beauty and historical landmarks.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kallaloo

A hearty soup made with leafy greens, okra, and meat or fish, often served with rice or breadfruit.

Main Dish Vegetarian versions available, may contain meat or fish.

Fungi

A cornmeal-based side dish cooked with okra and spices, often served with fish or meat.

Side Dish Vegetarian.

Johnny Cakes

Fried dough bread, similar to a pancake or dumpling, often served with meals.

Bread Vegetarian, may contain dairy.

Conch Fritters

Deep-fried fritters made with conch meat, spices, and flour, served with a dipping sauce.

Appetizer Contains seafood, may contain gluten.

Popular Activities

Hiking Snorkeling Kayaking Ziplining Beach activities Spa treatments Yoga Historical tours

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the peak tourist season with warm, dry weather and lower humidity. It's ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures.

24-30°C 75-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Creole
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

AST (UTC-4)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

St. Thomas is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to take common precautions to avoid petty crime and scams.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

Cyril E. King Airport • 3 miles from Charlotte Amalie

By bus

Charlotte Amalie, Red Hook

Getting around

Public transport

Public buses are affordable and connect most parts of the island. They can be crowded during peak times.

Taxis

Available • Apps: None widely used

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Charlotte Amalie Red Hook East End West End

Day trips

St. John

7 miles from St. Thomas • Half day to full day

A nearby island known for its national park, stunning beaches, and hiking trails.

Water Island

5 miles from St. Thomas • Half day

A small, quiet island known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere.

St. Croix

40 miles from St. Thomas • Full day to overnight

A larger island with a rich history, beautiful beaches, and diverse attractions.

Festivals

Virgin Islands Cultural Festival • Late April to early May St. Thomas Carnival • April Crucian Christmas Festival • December to January

Pro tips

Visit Magen's Bay early in the morning for the best experience and fewer crowds
Explore the historic sites of Charlotte Amalie to learn about the island's rich history
Try local specialties like kallaloo and fungi for an authentic taste of the Caribbean
Use public transportation or rent a car to explore the island at your own pace
Respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful of cultural differences