A catamaran day with real snorkeling is hard to beat. This all-inclusive Snorkel Cat outing in St. Thomas mixes a relaxing sail with time at multiple underwater spots around St. John, plus food and free drinks onboard.

What I like most is how the day is built around actual time in the water, not just drifting at the dock. I also like that you get snorkeling gear and meals covered, so you can travel lighter and focus on the water. One possible drawback: you’re responsible for getting yourself to the start point at Margaritaville, and that can add cost if you need a taxi.

Snorkel Cat at a Glance

Two snorkeling sessions (and sometimes more remote stops) so you’re not gambling on one set of conditions

All-inclusive meals and free alcohol/beer/wine so the day stays simple

Snorkeling gear included which helps if you’re traveling with limited baggage

Crew-led guidance when conditions change including extra time at the second spot when the first is less clear

Marine life is the main event with sightings ranging from turtles to rays to sharks

Small-to-medium group size up to 70 travelers for a more manageable boat experience

Meet at Margaritaville: the easiest way to start your snorkel day

Plan to head to Margaritaville Resort ahead of departure. The experience notes an arrival/check-in window around 9:30am, with the start time listed for 10:30am, so I’d treat this as a late-morning departure and give yourself a cushion.

The meeting point is listed as 6080 Smith Bay Rd, Frydendal, St Thomas 00802, USVI, and the trip ends back at the meeting point. That round-trip convenience matters on an island day, especially if you’re pairing this with other plans in Charlotte Amalie afterward.

If you don’t have your own ride, keep in mind the tour doesn’t include private transportation. Some guests end up adding a taxi run to get across the island, so it’s worth budgeting that into your day.

The “all-inclusive” part that actually helps: food, drinks, and the boat vibe

This isn’t a bring-a-lunch kind of tour. You’ll get a lite breakfast at boarding, plus lunch served while you’re sailing between snorkel areas. There are also snacks onboard.

Even better for value: soft drinks and alcohol are included. The tour lists beer, wine, and liquor, and multiple guests rave about the boat drinks—one person even singled out painkillers as a highlight. If you like the idea of sailing, music, and good food without running to a bar or a convenience store, this is one of those days where that works.

You’ll also feel the energy of the crew. Names pop up again and again in guest notes—Captain Shawn, Captain Jake, Captain Danny Boy, Captain Tuna, and Captain Christian—along with crew members like Dawn, Matt (nicknamed the rum fairy), Kennedy, Noel, and Amanda. The vibe is social, with music that ranges from pirate-style energy to island-focused playlists, and the crew generally keeps things moving.

One practical note: water can be choppy, and it may get breezy. That shows up in real island conditions, not as a surprise. If you’re motion-sensitive, consider taking it easy early in the day and settle into the rhythm once you’re out on the water.

First snorkeling stop near St. John: what you’re looking for

The plan centers on reef and park-area snorkeling around St. John National Park and nearby coral areas. That matters because you’re not just swimming over random sandbars—you’re working with places known for marine life.

Your first swim is set up after breakfast onboard. The important part for your expectations: visibility can change fast. One guest described the first stop as a bit murky, but the captain responded by adjusting timing and giving the group extra time at the second area, which is exactly how a good crew handles shifting conditions.

So what should you watch for? When conditions are good, guests report a mix of tropical fish plus bigger sightings. Highlights mentioned include sting rays, starfish, eels, and even nurse sharks. You may also spot sea turtles and jellyfish depending on the day.

If you’re a first-time snorkeler, this is also where you’ll benefit from the crew’s pacing and help. The best approach is to treat the first stop like your practice round—get comfortable with breathing, buoyancy, and timing—then you’ll enjoy the rest of the day more.

Second snorkeling stop at an uninhabited island: where the payoff often lands

After the first round, you’ll eat lunch onboard while the cat sails to the next location. The second snorkeling session is described as an uninhabited island stop, and this is where many people feel the day really clicks.

Several guests mention clear, exciting marine encounters at the later spot, including sharks and lots of colorful fish. One person specifically credited Captain Shawn with extending time at the second snorkeling area after the first stop didn’t deliver perfect water clarity. That kind of flexibility is more than nice—it’s how you maximize your chance of seeing what you came for.

You’ll also get a chance to swim and just hang out near the surface, especially if the crew slows down the group and lets you enjoy the view. In island snorkeling, the best moments are often the quiet ones: floating calmly, watching the rays glide, then spotting something new only after your eyes adjust.

Gear, safety, and how the crew helps you enjoy the water

Snorkeling gear is included, so you won’t have to figure out mask sizing or whether your gear is packed correctly. That single decision—show up with no extra equipment—makes the trip feel smoother immediately.

More than gear, what counts is how the crew runs the timing and handles your comfort. Multiple guests mention feeling safe the whole time, and captains are repeatedly praised for being competent and friendly. If you’re traveling with family, this matters because snorkeling can trigger anxiety when it feels unfamiliar.

One detailed story stood out: a daughter got anxious while snorkeling, and Captain Danny went above and beyond to make the experience work for her. The key takeaway for you is that you’re not just handed a life vest and sent off alone. The crew’s job is getting you in the water and keeping you comfortable enough to actually enjoy it.

Also, if the boat switches between sail and power modes at times, don’t panic. One guest noted switching to a power boat and still having an excellent day with multiple remote locations. The theme stays the same: time in the water and a relaxing ride back.

Duration and schedule: what five hours feels like on the clock

The trip runs about 5 hours (approx.). That’s a sweet spot. Long enough for two snorkel sessions and meals onboard, but not so long that your day turns into a logistics marathon.

Departing from Margaritaville in the late morning means you’ll likely be back by early afternoon. That can be ideal if you want to keep the rest of the day open for beaches, shopping, or a casual dinner in St. Thomas.

Keep your expectations grounded, though: you’re on island time in open water. Wind and waves are part of the package, and there can be short waits while the crew sets up snorkeling and distributes gear.

Price and value: is $175 worth it?

At $175 per person, you’re paying for several things at once:

• A yacht/catamaran experience with real travel between snorkel areas
• Snorkeling gear provided
• Breakfast and lunch plus snacks onboard
• Free soft drinks plus alcohol (beer, wine, liquor)

On a typical island day, those items can quickly become separate purchases. The cost can feel easier to justify if you’d otherwise pay for a guided snorkel boat, rent gear, and then buy food and drinks.

This is also a value win if you’re traveling as a group, because the boat handles the food and the day stays organized. A guest even called it the best tour for your money in St Thomas, which is the kind of comment you only see when the boat actually delivers on the included items.

One more value angle: the marine life variety is a big part of why this works. When your second stop is better, it’s not just luck—it’s also about how the captain manages timing. When the day runs smoothly, you feel like you paid for an experience, not just transport.

Who this snorkeling trip suits best

This is a strong match if you want:

• Two snorkeling areas (St. John park area plus nearby reef/uninhabited island)
• A low-effort day where meals and gear are handled
• A fun boat atmosphere with music and crew interaction
• A mix of sightseeing from the water and time underwater

It’s also a good first snorkeling trip early in your vacation, because you learn basic technique with crew support and can carry that confidence into any later swims.

If you only want the quietest, least social option possible, you might prefer a smaller private charter. But if you want a lively day that still feels organized and safe, this hits the sweet spot.

Practical tips before you go (so the day stays easy)

Here are the small things that make a difference on a snorkel day like this:

Bring your towel and a swimsuit you can dry quickly. Most of the trip is water-adjacent, so you’ll want to change easily after snorkeling.

Plan for wind. Even when conditions are fine, you can get cooler on the ride between stops. A light layer can help.

Budget for getting to Margaritaville. Private transportation isn’t included, and island geography can turn a short distance into a paid taxi ride.

Consider bringing cash for tips. One guest specifically advised having cash available at the end, and it’s a smart way to be ready even if you aren’t sure what form tips will take.

Expect the second stop to matter most. If water clarity is off at the first spot, that captain flexibility is built into the day plan.

Should you book Snorkel Cat all-inclusive snorkeling?

I think this is an easy yes if you want value-heavy convenience: snorkeling gear handled, two snorkel sessions, breakfast and lunch included, and free beer/wine/liquor onboard. The crew focus on keeping you safe and comfortable also makes it a strong choice for families and first-timers.

I’d say consider your logistics first if you don’t have a car. Since private transportation isn’t included, you’ll want to make the start time work without last-minute stress or pricey surprises.

If you’re looking for a straightforward St. Thomas day that gives you real time in the water and a fun boat atmosphere, this one is worth serious consideration.

FAQ

What is the duration of the Snorkel Cat all-inclusive adventure?

The trip is listed at about 5 hours.

Where do I meet, and where does the tour end?

You meet at 6080 Smith Bay Rd, Frydendal, St Thomas 00802, USVI, and the activity ends back at the meeting point.

What time does the tour start?

The start time is listed as 10:30am, and you are directed to make your own way to Margaritaville Resort at 9:30am.

What is included in the all-inclusive price?

Included items are lite breakfast at boarding, lunch, snacks, soda/pop, snorkeling equipment, and alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, liquor).

Do I need to bring snorkeling equipment?

No. Use of snorkeling equipment is included.

Is transportation included?

No. Private transportation is not included, so you’ll need to get yourself to the meeting location.

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