Snorkeling Spots You Can Reach on a Private Charter from St. Thomas
The best snorkeling spots you can reach on a private snorkeling charter from St. Thomas include vibrant coral reefs across St. John and the British Virgin Islands, such as Waterlemon Cay and The Indians. Departing from Red Hook aboard the Lusso—our high-performance 39-foot Nor-Tech 390 Sport—puts you at these world-class underwater sites quickly, comfortably, and away from the massive crowds.
Waterlemon Cay, St. John (USVI)
Located within the Virgin Islands National Park, Waterlemon Cay is widely considered one of the absolute best snorkeling anchorages in the USVI. Encircling a lush mangrove and coral island, the shallow fringe reef teems with vibrant marine life.
- What to see: Green sea turtles, stingrays, cushion starfish, and colorful tropical fish.
- Passports: Not required, as this remains entirely within USVI waters.
The Indians and Norman Island, BVI
For legendary BVI underwater terrain, nothing beats a run across the channel to The Indians—a cluster of rock spires shooting straight out of the water with steep coral walls—followed by stops at the Caves on Norman Island.
- What to see: Deep-water coral formations, schooling sergeant majors, tarpon, and fascinating geologic swim-throughs.
- Passports: Strictly required, along with BVI customs and immigration fees.
Christmas Cove and Great St. James (USVI)
Just a short cruise from Red Hook, Christmas Cove is famous for calm, protected waters and a thriving sea turtle population. It is an ideal first stop to get comfortable in the water or a relaxing afternoon snorkel.
Neighboring Great St. James offers rocky drop-offs and secluded bays where vibrant reef fish dart between elkhorn coral.
What Gear Is Provided vs. What to Bring
When you book a private snorkeling charter with Apex Marine Charters VI, we handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on the adventure.
- Provided on board: Premium sanitized masks, snorkels, fins in various sizes, floating mats, and heavily iced coolers.
- What to bring: Reef-safe sunscreen (crucial for protecting local marine life), towels, polarized sunglasses, and your preferred snacks or beverages.
Why Choose a Private Speedboat Over a Crowded Catamaran
Large commercial catamarans are slow, rigid, and packed with dozens of strangers. Booking a private charter on the Lusso gives you total flexibility over your itinerary, faster transit times between islands, and a personalized experience tailored specifically to your group (up to 12 guests).
Good to Know
USVI-only charters (such as St. John, Christmas Cove, and surrounding cays) do not require passports, making them easy and spontaneous. If your snorkeling itinerary ventures into British Virgin Islands waters like Norman Island or Jost Van Dyke, valid passports for all guests and international customs fees are required by law.
Do I need a passport for a snorkeling charter from St. Thomas?
It depends entirely on your chosen itinerary. Trips staying within USVI waters (like St. John and Christmas Cove) do not require passports. Charters heading into the British Virgin Islands (like The Indians or Norman Island) require valid passports for every passenger for customs clearance.
What gear is included on a private charter with Apex Marine Charters VI?
We provide top-tier snorkeling gear including masks, snorkels, and fins, plus floating water mats, iced coolers with bottled water, and captain expertise. You are welcome to bring any additional food or drinks you prefer.
How many guests can fit on the Lusso?
The Lusso is our luxury 39-foot Nor-Tech 390 Sport, comfortably accommodating up to 12 guests for private day charters, sunset cruises, water-taxi runs, and custom excursions.
Where do Apex Marine charters depart from?
All our private charters depart conveniently from Red Hook, St. Thomas, placing you minutes away from the finest snorkeling anchorages in the territory.
Ready to explore the crystal-clear reefs of the Virgin Islands with an experienced local crew? Book your private day out on the water today.