Sailing into Serenity: Snorkeling with Sea Turtles in St. Thomas
When the opportunity to snorkel with sea turtles in St. Thomas presented itself, I couldn’t resist. Join me as I recount a day of sailing, snorkeling, and camaraderie aboard The VI Cat.
Setting Sail with The VI Cat
The sun was high in the sky as I made my way to the wooden dock at Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove, ready to embark on a new adventure. The VI Cat, a sleek 54-foot catamaran, awaited with its crew—Captain Morgan, Tim, and Amber—each wearing a welcoming Caribbean smile. As a former professional surfer, I’ve spent countless hours in the ocean, but the promise of snorkeling with sea turtles at Little Buck Island was a siren call I couldn’t resist.
The crew’s infectious energy set the tone for the day. As we set sail, the gentle Caribbean breeze filled the sails, and the catamaran glided effortlessly over the azure waters. The anticipation of what lay ahead was palpable among the passengers, each of us eager to experience the marine wonders of Turtle Cove.
A Dance with Turtles
Upon reaching Little Buck Island, the crew provided us with snorkeling gear and a quick safety briefing. The water was invitingly warm, and as I slipped beneath the surface, I was greeted by a vibrant underwater world. Green sea turtles glided gracefully through the water, their movements a mesmerizing dance that I was fortunate enough to witness up close.
The coral reefs were teeming with life—stingrays, blue tangs, parrotfish, and even the occasional sea worm made appearances. The crew’s knowledge of the marine life was impressive, and they were more than happy to answer any questions we had. It was clear that their passion for the ocean matched my own, and it was a joy to share this experience with them.
Rum Punch and New Friends
After our snorkeling adventure, we returned to the catamaran, where rum punch and light snacks awaited. The atmosphere was lively as we shared stories and laughter with our fellow snorkelers. The crew’s customer-centric approach made everyone feel like part of the family, and it was easy to see why The VI Cat had earned such glowing reviews.
As we sailed back to the dock, the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the water. It was the perfect end to a day filled with adventure, camaraderie, and the undeniable spirit of the Caribbean. For those seeking a unique and unforgettable experience, I can’t recommend snorkeling with sea turtles enough. It’s a journey that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
