Booking choice: The Turtle Cove catamaran, from $119 per person. Check dates Tour details
Snorkeling with turtles is a highlight for children, and most trips here are set up for families: snorkel gear is included on every trip. The main differences are the minimum ages and whether children pay less.
Check the age band at checkout before you book; the figures below are from the live listings.
The quick answer
The VI Cat's Turtle Cove sail prices children 3 to 12 at a discounted rate, lists infants 0 to 2, includes snorkel vests and requires children to be with an adult. The shore snorkel needs snorkelers aged 5 and over. Alcohol on the VI Cat is for guests 21 and over only.
Is the Buck Island catamaran good for kids?
Yes for most families: children 3 to 12 pay less, vests are provided and the trip is a manageable three hours.
One guest wrote that their group ranged from 7 to 78 years old and all enjoyed it, and another called it easy for smaller children. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the boat is stroller accessible.
Planning a family day? The Turtle Cove sail discounts children 3 to 12.
Check dates for the Turtle Cove catamaranWhat are the age rules on each trip?
They vary: some boats discount children up to 12, others count everyone under 18 as a child, and the shore snorkel starts at age 5.
| Trip | Child band | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Turtle Cove catamaran | 3 to 12 (infants 0 to 2) | Discounted child rate |
| Small-group turtle snorkel | 1 to 17 | Adults 18+; group of 12 |
| Buck Island & Honeymoon Beach | One price for all ages | Infants on laps; call if under 2 |
| Maho Bay sail with lunch | 3 to 12 (infants 0 to 2) | Discounted child rate; lunch included |
| National park snorkel | 4 to 10 | Adults 11 to 80 |
| Shore turtle snorkel | 5 to 12 | Snorkelers 5+; 2 adults per booking |
Do kids need to be able to swim?
They should be comfortable in the water, but snorkel vests are included and anyone can stay on board.
The VI Cat lists a moderate fitness level. On the shore snorkel, the operator asks for at least beginner swimming ability. Practise with the mask in a pool before the trip if you can.
Big catamaran or small boat for a family?
The big catamaran is cheaper with child rates and plenty of shade; a 12-person boat gives more crew attention.
On the VI Cat the group snorkels together, which suits beginners. The Someday boat has an in-water guide and a bathroom on board.
Want more attention for first-timers? Someday Charters caps the group at 12 with an in-water guide.
Explore the small-group turtle snorkel Tour detailsWhich trip suits the youngest children?
The VI Cat, which has an infant band and lets anyone stay on board, or a boat with a beach stop for paddling.
The Seas the Day trip seats infants on laps and asks you to call if your party includes children under 2. The shore snorkel is not for under-5s.
What should families pack?
Mineral sunscreen, rash guards, a towel each, snacks and a dry change of clothes.
The snacks on board are light, so bring something for hungry children. Full list in what to bring.
How do you make the day easy?
Book early in your stay, arrive 30 minutes before, and let children decide in the water rather than pushing them.
Teach the turtle rule before you go: look but do not touch. NOAA asks snorkelers to keep a respectful distance from sea turtles.
Ready to book the family sail? Free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Check dates for the Turtle Cove catamaranFrequently asked questions
What is the minimum age for snorkeling in St Thomas?
It depends on the trip: the VI Cat lists infants and children 3 to 12, while the shore snorkel requires snorkelers to be at least 5.
Can toddlers come on the Buck Island catamaran?
The VI Cat lists an infant band (0 to 2) and is stroller accessible; toddlers can stay on board while others snorkel.
Are life jackets provided?
Snorkel vests are included on the VI Cat, and flotation devices on the shore snorkel.
Ready to book
Choose your boat
Every option here can be cancelled free up to 24 hours before on Viator. Prices are per person, in USD, and move with the season.
Buck Island Turtle Cove Catamaran Sail
- Sail to Turtle Cove at Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge (you snorkel; nobody lands on the island)
- Snorkel gear: mask, snorkel, snorkel vest and fins
- Snacks and unlimited drinks; alcohol only after the in-water part
Small-Group Turtle Snorkel & Honeymoon Beach
- Professional crew and an in-water snorkeling guide
- Snorkel gear, a boarding ladder and a bathroom on board
- Snacks; open bar after the in-water activities
Maho Bay Turtle Snorkel Sail with Lunch
Maho Bay on St John and Honeymoon Beach, picnic lunch on board
