Saint Thomas, USVI

This was the second port of call on our family cruise aboard the "Oasis of the Seas" for Christmas 2018 (Click here to view that blog page). St. Thomas is the gateway isle of the U.S. Virgin Islands in the Caribbean. Saint Thomas, part of the U.S. Virgin Islands in the Caribbean, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, pristine beaches, and rich history. Visitors are drawn to its turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and picturesque landscapes. The island is a haven for snorkelers, scuba divers, and sailing enthusiasts, with locations like Magens Bay and Coral World Ocean Park offering unique experiences.

The capital, Charlotte Amalie, boasts historic charm with its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and duty-free shopping. Landmarks such as Blackbeard's Castle and the 99 Steps offer glimpses into the island's past. Beyond its scenic and cultural allure, Saint Thomas provides luxury resorts, fine dining, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, making it a premier destination for relaxation and adventure alike.

• Tree Limin' Extreme Zipline Tour
• Google Search Results list for "Horseback Riding on Saint Thomas"
• Google Search Results list for "SCUBA Diving on Saint Thomas"
• Things to do from the "Get Your Guide" site
• Google Search Results list for "things to do on Saint Thomas"
• Best Hiking Trails on Saint Thomas from the "All Trails" site
• Google Search Results list for "accommodations on Saint Thomas island"
• Google Search Results list for "restaurants on Saint Thomas island"

The above image is Sapphire Beach, and you can easily see how pretty it is! This is where most of our group went to prior to the snorkel cruise.

A visit to Sapphire Beach in Saint Thomas is a tropical paradise experience. Located on the island’s east end, this stunning beach is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft white sand, and breathtaking views of nearby islands like St. John and Tortola. It’s a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling, as the coral reefs just offshore teem with vibrant marine life, including colorful fish and sea turtles.

Sapphire Beach is family-friendly and offers easy access to water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding, with equipment rentals available on-site. Visitors can also relax under the natural shade of palm trees or rent beach chairs and umbrellas. There’s a beach bar and grill nearby for snacks and drinks, making it easy to spend the entire day there.

Celeste and I decided to skip the morning excursions, because we wanted to be ready for the afternoon/evening catamaran cruise & snorkeling trip. So we did some minor shopping and then hung out on the ship and relaxed till our Sapphire Beach group returned and met us on the cruise ship dock.

A snorkeling catamaran cruise from Saint Thomas offers an unforgettable adventure on the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. Departing from the Saint Thomas Marina, the cruise takes you along stunning coastlines to pristine snorkeling spots, like the nearby island of St. John or secluded cays with vibrant coral reefs.

Once aboard the spacious catamaran, you’ll enjoy scenic views, fresh ocean breezes, and often complimentary snacks and beverages, including tropical cocktails. The crew provides snorkeling gear and guidance, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. At the snorkeling destination, you'll dive into crystal-clear waters, exploring colorful coral reefs filled with tropical fish, sea turtles, and even rays. The underwater visibility is superb, offering an up-close view of the vibrant marine life.

Our first snorkeling event was to see the turtles swimming in Turtle Cove on Buck Island. There were a number of turtles swimming about or searching the sandy bottom, so most everyone got a chance to see at least one turtle.

NOTE: The second snorkeling event was in Shipwreck Cove on Buck Island. Click here to view a very good video of the wreck. The video is the property of lifeinusvi.com via YouTube.