Over the past few weeks, St. Thomas Boat Charters has been snorkeling with an abundance of green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles. We have a handful of secret, crowd-free spots we love to explore. In the Virgin Islands, green turtles spend most of their time gliding over grassy beds, relaxing and munching on fresh turtle grass. Often, you’ll spot a remora fish swimming alongside them. While these fish resemble small sharks, they’re harmless, helping keep the turtles clean and free of disease and algae.

Hawksbill turtles, less common and harder to find, spend their time near coral reefs. With their hawk-like bills, they forage for snails and other reef creatures, sometimes even sleeping inside coral heads or beneath the coral. Most of the time, the turtles are calm and comfortable around snorkelers, although they occasionally swim at a faster pace depending on their mood.

When we’re not hanging out with turtles, we’re exploring vibrant reefs and fascinating shipwrecks teeming with colorful fish and coral. At Great St. James, a shallow wreck sits in just 10 feet of water, offering an easy view of the sunken vessel below. Resident turtles often swim around and even through the wreck, adding to the magic. Buck Island, off St. Thomas, is home to a larger wreck in 40 feet of water. Split into two pieces, this wreck attracts larger species like grouper and snapper, making it an exciting snorkeling spot.

The Virgin Islands boast warm, crystal-clear waters, with visibility ranging from 50 to 100 feet most days. In summer, water temperatures climb into the high 80s, while in the cooler months, they dip to a still-comfortable 78 degrees.

At St. Thomas Boat Charters, we’re here to create an unforgettable day on the water. Whether you want to soak up the sun, relax in the shade with an island playlist, or dive into the underwater wonders, we’ll ensure your day is truly epic. Call us today, and let’s explore all our favorite spots together!