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Will be in St Thomas early january in a cruise ship same day as Oasis. Please comment on catamaran day trip to Buck Island and stop at Water island afterward. Thinking it may be good to get away from the crowds.?How long is trip to Buck Island. Are the seas rough in early january here.? HOw good is the snorkeling. We are familiar with St John and hoping teh snorkeling will be comparable?
The Buck Island your cruise ship excursion is going to is about 2 miles south of St. Thomas. It is called the Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge and managed by Fish & Wildlife. The excursions there are snorkel/diving trips, you don't go onto the island. The snorkeling is good - various fish, some coral, turtles. Your stop at Water Island will be to Honeymoon Beach - nice spot for swimming, relaxing.
As for how long, there are some half day and full day charters to Buck Island - what are the hours according to your excursion description?
--Islander
It is for the full day. We are guessing that St Thomas will be in gridlock that day and it may be good to do a day catamaran trip away from island.
Catamaran stops at Water island beach on way back.
If there are several ships in port certain areas of the island do get busy - for example downtown, beaches like Magens Bay and Coki. It is however possible to find less busy beaches and areas. That said, doing a charter is a popular option for an activity to do here, regardless of number of ships in port. So its a fine choice. You'll get to enjoy the water, do some boating, snorkel and get in some beach time. If you want to see a photo of Honeymoon Beach look at the Water Island Beach Section.
Have a great time!
--Islander
thank you.
