West Indies Explorer

Take a scenic drive along one of the most breathtaking routes on St. Thomas. Much of the island’s beauty lies in its endless undulating hills spilling down to stunning bays shining in a hundred shades of blue connected by a curving ribbon of roadways hugging emerald-green slopes—affording paradisiacal Caribbean views. Drive with your local guide, making frequent stops to take it all in. The pinnacle of your excursion is the world-famous Mountain Top, 2,100 feet above sea level. Browse the shopping area amid festive Caribbean music and purchase a tot of fine locally produced rum or try the original banana daiquiri, said to have been invented here. From the observation deck, enjoy spectacular views of Magens Bay and the British Virgin Islands. If you would like, your driver-guide can drop you off in downtown Charlotte Amalie, where you may peruse the shops before returning to your ship on your own.

Visit the most pristine of the US Virgin Islands on a leisurely sail onboard a custom-designed catamaran. You will transfer along the scenic south coast of St. Thomas to a charming marina and board your sailing catamaran, receiving warm greetings from your friendly guides. Set off along the east end of St. Thomas, crossing Pillsbury Sound while gazing upon distant shores. You will moor at picturesque Honeymoon Beach, a palm-fringed paradise located within the National Park System of St. John. Enjoy a walk along the beach or relax under the palms. Samples of cheese, fruit and beverages are available on board; champagne and other drinks are available after swimming. Following a relaxing stay in this special spot, sail back to St. Thomas with tropical breezes at your back.

Sail to two magnificent snorkeling sites on board a world-class catamaran. Board your vessel and sail in the beautiful waters along the spectacular south coast of St. Thomas. A covered main cabin keeps you out of the sun if you prefer, and wide-open sundecks give you ample space to move and take in the views from different perspectives. During your excursion, you will moor at two sites for a total of 90 minutes of snorkeling. Your friendly, experienced crew will snorkel with you and point out interesting sights as you explore underwater. At Shipwreck Cove, swim over an old sunken ship encrusted with coral that attracts many different species of tropical fish. At Turtle Cove, you might be able to swim with the turtles and rays. Enjoy complimentary snacks as you sail, followed by sparkling wine and rum drinks after snorkeling.

Experience the natural beauty of St. Thomas during a guided walk, kayak and snorkel. After a short drive, arrive at St. Thomas Mangrove Wildlife Refuge & Marine Sanctuary, where you will embark a “sit-on-top” kayak and navigate past many small cays within a thriving mangrove lagoon. As you paddle along, you will see volcanic cliffs and an impressive geologic blowhole. After, set out on a hike through the forest and along a scenic beach of coral and shell rubble with views of Buck Island and French Cap. Tidal pools mark your progress, and you may even get to participate in a favorite island pastime, hermit crab racing. Finally, don your snorkel to explore the clear protected waters of the coral reef lagoon and observe the colorful marine life. You will return later to the Marine Sanctuary by kayak and continue by motor coach to your awaiting ship.

Enjoy the rustic natural beauty of St. Thomas while relaxing on the tropical shores of a secluded beach. St. Thomas’s beaches are known for their white sand and turquoise waters. Embark your open air vehicle and head to Secret Sands, located on an idyllic lagoon in tranquil Smith Bay. Upon arrival, you will be directed to your awaiting lounge chair near the water’s edge. The next 2½ hours are yours to enjoy as you desire. Relax under the shade of a palm tree while sipping on complimentary refreshments of water, soda or rum punch. Or, stroll along the shoreline, then take a dip in the calm, warm waters of the bay. At the end of your stay, board your open-air safari vehicle for a panoramic drive back to Charlotte Amalie. Traverse the island along Skyline Drive, stopping along the way at a scenic viewpoint for sweeping views of the harbor below, en route to your ship.

Venture onto tropical waters for an invigorating ride by power catamaran and a snorkeling session. Board your power catamaran and set sail for a picturesque cruise along the southern coast of St. Thomas. Sit back and relax in lounge-style seating as your captain navigates through the scenic Windward Passage. This famous strait connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Caribbean Sea and is a vital shipping lane. Drop anchor in Buck Island Cove, where you will have time to enjoy the crystal-clear waters. Don your snorkeling mask and plunge beneath the water to see the colorful underwater landscape, perhaps spotting turtles if you are lucky. Then, return to your vessel and transfer to the beach to unwind on warm, tropical sands. Afterward, you will enjoy complimentary sodas and rum punch as you journey back to your awaiting ship.

Try your hand at sailing and yacht racing during an authentic yacht club experience, followed by time to relax. Travel to a prestigious private yacht club in St. Thomas, where you will immerse yourself in the daily routines of its members. Your visit will begin with a briefing led by professional instructors, during which you will learn about essential sailing techniques and racing strategies that you can try during your visit. You will also receive mooring training and sailing tips, before venturing onto the crystal-clear Caribbean waters to take part in match races against your fellow guests. Then, retreat to the terrace to sit back, relax and unwind. Sip on a cocktail as you enjoy views of the marina and mingle with your fellow guests. If time permits, you may also take part in an array of club activities, including tennis and pickleball, before returning to your awaiting ship.