CHRISTIANSTED ATTRACTION FIELD GUIDE
Face-to-Face with Hawksbill and Green Turtles in Christiansted’s Crystal Reefs
A 75-minute guided snorkel with Virgin Island Eco Tours at St. Croix’s premier site — wade from a rocky cove and swim alongside Hawksbill and Green sea turtles amid vibrant coral and reef life.
Face-to-Face with Hawksbill and Green Turtles in Christiansted’s Crystal Reefs.
From a rocky cove at Turtle Cove you step into crystalline Caribbean water and glide above coral-studded reef flats where Hawksbill and Green sea turtles feed and rest. The guided outing moves deliberately and close to shore, offering encounters with a rainbow of reef fish, squid and—on lucky days—sting rays gliding over sea grass beds. It’s an intimate, shallow-water snorkel that makes the island’s underwater life accessible and unforgettable.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Swim with Hawksbill and Green Sea Turtles
The core draw is close encounters with Hawksbill and Green sea turtles in shallow water, complemented by a menagerie of reef species—from blue tang and squirrelfish to yellowtail snappers and sergeant majors.
Vibrant reef habitats and seagrass beds
Explore coral gardens and adjacent sea grass where sting rays may glide, and squid, chubs and drum fish populate the shallows.
A shore-based start from a rocky cove
After a brief introduction you gear up at Turtle Cove and wade from the water’s edge with your guide for an immediate entry into the snorkel site.
What the day feels like
How the outing feels
The tour is compact and focused: a brief onshore introduction at Turtle Cove, then a guided wade into the crystal-clear Caribbean where you float over coral and seagrass, watching turtles and reef life move under the surface. The pace is guided and intimate, designed to maximize viewing in shallow, calm water.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and what to verify before you go.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The outing runs approximately 75 minutes.
Meet at Turtle Cove, right next to the Frederiksted Pier on the left.
Swimsuit, shoes that can get wet, towel, reef-safe sunscreen, change of clothing. Please do not bring valuables.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the snorkel?
The guided snorkel lasts approximately 75 minutes.
Where do we meet?
Meet at Turtle Cove, right next to the Frederiksted Pier on the left.
What marine life will we see?
Expect Hawksbill and Green sea turtles, colorful corals and reef fish such as blue tang, squirrelfish, chubs, yellowtail snappers, drum fish and sergeant majors; squid and occasional sting rays may also be seen.
How do we enter the water?
After a brief introduction you will gear up and wade into the ocean from a rocky cove, entering the snorkel site from the water’s edge with your guide.
What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, shoes that can get wet, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen and a change of clothing; do not bring valuables. The description also suggests bringing a waterproof camera to capture memories.
Who operates the tour?
The tour is operated by Virgin Island Eco Tours.