North Shore Currents: A Full-Day Kayak, Snorkel and Beach Picnic Around St. John

CRUZ BAY BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE

North Shore Currents: A Full-Day Kayak, Snorkel and Beach Picnic Around St. John

A guided, full-day paddling and snorkeling loop from Cruz Bay that visits Scott Beach, Honeymoon Beach and nearby reefs — this guide explains the route, what to expect, and what to pack.

North Shore Currents: A Full-Day Kayak, Snorkel and Beach Picnic Around St. John.

Duration
5
Location
Cruz Bay
Operator
Virgin Island Eco Tours
Category
Boat Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Embark on a five-hour, full-day kayak and snorkel excursion from Cruz Bay that threads St. John’s scenic north shore, delivers close encounters with sea turtles and vibrant coral, and finishes with a picnic on Honeymoon Beach — an audacious way to see the Virgin Islands National Park from the water.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE WILDLIFE

Snorkel with sea turtles at Scott Beach

One of the trip’s signature moments is snorkeling at Scott Beach, where participants have the opportunity to swim among sea turtles in clear water.

THE REEFS

Paddle over reefs and clear water

The route carries paddlers over crystalline water above colorful coral formations, offering repeated snorkel stops to explore reef life up close.

THE PICNIC

Beachside picnic at Honeymoon Beach

After snorkeling around Honeymoon Beach, the group breaks for a provided picnic lunch on the sand with scenic views of the north shore.

What the day feels like

What the day feels like

The day unfolds as a steady loop: a short walk from the meeting point to the launch, a series of paddles and snorkel stops along the north shore, and a relaxed beach lunch before returning to Cruz Bay. The itinerary emphasizes time in kayaks and in the water, with opportunities to explore remote coves and well‑timed snorkeling sessions.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this trip suits — and who should think twice.

1
Active day trippersWell suited for people comfortable in kayaks and able to join a five-hour outing that combines paddling and snorkeling; the trip is designed as a full-day exploration of remote shorelines.
2
Families with older childrenAppropriate for families whose children can swim and participate in kayak-and-snorkel activities; check with the operator for specifics on age suitability.
3
Non‑swimmers or limited-mobility travelersMay not be ideal for non-swimmers or those unable to enter the water or paddle; participants should be able to manage basic paddling and snorkeling tasks or discuss accommodations with the operator.
4
Weather-sensitive travelersTravelers who require strict schedules should note that the operator adjusts routes day to day based on wind and sea conditions.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Bring a bathing suit, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), any personal medicines, and a water bottle.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the trip?

This is a five-hour, full-day trip that typically runs from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Where do we meet for the tour?

The meeting point is Mongoose Junction — Virgin Islands Ecotours Outfitters; participants walk from there to the launch beach.

Is lunch provided?

Yes — a picnic lunch is provided at Honeymoon Beach as part of the full-day tour.

Can the route change on the day of the trip?

Yes — the operator may choose different paddling routes based on wind and weather conditions and will select the best route for that day.

What will we see while snorkeling?

Expect to snorkel over colorful coral reefs and to have the opportunity to see sea turtles at designated stops.