If you’re planning a trip to St Thomas, there’s one activity that you absolutely can’t miss – whale watching! The beautiful waters surrounding this stunning island are home to an incredible array of marine life, but perhaps the most fascinating creatures of all are the majestic whales that call these waters home. In this post, we’ll be taking a closer look at the very best whale watching experiences that St Thomas has to offer, from the most popular tour operators to the most breathtaking whale sightings. So sit back, relax, and get ready to be amazed by the wonder and beauty of these incredible creatures!
The 2 Best Whale Watching in St Thomas
- Private Yacht for Six Luxury Catamaran Sailing to Usvi and Bvi
- Usvi and Bvi Private Boat Charters New Fast Powerboats for Half and Full Day
The 2 Best Whale Watching in St Thomas
1. Private Yacht for Six Luxury Catamaran Sailing to Usvi and Bvi
Charter your own private yacht and sail around the U.S. Virgin Islands on this half- or full-day tour with your private group of up to 12 passengers. Your captain and crew will help you create a custom itinerary so you can explore the best locations in the Caribbean. The yacht comes equipped with snorkeling equipment, floats, and SUPs for your enjoyment. Lunch and drinks like bottled water, soda, pop, and beer, as well as pisces cruzan rum punch are included with this private tour for just you and your party. Please note that this charter does not visit BVI. Meet your captain at the River’s Rum Shak drink bar near the Yacht Haven Grande Welcome Archway at WICO Day Charter Dock in Havensight. Departure is 15 minutes after the designated meeting time.
2. Usvi and Bvi Private Boat Charters New Fast Powerboats for Half and Full Day
Explore the beauty of the United States Virgin Islands with a private boat charter experience. The trip is exclusively for your group on a fast powerboat that can accommodate up to 12 passengers. You will have a captain to take you to picturesque islands, go snorkeling or simply relax on the boat and enjoy the onboard perks such as soda water and beer. This is a great way to avoid the crowds and enjoy a bespoke itinerary, with a flexible day plan to choose stops. You can stop off at beautiful sights such as Honeymoon Beach and Waterlemon Cay. Use of snorkeling equipment is included, with fuel surcharge and gratuity for the captain. The fuel is billed at $8 per gallon. The meeting point is at the American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook. MV Aquarius will pick up the charter group at the American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook SLIP B24. Enjoy the natural beauty of the United States Virgin Islands on your own private boat charter with a captain.
Most Frequently Asked Questions About Whale Watching in St Thomas
Whale watching is a thrilling experience that attracts people from all around the world. St Thomas is one of the best places to go whale watching, thanks to its warm waters and diverse marine life. If you’re planning a whale watching trip to St Thomas, you may have many questions regarding the activity. This article answers the most frequently asked questions about whale watching in St Thomas to help you prepare for your trip.1. When is the best time to go whale watching in St Thomas?
The best time to go whale watching in St Thomas is from January to April. During this time, humpback whales arrive from their feeding grounds in the north Atlantic to mate, give birth, and nurse their young in the warm waters around St Thomas. February is the peak of the whale watching season, and it’s the best time to see lots of whales.2. What is the duration of a standard whale watching tour?
The duration of a standard whale watching tour in St Thomas is usually two to three hours. There are also half-day and full-day whale watching tours available that offer a more comprehensive experience. It’s recommended to book your tour in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.3. How close can you get to the whales during a whale watching tour?
Federal regulations prohibit boats from approaching whales closer than 100 yards in St Thomas waters. However, whales may approach boats out of curiosity, and it’s not uncommon for them to swim near boats. It’s essential to keep a safe and respectful distance from the whales to avoid disturbing them.4. What kind of whales can you see in St Thomas?
You can see humpback whales in St Thomas waters, which are known for their acrobatic displays, tail slapping, and breaching behavior. Humpback whales are also known for their haunting songs, which can be heard underwater. Other whales that are occasionally seen in St Thomas include minke and pilot whales.5. What should you wear for a whale watching tour?
It’s recommended to wear warm and comfortable clothing on a whale watching tour since it can get chilly out on the water. Dress in layers, so you can adjust your clothing as needed. It’s also recommended to wear a waterproof jacket and pants, to protect against sea spray, sunscreen, and a hat.6. Can children join a whale watching tour?
Yes, children can join a whale watching tour in St Thomas. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour provider since some tours have age limits. A whale watching tour can be a thrilling and educational experience for children, and it’s an excellent opportunity to learn about marine life.7. Is it safe to go whale watching?
Whale watching is generally considered a safe activity. However, it’s essential to follow the instructions of the tour guide and crew to ensure your safety. It’s also recommended to wear a life jacket and avoid standing or moving around the boat during the tour. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or concerns, it’s recommended to check with your doctor before going on a whale watching tour.8. Can you bring food or drinks on a whale watching tour?
Yes, you can bring food and drinks on a whale watching tour, but it’s recommended to check with the tour provider since some tours provide refreshments. It’s essential to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated during the tour, and avoid bringing glass containers since they can be dangerous on a moving boat.9. Do you see whales on every whale watching tour?
It’s not guaranteed to see whales on every whale watching tour since marine life is unpredictable. However, the tour guides are experienced and knowledgeable, and they’ll do their best to take you to areas where whales are known to frequent. Even if you don’t see whales, you’ll still have a memorable experience on the water and enjoy the stunning scenery of St Thomas.10. What is the cancellation policy for a whale watching tour?
The cancellation policy for a whale watching tour varies between tour providers. It’s recommended to check the cancellation policy before booking your tour, to avoid any cancellation fees or penalties. Additionally, it’s recommended to check the weather forecast before your tour, since tours may be canceled due to adverse weather conditions.How to do Whale Watching in St. Thomas: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you planning a trip to St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands and would like to see some of these majestic creatures up close? Then whale watching in St. Thomas might be the perfect activity for you. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to ensure a safe and successful whale watching experience.Step 1: Choosing the Right Time and Place
The best time to go whale watching in St. Thomas is from December to March, when humpback whales migrate to the Caribbean waters. The best place for whale watching is in the deep waters north of St. Thomas, between St. Thomas and the British Virgin Islands.Step 2: Booking a Whale Watching Tour
There are a few companies that offer whale watching tours in St. Thomas. It is important to book a tour with a reputable company that has the proper licenses and permits to operate in the area.Some of the top companies that offer whale watching tours in St. Thomas are:
- Virgin Islands Eco Tours
- Caribbean Sea Adventures
- Stormy Petrel II
It is best to book your whale watching tour in advance, especially during peak tourist season from December to March.Step 3: Preparing for Your Whale Watching Tour
Here are some tips to keep in mind as you prepare for your whale watching tour:
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and bring a light jacket or sweater in case it gets chilly on the water.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
- Bring a camera to capture photos of the whales and other marine life you may encounter.
- Be sure to bring a water bottle and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
- Always follow the instructions of your tour guide and crew for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Step 4: What to Expect on Your Whale Watching Tour
Your whale watching tour will likely begin with a safety briefing from your tour guide or crew. They will explain safety procedures, what to expect during the tour, and rules for interacting with the whales.Once you are out on the water, keep an eye out for spouts of water, which indicate the presence of humpback whales. You may also see other marine life such as dolphins, sea turtles, and rays. Your tour guide will provide commentary and answer any questions you may have about the marine life and the area.Step 5: Etiquette for Whale Watching
While it may be exciting to see whales up close, it is important to follow proper etiquette to ensure the safety and well-being of the whales:
- Do not feed the whales or throw anything in the water that could harm them.
- Keep a safe distance of at least 100 yards between your boat and the whales.
- Avoid approaching the whales head-on or coming in between a mother and her calf.
- Avoid making sudden movements or loud noises that could scare the whales.
- Treat these magnificent creatures with respect and enjoy watching them in their natural habitat.
Step 6: What to do if You Encounter an Injured Whale
If you encounter an injured whale during your tour, it is important to report it to the proper authorities. Contact the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries Service at (800) 853-1964 or the Marine Mammal Stranding Program at (866) 755-6622.Book Your Tour Now
Whale watching in St. Thomas can be an unforgettable experience. By following these steps and practicing proper etiquette, you can enjoy a safe and exciting tour while respecting these incredible creatures and their habitat.
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