Best of Mangrove Lagoon Kayak, Hike and Snorkel Adventure with Picnic Lunch
5
Best of Mangrove Lagoon Kayak, Hike and Snorkel Adventure with Picnic Lunch
By Virgin Islands Ecotours
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About
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 2-99, max of 16 per group
Duration: 5h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
More
- Lunch
- Professional guide
- Use of kayak and snorkel equipment
- Bottled water
What's not included- Gratuities
- Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
- Option for Round Trip Transportation available if option selected
- Start:Multiple pickup locations offered.
- VI Ecotours, 6526 Estate Nadir, St. Thomas Mangrove Lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary & Marine Reserve, St. Thomas, VI 00802, USVIVirgin Islands Ecotours, Mangrove Lagoon Marina, the kayak place.
Pickup details- Call 340.779.2155 (or text 340.642.9314) with questions regarding pickup.
Hotel pickup offeredDuring checkout you will be able to select from the list of included hotels.Port pickup offeredDuring checkout you will be able to select from the list of included ports.- Crown Bay Marina at the Windmill
- Havensite Cruise Ship Dock at The Tap & Still Restaurant
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 5199P16- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- A moderate amount of walking, paddling, and snorkeling is involved
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- Not recommended for travelers with recent surgeries, arm, hand, wrist, hip, knee, ankle or foot problems.
- Additional sanitation measures taken on site for COVID-19
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 16 travelers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 5199P16
From
$159.00
per adult
Select date and travelers
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- Navigate634530984670 contributionsFun in the SunOur group of 6 had a wonderful time on the kayak and snorkeling tour. The guides Dana, Marcus and Deshawn (and Manager Shannon) were awesome. We learned a lot about the local area, saw a lot of fun sea animals and enjoyed the kayaking.Written December 6, 2024
- R296CHkristah0 contributionsAn all around a beautiful and wonderful experienceIt was a wonderful time! Our tour guide Alvin was very knowledgeable, we learned a lot, we got some exercise in and we saw some beautiful scenes. He took our four year old, and they were very helpful with her. They provided it a taxi back to the ship since our Taxi Driver left us, I would highly recommend going on this tour!Written December 6, 2024
- Quest244880290510 contributionsGreat excursion!We went on the excursions from the Norwegian Epic. The guys on our trip were great and very informative. I wish I remember their names! We had a great time and they let us hang out and explore while still keeping us on schedule. I would definitely recommend for anyone wants to get a slice of the island. Thanks for the memories!Written December 3, 2024
- Go511001370000 contributionsUnique experience in the ocean under the starsOur night kayaking adventure in St. Thomas was an absolute blast! From start to finish, it was both informative and fun, thanks to our amazing tour guides, Denny and Derek. You could really tell that Derek loves his job—his enthusiasm was contagious, and he shared fascinating history about the chain house we paddled by, which added so much depth to the experience. Paddling under the stars was magical, and we were lucky enough to spot some awesome fish along the way. The guides made sure everyone felt comfortable and safe, while also keeping the energy high and engaging. If you're looking for a unique way to explore St. Thomas, we highly recommend this night kayaking tour. It's an unforgettable experience that combines adventure, education, and a whole lot of fun! 🌌🛶🐠Written December 2, 2024
- zacharybM758AA0 contributionsJ’vante rocksJ’vante is the best. Great guide and great teacher. Awesome tour too, learned a ton and saw lots of wild life including an octopus.Written November 29, 2024
- 431jjm0 contributionsKayak tourViews were great, Elvin knew what he was talking about and was knowledgeable about the native wildlife. He had entertaining stories related to the history of the island.Written November 28, 2024
- U5013NOwendyp0 contributionsGreat experienceHakim did an amazing job guiding us through the mangroves, to the beach and snorkeling while providing great historical and biological context for what we were seeing. It was a bit of a workout and fairly hot but worth it. Bring your sunscreen and h2o.Written November 28, 2024
- christiandX3457CF0 contributionsAmazingGreat experience loved the snorkeling had a great time kayaking answered all of my questions would definitely come me back. Was with Dana and swishWritten November 27, 2024
- Tourist343018459520 contributions5 starsFantastic tour. We had Elven as a tour guide and he was wonderful. Highly recommend for anyone who can swim/kayak. They provide kayaks/snorkels there.Written November 24, 2024
- Relax5400 contributionsIt was great!We weren't able to snorkel as the recent rains muddied the waters! But the kayak with Elvin and the "hike" were great. He knows what he's talking about. We got to see some creatures too. It's obvious that Elvin really cares about his island! It was a fun workout!Written November 19, 2024
- 845parishm0 contributionsAwesome kayak!Amazing trip, with an Absolutely great tour guy!!! Very friendly and knowledgeable with lots of cool views. Would highly recommend!Written November 11, 2024
- douglasz5560 contributionsGreat tour.Great tour. Our guide was knowledgeable and fun. He was able to direct us to the best spots to view fish while snorkeling and see the hermit crabs. Lots of fun.Written November 11, 2024
- 564suziem0 contributionsGood adventureElville was a great guide. Very knowledgeable and answered questions. Would recommend fins for snokeling as the current was strong.Written November 9, 2024
- 295RACHELH0 contributionsSuper fun!This tour was awesome! Elvin, our main tour guide, and the other guys were awesome! The sites were really beautiful. And they did a great job teaching us about the trees and sea life in that area. Lots of fun facts. We had a great time! Would highly recommend.Written November 9, 2024
- Wesley Z0 contributionsGreat time with Alvin and SwishHad a great time with Alvin and Swish as the guides. They have a lot of knowledge about the lagoon and are the most friendliest guys you’re goina to find. Would highly recommend this.Written November 9, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
180 reviews
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Karen T
Milwaukee, WI36 contributions
Dec 2021
My mother, 63 years old, and myself 35 years old, booked the kayak 4 hour tour. Our group size was 6 people which was nice, as there was a larger group that to me felt like it was too large for everyone to really get to hear from the guide. Our group all asked for single kayaks and they had enough to accommodate the request. Our guide was Swisl, and he found us different fish, aquatic life, trees and some of the land animals to see and learn about. When we got to the Island there was a short trail to walk to get to the other sites. I would recommend closed aqua shoes, they also sell them there, as there were small stones that got into my mom's shoes as they were "open." The area to the blow hole my mom wasn't able to get to as you have to walk over large rocks, not no a trail, and often use your hands to keep your balance. They provided us with water through out the trip as well. There are lockers at the facility to store your items as well.
Written December 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karen We appreciate you leaving us a review! Be sure to check our website as we add new experiences for your next trip!
Written January 1, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Marshall T
Castle Rock, CO5 contributions
Apr 2021
Overall, we had a good experience and enjoyed the tour; our guide was friendly and knowledgeable about the islands, and kayaking around mangroves was a welcome change from beaches and crowds. We ended up being the only ones who booked the tour, so, by chance, we had a private tour with just the guide and us - which was amazing. I'm not sure how well we would have done kayaking with a larger group. Our group was just two people, and we both had kayaking experience so with the guide we were able to move fast and have time to see some areas not on the usual tour. I could imagine though that if we had more than just the two of us we might have had to slow down as people learned to kayak, which could have gotten boring.
There were a few things that kept this from being a five-star review. First, our lunch order was mixed up so we got the vegetarian option instead of food for us carnivores; not a big deal, but a little annoying that after working up an appetite we only got lettuce on bread to fill us up (with some condiments for calories). We decided to purchase the photo package in advance so that we didn't need to take our phones to take pictures; it was nice to not worry about the phones being swallowed by the ocean and to unplug from technology, however, of the promised 100+ photos, we got 39, of which there were only a couple good ones. The underwater photos are nothing spectacular, so if you are comfortable taking your phone, you can probably get better photos. The snorkeling was okay, there wasn't anything exciting where they took us; imagine some underwater grass with some occasional fish. Similar to kayaking, both members of our group had done at least some snorkeling, and this doesn't compare to snorkeling over a reef, but would be a good introduction if this is your first time (it is in a protected cove with little to no waves and few motorboats).
Our guide gave good instructions for kayaking and snorkeling, so you wouldn't need any experience to go on this tour. However, if you have kayaked and snorkeled before, you are probably better off renting the equipment and exploring on your own.
There were a few things that kept this from being a five-star review. First, our lunch order was mixed up so we got the vegetarian option instead of food for us carnivores; not a big deal, but a little annoying that after working up an appetite we only got lettuce on bread to fill us up (with some condiments for calories). We decided to purchase the photo package in advance so that we didn't need to take our phones to take pictures; it was nice to not worry about the phones being swallowed by the ocean and to unplug from technology, however, of the promised 100+ photos, we got 39, of which there were only a couple good ones. The underwater photos are nothing spectacular, so if you are comfortable taking your phone, you can probably get better photos. The snorkeling was okay, there wasn't anything exciting where they took us; imagine some underwater grass with some occasional fish. Similar to kayaking, both members of our group had done at least some snorkeling, and this doesn't compare to snorkeling over a reef, but would be a good introduction if this is your first time (it is in a protected cove with little to no waves and few motorboats).
Our guide gave good instructions for kayaking and snorkeling, so you wouldn't need any experience to go on this tour. However, if you have kayaked and snorkeled before, you are probably better off renting the equipment and exploring on your own.
Written April 14, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alayna E
1 contribution
Jan 2022 • Couples
My boyfriend and I went on the 5hr tour. We happened to be the only ones that signed up for our time slot so we ended up getting a private tour! Our guide Dennis was awesome and super chill! He had lots of stories and advice to share and made sure we kept up with staying hydrated and applying sunscreen. Definitely worth the $35 for the photo package as well- basically was like Dennis being our personal photographer. We found this trip very easy for beginners if you're considering it! All of the staff were great and super helpful!
Written January 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What a wonderful private adventure! Thanks for leaving us a review! We’re working on adding new experiences to our website for your next visit!
Written January 15, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
AK
1 contribution
Mar 2022
I guess I had higher expectations so this was a very average tour to me. The 5 hour tour takes at least 30 minutes before you launch so it's closer to 4 hours. Jelani was a great tour guide. He was knowledgeable about the area. The kayak were very comfortable. I brought my own snorkel. The mangroves were interesting and the biology of them was explained very well. Loves the jellyfish at first stop.
The "picnic lunch" was a bland turkey wrap and bag of chips. Many people didn't even bother to eat it all and the invasion of the hermit crabs for uneaten food was awesome and super creepy. Plenty of water was provided.
The "volcanic cliffs" weren't cliffs, it's a beach. The blow hole was cool but only like a 15 minute experience and the rest was walking around the island which isn't really special except for the very cool "apple of death" tree. Jelani also did a great job of telling the story of Blackbeard.
My biggest desire from the tour was to see a lot of animals since this was a guided tour to specific areas. I assumed seaturtles were a given since they are a big draw for the islands. Was shocked to learn there was nearly no chance of seeing one. Unfortunately no octopus or starfish were out either. We saw a few fish but not huge schools. The reef shark was a lucky highlight for me. But overall I saw more animals just swimming around Brewers Bay later that day included the seaturtles I was so excited for.
If you are on a cruise ship this is good outing. If you haven't travelled or kayaked much this is a good experience. This is good value for money compared to other tours I looked up on the island. However I've had much better tours on other vacations.
The "picnic lunch" was a bland turkey wrap and bag of chips. Many people didn't even bother to eat it all and the invasion of the hermit crabs for uneaten food was awesome and super creepy. Plenty of water was provided.
The "volcanic cliffs" weren't cliffs, it's a beach. The blow hole was cool but only like a 15 minute experience and the rest was walking around the island which isn't really special except for the very cool "apple of death" tree. Jelani also did a great job of telling the story of Blackbeard.
My biggest desire from the tour was to see a lot of animals since this was a guided tour to specific areas. I assumed seaturtles were a given since they are a big draw for the islands. Was shocked to learn there was nearly no chance of seeing one. Unfortunately no octopus or starfish were out either. We saw a few fish but not huge schools. The reef shark was a lucky highlight for me. But overall I saw more animals just swimming around Brewers Bay later that day included the seaturtles I was so excited for.
If you are on a cruise ship this is good outing. If you haven't travelled or kayaked much this is a good experience. This is good value for money compared to other tours I looked up on the island. However I've had much better tours on other vacations.
Written March 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Harmony
2 contributions
Nov 2021 • Family
We had a wonderful adventure with our guide Swish from Eco Tours. We thought it was very well broken up between boating, swimming/snorkeling, hiking. Swish was fantastic, and we enjoyed his knowledge of the area and the creatures he would find for us. My 3 boys had a blast and we loved our day trip experience! Highly recommend this tour!
Written November 16, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are so grateful for your review 🙏. We’re always looking for ways to make our tours better for your next trip with your boys. Hope to see you soon!
Written November 20, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Pat Naylor
Charlotte, NC24 contributions
Aug 2021
It is hard to say what is my favorite because it all was. The tour guide was excellent and very knowledgeable. She made the tour fun, challenging, and great. All of the pictures she took were awesome and the price was unbelievably low for the pictures. My family stated it was one of the best tours we have ever taken.
I reccomend this tour for anyone. It was great! Thanks for a great time.
I reccomend this tour for anyone. It was great! Thanks for a great time.
Written August 10, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Woo hoo! Thank you for leaving us a review. Be sure to check our website periodically for the new adventures we’re working on adding for your next visit!
Written August 15, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Eliseo R
2 contributions
So these guys accepted booking and payment and the day before the hike day that said they don’t do solos and wanted to give me a shorter hike for same price. What kind of crap is that. Just canceled and didn’t even refund money. Never booking again nor will recommend them. Will rate them in other websites too
Written August 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Christopher B
1 contribution
May 2023 • Solo
The 5-hour tour of the mangroves by kayak was great fun. Being on (and in) the water in this unique ecosystem offered close-up access to birds and sea life. Sherrie was our guide and provided interesting information on the flora and fauna. Her appreciation and enthusiasm for the ecosystem was infectious and heightened everyone's enjoyment of the excursion.
Written May 24, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for choosing Virgin Islands Ecotours! We're glad we could be a part of your memorable adventure and that Sherrie could make it all the better. We look forward to welcoming you back in the future!
Written June 2, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Amanda Jo B
4 contributions
Mar 2021 • Couples
We did the Mangrove Lagoon Kayak, Hike, and Snorkel tour for 3 hours with Kevin as our guide. The shorter tour was definitely just enough, we almost did the 5 hour tour but we got to see plenty and learn a ton on the 3 hour tour. The kayaking was pretty smooth water so good for all skill levels. The hike (nature walk) was brief with good history and tidbits about the life around the island. The snorkeling was our favorite part and was also great for all skill levels since you keep your life jacket on. I would highly recommend the 3 hour tour. Kevin was a really awesome guide. Just make sure you pack sunblock, sunshirt if you burn easy, sunglasses, and a hat!
Written March 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks Amanda! Be sure to check our website periodically for new tours on St Thomas and St John. Hope to see you back soon!
Written April 10, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Charlie N
1 contribution
Feb 2022
Jenali was very helpful on our trip. He pointed out many animals and plants. He responded to my surplus of questions, and never seemed to get annoyed. He was also very chill and relaxed, and he made you feel like you belonged. He even dived down to get starfish and other cool animals. I would definitely do this again if I had Jenali.
Written February 24, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Charlie We appreciate you leaving us a review! We’re always working on adding new adventures to our website for your next trip!
Written February 27, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Is it kid friendly? I have 2 kids (7 & 11). Do they provide life jackets for the children? How long is the excursion?
Written August 18, 2018
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