Big Beard's Adventure Tours
Big Beard's Adventure Tours
Big Beard's Adventure Tours
4.9
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About
Christiansted, U.S. Virgin Islands
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
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Big Beard's Adventure Tours
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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
4.9
2,930 reviews
Excellent
2,654
Very good
203
Average
44
Poor
19
Terrible
10
TheeNickNick
18 contributions
Jun 2024 • Friends
First of all, I would like to thank them for being very accommodating. We had a private charter with another company that was canceled that morning, because they had to relocate their ship because of the approaching repercussions of hurricane beryl. I called them to see if bb had any water adventures that could accommodate a party of eight. They were able to accommodate us on an already public excursion, and explained what all it entailed. Our travel agent sent over the reservations, and we met them at 12. We signed our waivers and headed to the boat where we met Captain Curtis and Simon, who stole our shoes lol. But honestly they explain to us that it was a barefoot excursion, because of the slickness of the floor of the boat. The ride out to the island was beautiful. Some of us climb up to the front of the boat and had a full titanic experience but faster. On the island they gave full snorkel instructions, even to those of us who could not swim. We then got back onto the boat and went out into the middle of the ocean to snorkel in deep water. Full snorkel gear and life vests were available. For those of us who could not swim, Simon had a orange, floating ring that we could hold onto while keeping our face in the water, and wow he pulled us out to the deeper parts. The waves were horrendous that day, and I have absolutely no idea how he was able to pull us so many times. Being a non-swimmer I did get out to the deeper parts and saw lots of amazing things, but pulled on the rope when the waves had no mercy and asked him to take us back to the boat. On the way back, they provided a rum punch. On the way there before snorkeling, they provided water. All of us had an amazing time in would definitely recommend this excursion for all ages.
Written July 1, 2024
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.
14jkc
Pittsburgh, PA397 contributions
Jan 2025 • Couples
I can't say enough about Captain/Chef Curtis, Chuck, and Joe. There were some serious tradewinds while we were on the island and the seas were rough. These gentlemen were absolute pros in every way. Although we may not have enjoyed some of the snorkeling as much as we'd hoped b/c of the rough water, the bbq lunch on the private island was wonderful. The staff took care to leave the island in pristine condition and were concerned about everyone's safety the entire day. This was really nice to see, as we've been on several boat trips in many other countries and this was by far the most professional while also keeping things fun. We hope to see you again during better weather!
Written February 9, 2025
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.
Marty B
1 contribution
Feb 2025 • Family
We took the full day Buck Island tour. I have taken this tour several other times on other boats and unfortunately this day, it was very windy. This made the seas a bit choppy. The crew of the Big Beard Renegade was very upbeat and helpful and did everything they could to make our trip as fun as possible. The boat was in good shape and comfortable. We started in Christionsted and motor sailed out to the beach on Buck island so that folks who had no experience snorkeling could get their feet wet. After about an hour we moved to the reef for snorkeling. The crew took folks out on a short guided tour of the reef before letting everyone snorkel on their own. Our trip included a beach barbecue and vodka punch. The punch was pretty bad. It was warm cheap canned punch that tasted like metal, mixed with really cheap vodka. Fresher COLD punch would have made the trip a home run. The beach spot was very nice and was mostly in the shade which was a nice respite from the sun. The lunch was hamburgers, hotdogs, vegy burgers and mahi mahi. The food was excellent, all cooked by the crew. After lunch we made the 45 minute trip back, mostly under sail alone. It was fantastic. I recommend this trip to anyone looking for a fun day snorkeling, and chilling on the beach.
Written February 4, 2025
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.
franklyn h
1 contribution
Dec 2024 • Couples
We did the All Day Tour with Captain Curtis and his crew and it was the most amazing experience. Everything about this adventure was awesome, from the trips to the different islands, to the barbecue cookout. My wife was celebrating her birthday and Captain Curtis and the crew played her a birthday song and we all sang her happy birthday. I fully recommend taking this trip while in St. Croix, it’s more than worth it.
Written December 23, 2024
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.
Juliana O
East Providence, RI3 contributions
Jan 2025 • Family
I booked the half day snorkel tour to Buck Island for my 40th birthday and it was a super memorable experience! Captain Curtis, Logan, and Joe took great care of us. This was my first time snorkeling EVER and I sure did jump into the deep end, literally. The water got very choppy just as we reached the reef, which is something that can happen. (Nature!) It was challenging and I didn't go out as far as I could have done if the water was calm, but the crew kept an eye on us and everyone was able to stay within their limits. I want to visit again so that I can see more of the grotto, but it was a blast and I'm so psyched with the accomplishment!
I think that the half day tour was the perfect length for all of us in the group. Some of us were total newbie snorkelers and some of us were more experienced. I purposely booked this tour as my "first snorkel experience" just for fun, but I we also had a great time snorkeling off the pier at Fredriksted later in the trip. If you're on the island for a few days, I might recommend doing some practice snorkeling on the beaches so that you're "warmed up" for Buck Island where you will be out in open water!
Big thanks to the crew for facilitating this great bucket list experience.
I think that the half day tour was the perfect length for all of us in the group. Some of us were total newbie snorkelers and some of us were more experienced. I purposely booked this tour as my "first snorkel experience" just for fun, but I we also had a great time snorkeling off the pier at Fredriksted later in the trip. If you're on the island for a few days, I might recommend doing some practice snorkeling on the beaches so that you're "warmed up" for Buck Island where you will be out in open water!
Big thanks to the crew for facilitating this great bucket list experience.
Written January 29, 2025
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.
Traveler21184581385
6 contributions
Oct 2024 • Couples
Simon and Captain Curtis are knowledgeable, friendly and most importantly, made us feel safe and comfortable doing something new. My husband had a really hard time with breathing through a typical snorkel mask and Simon would not give up on him and had him in the reef within 30 mins and it was truly magical, we got to swim with a sea turtle! We will remember this forever as the "married just" couple!
Written October 18, 2024
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.
FarAway45104519256
1 contribution
Dec 2024 • Couples
I went on the sunset cruise with my husband and we had an amazing time. Our captain (Curtis) together with his other staff, Simon, ensured we were comfortable and he gave us insight into some of the landmarks we saw on the trip. Their ship "the Renegade" was clean and organized, & the staff were polite & helpful. I will highly recommend using 'Big Beard's Adventure Tours" for a memorable time in St. Croix.
Written December 29, 2024
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.
Scott F
2 contributions
Feb 2025 • Family
Had a great time. The Crew of Captain Curtis, first mate Amy, Charlie and Jackie were both professional, knowledgeable and fun.
The first stop is a beach on Buck Island. A beautiful beach and easy spot to mess with your gear. I saw a bararicuda within a couple of minutes.
After an hour or so we headed to the back side of Buck Island. A pair of Dolphins showed up and played in front of the boat for several minutes. Captain Curtis did a great job of easing the boat away to keep the Dolphins from following us.
There is a reef path called the Grotto on the back side of Buck. It is absolutely awesome. It could be on Neptune. The corral structure, fish life and colors of it all cannot be forgotten.
My travel companions are not snorkelers so I went alone, but everyone was so friendly that it didn't feel that way at all.
The first stop is a beach on Buck Island. A beautiful beach and easy spot to mess with your gear. I saw a bararicuda within a couple of minutes.
After an hour or so we headed to the back side of Buck Island. A pair of Dolphins showed up and played in front of the boat for several minutes. Captain Curtis did a great job of easing the boat away to keep the Dolphins from following us.
There is a reef path called the Grotto on the back side of Buck. It is absolutely awesome. It could be on Neptune. The corral structure, fish life and colors of it all cannot be forgotten.
My travel companions are not snorkelers so I went alone, but everyone was so friendly that it didn't feel that way at all.
Written February 22, 2025
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 D
Fredericksburg, VA63 contributions
Apr 2024 • Friends
I have spent time on St Croix, so I already knew that it can be rough in the snorkeling area off Buck Island. I also know that much of the reef is dead. Mother Nature hasn’t been kind to the area. I explained this to my friend and adult children, and they were still game. The water was rough the day we went, but the reef is very slowly starting to come back (global warming isn’t helping).
We had a terrific day!! Capt Curtis and his crew of 3 were friendly and efficient. The on-shore picnic afterwards, although the area could use a bit of sprucing up, was simple but tasty. Some cats and huge numbers of horseshoe crabs made things interesting. I took my own snorkeling equipment, and so did my daughters. Our friend used what was provided and was satisfied. The boat seemed safe and was in good condition (we did the whole day trip on the Renegade). Capt Curtis played good music and got people dancing.
We had a terrific day!! Capt Curtis and his crew of 3 were friendly and efficient. The on-shore picnic afterwards, although the area could use a bit of sprucing up, was simple but tasty. Some cats and huge numbers of horseshoe crabs made things interesting. I took my own snorkeling equipment, and so did my daughters. Our friend used what was provided and was satisfied. The boat seemed safe and was in good condition (we did the whole day trip on the Renegade). Capt Curtis played good music and got people dancing.
Written April 19, 2024
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.
Emily F
1 contribution
Mar 2025 • Family
My four teens and I did the morning 1/2-day snorkel cruise to Buck Island. The crew was super friendly, informative and great sense of humor. Chuck took lead on teaching us Beginner Snorkeling and he did a great job of keeping it simple and strait forward, which was important especially for my Worried-Child. The tour was divided into two parts - starting from a sandy beach, which was a great intro baby step. The second half, where we got see all the amazing fish, was boat-to-water entry and … this is why I’m leaving this review … this had a very scary impact on my Worried-Child… strait up panic attack in the water. Chuck saw this and as soon as he was able to release the rest of the group to explore, came alongside my kid and took over from there. He sent me on my way and 20+ minutes later when I circled back to check in, Chuck was gently towing my boy through the reef. Everyone was happy. Thank you a million times over, Chuck. You literally saved the day ❤️
Written March 12, 2025
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.
How many people do you take on your full day trips during Covid? Do we need to wear masks whilst on board the boat? Many thanks, Claudette Wren
Written April 16, 2021
There are 3 in our family. Yes, masks were required until snorkeling.
Written April 25, 2021
We are arriving on a cruise ship at 8 a.m. and leaving at 5 p.m. Will we be able to take the Big Beard's tour?
Written December 27, 2019
I'm sure the answer to your question (if this isn't too late) is yes. Most of the people on our trip were from a cruise ship. I think Big Beard has dedicated transportation from Frederiksted (where the cruise ship docks) to Christiansted (where Big Beard's trip starts).
Written January 7, 2020
how many people are generally on a tour? and we do NOT want a party boat with a bunch of rowdy drunks that are packed like sardines with hardly any place to sit.
Written November 21, 2019
It’s usually 30 to 40 people I would say. They don’t get drunk. They give out little cups and have drinks for adults after all the snorkeling on the way back in. They don’t have time to get drunk. They do have drinks for kids but also allow you to bring your own.
Written December 1, 2019
Have things recovered from the two hurricanes, as far as snorkeling at the reefs. Some reviews have mentioned disappointment with the corals and colorful fish due to the storms. How are things?
Written January 26, 2019
The coral is not as beautiful as many other places but the fish are beautiful and its a beautiful island and a very fun trip. I would highly recommend it
Written February 15, 2019
yes- there is a 'head' on board
Written January 14, 2019
We are planning on going on your tour with four other friends so there will be six of us. We are coming from a cruise ship our ship leaves at 5:00 pm. Do you think there would be any problem with us getting back on time if we did a full day trip. Also can we bring our own snorkels and fins. Thanks an excited traveler
Written January 9, 2018
Jennifer, you should have no problem getting back to your ship as long as you get off the boat and get a cab straight back to Frederiksted. The all day tour usually comes in by 3:30. You may consider doing the 1/2 day tour. It is also amazing. Yes you can bring your own gear.
Written January 10, 2018
How abundant are turtle sightings during the snorkeling trips?
Written January 4, 2018
Didn’t see any turtles but the tour was still 100% worth it. Great tour guides, awesome time at buck island. This is the one awesome thing I’d do again if we went back.
Written February 5, 2018
Big Beard's Adventure Tours kann man diese Tour über Sie buchen oder direkt beim Veranstalter für eine Ausflug in St. Croix ? Grüsse Ebert
Written December 27, 2017
Big Beard's Adventure Tours, kann man diese Tour über Tripadvisor buchen oder direkt bei Big Beard`s ?
Written December 27, 2017
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.