The crystalline waters around St. Thomas pack serious appeal for underwater explorers. Experienced divers head straight for guided two-tank excursions, featuring colorful reef systems and fascinating wreck sites.
First-timers aren’t left out – introductory lessons provide essential skills before guided shallow-water adventures. Getting certified? Several reputable schools offer complete PADI, SSI, and SDI courses.
We especially love the morning two-tank trips to Cow and Calf Rocks, where sea turtles and spotted eagle rays regularly make appearances. For beginners, the resort course at Secret Harbour offers patient instruction in an ideal learning environment.
Check out our favorite St. Thomas underwater adventures below.
Good To Know
- Certified two-tank dives led by experienced dive masters to explore vibrant reefs and shipwrecks surrounding St Thomas.
- Discover scuba diving for beginners with an introduction to equipment, theory, and a guided first ocean dive.
- Earn an open water certification through PADI or SSI programs with e-learning materials and qualified instructors.
- Experience the underwater world through a discover scuba diving program guided by a qualified instructor.
- Private full-day snorkeling or diving charters with a USCG licensed captain, snorkeling gear, refreshments, and snacks.
Two-Tank Dive for Certified Diving in St Thomas
Frequently, certified divers explore the vibrant reefs and intriguing shipwrecks surrounding St Thomas on a two-tank dive experience. This small-group adventure, led by an experienced dive master, provides an up-close look at the island’s underwater marvels. All necessary diving equipment is included, allowing participants to focus on the wonders that await beneath the surface.
The dive master guides the group to the best spots, ensuring a safe and memorable journey. Onboard, travelers can enjoy refreshing beverages and snacks as they prepare for their descent. To participate, divers must present proof of certification and be in moderate physical condition, with a minimum age of 10 years. Pregnant individuals, as well as those with back problems, heart conditions, or other serious medical concerns, are unable to join.
This two-tank dive is an excellent choice for certified divers seeking to enjoy the captivating underwater world of St Thomas. With a maximum of 14 travelers per tour, this small-group experience offers an intimate and personalized dive adventure.
Read our full review: Two-Tank Dive for Certified Diving in St Thomas Review
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Discover Scuba Diving in St Thomas
For those new to the underwater world, the Discover Scuba Diving experience in St. Thomas offers an excellent way to get your feet wet. This program allows you to try scuba diving without any certification, providing a small group setting with a dedicated instructor to guide you through the basics.
The four-hour adventure begins with an introduction to scuba diving theory and equipment usage. You’ll then head out on a dive boat for your first ocean dive, accompanied by no more than four other students per instructor. An additional snorkeling spot is also included, giving you a chance to explore the vibrant marine life above the surface.
If you’re hooked after the first dive, an optional second dive is available for an extra $50. Just be sure to meet the minimum age and health requirements beforehand. With bottled water, snacks, and snorkeling gear provided, this Discover Scuba Diving experience is a fantastic way to dip your toes into the world of underwater exploration in St. Thomas.
Read our full review: Discover Scuba Diving in St Thomas Review
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St. Thomas PADI, SSI, SDI Open Water Scuba Diving Certificate – St Thomas
Travelers looking to earn their open water certification can opt for St. Thomas’ PADI or SSI open water scuba diving programs. These courses include e-learning materials and a maximum of 8 participants for a safe and comfortable experience. Participants will learn to scuba dive safely from qualified instructors, complete e-learning modules, followed by confined water and open water dives. Upon completing all course requirements, they’ll become open-water qualified.
The course includes the use of dive gear, bottled water, soft drinks, and snacks, as well as a professional guide. The first meeting and pool session take place at the Dive Shop at Limetree Resort, while the scheduled boat dives meet at Saga Haven Marina. Taxi pickup isn’t included and must be paid directly to the driver.
Guests must meet certain requirements, such as no heart problems or serious medical conditions, the ability to swim comfortably in open water without assistance, and a minimum age of 10 years for children accompanied by an adult. They’ll also need to complete a medical questionnaire upon arrival and observe an 18-hour minimum wait before flying after diving.
Read our full review: St. Thomas PADI, SSI, SDI Open Water Scuba Diving Certificate – St Thomas Review
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Discover Scuba Diving
Discover Scuba Diving offers an opportunity for travelers to experience the underwater world without the full commitment of obtaining an open water certification. This introductory dive program provides participants with a qualified instructor who’ll guide them through the basics of scuba diving. Included in the package are all the necessary equipment, such as tanks, weights, BCD, regulator, wetsuit, fins, mask, and snorkel.
The experience begins at the meeting point, Secret Harbor, where you will receive a Discover Diving Booklet to familiarize themselves with the process. After a safety briefing, the group will head into the water for a supervised dive. No prior experience is required, making this an excellent choice for those curious about scuba diving.
Discover Scuba Diving is wheelchair accessible and recommended for those with a moderate fitness level. Gratuities for the instructor are suggested at 15-20% of the tour cost. With a maximum of 12 travelers, this intimate experience ensures personalized attention from the guide.
Read our full review: Discover Scuba Diving Review
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Private Full Day Guided Snorkeling or Diving Charter in St Thomas
Set out on a private, full-day guided snorkeling or diving charter in the stunning waters of St. Thomas. This excursion offers an array of inclusions, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience. Sip on refreshing water, soft drinks, and for those 18 and over, savor a delightful Pirate Punch (rum punch). Indulge in a selection of snacks, including cookies, crackers, and chips.
A certified snorkel guide will lead the way, while you explore the underwater world equipped with top-notch snorkeling gear: mask, fins, snorkel, and a floatation device. The USCG licensed captain ensures a safe and comfortable journey. Set sail from the Saga Haven Marina, conveniently located near the Aqua Marine Dive Center. If you’re on a cruise or staying at an island resort, taxi assistance is available.
This experience is suitable for ages 5 and up, with a minimum drinking age of 18. All guests must be able to swim comfortably in open water without assistance.
Read our full review: Private Full Day Guided Snorkeling or Diving Charter in St Thomas Review
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The Sum Up
St. Thomas offers a variety of excellent scuba diving experiences for both certified and aspiring divers. From two-tank dives to discovery programs and certification courses, there’s something for all. With private charters and guided tours, visitors can customize their underwater adventures and explore the island’s vibrant marine life. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner, St. Thomas is an ideal destination for unforgettable scuba diving experiences.