St. Johns: Horseback Riding Bareback Swim, &Fort James Beach

This Antigua tour promises a mix of adventure, relaxation, and local flavor—perfect for anyone wanting to see the island from a different perspective. From riding along coastlines to cooling off with a swim, it combines active fun with plenty of downtime in beautiful surroundings.

What we really love about this experience is its personalized touch; small group sizes mean more attention from guides, the stunning scenery makes every photo pop, and the chance to interact with the horses in a natural way adds to its charm. Plus, the scenic sightseeing stops along the way give a deeper appreciation of Antigua’s history and landscape.

One thing to keep in mind is that it’s not a high-octane gallop, so if you’re craving a wild ride, this might feel a bit gentle. Also, weight restrictions mean it’s not suitable for everyone, so travelers should check their fitness level and comfort with horses beforehand.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed yet engaging exploration of Antigua—perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers who appreciate authentic experiences and stunning views without overdoing the adrenaline.

Good To Know

• Small group experience offers personalized attention and a more intimate adventure.
• Guides are knowledgeable and engaging, making history and scenery come alive.
• Includes a swim with horses—a unique highlight that creates lasting memories.
• Scenic stops along the coast and countryside showcase Antigua’s natural beauty.
• Flexible pickup options cater to cruise ship and hotel guests, simplifying logistics.
• Limited to 250 lbs weight, ensuring safety and comfort for participants.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Antigua Through Horseback and Beaches

This Antigua tour offers a well-rounded blend of scenic rides, beach relaxation, and cultural insights—ideal for those who want to see the island beyond typical tourist spots. Starting from your hotel or Heritage Quay, the journey kicks off with a quick 15-minute coach ride, setting the tone for a relaxed day filled with natural beauty and engaging stories from your guides.

The Beachside Bliss at Fort James

Your first stop is Fort James Beach, a stunning stretch of sand with calm waters perfect for swimming and unwinding. We loved how the tour includes 45 minutes here, giving you enough time to soak up the sun, dip into the waters, or just lounge with a drink. Vendors nearby rent beach chairs and umbrellas, so you can settle in comfortably, but keep in mind these amenities aren’t included in the tour fee.

Most reviews highlight the quality of the guides, with comments praising Captain Crystal, Captain Jake, and Captain Daniella for their warmth, helpfulness, and local knowledge. Samantha from the UK, for example, called Captain Daniella “amazing,” noting how she “made our experience truly special.” Guides are attentive, ensuring everyone feels safe and comfortable, especially if you’re a bit nervous about the horseback riding component.

Scenic Horseback Riding and Historical Sightseeing

Next, the tour transitions to a scenic horseback ride that lasts about 75 minutes—more a gentle trek than a gallop, perfect for beginners or those who prefer steady, calm riding. Guides will ensure even the most hesitant travelers are supported, with horses placed on lead ropes if needed. The ride takes you past remnants of sugar mills and old forts, offering glimpses into Antigua’s colonial past amid lush scenery.

We appreciated the stories guides shared, transforming a simple ride into a mini history lesson. One reviewer, Kerry, mentioned that Captain Crystal was “an excellent guide” who made the day unforgettable. The ride along the coastline with views of the turquoise waters adds a visual treat that makes every moment worth savoring.

Swim with Horses in the Turquoise Waters

One of the tour’s most talked-about features is the 10-minute opportunity to swim with the horses. After your ride, you return to Fort James Beach for this unique moment—riding bareback into the sea, which is both exhilarating and peaceful. Many reviews, including Rachael’s, describe this as “a pinch me moment,” emphasizing how special it is to interact with the horses in their natural environment.

The guides are experienced and carefully supervise this part, ensuring safety while allowing you the freedom to enjoy the moment. The water is usually warm and inviting, making the experience accessible even to first-timers or those with some horse-riding nerves.

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Practical Details You Need to Know

The entire experience lasts about three hours, with transportation included from a variety of pickup points around St. John’s, including major resorts and the Heritage Quay complex. The tour operates with small groups—limited to about 10 participants—which means more personalized attention and a relaxed pace. The timing is flexible, with check-in 7 minutes before the scheduled start, typically at 10:50 AM, so punctuality is appreciated.

Price-wise, this tour offers great value considering the variety of activities packed in, especially with the added convenience of hotel or cruise ship pickups and drop-offs. The fee covers the guided rides, beach time, and swim, making it a well-rounded package without hidden extras.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Beyond the scenic beauty and engaging guides, the real draw is the authentic feel of doing something a little different. The guides’ hospitality and local insights enrich the experience, turning what could be just a horseback ride into a memorable story. The small group setting ensures everyone gets plenty of attention, making it suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Considerations Before Booking

• Weight limit: Participants should weigh under 250 lbs for safety and comfort.
• Physical fitness: While it’s not a demanding ride, a basic level of fitness helps, especially for the longer trek.
• Experience level: Beginners are warmly welcomed, as guides are attentive to nervous riders and often place horses on lead ropes if needed.
• What to bring: Pack a towel and beachwear for the swim, and don’t forget sun protection and water.
• Cost and value: The price reflects a full, guided experience with great scenery, professional guides, and a memorable adventure—hard to beat for a day on Antigua.

The Sum Up

This Antigua tour combines the best of island scenery, history, and fun interaction with horses. It’s a versatile experience that appeals to anyone wanting to explore Antigua’s beaches and countryside with a knowledgeable guide by their side. The opportunity to swim with horses in the sea creates a highlight that’s hard to find elsewhere, making it a perfect choice for anyone seeking a memorable day.

The small group setting, attentive guides, and scenic stops all enhance the experience, ensuring you get personal attention and local insights. Whether you’re a first-time rider, a nature lover, or just looking to relax and enjoy Antigua’s natural beauty, this tour offers genuine value with an active, authentic vibe.

If you love being outdoors, appreciate good storytelling, and want a day filled with beautiful views and unique moments, this is your go-to Antigua experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides are very attentive and will help those with little or no riding experience. Horses can be led on a lead rope if needed, making it approachable for nervous riders.

What is the maximum weight allowed?
Participants should weigh no more than 250 lbs (113 kg) for safety reasons.

How long is the horseback riding portion?
The ride lasts approximately 50 minutes, with some time allocated for swimming with the horses.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from a variety of locations, including hotels and cruise terminal points.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, beachwear, sun protection, and any personal items you wish to have close during the beach and ride.

Are beach chairs and umbrellas included?
No, these are rented on-site from vendors, but the beach is lovely for relaxing and enjoying the clear waters.

Can I participate if I am not confident on horses?
Absolutely. Guides are experienced in supporting nervous riders and will ensure you feel comfortable during the ride.

How scenic is the ride?
The ride offers views of Antigua’s coast, remnants of sugar mills, and old forts, providing a scenic backdrop filled with history and natural beauty.

What’s the best time of day to do this tour?
The tour generally starts around 10:50 AM, which is ideal for good lighting, cooler temperatures, and avoiding midday crowds.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, it suits families with children over a certain age who are comfortable around horses, especially given the gentle pace and small group size.

This guided tour offers a genuine taste of Antigua’s natural charm, blending adventure, history, and relaxation into one memorable three-hour experience. Whether you’re seeking a fun activity for your cruise stop or a relaxing day at the beach with a twist, it’s worth considering for your Antigua itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby