Sea Turtle sightings on Southern itinerary

[mavvie]

My wife and I will be doing the Southern Caribbean itinerary on the Carnival Valor this December. I am an experienced snorkeller and on all our holiday's I have yet to see any sea turtles outside of captivity. I would apppreciate some input on the best spot to have a chance at swimming with these magnificent creatures. (i.e. a particular beach etc..) Ports of call are, St. Thomas. St. Maarten, St. Lucia, St. Kitts and Barbados. I prefer DIY adventures as I don't like swimming as a group.

 

Thanks

[psbtrvlr]

My wife and I will be doing the Southern Caribbean itinerary on the Carnival Valor this December. I am an experienced snorkeller and on all our holiday's I have yet to see any sea turtles outside of captivity. I would apppreciate some input on the best spot to have a chance at swimming with these magnificent creatures. (i.e. a particular beach etc..) Ports of call are, St. Thomas. St. Maarten, St. Lucia, St. Kitts and Barbados. I prefer DIY adventures as I don't like swimming as a group.

 

Thanks

 

We swam with them at St Thomas. Had to take a boat out to a small island. Booked it through the cruise line, but I'm sure you can find someone to take you out there.

[TrqoisWtrs]

If you go to one of the beaches in Barbados, there are vendors that come up to you and for $20 will take you out to snorkel with the turtles. You can check the Barbados board - I want to say the beach is Boatyard? I didn't do it - personally can't stand seeing turtles harassed by newbie snorkelers on any trip - especially when the operators encourage it. :rolleyes:

 

Sorry - know you didn't ask for a rant. :p

[Laurie S.]

Barbados probably would be the best bet.

[psbtrvlr]

I forgot about Barbados! We swam with turtles there during a land based trip several years ago.

[LOVINCRUIZIN]

Agree - St. Thomas or Barbados. Bring some food - they will surface and hang with you.

The area in St. Thomas where the turtles hang was rough water.

In Barbados a few weeks ago they were on the side with calm waters.