Best area within walking distance from ship for shore snorkling?

[wantocruisemore]

We do not arrive at Grand Turk till 11am. It is a short day and also the 2nd formal night on ship (I think). We always eat in Mdr, early seating, since DD is diabetic and requires GF. We are going out on boat snorkling in st. Thomas. Because of all these factors we thought we would have lunch on ship, get off and then just walk down beach and snorkel from shore. We will likely take water with us and not buy food. Rather not walk >10 min or so.

 

So would it b better to stop at Margariteville or go further down towards Jacks. Don't care if we have to spend a little for chairs/umbrella. Is snorkeling same at jacks or better?

Or would it b better to go right instead of left off ship?

 

Also, where is safest place to leave anything on shore? Nothing valuable, we will have waterproof pouch with sail n sign cards, money etc. just thinking towels and water bottles.

[crewsweeper]

While some people do snorkel along the beach between MV and Jack's, it's mostly sandy bottom, shallow and there is small boat traffic. Btu you can see some small fish around.

 

It'd be a bit better to head to your right off the dock to the other side of the excursion dock where there is a bit more rockier bottom and less traffic. This is the area where the "conch graveyard" is located. Once past the whale statue, you're basically on your own. Loungers along the beach between the pier and the excursion dock are free, but there's no service and you'll have to go back to the shopping area for any facilities. Loungers don't extend beyond the whale statue. As far as where to keep your valuables, best to get a water proof wallet/bag to carry with you unless one o you is staying on the beach.

[wantocruisemore]

Thanks I had read a review and they mentioned the quiet area to the right. One of us always wears the waterproof pouch in the water. Should we wear water shoes and forget the flippers since area sounds like there's some rocks?

[crewsweeper]

Thanks I had read a review and they mentioned the quiet area to the right. One of us always wears the waterproof pouch in the water. Should we wear water shoes and forget the flippers since area sounds like there's some rocks?

I'd say, yes, unless you're planning on going further out, where fins can help get you back,move through stronger waves/currents or if you have water socks. Others might have different opinions.