Discover Scuba Diving and Discover Snorkeling

[jandn]

We are first time cruisers who want to try both snorkeling and scuba diving in St. Thomas, the first port we are scheduled to visit in November. We are looking for suggestions on doing both and how to do it? Should we book the cruise ship excursions or private operators? What private operators would be good for cruise ship passengers who have never been snorkeling or scuba diving?

[Genessa]

I've done Discover Scuba through the cruise line and snorkeling through cruise line and on our own. The instruction in scuba with the cruise line was very informative.

 

However, St. Thomas is a great place on your own. We didn't go scuba diving with them, but saw the diving instructors at Coki Beach and would go with them if we go back. It is a beach dive from what I understand, which is less stressful than a boat dive for new divers (at least for this new diver).