Kayak, Hike & Snorkel at Cas Cay





Embarking on the "Kayak, Hike & Snorkel at Cas Cay" excursion with Norwegian Cruise Line in the US Virgin Islands promises a day filled with adventure and natural wonders. To ensure you're well-prepared, here's a step-by-step guide based on my personal experience, along with recommended items to bring:

Recommended Items to Bring:

  • Bathing Suit: For comfortable participation in water activities.
  • Towel: Essential for drying off after snorkeling and hiking.
  • Water Shoes: Protect your feet during kayaking and exploring.
  • Cash: Bring some cash for optional locker rental and to tip the guides for their excellent service.
  • Sunscreen: Apply and reapply sunscreen throughout the day to protect your skin from the Caribbean sun.

Essential Information

A day or two before the scheduled excursion, NCL staff will deliver a ticket to your room. This ticket holds crucial details such as the Meeting Time, Meeting Point, and any special notes for the excursion. It is imperative to carry this ticket with you on the day of the excursion.

The entire activity spans approximately 4 hours, encompassing the transit from and back to the cruise pier. Plan accordingly to ensure you have ample time to enjoy every facet of the adventure.

Meeting Point and Transportation

On the day of the excursion, proceed to the designated meeting point on the pier at the specified time. Upon meeting your tour guide, you will be provided with a wristband ticket. The journey to Mangrove Lagoon Wildlife Refuge & Marine Sanctuary, the starting point for the adventure, involves a scenic ~25-minute drive from the Cruise Port of Charlotte Amalie, offering good views of the city.




Arrival and Preparations

Upon reaching Mangrove Lagoon Wildlife Refuge & Marine Sanctuary, you'll be warmly welcomed by the staff. Here, you'll receive safety instructions for the kayaking, hiking, and snorkeling portions of the excursion. Optional lockers are available for your belongings at a nominal fee, so ensure you have some cash on hand. After gearing up with kayaking and snorkeling equipment, you'll embark on the kayaks, typically assigned for two persons, navigating through narrow mangrove waterways towards Cas Cay.



Hiking Exploration

Reaching your first stop, you'll embark on a captivating hike around tidal pools, wildlife habitats, volcanic cliffs, and witness a geological blowhole. Your knowledgeable tour guides will provide insights into the unique ecological features of the area.



Snorkeling Experience

After the hike, you'll return to your kayak and paddle to a suitable snorkeling spot. Here, you'll have the opportunity to explore the vibrant underwater world for 15-20 minutes, surrounded by the beauty of the marine environment.


After snorkeling for 10-20 minutes, you will return to your kayak and paddle back to the starting point. You have time to cleanup and take quick outdoor shower, before jumping back on the vehicle to take you back to the cruise port. You will once again get another opportunity to take pictures of the city on your way pack if you missed it on your way here. 


Return Journey and Final Impressions

Following the snorkeling session, you will paddle back to the starting point. Take advantage of the available amenities, including quick outdoor showers, before boarding the vehicle for the return journey to the cruise port. Seize the opportunity to capture more pictures of the city as you reminisce about the extraordinary experiences of the day.

This excursion offers a perfect blend of adventure, education, and natural beauty, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an enriching exploration in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands.

Location: Cas Cay, St Thomas 00802, USVI

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