🤿 Snorkeling for the First Time in the USVI? Start Here With These Beginner Tips

Drifting over a sea star and a curious butterflyfish – snorkeling in the USVI really is like swimming in an aquarium.

Snorkeling in the US Virgin Islands is one of the top bucket list experiences for visitors to St. John – and for good reason. With crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and friendly sea turtles gliding by, it’s an underwater adventure like no other.

But what if you’ve never snorkeled before? Maybe you're a little nervous. Maybe you're wondering if you'll swallow a mouthful of seawater or fog up your mask and miss everything.

Don't worry. Snorkeling is way easier than it looks – and with just a few beginner snorkeling tips, you’ll be gliding through the water like a pro in no time.

Here’s how to get started.

🤿 1. Pick the Right Gear (It Makes a Huge Difference)

A leaky mask or uncomfortable fins can ruin your first experience. We recommend:

• A snug, well-fitting mask – It should seal comfortably around your face. Press it to your face without the strap; if it sticks for a moment, it fits!

• Comfortable fins – They help you move efficiently, but don’t go too tight or you’ll end up with blisters.

If you’re chartering a boat with us, we provide quality, well-maintained snorkeling gear – and we’ll help you fit it properly before you jump in.

When your gear’s this close to paradise, you know you’re doing it right.

🧘‍♂️ 2. Practice Breathing First

Snorkeling is all about calm, steady breathing through your mouth. Before jumping into the water:

• Pop on your mask and snorkel while still on the boat or beach

• Practice slow inhales and exhales through the snorkel

• Get used to the sound of your own breathing – you’ll sound like Darth Vader, but that’s normal!

This simple step helps build confidence and prevents panic once you’re in the water.

🌊 3. Choose Calm, Clear Waters

Your first snorkel session shouldn’t be in choppy surf. Look for:

• Calm bays with little wave action

• Sandy or seagrass bottoms where marine life is easy to spot

• Gentle entry points from the boat or beach

Some of our favorite beginner-friendly snorkel spots in St. John include Maho Bay, Lovango Cay, and Christmas Cove.

🦶 4. Snorkeling Technique 101

You’ll never see snorkeling in the Olympics – because it’s not supposed to be hard. It’s meant to be easy, slow, and relaxing.

Here’s how to move like a natural:

• Keep your legs straight – Bent knees make your kick less effective and more tiring.

• Point your toes – It helps your fins slice through the water efficiently.

• Use slow, big kicks – Let your legs and fins do the work. No splashing needed.

• Arms stay relaxed at your sides – You're floating, not swimming laps.

Pro Tip: If you're feeling unsure in the water, grab a pool noodle or life jacket. Floating takes zero effort when you're supported, and it lets you fully relax and focus on the marine life below.

Also, remember this golden rule:

When your face is down, your snorkel stays high and dry. But when you lift your head up – remove the snorkel from your mouth or it turns into the biggest straw you've ever used!

🐢 5. Take It Slow – The Fish Aren’t Going Anywhere

The biggest rookie mistake? Trying to swim too fast or dive too deep.

Instead:

• Float on the surface and let your fins do the work

• Be still and observe – you’ll see more the longer you stay in one place

• Let the sea life come to you – especially turtles, who love calm company

A green sea turtle surfaces for air in the calm, crystal waters of Maho Bay.

🌬️ 6. Dealing with Fog, Leaks & Other Minor Annoyances

Some quick fixes:

• Foggy mask? Spit into it (yes, really), rub it around, and rinse. Or use defog solution.

• Water in snorkel? Blow out sharply or remove the snorkel to let it drain.

• Mask leaking? Adjust the strap or remove hair under the seal. Facial hair can also break the seal – sorry guys with moustaches.

⛵ Bonus: Snorkel from a Boat for the Best Experience

Sure, you can snorkel from shore – but when you charter a private boat, you get access to pristine, uncrowded spots that most people never see.

We’ll take you to coral gardens, turtle hangouts, and hidden coves where the snorkeling is next-level (and beginner friendly).

Combine these beginner snorkeling tips USVI-style with a calm cove, and you’ve got the makings of an unforgettable experience.

Ready to Try?

Snorkeling doesn’t require lessons, fancy certifications, or even being a strong swimmer. All you need is a little guidance, the right gear, and the willingness to try something new.

Join us on a private charter in St. John, and we’ll make sure your first snorkeling adventure is one you’ll never forget.

→ Click here to book your snorkel charter today.

Your first snorkel session could look like this – colorful coral gardens just below the surface in St. John.

📸 All photos courtesy of Sara and Lee Richter 📸