PRESERVING PARADISE: SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION & SUSTAINABLE ECO-TOURISM
Protect Sea Turtles with Every Adventure
At Virgin Islands Ecotours, we believe in eco adventures with a purpose. It’s a great privilege to support The St. Croix Sea Turtle Project, a local organization dedicated to safeguarding sea turtles and their nesting beaches.
A portion of every tour goes directly toward:
- Protecting nesting areas
- Turtle rescue and rehabilitation
- Public education on marine conservation
This isn’t a one-time campaign—it’s a year-round commitment to preserving these incredible animals and the ecosystems they call home. By exploring with us, you’re not only creating unforgettable memories—you’re giving back in an impactful way.
But our impact doesn’t stop there—we also lead Cas Cay cleanups and frequently offer educational tours for local youth groups, helping to inspire the next generation of conservationists.
Explore Our Sea Turtle Tours:
Gentle Guardians of Our Ocean
Sea turtles aren’t just beautiful to watch while snorkeling. They play a vital role in keeping our ocean healthy. From the green and hawksbill turtles in St. Thomas and St. John to those gliding through the waters off St. Croix, they help maintain the balance of marine life.
But sea turtles are in danger. Pollution, habitat loss, and climate change are all threats they face. When you choose to explore with us, you’re part of the solution.
Our Promise to the Planet
At Virgin Islands Ecotours, sustainability is how we do things every day. Here’s what that looks like:
- Reef-safe sunscreen only - to protect the reefs and sea life
- No fins in delicate areas - to keep mangroves and seagrass beds healthy
- Human-powered tours - using kayaks and paddleboards instead of engines
- Knowledgeable guides - trained in conservation and CPR
- Less waste, more care - with reusable gear and limited plastics
We’re proud to make these choices across all our locations, and we’re excited to welcome you into that effort.
Swim With Sea Turtles, Support Their Future
Our guests regularly spot sea turtles on our tours in St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix. These moments are unforgettable, but they’re also meaningful. By joining one of our snorkeling tours, you’re helping keep these experiences, and the turtles themselves. alive for generations to come.
“Snorkeling beside sea turtles was magical. But knowing I helped protect them? That made it unforgettable.”
Travel With Purpose
When you book a tour with us, you’re doing more than just sightseeing. You’re joining a movement to protect the beauty of the islands. For over 20 years, we’ve helped people connect with nature in ways that are exciting, educational, and sustainable.
Here’s a quick checklist to help you travel light and leave a lasting impact:
Eco-Visitor Checklist: Travel Light, Leave a Lasting Impact
Before You Visit
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen (zinc or titanium-based only)
- Bring a reusable water bottle
- Choose sun-protective clothing like rash guards and hats
- Bring water shoes or sandals with a heel strap
- Carry a small bag for your trash and recyclables
During Your Tour
- Use only approved reef-safe sunscreen
- Avoid touching coral and be sure to give turtles ample space to come up for air
- Don’t use fins in shallow or mangrove areas
- Listen to your guide’s tips on eco-awareness
- Stick to trails and designated snorkeling spots
In the Community
- Support local businesses and restaurants
- Respect natural and cultural sites
- Learn how to contribute to conservation programs
Ongoing Impact
- Share your experience and what you’ve learned
- Follow and support local conservation groups
- Keep sustainable travel in mind for future adventures
What Our
Guests Say
“This wasn’t just a tour. It was a way to give back.”
“The guides made us fall in love with the island and its wildlife.”
“I didn’t expect to cry watching a sea turtle swim. But I did.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What sunscreen should I bring?
We ask that you bring mineral-based, reef-safe sunscreen. We also have it available on site.
Do the tours disturb marine life?
Not at all. We take great care to follow respectful wildlife practices and minimize our impact.
Can I donate more?
Absolutely. You can speak to your guide or click here to make a donation.
Visit The St. Croix Sea Turtle Project for more ways to help.
Take Action, Leave a Legacy
Protecting paradise is something we all have the power to do. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning again and again, you can make a meaningful difference by choosing mindful travel, learning about the ecosystems around you, and supporting causes that matter.
Even small actions, like using reef-safe sunscreen, sharing conservation tips with fellow travelers, or supporting local eco-programs, add up to something bigger. Together, we can keep the Virgin Islands wild and beautiful for future generations.
