Why Renting Your Own Snorkel Gear is the Ultimate Virgin Islands Vacation Hack

Chrissann Nickel • July 28, 2025
rent your own snorkel gear USVI St. John

Coming to the US Virgin Islands on vacation soon? Whether this is your first trip, or if you’re a longtime repeat visitor, there’s one island tip that we cannot recommend enough: 


Rent your own snorkel gear for the length of your trip.

marine life to see snorkeling in the US Virgin Islands

The three USVI—St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix—are a snorkeler's paradise. There are so many snorkel spots you can check out; so much so, that there will not be enough time in one vacation to see them all! 


The Virgin Islands waters are warm year round, crystal clear, and calm. These are the ideal conditions for snorkeling. Beyond that, the waters are thriving with marine life. With fins, mask, and a snorkel, you can immerse yourself in the underwater world and see everything from vibrant tropical fish, sea turtles, eagle rays, even dolphins. 

snorkel gear rentals St. John St. Thomas US Virgin Islands

By renting snorkel gear for the length of your stay in the USVI, you’re able to hop in and snorkel wherever and whenever the opportunities present themselves. Whether you’re taking in the sunrise on the beach, renting a dinghy and exploring hidden coves + cays, or kayaking along the shores, you can grab your mask and snorkel and be in an under the sea paradise in minutes.

snorkeling marine life fish in the US Virgin Islands VI Ecotours

Our snorkel gear is always in top condition—clean, free of wear & tear, and easy to transport in our signature mesh backpacks. We are also the only company in the Virgin Islands that allows you to reserve your snorkel gear entirely in advance


If you are a frequent island traveler, we also have top of the line snorkel gear available for purchase in our new retail shop at Mongoose Junction on St. John.

sea turtle conservation and sustainable ecotourism in the US Virgin Islands VI Ecotours

Our team is available on all three islands to provide you with tips & instructions on using your rented snorkel gear. You can also join us for a guided tour to get an understanding of the sea conditions with our expert guides before you head out to explore on your own. 


With your own rented snorkel gear, you’ll be three steps ahead of everyone else visiting. You’ve just reached USVI Traveler Level: Master. See you beneath the surface! 

Chrissann Nickel

About Chrissann Nickel

Chrissann Nickel is a writer & digital marketer who is passionate about all things tropical. An outdoor enthusiast, she spent 12+ years living between several islands in the Virgin Islands, exploring all there is to see both above and below the surface of the Caribbean sea. Her perfect USVI day? Sunrise yoga on a paddle board, and then island hopping via boat with stops for snorkeling and a hike. 

You May Also Like


Three people are in a yellow ocean kayak

Cas Cay Kayak, Hike & Snorkeling Ecotour

A black map pin with a circle in the middle on a white background.

St. Thomas

A black and white hourglass icon on a white background.

3 Hours

Embark on an exclusive morning adventure through the serene beauty of Cas Cay, where tranquil mangroves, vibrant marine life, and breathtaking volcanic vistas await—discover this hidden gem with knowledgeable guides.

A group of people are walking down a path towards the ocean.
A black map pin with a circle in the middle on a white background.

St. John

A black and white hourglass icon on a white background.

3 Hours

Hike & Beach Adventure Tour: Discover Honeymoon Beach on St. John

Looking to pack a BIG experience into a short amount of time? Then we’ve got just the adventure for you! This tour is designed for groups of 4 or more.

A group of people are swimming with sea turtles in the ocean.

Swim alongside graceful Hawksbill and Green Sea Turtles in the crystal-clear waters of St. Croix on this unforgettable guided snorkel tour. Explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter diverse marine life with expert guides ensuring a safe and memorable experience. Perfect for all skill levels, this unique adventure offers an up-close look at St. Croix’s stunning underwater world—an experience you’ll never forget.

A black map pin with a circle in the middle on a white background.

St. Croix

A black and white hourglass icon on a white background.

1.5 Hours

St. Croix's Best Snorkeling with Sea Turtles

Other Blogs


An aerial view of a tropical island with boats in the water.
July 9, 2025
Arawak Expeditions is now part of Virgin Islands Ecotours. Book your favorite St. John kayak tours or stop by Mongoose Junction for snorkel gear, SUP, and kayak rentals today.
A sea turtle is swimming in the ocean.
July 9, 2025
Discover the top snorkeling spots in St. John, USVI. Explore sea turtles, coral reefs, and hidden bays with tips from local guides at Virgin Islands Ecotours.
A person stands on a yellow paddle board in the aqua colored water of St John
July 9, 2025
Discover top paddleboarding and paddle surfing spots in St. John, Virgin Islands. Local tips, calm bays, wave breaks, and gear pickup in Cruz Bay.
July 9, 2025
Looking for Arawak’s legendary fishing tours? Here's what to know about fly fishing in the Virgin Islands today, plus top local charters and amazing water adventures on St. John.
Three sea turtles are swimming in the ocean.
By Chrissann Nickel June 19, 2025
Ready for an amazing turtle adventure? We reveal 3 idyllic islands perfect for swimming with gentle sea turtles. Learn when and where to go!
learn how to kayak USVI
By Chrissann Nickel May 22, 2025
New to kayaking? Learn the essential paddling techniques with our beginner-friendly guide. Get tips for a safe and fun experience on the water!
sustainable ecotourism in the US Virgin Islands
By Chrissann Nickel April 23, 2025
Learn how mindful travel protects the USVI’s beauty, supports local communities, and helps preserve marine life for generations to come.
A person is sitting in a chair on a beach under a palm tree.
By Chrissann Nickel March 27, 2025
From iconic lookouts to beachside snaps, discover the top places on St. John to capture the perfect island photo and preserve your memories.
A large body of water with boats in it and a city in the background
January 16, 2025
From snorkeling and hiking to local eats, this guide has everything you need to plan an epic, adventure-filled trip to St. John.
Show More