St. Thomas excursions

[aarj]

We're cruising on Mariner of the Seas on 09/03. Does anyone have any feedback on the Snuba experience versus BOB. We're also thinking of skipping these for one of the shopping excursions. Any feedback on the Ultimate Island Experience or the Historic Blackbeard's Hill & recommended shopping. Your comments would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[penny3333]

We did a sail/snorkel and the snuba people were in the same area. They looked like they were having a great time. The group we saw were by Buck Island. The shopping is good in St. Thomas and St. Maarten. If you really want a treat, when you're in St. Thomas, take a ferry over to St. John and a cab to Trunk Bay. It is a beautiful beach, white sand with shade available. There is a self-guided snorkeling tour about 50 yards from the beach. The water is crystal clear, warm and calm. There is a place to rent snorkel gear, lockers, fresh water showers, a snack bar, and a couple of shops (shop in St. Thomas or St. Maarten). It is a truly beautiful ride from the ferry to the beach. Trunk Bay is one of the top 10 beaches in the world. Many cruises ago, we visited Black Beard's hill. I wasn't that impressed even though the view was nice, however, I'm a total snorkel/beach person. We've really enjoyed the sail/snorkel excursions we've been on, both catamarans and sailboats. Not really into shopping, but the prices on both St. Thomas and St. Maarten are well worth your time. Enjoy your cruise!

penny! have you checked your PM's lately? I asked you about st thomas in there. We cant wait to go. We go in sept!

Sorry don't know about Snuba or Bob, but as always, I agree with Penny... Try Trunk Bay. I was on the Mariner on a back to back in Jan. Had a great time. Here's a personal webpage link, theres a nice picture of Trunk Bay and some Caribbean music to get you in the mood...
***Scott's Mariner Of The Seas, Back to Back Eastern & Western Carribean Click here to take you to the page***

[aarj]

Penny and Scott, thanks for the comments. We're not really into snorkeling, but thought the snuba or BOB experience might be fun. OK - I admit it. I have an irrational fear of snorkeling! Can't stand to go under water with just that hose to use for breathing. I feel better now!
However, I've read so many good things about Trunk Bay in St. John I may have to reconsider a visit there. Blackbeard's Hill sounded like it had the potential to be a little cheesy, but we love the historical and pirate angle. We may just rent a car and venture out on our own.

Trunk Bay is not scary at all, very clear water, somewhat shallow. Your plans sound great though. Hope you have a great time!