Snorkeling Report 

Peter’s Island, (Tortola), British Virgin Islands

Ship: Norwegian Spirit (NCL)

Sailing Date: July 12, 2008

Date of Snorkel: Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Equipment Availability:  We have our own, which we take with us, but equipment is available on the catamaran, and included in the price of the excursion.  All of the equipment for loan appeared well worn, but clean.

Water Access: Ladders off the “No Fear” Catamaran

Many years of calling at Roadtown, Tortola have shown us the incredible wonders of snorkeling in this part of the Caribbean.  But, we have always wanted to try some of the other islands beyond what we know to be the best snorkeling at The Caves and The Indians near Norman Island.  Consequently, we selected the “Catamaran Cruise” for this year’s excursion out of Tortola in the hope of getting to some of these other spots; we were not disappointed.

A brief ride in one of Tortola’s open air tourists buses brought us to the pier side office of Romney Associates, who operated this excursion.  Our catamaran, the “No Fear”, was under the command of Captain Gordon, with Victor and Dennis serving as mates.  There was no narrated tour as we sailed across the channel, but Victor and Dennis were happy to answer questions and point out which island was which as we enjoyed the view and the catamaran’s sound system.  Bottled water was available on the ride over, and free rum punch on the way back.

Our first stop was at The Caves.  This site never grows old for us with numerous visits under our belts, and we were delighted to see all of the familiar and colorful species that we have seen so many times in the past.  Visibility was as excellent as it always is, despite the number of fellow snorkelers in the water.  Derek went into one of the Caves themselves this time, and photographed a number of “tadpole-like” fish which we have yet to identify.  Moon Jellyfish were also numerous in the area, and a few of the stinging variety, one of which zapped Derek on the leg as he was getting back onto the boat.  A good dose of vinegar from Dennis, and we were ready to go again.

Our second stop was Peter’s Island. The Ocean Seven Beach Club was most inviting, but we enjoyed a snorkel first in the shallow waters along the rocky edges of the bay were our catamaran tied in.  Most of the familiar species were very much in evidence, and we photographed Parrotfish, Grunts, Spanish Hogfish, Squirrelfish and the usual variety of Damselfish. The water was crystal clear and we could see diving pelicans snatching fish out of the water, although too far away and much too quickly for us to take a picture of.

The bar at the beach club was a bit expensive, but we enjoyed our customary post-snorkel G&T while wading in the water and enjoying the views of the island.  A gorgeous spot!!

Snorkeling Grade: A