Sea Excursions in St. Kitts

In addition to the usual snorkeling, sunset, and party cruises (ranging in price from $40 to $95), most companies offer whale-watching excursions during the winter migrating season, January through April.

Blue Water Safaris. Blue Water Safaris offers half-day snorkeling trips or beach barbecues on deserted cays, as well as sunset and moonlight cruises on its 65-foot catamarans Irie Lime and Swaliga, and the smaller Falcon. It also runs kayaking tours. Basseterre, St. Kitts. 869/466-4933. www.bluewatersafaris.com.

Leeward Island Charters. This reliable charter offers day and overnight charters on two catamarans—the 67-foot Eagle and 78-foot Spirit of St. Kitts. Day sails are from 9:30 to 4:30 and include a barbecue, an open bar, and use of snorkeling equipment. The Nevis trip stops at Pinney's Beach for a barbecue and at Shooting Bay, a tiny cove in the bullying shadow of a sheer cliff, where petrels and frigate birds inspect your snorkeling skills. The crews are mellow, affable, and knowledgeable about island life. Basseterre, St. Kitts. 869/465-7474. www.leewardislandcharters.com.