Where would one go to find decent snorkling<BR>from shore in St. Croix ? Any hotels in<BR>particular that have worth- while snorkling<BR>from shore? Also, anyone have a favorite<BR>excursion to Buck Island ? Thank you.

The snorkeling I saw off of St. Croix wasn't that great. Not too much to see in the reefs to the west of Christiansted. Buck Island on the other hand was FANTASTIC. Really beautiful. The excursion I would recommend is Mile Mark. You could get a tri-maran sailboat for up to six people. It's alot slower but much more fun with just a few people rather than a big boatload breathing diesel fumes. Take the half-day sail and that should do it.

Susan -- There are several trip reports about St. Croix posted at www.caribtravelnews.com. Select island list, then St. Croix. Lots of info there. I posted a review in June 2000 that has a fair amount of beach/snorkeling/sightseeing info. <BR><BR>I have been to St. Croix three times in the past two years, most recently in October, and the reefs at Buck Island are in better shape each time. It is an incredible place, and a must-do (read my report for a lot more detail about BI). Mile Mark is fine--but agree with the other post--take one of the smaller boats, perhaps with Tommy, who sails a trimaran there, max 6 passengers. They offer both 4 hour and full-day sails. My recommendation is to take a full day if you can, so you can sail the slow boat way, and experience the incredibly gorgeous beach there. The half-day trips often don't stop at the beach, as there is only time enough to snorkel off the boat at the reefs. Also recommend the Diva, which we took in 2000. It was a fantastic day on a lovely sailboat, also maximum 6 passengers. Whatever you do, whoever you go with, be sure to get a stop on that beach!<BR><BR>As for beach snorkeling, Cane Bay Beach has good snorkeling directly from shore, and in October, I snorkeled from the beach next to a bar called "Changes in L'Attitudes" just north of Fredericksted. Swim to the right from the beach--not excellent snorkeling but decent enough.<BR><BR>I can't really help with your hotel question, except to say: 1)The Buccanneer is really nice, but there's no snorkeling from their beaches--it's sandy bottom there. 2) Cane Bay Reef Club (I think that's the name), is walking distance from the beach mentioned above. 3) The Carambola has snorkeling from Davis Beach, but it's rocky. Though we stayed there, we didn't try it--too rough for us, though I've heard from others that the snorkeling is pretty good.<BR><BR>If you have more questions after reading the report(s), post here. Happy to help. Have a great time--St. Croix is lovely.<BR>

I must have stayed at a different Buccaneer...when we were there there was very good snorkeling off of two of their beaches.<BR>I also recommend a trip to Buck Island, preferably in the morning. The light and surf conditions are better than in the afternoon.

Sorry, I should clarify. The post above is probably correct. My understanding of the Buccanneer is that the snorkeling there is off to the sides, where there are rocks. Nearby Shoys Beach--which is perfect for walking and swimming (one of the longer and loveliest beaches on the island)--does not have good snorkeling off the main beach area, but there is indeed snorkeling along the far edges. Generally there are not a lot of fish, or variety of fish, where there are no reefs. <BR><BR>In sum, Susan, there is snorkeling virtually off any beach, it depends what degree of variety you seek. <BR><BR>Anyway, go, and have a great time!<BR><BR><BR>

Sorry, I should clarify. The post above is probably correct. My understanding of the Buccanneer is that the snorkeling there is off to the sides, where there are rocks. Nearby Shoys Beach--which is perfect for walking and swimming (one of the longer and loveliest beaches on the island)--does not have good snorkeling off the main beach area, but there is indeed snorkeling along the far edges. In my experience, there are usually not a lot of fish, or variety of fish, where there are no reefs. <BR><BR>In sum, Susan, there is snorkeling virtually off any beach, it depends what degree of variety you seek. <BR><BR>As for a.m. or p.m. at Buck -- I've been both, and both have been fine. In October, our afternoon snorkel there was the best of the three. Waters there can be rough anytime. Just depends... <BR><BR>Anyway, go, and have a great time!<BR><BR><BR>

Just want to add that we stayed at the Buc and snorkeled first hand.