The experience
The Mystic is a sailing catamaran, which means the journey is part of the day: steady decks, shade if you want it, and a crew who bring drinks to where you are sitting. The boat leaves St. John's at 10:00 am and sails the turquoise water off the south-west coast.
At Cades Reef the boat moors and the crew lead roughly an hour of guided snorkelling. Expect stingrays, turtles and Caribbean reef fish over coral in clear water. Non-swimmers can stay on board or use the flotation gear.
While you are in the water the crew set up tables and chairs on deck and serve lunch, with juices, soft drinks, water, beer, wine and rum punch. After lunch the Mystic anchors off a white-sand beach for an hour of swimming or lounging, then raises sail for the run home.
What to expect
Cades Reef is Antigua's largest reef formation, and the Mystic is built for the day it takes to see it properly. You sail the south-west coast, moor over the reef for an hour of guided snorkelling, eat lunch at tables on deck, and finish with a beach stop before the sail home.
- Check in, St. John'sBoard the Mystic at Lower Redcliffe Street at 10:00 am.
- Sail the south-west coastPast palm-fringed beaches and neighbouring islands in the distance.
- Cades ReefMoor over Antigua's largest reef for about an hour of guided snorkelling.
- Lunch on deckTables and chairs set on deck, with drinks from the bar.
- Beach stopAn hour of swimming or lounging on a white-sand beach.
- Sail homeThe sails go up for the return to St. John's.
What's included
Included
- Lunch
- Beverages
- Snorkeling at Cades Reef
- Beach break
- Sailing
Not included
- Hotel transfers
- Gratuities
- Underwater camera hire
What to bring
- Sunblock
- Towel
- Money
- Swimwear
Who it's for
Snorkellers, couples and families who want a relaxed day on the water. The reef snorkel is guided, and the boat has shade and seating for guests who would rather stay dry.
Good to know
- Alcohol is served after snorkeling
- Snorkelling is weather dependent
Booking and cancellation
Seats are confirmed by the Tropical Adventures reservations team when you book. Cancellation, weather and rescheduling terms are confirmed at the time of booking — call +1 (268) 480-1225 or email reservations@tropadantigua.com before you reserve if you need flexibility on dates.
If the weather prevents your tour from running, the team will contact you with the options available for your date.
Reviews
Tropical Adventures is rated 4.3 out of 5 from 629 reviews on Tripadvisor, based on the Excellence Catamaran listing. The company holds a Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence and was named Antigua & Barbuda's Leading Tour Operator at the World Travel Awards in 2023.
