Best Snorkeling in Antigua & St. Maarten

[jplotts865]

I'm looking over the shore excursions in Antigua and St. Maarten and trying to decide which might be best for snorkeling. On Antigua it looks like either Cades Reef or Paradise Reef - can't do it all so need help. Ditto St. Maarten -been there many times but always ended up shopping...this time I'd like to snorkel someplace good. Anybody have any preferences? Also, is the water going to be chilly in March? Not that it matters much - still going in!

 

We're on Serenade of the Seas from San Juan 3/17

 

Thanks in advance...

[Sheffie]

St. Maarten isn't known for good snorkeling. We have been to Dawn's Beach and had some okay snorkeling, and out to Pinel Island. Others have said there is good snorkeling there. I think we didn't find the right spot, because we didn't see much of a variety of fish. Both of these spots are easy to get to on your own. You really don't need an excursion to get there.

 

In Antigua we went on Eli's Eco Tour and had some good snorkeling at a couple of spots. This was a great excursion.

 

Have fun researching!