Night Kayak Tour St. John – Westin Resort

The Westin Resort in St. John offers an intriguing night kayak tour that allows adventurers to explore the underwater world after dark. Paddling through the serene waters in unique clear-bottom kayaks, participants can observe fascinating marine life beneath them while surrounded by the enchanting ambiance of the night sky. With high satisfaction ratings and positive reviews, this small-group excursion promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. But there’s more to discover about this captivating night-time adventure.

Key Points

• The night kayak tour at the Westin Resort in St. John, US Virgin Islands, is a 65-minute small-group excursion with clear-bottom kayaks and glow paint.
• The tour offers a unique nighttime exploration of marine life like tarpons and stingrays, with 50 minutes spent on the water.
• The clear-bottom kayaks, decorated with glow paint, provide excellent visibility and a mysterious ambiance for nature enthusiasts under the stars.
• The tour starts and ends at the Westin Resort, with guides available on the beach for check-in and preparation for the adventure.
• The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, with the ability to sit in a kayak and paddle for up to an hour.

Tour Overview

The Night Kayak Tour at the Westin Resort in St. John, US Virgin Islands is a small-group excursion that lasts around 65 minutes.

Guests paddle in clear-bottom kayaks and apply glow paint before heading out. The tour takes place for 50 minutes on the water, offering the chance to see marine life like tarpons and stingrays.

Parts of the cove feature clear water, while others create a spooky ambiance. With 91% of 915 reviews recommending this tour, it provides a unique opportunity to explore the island’s natural beauty under the stars.

Highlights of the Experience

Paddling in clear-bottom kayaks, guests can marvel at the marine life below them, including prehistoric tarpons and stingrays.

The experience highlights include:

1. Exploring parts of the cove with clear water for excellent visibility.

2. Discovering other areas that create a spooky, mysterious ambiance.

3. Decorating the kayaks with glow paint to illuminate the night-time paddle.

This small-group excursion offers a unique opportunity to experience the underwater world of the US Virgin Islands under the starry sky, providing an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts.

Meeting Point and Arrival Instructions

As participants arrive at The Westin St. John Resort Villas in Great Cruz Bay, they’ll need to notify the security guard for parking.

The tour guides will be on the beach, ready to check everyone in. Once checked in, participants can get ready for their night kayaking adventure.

The tour ends at the same location, so there’s no need to worry about transportation back. With clear arrival instructions, guests can focus on preparing for an unforgettable evening of exploring the cove under the stars in their glow-painted kayaks.

Tour Duration and Physical Requirements

Although the night kayak tour lasts approximately 50 minutes on the water, the entire experience, including check-in and application of glow paint, takes around 65 minutes.

The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers.

Key physical requirements include:

1. Ability to sit in a kayak and paddle for up to an hour.

2. Stability and coordination to maintain balance and navigate the clear-bottom kayaks.

3. Flexibility to enter and exit the kayak from the beach.

Marine Life Encounters

One of the highlights of the night kayak tour is the opportunity to observe the diverse marine life that inhabits the cove.

Paddling in the clear-bottom kayaks, guests can catch glimpses of prehistoric tarpons and graceful stingrays gliding beneath the water’s surface.

The cove’s varied terrain creates a unique viewing experience – some areas offer crystal-clear visibility, while others have a more mysterious, spooky ambiance.

Seeing these captivating creatures in their natural nighttime environment is a truly memorable part of the tour, adding to the overall sense of adventure and discovery.

Ambiance and Visibility

The varied terrain of the cove creates a unique viewing experience for kayakers. Some areas feature crystal-clear waters, allowing for excellent visibility of the marine life below.

In contrast, other sections of the cove take on a more mysterious, spooky ambiance, with the darkness adding an element of intrigue. The experience offers a range of sights:

1. Paddling through transparent waters, catching glimpses of prehistoric tarpons and stingrays gliding beneath the kayaks.

2. Navigating through darker, shadowy zones that heighten the sense of adventure and exploration.

3. Witnessing the stunning bioluminescent glow of the kayaks and the surrounding water, creating a captivating, otherworldly atmosphere.

Booking Confirmation and Accessibility

Travelers can expect to receive confirmation of their booking at the time of purchase.

The night kayak tour isn’t wheelchair accessible due to the nature of the activity. A moderate fitness level is required, and the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers.

Upon arrival, guests should notify the security guard for parking instructions, and the guides will check them in on the beach. The tour begins and ends at the same location, The Westin St. John Resort Villas in Great Cruz Bay.

Upon arrival, guests should notify the security guard for parking instructions, and the guides will check them in on the beach. The tour begins and ends at the same location, The Westin St. John Resort Villas in Great Cruz Bay.

While gratuities for the guides are optional, they’re appreciated for providing an unforgettable kayaking experience.

Customer Feedback and Overall Rating

Customers have largely highlighted positive experiences on the night kayak tour, praising the fun and knowledgeable guides as well as the unique marine encounters.

However, some have reported booking issues through Viator, including problems with group size accommodations and cancellations.

The tour has an overall rating of 4.7 based on 917 reviews, with many citing the excitement of seeing jumping fish and the beauty of night kayaking.

The key customer feedback includes:

1. Positive experiences with knowledgeable guides and unique marine life.

2. Complaints about booking issues, including group size and cancellations.

3. Overall high rating due to the thrill of night kayaking and marine sightings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Kayak and Life Jacket?

While guests are generally not permitted to bring their own kayaks or life jackets for safety reasons, the tour operator may be able to accommodate requests on a case-by-case basis. It’s best to check with them directly prior to the tour.

Can We Take Pictures or Video During the Tour?

Travelers can take photos and videos during the night kayak tour. However, it’s important to be mindful of not using flash or bright lights, which could disturb the marine life and environment. The guides can provide advice on responsible photography and videography during the experience.

What Should I Bring With Me for the Tour?

You’ll want to bring a waterproof camera or phone, a lightweight jacket, bug spray, and drinking water. It’s also a good idea to wear shoes you don’t mind getting wet. The tour provides the necessary kayaking equipment.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

There’s no minimum age requirement, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour operator recommends it’s suitable for ages 6 and up with proper supervision and consideration of the child’s abilities.

Is This Tour Suitable for First-Time Kayakers?

The tour is suitable for first-time kayakers. The small group size, guided instruction, and calm cove environment make it an ideal introductory experience, though a moderate fitness level is required.

The Sum Up

The Night Kayak Tour at the Westin Resort in St. John is a captivating 65-minute adventure that allows participants to explore the underwater world after dark. With high customer satisfaction and the opportunity to observe fascinating marine life in a serene setting, this small-group excursion promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. Participants can paddle in unique clear-bottom kayaks and enjoy the enchanting ambiance of the night sky.