REVIEW · ST THOMAS
Two-Tank Dive for Certified Diving in St Thomas
Book on Viator →Operated by Aqua Marine Dive Center · Bookable on Viator
Two tanks, one great way to see St Thomas. This small-group two-tank scuba outing is built for certified divers, with a captain who can steer the day when conditions are not ideal and a guide team that keeps you moving at a comfortable pace, including crew like Captain Tommy and guide Jaime.
I love the certified-diver focus, because it usually means you get more individual attention in the water and less waiting around. I also love the value of what’s included on board: tanks and weights, scuba gear, and real breaks between tanks with snacks, water, soda, and Pirate Punch (rum punch) for adults 18+.
One consideration: you must bring proof of certification and be able to swim, since this outing is specifically for certified scuba participants. Miss either requirement and you’ll miss the whole point of the day.
In This Review
- Key things to know before you go
- Price and what you actually get for $189
- Meeting at Saga Haven Marina: how the day starts smoothly
- The two-tank flow: what happens between the first and second time in the water
- What “small group” means in real life
- The captain and guide factor: why it matters when conditions change
- Where you might go: reefs and shipwreck areas you can name
- Safety, fitness, and the swim requirement (read this twice)
- Morning vs afternoon: how the other boat traffic can change
- Tips that help you get more out of the day
- Who this suits best (and who should skip it)
- Should you book the two-tank scuba outing in St Thomas?
- FAQ
- Do I need proof of scuba certification to participate?
- How long is the excursion and how many tanks do I get?
- Where do I meet, and when should I arrive?
- What scuba equipment is included?
- Are drinks and snacks included onboard?
- Is transportation to and from the marina included?
- What’s the minimum age, and do kids need an adult?
- What if bad weather cancels the trip?
- How long should I wait before flying after the activity?
Key things to know before you go
- Certified-only format with a maximum of 14 travelers
- Two tanks with each one typically lasting about an hour
- Gear included: tanks, weights, and scuba equipment
- On-board fuel: snacks and beverages between tanks, plus Pirate Punch after the second tank for adults 18+
- Captain-led navigation to top reef and shipwreck areas, even if the water is a bit rough
- Assisted water entry from the boat for a giant stride
Price and what you actually get for $189
At $189 per person for a roughly 3 hours 30 minutes on the water, this is the kind of outing that only feels expensive if you’re comparing it to the cost of doing nothing. The price bundles the big-ticket pieces: professional guidance, tanks and weights, scuba equipment, plus snacks and drinks during the trip.
One thing you should plan around: transportation isn’t included. If you’re on a cruise or staying at a resort, you’ll want to confirm how you’ll get to the marina on time. The good news is the operator can help you secure a taxi from port to the boat when needed.
You can also read our reviews of more scuba diving tours in St Thomas
Meeting at Saga Haven Marina: how the day starts smoothly
The meeting point is Aqua Marine at Saga Haven Marina (6117 Estate Frydenhoj, Dock, St Thomas, VI 00802). You’ll check in 30 minutes early, and that timing matters because the crew needs it to fit gear if needed, confirm waivers are completed, and verify your certification.
Right before departure, the Captain gives a safety briefing. Then you get a short ride—often 15 to 30 minutes—to the first reef or shipwreck area while the crew finishes setup and gives a short dive plan briefing for the water time ahead. The pacing here is practical: you’re not thrown in cold right at the dock.
The two-tank flow: what happens between the first and second time in the water
Each tank outing is usually about one hour, and the boat crew handles the logistics so your job is to stay present and follow instructions. After the gear is sorted, divers are assisted to the back of the boat for the giant stride water entry.
Once the first tank is done, you won’t just rush back to rinse and repeat. You get a short surface interval with light snacks, water, and soda while the Captain takes you to the next spot. This is more than a break—it’s when your body cools down a bit, your head clears, and you can reset your focus for the second tank.
After the second tank, the boat ride back includes more snacks, and the Captain offers Pirate Punch for adults 18+. If you’re traveling with friends, this is usually the part where everyone loosens up and talks about what they saw underwater.
What “small group” means in real life
This outing caps at 14 travelers, which is a big deal when you’re trying to keep things safe and organized in open water. Small groups mean less crowding, less waiting, and fewer “everyone hold on while I fix this” moments.
You also get a vibe that feels geared toward the people who already hold certification. That shows up in how guides tend to explain expectations clearly and keep you from feeling rushed. The overall pattern from the guide team: set the expectations, check you’re comfortable, then guide you through the underwater highlights at a pace that feels manageable.
The captain and guide factor: why it matters when conditions change
St Thomas can be gorgeous one hour and a little pushy the next. One of the most praised strengths of the boat day is how Captain Tommy handles not-so-great conditions and still finds good areas to explore. That’s the difference between canceling your hopes and keeping the day fun and productive.
On the guidance side, Jaime is highlighted for being patient—especially for divers who were newer after certification. The style you’re looking for here is someone who points out things underwater and watches your comfort level, rather than only focusing on speed. If that matters to you, this is exactly the setup you want.
Where you might go: reefs and shipwreck areas you can name
You’re promised reef and shipwreck exploration, and the team’s rotation includes popular named spots such as Flagpole, Cabrita, Ledges, and Stragglers. Other sessions have included Calf and Cow, noted for swimming through underwater canyon-like spaces.
Even if you don’t know these names ahead of time, it helps to know the range. Reefs tend to reward steady buoyancy and attention to detail, while shipwreck areas can add structure and navigation cues. Your guide’s job is to match the site style to the water conditions that day, so you get a solid experience instead of a rushed “we tried” tour.
Safety, fitness, and the swim requirement (read this twice)
This is for people with moderate physical fitness, and all guests must be able to swim. That’s not just legal language—it affects how comfortable you’ll feel during water entry and exits from the boat.
You should also plan your schedule with the FAA-style timing in mind: you’re advised to allow a minimum of 18 hours after your water time before flying. If you’re on a tight travel itinerary, double-check your flight time so you’re not cutting it close.
Morning vs afternoon: how the other boat traffic can change
Your experience may depend on departure time. Morning boats are typically for certified divers. Afternoon departures may be a mixed activity boat, meaning you could share the schedule with people who are snorkeling as well as certified divers.
That doesn’t automatically mean worse service, but it can change the vibe on the water and how quickly the boat turns over. If you want a quieter, certification-focused day, aim for a morning departure when possible.
Tips that help you get more out of the day
These are small things that can make the biggest difference once you’re on the boat.
- Arrive early and bring your certification proof so gear fitting and waivers don’t turn into a scramble.
- Be ready for a real check of comfort in the water: if you’re anxious about swimming or water entry, this may not be the right day.
- If you’re deciding between two different excursions, consider the total bundle here: two tanks plus gear plus snacks and drinks usually beats piecing it together separately.
Who this suits best (and who should skip it)
This outing is a strong fit if you’re:
- Already certified and want two separate tanks with a guide and small-group pacing
- Looking for reef and shipwreck areas without having to coordinate equipment logistics
- Happy to spend a few hours on a boat with planned breaks for snacks and drinks
Skip it if you:
- Don’t have certification (or can’t provide proof)
- Can’t meet the swim requirement
- Need a tour that includes non-certified snorkeling-only participants as the main focus
Should you book the two-tank scuba outing in St Thomas?
If you want a well-run, small-group day that treats certified scuba as the main event, I’d book this. At $189 it’s priced like you’re paying for a full experience bundle—gear, guidance, and two tank outings—rather than paying extra for every little piece.
I’d hesitate only if you’re uncertain about the swim requirement or your certification documentation. With the check-in timing and the proof requirement, this is not one of those tours you can wing at the dock. If you do the basics right, this is the kind of St Thomas scuba day where you come back happy you went for two tanks instead of one.
FAQ
Do I need proof of scuba certification to participate?
Yes. Evidence of dive certification is required from all divers wishing to participate. You’ll also need to show proof of certification during check-in.
How long is the excursion and how many tanks do I get?
The outing lasts about 3 hours 30 minutes. You’ll typically complete two tanks, and each tank lasts about an hour.
Where do I meet, and when should I arrive?
Meet at Aqua Marine at Saga Haven Marina at 6117 Estate Frydenhoj. Plan to check in 30 minutes before the start time so you have time for gear fitting (if needed) and waivers.
What scuba equipment is included?
Tanks and weights are included, along with use of scuba equipment.
Are drinks and snacks included onboard?
Yes. Beverages and snacks are provided during the trip, including light snacks and water/soda between the two tanks. Pirate Punch (rum punch) is also offered to adults 18+ after the second tank.
Is transportation to and from the marina included?
No. Transportation to/from attractions is not included. If you’re arriving from a cruise or resort, you can ask for help securing a taxi from port to the boat.
What’s the minimum age, and do kids need an adult?
Minimum age is 10 years. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
What if bad weather cancels the trip?
This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How long should I wait before flying after the activity?
You’re advised to allow a minimum of 18 hours after your water time before flying.
