A recent article, At home in the Caribbean, in the Daily Herald Newspaper, profiled St. John, one of the 3 US Virgin Islands, I visited a couple of years ago.  It is the smallest of the Virgins, at 28 sq. miles, but many say it is the loveliest.  Formerly known as the Dutch West Indies, the US acquired these islands in 1917.   There is still Dutch influence throughout the islands.  Trunk Bay offers some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean, there is some very good diving too.  There are flights from most US mainland cities to St. Thomas and then a 15-20 ferry will get you to St. John.  The “in-season” is November-May when the temps average above 80 during the day.  Two of the best dive sites are Carval Rock and Eagle Shoals.  In addition, other water sports include fishing, hanging out at the beach, swimming, snuba (not scuba), windsurfing and more.  For you land lovers, I have also done hiking with a guide that is a great ecological tour.  Staying on St. Johns is pricey. Caneel Bat Resort rates start at $425/day and go up.  Enjoy this jewel hide-away in the Caribbean.

Dave I refer you to offical SNUBA site, http://www.snuba.com/about_snuba.asp
While they say it is for evereyone without needing any certification, I would caution you. At depth of 20 feet you experience certain problems such as, shallow water blackout, problems with ear clearing and other medical/diving problems which the promoters of snuba do not mention. Just being underwater for a new diver can create a feeling of anixety.

Posted on December 4th, 2006.