Buck Island vs Turtle Bay RCCL excursions

We are arriving on the Oasis in October and are looking to book either the "Buck Island Sail and Snorkel" ($48.00) or the " Turtle Bay Sail and Snorkel adventure" ($59.00) through the ship. Other than the type of ship, I don't see much difference in the excursions. Does anyone have experience or opinions on either of these. Our other option is booking independent of the ship with VI Cat, for $75pp.

"Turtle Bay" is at Buck Island.

Hmmmm. I believe Turtle Bay is on St John and Buck Island is St Croix. St John is truly beautiful but I have an affinity for Buck Island. One of the best places to snorkel in the USVI's in my opinion.

Hmmmm. I believe Turtle Bay is on St John and Buck Island is St Croix. St John is truly beautiful but I have an affinity for Buck Island. One of the best places to snorkel in the USVI's in my opinion.

Some place names are repeated throughout the Caribbean: "White Bay", "Long Bay", etc. The Buck Island tours and the Turtle Bay tours promoted by the cruise lines at St Thomas are the same place. Turtle Bay on St John is not a cruise excursion. And the Buck Island off St Croix is too far away.

Another confusing place is Honeymoon Bay.There is one off St John and one off Water Island. :)

Thanks everyone for the clarifications!

From what I have heard and experienced Buck Island St Thomas offers more than one experience.

One side has a wreck which is the attraction. That's the Buck Island side.

The other side which is shallower and has "turtle grass" is now called Turtle Cove. One boat captain said that thanks to USVI conservation education there are now more turtles at Turtle Cove so they now see turtles almost every trip.

I haven't been on a Turtle Cove excursion in St Thomas where they fed the turtles, but considered doing a swim with turtles excursion when I was in Barbados not too long ago. I was in a local tea shop and asked for a recommendation and was told not to go with any.

The tour operators in Barbados feed the turtles and feedings are killing them. Most animals need to hunt and eat naturally to maintain their health. They get fat and lazy just like humans if they don't work for their food.

I prefer the Turtle Cove excursions. If you have a good guide, they will tell you which area attracts turtles and which area attracts colorful fish. It's best if you have a snorkel partner with you who is interested in both.