Half or Full-Day Private Boat Charter from St. John or St. Thomas

A Private Boat Adventure in the US Virgin Islands: A Deep Dive

When considering a day on the water in the US Virgin Islands, a half-day or full-day private boat charter offers an intimate, flexible way to explore the stunning coastlines of St. Thomas and St. John. For around $795 per group (up to 8 people), you’ll get approximately 3.5 hours of snorkeling, beach visits, and island vistas aboard a 29’ or 32’ Power Catamaran. It’s a customizable experience, but most groups gravitate toward scenic stops like Maho Bay for sea turtles, Cinnamon Bay, Honeymoon Beach, and Christmas Cove, where a floating pizza bar adds a fun culinary twist.

What we love about this experience is how it balances stunning scenery with personalized service. The guides are praised for their local knowledge and friendly attitude, making each trip feel like a day spent with friends who just happen to know the best underwater spots. Plus, the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, relax on quiet sands, and enjoy a delicious pizza from the iconic Pizza Pi floating pizzeria makes for a truly memorable outing.

A potential consideration for travelers is the additional fuel charge, billed at $7 per gallon, which is clear from the start but does add to the overall cost if you’re planning a longer trip. This is typical for private charters in the area, but it’s good to factor into your budget. The tours are best suited for those who want a flexible, private experience—perfect for families, small groups, or anyone craving a customized island adventure away from the crowds and tour buses.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Fully customizable itineraries tailored to your group’s interests.
• Stunning Snorkeling: Explore prime spots like Waterlemon Cay and Maho Bay, with reliable snorkel gear included.
• Comfort & Privacy: Small group sizes (up to 8) on a clean, well-maintained boat with a friendly captain.
• Flexible Duration: Options for half or full-day trips, ideal for various schedules.
• Food & Drinks: BYOB policy, with the highlight being lunch at Pizza Pi, a floating pizza bar.
• Extra Costs: Fuel charges billed separately, and optional gratuities, which are customary for excellent service.

The Inner Workings of the Tour

Departing from the Virgin Islands National Park Waters

The tour operates from St. Thomas or St. John, with the boat cruising around the waters of the Virgin Islands National Park. The suggested route includes some of the most beautiful, least crowded spots. While the itinerary is flexible, it generally begins with a visit to Waterlemon Cay for snorkeling — a site renowned for healthy elkhorn coral and plenty of colorful fish. Expect to spend around 30 minutes here, with no extra admission fee, giving you a chance to explore this underwater sanctuary.

Next, the boat heads to Maho Bay, famous for its sea turtle sightings. This calm, shallow bay offers a chance to see these gentle creatures up close, often in clear waters that make snorkeling a joy. You’ll typically spend about an hour here, with many reviews mentioning how magical it is to snorkel alongside turtles and observe vibrant marine life.

After that, a stop at Scott Bay Beach offers a more secluded, quiet escape. Accessible only by boat, this beach is a great spot to relax, snorkel, or explore remnants of the old Caneel Bay Resort. Expect to spend about an hour here, soaking up the silence and beauty of this hidden gem.

Finally, the tour usually concludes at Christmas Cove, home to the famous Pizza Pi floating pizzeria. Guests love the novelty of eating pizza on a boat in the water, sometimes even jumping off the boat to swim to the pizza bar. This stop is typically an hour long, giving you a chance to snorkel around Fish Cay, check out a sunken sailboat, and indulge in a slice of their delicious, fresh pizza.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

Many travelers mention the abundance of sea turtles, colorful fish, and even rays at certain sites. One review highlights “snorkeling we saw sea turtles, pufferfish, and much more,” echoing the reputation of these spots for vibrant underwater encounters. The snorkeling equipment is included, so you’re ready to go as soon as you arrive at each site.

Food & Refreshments

While the tour doesn’t include lunch, guests are encouraged to bring their own beverages—no glass bottles, please. The highlight for many, however, is the lunch at Pizza Pi, which is often described as “delicious” and a unique experience of dining on water. It’s a perfect way to end the tour on a high note, with many reviews calling it “the best part of the day.”

The Guide & Boat Quality

Guests consistently praise the guides’ local knowledge and friendly demeanor. Captain Bryan, Captain Andrew, and Captain Steve stand out for their ability to personalize trips and share interesting stories about the islands. The boats are described as clean, comfortable, and capable of handling the day’s waters smoothly, even when conditions are choppier.

Pricing & Value

While the $795 price covers up to 8 people, the overall value hinges on how many are sharing the boat. Many reviews emphasize that this is a great value, especially when compared to larger, less personalized tours. The additional fuel charge—$7 per gallon—adds a bit to the final bill but is transparent upfront.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private charter appeals most to travelers who prefer customization and privacy. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking to avoid crowded tour buses and explore at their own pace. It also suits active snorkelers eager to see sea turtles, fish, rays, and even shipwrecks in a relaxed setting. If you’re someone who appreciates knowledgeable guides, quiet beaches, and unique dining experiences, this tour is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the cost of the tour?
The price covers the boat rental, a captain, snorkeling equipment, water, ice, and a cooler. It does not include the fuel, which is billed separately, or food purchases at stops like Pizza Pi.

How long is the typical tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours 30 minutes for a half-day, with full-day options available for exploring more distant or additional sites.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is fully customizable. While the suggested stops are popular, guides are happy to tailor the trip to your interests and preferences.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimsuits, towels, reef-safe sunscreen, BYOB beverages (no glass bottles), and a camera. If you plan to eat at Pizza Pi, bring cash or card for any additional food or drinks.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
Bonus Time Charters strives to accommodate all groups, but if you have specific needs or mobility limitations, it’s best to contact them beforehand.

What about bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private boat experience provides a personalized, relaxed way to explore the US Virgin Islands’ best spots without the crowds. It’s perfect for families with kids, small groups of friends, or couples wanting something intimate and flexible. The snorkeling opportunities are fantastic, especially with the chance to see sea turtles and tropical fish, which many reviews highlight as unforgettable. If you enjoy delicious food on the water and learning about the islands from friendly guides, this trip offers excellent value.

While the added fuel charge and the need for good weather are considerations, the upside of having a private, customizable experience makes this a worthwhile choice for those wanting a day of adventure, relaxation, and authentic island fun.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to see the Virgin Islands from a different perspective, this tour offers a memorable, personal way to experience St. Thomas and St. John’s spectacular waters.